


To strengthen internationalization strategies and build a robust framework for global partnerships, Rizal Technological University (RTU), hosted a three-day internationalization workshop for the Philippine Association of State Universities and Colleges – National Capital Region (PASUC NCR), from October 22 to 24, 2024, at Astoria Plaza Hotel, Pasig City.
The event, titled “Establishing a PASUC NCR Regional Framework for Internationalization and IZN Strategies Towards Strong National and International Partnerships and Collaborations,” gathered leaders from higher education institutions across the NCR to devise strategies for global engagement and institutional partnerships.
The workshop was organized with the leadership of Dr. Ma. Eugenia M. Yangco, RTU President; Mr. Donato Z. Estocada, Director of RTU’s International Affairs and Linkages Office (IALO) alongside Dr. Bert J. Tuga, President of the Philippine Normal University (PNU) and current PASUC NCR President. Their leadership was instrumental in shaping discussions and initiatives aimed at internationalization within the region’s state universities and colleges.
Keynote speaker, CHED Commissioner, Dr. Ethel Agnes P. Valenzuela, opened the event, highlighting the critical need for Philippine higher education institutions to align with global standards to remain competitive internationally. The workshop sessions covered a wide range of topics aimed at equipping participants with knowledge and tools to strengthen internationalization in their institutions.
Discussions began with an exploration of academic world rankings and the importance of understanding the global landscape. This was followed by a detailed regional context analysis to identify specific needs and opportunities within the NCR. Participants then engaged in a workshop focused on mapping regional goals, which laid the foundation for the formulation of policies and strategies for internationalization. Sharing of best practices from various universities provided valuable insights into successful international initiatives. The final sessions of the workshop were dedicated to discussing implementation strategies, monitoring, and evaluation, ensuring that the plans devised during the event would be sustainable and effective.
Dr. Engelbert Pasag, Vice President for International Linkages of Panpacific University, and Mr. Jerome L. Duque, TAU IR Secretariat Lead, contributed as resource speakers, providing expert guidance on establishing and maintaining international linkages.
The workshop concluded with a renewed commitment from PASUC NCR member institutions to improve their international standing. The event underscored the importance of national and international collaborations, positioning state universities and colleges in the NCR to better serve their students and communities by fostering global ties.