By Jareason Fabre

The University Canada West (UCW) and Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) formalized an academic cooperation agreement on June 26 at the Philippine Consulate General in Vancouver.

Signing the memorandum of understanding (MoU) were Dr. Bashir Makhoul, President and Vice‑Chancellor of UCW, and Dr. Virgilio Julius P. Manzano, Jr., President of MMSU. The signing was witnessed by Philippine Consul General Gina Alagon Jamorquín, UCW Business Development Manager Merryjoy Nicolas, and UCW Associate Director for Recruitment Bagir Rzayev.

Under this agreement, both universities will collaborate on faculty, staff, and student exchanges; share publications; offer joint professional development and co‑developed courses; create articulation and pathway progression opportunities; and pursue other mutually agreed-upon activities. 

Over the next 60 days, MMSU and UCW will appoint liaison officers, finalize additional MoUs online, plan a joint information session for Northern Luzon students, and prepare funding proposals to launch pilot exchanges and research projects, strengthening MMSU’s role as a reliable partner for Canadian universities.

Before the signing, Dr. Manzano toured UCW’s Granville Street campus, where Mr. Rzayev and Ms. Nicolas outlined UCW’s career‑focused programs in business administration, digital marketing, and innovation leadership, and discussed clear pathways for Philippine students and joint graduate‑study options.

Founded in 2004, UCW offers career‑focused bachelor’s and master’s programs in business, technology, and design from its modern campus in downtown Vancouver.