Seven Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), including Mabalacat City College (MCC), signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to establish the Weaving Collaborative Actions Toward Resilient, Renewable, and Regenerative Water Management (WAT3R) Consortium on 30 September 2023. This collaborative initiative aimed to explore opportunities for cooperation in various academic research, and scholarly endeavors in the areas of mutual interest among the participating HEIs.
The consortium's primary objective is to champion Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG2 (Zero Hunger), SDG11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG14 (Life Below Water), and SDG17 (Partnerships for the Goals).
The signing event was graced by the presence of CHED Deputy Executive Director IV Atty. Lily Freida M. Milla, who highlighted the significance of this initiative. “This is a brave new step embarking on a new journey on internationalization as we reshape the internationalization of Philippine Higher Education to make a mark towards partnership and collaboration impact into society and into the future,” Atty. Milla said.
Additionally, representatives from the US Embassy to the Philippines, Deputy Director on Public Engagement Ms. Pauline Anderson and Education Adviser Ms. Christine Grace Catindig added significance to the occasion.
The US Embassy Representative also expressed support for the initiative, highlighting the importance of such collaborations in addressing crucial global challenges in creating a sustainable community. “Water issues does not know borders. It’s something that affects everyone. And the future of our water systems truly holds the seeds of the next generation so I pledge to you my support.” Ms. Anderson said.
The US Embassy to the Philippines, Atty. Lily Freida M. Milla and participating HEIs including Aklan State University President Dr. Emily M. Arangote, Bataan Peninsula State University President Dr. Ruby Santos-Matibag, RN, Cavite State University President Dr. Hernando D. Robles, Cebu Normal University President Dr. Daniel A. Ariaso Sr, Mecon, CESOII, Rizal Technological University President Dr. Ma. Eugenia M. Yangco, and Benguet State University Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Samuel S. Poliden also toured the MCC Corporate Boutique.
MCC President Dr. Michelle Aguilar-Ong emphasized the initiative’s significance to the community and the institution's commitment to fostering academic and scholarly collaboration with all the universities involved. “This project is not just an aspiration of Mabalacat City College but of the whole community of Mabalacat City.” Dr. Aguilar-Ong noted.
The MOU formalized the WAT3R Consortium, enabling cooperation in various areas including academic exchanges, co-creation of curricula, joint research and development projects, and the development of joint academic courses or degree programs. Additionally, the consortium will jointly organize seminars, conferences, and workshops on topics of mutual interest for both faculty and students from each institution to participate.
