The Eastern Visayas State University and the University of San Agustin (USA) on February 16 signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to collaborate on programs and activities in research, extension, and academics.
The MOU signing and partnership launch, held at EVSU Executive House, saw esteemed representatives from both institutions coming together to solidify their commitment to mutual growth and advancement. Present were USA officials: Dr. Jonel P. Saludes, vice president for research and global relations, representing the university president; Mr. John Paul Petrola, director of the center for heritage and indigenous cultures; and Mr. Jake Ledesma, Research Faculty.
During the agreement signing, university president Dr. Dennis C. de Paz expressed his utmost gratitude to the USA and its officials for partnering with EVSU. Present as well were the university officials: VP for Administration and Finance Dr. Benedicto T. Militante, VP for Internationalization and External Affairs Dr. Danilo B. Pulma, Research Director Dr. Pearl Aphrodite B. Carnice, Extension Director Dr. Rustom D. Clemente, and Director for Internationalization for Higher Education Prof. Faustito A. Aure.
VP for RDE Analyn C. Españo, as the prime mover of said research-led partnership, extended a warm welcome to all participants, setting the tone for a momentous occasion. Mr. Petrola of the USA conducted the reading of the MOU and outlined the framework for collaboration.
With commitments reiterated by both institutions’ leadership, the MOU signing concluded with a collaborative meeting and networking session to underscore the collective endeavor towards academic excellence and cultural preservation.
Among the areas of collaboration between two institutions are the re-establishment of the Waray Heritage Center at EVSU and joint research studies on the local knowledge of medicinal plants and healing practices of indigenous peoples (IPs) of the Ati and Mamanwa communities. These study proposals are aimed at being submitted to the National Research Council of the Philippines and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts for possible grants and funding.
Dr. Danilo B. Pulma, Vice President for Internationalization and External Affairs at EVSU, delivered the closing remarks, expressing optimism for the transformative impact of this partnership on the academic landscape and cultural heritage preservation efforts in the region.
