By Michael Visaya

Amigos International Education Center (AIEC) in Taiwan and Mariano Marcos State University, through its Language Center, formalized a partnership for English language programs with the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) on August 4 at the Center for Flexible Learning. 

Signed by MMSU President Virgilio Julius P. Manzano, Jr. and Mr. Philip Chu of AIEC, the partnership aims to promote friendly relations between the Philippines and Taiwan by strengthening academic and cultural ties through English language programs. 

Additionally, the partnership will support the development and implementation of customized English as a Foreign Language (EFL) and English as a Second Language (ESL) courses for Taiwanese learners at MMSU, encourage cross-cultural experiences through immersion-based instruction and collaborative activities, and facilitate joint research, training, and other initiatives related to ESL/EFL education and intercultural learning. 

After the MoA signing, nine Taiwanese parents and students toured the university and participated in an orientation to familiarize themselves with university officials, operations, and the English language program. 
Present during the event were Mr. Alvin Chu of AIEC; Dr. Marlina Lino, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences; Mr. Quincy Savellano, chief of Linkages and Partnerships; and Prof. Ryan Roi Domingo, chief of the MMSU Language Center. 

Since its launch in 2018, the university’s Special English Language Program (SELP), designed to enhance language proficiency through classes and cultural immersion, has successfully accommodated over a hundred learners.

Most recently, from June to August 2024, two batches of Taiwanese students completed a 100-hour course. The visit follows the successful implementation of last year’s program.