17/10/2026
Bohol Provincial Trade School: A Legacy of Education, Pride, and Memories â¤ď¸
BSAT
CVSCAFT
BISU
The story of the Bohol Provincial Trade School began in 1907 as a humble extension class of Tagbilaran Elementary School. What started in a simple bamboo-and-nipa structure, teaching industrial arts to a small group of boys, would eventually grow into one of Boholâs important institutions for technical education.
In 1914, it became an independent institution known as the Bohol Trade School. The beautiful wooden-and-concrete building in this photograph was completed around 1931, serving generations of students who came to learn practical skills and prepare for their future.
In 1959, the school became the Bohol School of Arts and Trades (BSAT), expanding its technical education programs and preparing young Boholanos for different trades and professions.
The institution continued to evolve with the changing needs of education. In 1998, BSAT became part of the Central Visayas State College of Agriculture, Forestry and Technology (CVSCAFT) through its integration with other provincial schools. In 2009, CVSCAFT was elevated to university status and became what we proudly know today as Bohol Island State University (BISU).
From its humble beginnings to its present status as a state university, this institution has played an important role in educating generations of Boholanos.
But beyond its historical significance, this place holds a special place in my heart.
During my high school days, my brother and I both completed our secondary education here when it was still BSAT. One of my unforgettable assignments during my first year was to draw the entire school building.
I also remember the schoolâs vintage Harabas, which we used for driving practice, and a weapons carrier that was part of the schoolâs collection. I wonder if these old vehicles are still around today. It would be wonderful to know whether they survived and if anyone still remembers them.
And who could forget our famous BSAT Drum and Bugle Corps? We were proud members of this group, and we fondly remember winning the championship against strong competitors, including Bohol National High School.
Behind those victories were the dedication, discipline, and hard work of our mentors, Maâam Grace Chui and Sir Lorenzo Digal. Their guidance and rigorous training played a significant role in shaping us as members of the Drum and Bugle Corps. Our achievements were not simply a matter of talent; they were the results of commitment, teamwork, and the patience of mentors who believed in us.
Maâam Grace Chui and Sir Lorenzo Digal, thank you for your dedication, guidance, and the valuable lessons you shared with us. Your influence went beyond music and marching. You taught us discipline, perseverance, and the importance of working together toward a common goal. Those lessons remain with us long after our school days.
Looking at this old photograph brings back memories of our younger days, when we were simply students dreaming about the future. The classrooms, vehicles, and school grounds may have changed over time, but the lessons, friendships, and experiences we shared will always remain with us.
A school is more than just a building. It is where dreams begin, talents are discovered, friendships are formed, and lifelong memories are made.
For me, BSAT was not just a school. It was part of my growing-up years, a place where my brother and I completed our high school education, where we learned practical skills, and where we proudly represented our school through the Drum and Bugle Corps.
From Bohol Trade School to BSAT, then CVSCAFT, and now BISU, the institutionâs name and status have changed, but its legacy of education and service to the Boholano community continues.
To my fellow BSAT alumni, do you still remember our vintage Harabas, the weapons carrier, and the glory days of our Drum and Bugle Corps? Are those old vehicles still there today? And to our former mentors and schoolmates, please share your memories. Let us preserve these precious pieces of our schoolâs history for the next generation. â¤ď¸
Some places become part of history. Others become part of our lives. For us who once walked the grounds of BSAT, this place will always be both.
đˇ Photo Credits and Appreciation
Our sincere gratitude to Maâam Janette F. M. Pilongo for sharing this precious historical photograph and helping preserve the memories of old Bohol.
We also pay tribute to the legendary Digal Studio, whose photographic legacy has helped preserve images of Boholâs people, places, and institutions for generations to appreciate.