Los Baňos, Laguna, Philippines — A momentous confirmation of partnership between the University of the Philippines Los Banos and Marinduque State College has been conducted through a ceremonial Memorandum of Understanding signing on March 13, 2024 at the Executive Conference Room, Office of the Chancellor, UPLB, Laguna.

UPLB and MSC officials as they sign the MOU for education and academic cooperation. (Photo by Alfredo M. Ofrecio III)

As stipulated in the MOU, the primary goal is to develop academic and educational cooperation and promote mutual understanding between the two higher education institutions such as exchange of faculty and researchers, exchange of students, conduct of collaborative research and extension projects, conduct of lectures, symposia, capacity-building programs, exchange of academic information and materials, and promote other academic cooperation as mutually agreed. Additionally, the MOU is expected to roll for three years duration subject to renewal through review and renegotiation of MSC and UPLB.

All smiles for the confirmation of the MSC-UPLB partnership. (Photo by Alfredo M. Ofrecio III)

UPLB was headed by its esteemed Chancellor, Dr. Jose C. Camacho, Jr. Together with him were Dr. Rico C. Ancog-Dean, School of Environmental Science and Dr. Jennifer Marie S. Amparo-Dean, College of Human Ecology who signed witness to the partnership. Other UPLB officials were also present who were composed of Dr. Ronilo Jose D. Flores-OIC Dean, Graduate School; Dr. Rhea L. Gumasing-Assistant to the Dean, College of Public Affairs and Development; Engr. Ronel S. Pangan- Director, Center for Agri-Fisheries and Biosystems Mechanization (BIOMECH), College of Engineering and Agro-Industrial Technology; Dr. Jenielyn T. Padrones- Director, Office for Institutional Development in Higher Education & Associate Professor, Institute of Renewable Natural Resources, College of Forestry and Natural Resources; Dr. Reniel S. Pamplona-Assistant Professor, Institute of Crop Science, College of Agriculture and Food Science & Program Coordinator, Office for Institutional Development in Higher Education; Asst. Prof. Roderick L. Catriz-Program Coordinator, Office for Institutional Development in Higher Education, & Chair, Department of Electrical Engineering, College of Engineering and Agro-Industrial Technology.

On the other hand, MSC led by its SUC President III, Prof. Dr. Diosdado P. Zulueta signed the MOU in pure anticipation and aspirations for the college to have an esteemed partner in academic, research and extension endeavors. Together with him who witnessed the partnership were Dr. Ma. Edelwina M. Blasé-VP for Research and Extension, Dr. Evangeline-Dean, College of Environmental Studies, and Mr. Alfredo M. Ofrecio III-Director, Financial Services/Chief, Presidential Management Staff.

PDPZ poses with UPLB official (left) and MSC officials (right). (Photo by Alfredo M. Ofrecio III)

Through this MOU, PDPZ aspires for a greater boost in the academic and R&E programs and activities of the college especially this year nearing its university status, having UPLB as a distinguished university with outstanding performances in the said areas is truly both thrilling and rewarding to achieve.