By Kathrina Antonio

Mariano Marcos State University has forged ties with the Institute of Integrated Electrical Engineers of the Philippines Inc. (IIEE) Abu Dhabi Chapter today, July 1, at the University Review Center.

Signed by MMSU President Shirley C. Agrupis and Dr. Florigo Varona, 2024 IIEE National President, the memorandum of understanding (MoU) aims to strengthen the knowledge and skills of electrical engineering students.
The collaboration includes training and immersion of students and faculty members, virtual plant visit programs, and various activities related to electrical engineering.

In her message, Dr. Agrupis expressed her gratitude to IIEE-Abu Dhabi Chapter and emphasized the university’s commitment in nurturing students to be globally competitive.

“This partnership signifies our bold step forward in our consistency in achieving excellent innovation and preparing our students to be competitive on the world stage by equipping them with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in their careers and make meaningful contributions to society," she said.

Meanwhile, Engr. Varona expressed his enthusiasm to the new partnership, stating that “MMSU and IIEE’s combined expertise, resources, and shared vision will lead to significant advancements and mutual growth."

Also present in the signing ceremony were Engr. Jonathan L. Santiago, IIEE-Abu Dhabi Chapter President; Engr. Rigor Gabur, IEE Regional Governor/Northern Luzon; Dr. Sharona Barroga, dean of the College of Engineering; Engr. Salustiano Morales, program chair of the BS Electrical Engineering; Engr. James Ryan Garma, BSEE alumnus, and MMSU electrical engineering faculty members and students. Furthermore, Engr. Edgardo Bernardino, 2024 IIEE Foreign Region Governor and Engr. Mary Jane Nuñes-Reolente, VP External of IIEE-Abu Dhabi Chapter, and other IIEE Abu Dhabi Chapter members joined via Zoom.

Founded in 1975, the Institute of Integrated Electrical Engineers of the Philippines, Inc. (IIEE) is the organization of electrical practitioners and the only accredited professional organization (APO) of electrical practitioners by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC).