The History of Jose Rizal Memorial State College, Siocon Campus (1959–2009)

By Institutional Archives — Compiled from Various Sources

Establishment Period

The history of Jose Rizal Memorial State College, Siocon Campus stands as a remarkable testament to the development of education in the western part of Zamboanga del Norte. The campus traces its roots back to a humble secondary school — Siocon High School — that served as the foundation for what would later become a government-run vocational institution.

On June 19, 1959, by virtue of Republic Act No. 2403, Siocon High School was converted into the Siocon National Vocational High School (SNVHS). This law authorized the establishment, organization, and maintenance of a national vocational high school in Siocon, designed to promote practical and technical education in agriculture, trade, and homemaking.

The school was strategically established in the heart of Siocon, a municipality known for its fertile lands and growing economy. Its location reflected the government’s vision to bring educational opportunities closer to rural communities and help uplift the lives of young people through vocational and agricultural training. Like a seed planted in fertile soil, the school began to flourish with the support of the local community and pioneering educators who believed in the power of education to transform lives.

Early Courses

Siocon National Vocational High School initially focused on secondary education with a vocational orientation, offering training in agriculture, handicrafts, and homemaking. As years passed, more specialized courses were added to equip students with practical skills that would enable them to become productive members of society.

During the 1970s and 1980s, the school continued to expand its programs in response to community needs. It became a center of technical-vocational education in the municipality, producing graduates who became farmers, technicians, craftsmen, and community leaders. Its vocational focus paved the way for its eventual integration into the state college system.

Administrators (1959–1996)

The pioneers who administered the Siocon National Vocational High School were visionaries who laid down the foundation for quality vocational education. Their leadership ensured that the school remained committed to its mission of molding skilled, disciplined, and productive students.

Among the early administrators were Mr. Silvino M. Neri and a series of pioneering principals who expanded the curriculum, improved facilities, and strengthened community linkage. They were instrumental in establishing the school’s identity as a reputable vocational institution in the province of Zamboanga del Norte.

Integration with Jose Rizal Memorial State College (1996)

A turning point in the school’s history came on March 1, 1996, with the approval of Republic Act No. 8193, authored by Congressman Romeo G. Jalosjos. This Act established the Jose Rizal Memorial State College (JRMSC) by integrating several government educational institutions in Zamboanga del Norte:

  • Rizal Memorial National Vocational School (Dapitan City)
  • Zamboanga del Norte School of Arts and Trades (Dipolog City)
  • Katipunan National Agricultural School (Katipunan)
  • Zamboanga del Norte Agricultural College (Tampilisan)
  • Siocon National Vocational School (Siocon)

Through this integration, Siocon National Vocational School became JRMSC – Siocon Campus, joining the state college system and expanding its capacity to offer higher education programs. This marked the beginning of its transformation from a purely vocational high school into a college-level institution.

College Administrators (1996–2009)

The integration brought about a new era of leadership and academic development. Appointed campus administrators continued to strengthen programs and facilities to align with JRMSC’s vision as a state college. Under their stewardship, the Siocon Campus began offering new courses such as Bachelor of Elementary Education, Bachelor of Secondary Education, and other degree programs responding to regional manpower demands.

Infrastructure development, student services, and faculty training were also prioritized. The campus started participating in institutional research, extension programs, and community services — transforming from a small vocational school into a dynamic academic community.

Conversion to University (2009)

The second major milestone came on December 15, 2009, when Republic Act No. 9852 was approved, converting Jose Rizal Memorial State College into Jose Rizal Memorial State University (JRMSU). This conversion elevated the institution into full university status, granting greater academic freedom and resources for development.

With this conversion, JRMSU – Siocon Campus became one of the official satellite campuses of the state university, alongside Dapitan, Dipolog, Katipunan, and Tampilisan campuses. Its mission expanded from vocational education to offering higher education programs aimed at producing professionals and leaders in education, agriculture, fisheries, criminology, hospitality management, and other fields.

Legacy and Continuing Vision

Today, JRMSU – Siocon Campus continues to uphold its legacy as an institution built on service, community development, and accessible education. From its beginnings as Siocon High School to its growth into a state university campus, its journey mirrors the dreams of its founders — to bring quality education to the youth of Siocon and neighboring towns.

Its programs and facilities have evolved, but its core remains the same: a commitment to empowering students to become skilled, responsible, and patriotic citizens. The Jose Rizal Memorial State University – Siocon Campus stands as a living monument of Dr. Jose Rizal’s belief that “the youth is the hope of the fatherland.”

📜 Legal Basis:

  • Republic Act No. 2403 (1959) — Establishing Siocon National Vocational High School.
  • Republic Act No. 8193 (1996) — Creating Jose Rizal Memorial State College and integrating Siocon National Vocational School.
  • Republic Act No. 9852 (2009) — Converting JRMSC into Jose Rizal Memorial State University.

🏫 Notable Programs: Bachelor of Elementary Education, Bachelor of Secondary Education, BS Agriculture, BS Fisheries, BS Forestry, BS Criminology, BS Hospitality Management, and other technical-vocational courses.