By Michael Visaya

Mariano Marcos State University and the East-West Center signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on June 2 in Honolulu, Hawaii, USA, for academic and research collaboration.

The MoU was signed by Dr. Virgilio Julius P. Manzano, Jr., MMSU president, and Dr. James Scott, East-West Center interim president. This agreement encourages all forms of academic exchanges, cooperation, and research partnerships in areas of mutual interest.

Among the planned activities are the exchange of faculty members, research scholars, and students for academic visits, exchange of publications, research and teaching materials, hosting seminars and workshops, and curriculum revisions and improvements.

The MoU also promotes mutual support in developing global relations and international cooperation with industry, businesses, and other academic institutions in both countries while sharing best global practices for mutual growth.

In his message, Dr. Manzano expressed eagerness for the new partnership, as it will further strengthen the university’s understanding of culture, promotion of internationalization, and knowledge exchange. “We are grateful to the East-West Center for choosing us as a partner. As Filipinos, we truly value relationships, and I look forward to building this partnership and creating real connections between our people,” he said.

Meanwhile, Dr. Scott acknowledged MMSU as a partner institution that shares the same vision and commitment to advancing knowledge and regional cooperation. “This agreement reflects our enduring mission to build bridges through education and exchange,” he remarked.

According to Prof. Krismary Sharmaine Yapo-Agbigay, MMSU alumni relations chief, there are around 4,000 alumni based in Hawaii. She also recognized their contributions to the Philippine–Hawaii partnership.

Additionally, Dr. Jeanette Dials, MMSU international linkages and partnership director, expressed excitement about the collaboration, viewing it as a valuable opportunity for the university to gain greater visibility internationally, particularly in research, culture, and community involvement.

Present during the signing ceremony from the East-West Center were Mr. Zachary Espino, executive administrative officer of the Office of the President; Ms. Ann Hartman, dean and director of professional development and education programs; and Dr. Carlos Juarez, director of the research program. They were also joined by MMSU Global Alumni president Lawrence Patricio and other distinguished MMSU alumni based in Hawaii.

This event is part of Dr. Manzano’s visit to Hawaii for academic and research partnerships and to meet with alumni.

The East-West Center was established as a national educational institution of the United States to promote better relations and understanding among the people and nations of the US, Asia, and the Pacific islands through cooperative study, training, and research.

📷East-West Center