12/03/2026
Bridging Highlands and Heartlands: PampangaStateU, IFSU, and TAU Deepen Internationalization and Cultural Exchange
With the theme “Highlands and Heartlands: Internationalization (IZN) and Cultural Exchange,” Pampanga State University (PampangaStateU), Tarlac Agricultural University (TAU), and Ifugao State University (IFSU) strengthened international collaboration and cultural exchange during a visit held at the IFSU Lamut Campus from March 9–11, 2026.
The visit supported IFSU’s vision and built upon the 2024 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between IFSU and PampangaStateU. The activity aimed to deepen institutional partnerships through discussions on joint curricula, collaborative research, and faculty and student mobility, reinforcing universities’ roles in advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) through culture-based education and collaboration.
Mx. Clyde B. Pumihic, IFSU International Relations Officer, emphasized that internationalization in the university is grounded in cultural identity and heritage.
“IFSU operates within the Ifugao Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System (GIAHS). Similarly, PampangaStateU is anchored in the vibrant Kapampangan heritage known for its culinary traditions and performing arts,” Mx. Pumihic said.
He also presented IFSU’s five pillars of internationalization: Academic Mobility, Strategic Partnerships, Globalized Curricula, Global Branding and Reputation, and Internationalization at Home, highlighting the role of global rankings in strengthening institutional credibility.
“Rankings increase visibility and credibility. They also open opportunities for partnerships, collaboration, student and faculty mobility, and resource mobilization,” he added.
Meanwhile, Dr. Mildred M. Crisostomo, Director of PampangaStateU’s Office of International Partnerships and Programs (OIPP), shared the university’s internationalization initiatives, including its membership in the Asia Technological University Network (ATU-Net) and the hosting of the ATU-Net International Staff Week 2025.
Highlighting the spirit of partnership among the universities, Dr. Crisostomo said:
“Internationalization is not the dream of a single institution; it is a dream we all share. Today is a clear manifestation of how selfless effort and togetherness allow us to see how beautiful the world can be.”
Beyond institutional collaboration, Dr. Crisostomo highlighted the deeper connection among universities working together.
“Today we’re not here as visitors but as family. We recognize familiar faces—not because we already met before—but because our souls recognize each other,” she said.
She added that PampangaStateU continues to strengthen global engagement through faculty and cultural exchanges with institutions in Thailand, language and culture programs, and international scholarship opportunities for faculty and students.
In the same event, Mr. Jerome L. Duque, Information Officer III of TAU, also discussed strategies for implementing internationalization initiatives, recommending a progressive model that begins with Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL), followed by micro-credentials, credit transfer systems, and eventually dual degree programs.
Likewise, the activity also highlighted the role of culture in global engagement. Mr. Rowel E. Cruz, Director of PampangaStateU’s Office of Culture and the Arts, presented “Cule Ning Pampang” (Color of the Riverbanks), which reflects Kapampangan history and identity.
Further, Ms. Lalie Vic A. Cawilan, Director of IFSU’s Department of Culture and the Arts, emphasized the university’s efforts to bring indigenous heritage to international audiences, citing its participation in the World Indigenous Traditional Games in Taiwan.
As part of their visit, the Pampanga State University (PamSU) delegation—composed of Dr. Mildred M. Crisostomo, Director of the Office for International Partnerships and Programs (OIPP); Mr. Rowel E. Cruz, Assistant Director of the Office of Culture and the Arts (OCA); Dr. John Paul M. Miranda, Program Head for International Linkages and Partnerships; Mr. John Reinjoe F. Namit, Program Head for Faculty Scholarships, Exchanges, and Mobility; Mr. Rodel T. Alimurong, Program Head for Student Scholarships, Exchanges, and Mobility; Ms. Joyce Ann M. Tolentino, Program Head for Short-term Courses; Dr. Marcial Bonnie M. Salac, OIPP Coordinator for COE; and Ms. Princess Marie S. Nicolas, OIPP Staff—along with Mr. Jerome L. Duque, Information Officer of Tarlac Agricultural University (TAU), also traveled to Kiangan, Ifugao for a cultural immersion activity aimed at deepening intercultural understanding and strengthening partnerships among the participating institutions.
