Quezon City, Philippines — On March 25, 2025, an exploratory meeting took place between Marinduque State University (MarSU) and World Citi Colleges (WCC), marking the beginning of what is expected to be a fruitful collaboration between the two institutions, held at World Citi Colleges, Aurora Boulevard, Quezon City, sought to explore potential academic partnerships and strategic initiatives to enhance educational exchange and mutual development.

The event kicked off with the acknowledgment of the esteemed delegates from MarSU, led by University President Prof. Diosdado P. Zulueta together with Dr. Ma. Edelwina M. Blasé (VP for Research and Extension).

The World Citi Colleges counterparts warmly welcomed the team led by Dr. Christina Jalasco-Estioco (VP for Academic Affairs), along with key officials Dr. Ma. Cristina J. Estioco (VP for Academic Affairs), Ms. Mia Monica Bernabe (VP for Internationalization and Strategic Partnerships), Dr. Bernadita Reyes (Dean, College of Nursing), Mr. Paquito M. Lacaba Jr. (Campus Director), Dr. Dick O. Eugenio (Director, International Affairs and Strategic Partnerships Office), and Asst. Prof. John Mark S. Borbon (Head, Quality Assurance & Technology Office, Coordinator, Community Extension & Service Office). All were present to engage in this important dialogue to strengthen academic ties.

The opening remarks were delivered by Ms. Bernabe, who emphasized the importance of international partnerships in expanding the horizons of academic institutions. She highlighted how collaborations like the one between WCC and MarSU provide an opportunity to enrich the learning experiences of both students and faculty members, while also advancing the universities’ shared goals of innovation and excellence in education.

Prof. Zulueta delivered his remarks, expressing the university’s enthusiasm for the opportunity to engage with WCC. He praised the initiatives aimed at academic collaboration and underscored the importance of partnerships in the development of both institutions. Prof. Zulueta outlined the strengths of MarSU and its commitment to producing globally competitive graduates, particularly in the fields of internationalization, healthcare, and nursing.

Dr. Eugenio presented an overview of the college’s international engagements and strategic partnerships. His presentation highlighted WCC’s commitment to building a global network of academic collaborations and fostering international exchange programs. Dr. Eugenio detailed WCC’s various partnerships with universities around the world, particularly in the fields of healthcare and nursing, and discussed how these collaborations have enriched the academic environment at WCC.

Dr. Eugenio also outlined the potential for MarSU to become an integral part of this international network, bringing both institutions closer together to provide students with diverse global learning experiences and opportunities.

In a gesture of goodwill and gratitude, a plaque of appreciation and a simple token for WCC was presented by the MarSU delegates. Additionally, a token of appreciation from WCC was given to MarSU as a symbol of the sincere partnership and mutual respect between the two institutions.

Additionally, other officials who were present include Ms. Erma E. Reyes (HRMU Head & Supervising Administrative Officer), University and Board Secretary Ms. Morena V. Santos, Exec. Assist. Ms. Lenie Z. Rodriguez, Asso. Prof. Alfredo M. Ofrecio III (Chief, PMS & Director of Finance), Faculty Regent Dr. Joy R. Profugo, KTTO Director Mr. Edgardo M. Laririt, Legal Officer Atty. Arlene M. Retardo, Campus Director Mr. Julie Rodelas, Info Officer Ms. Desiree Anne Sto. Domingo, Planning Officer Ms. Mila Grace Gutierrez, and Culture and Arts Director Ms. Ruby Ann Lantita.

Following the formal proceedings, a guided campus and hospital tour was organized for the MarSU delegates. The tour provided an opportunity for the visitors to explore the state-of-the-art facilities at World Citi Colleges, including its modern classrooms, simulation labs, and medical training facilities. The delegates were particularly impressed by the hospital tour, which showcased the institution’s healthcare training programs and its commitment to providing students with hands-on experience in real-world healthcare environments.

(J. Breganza | Photos: JR Mullanida)

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