By Mikee Natinga Norico

From left to right: Dr. Evelyn Grace D. Ayson, Director of the University Research Center; Engr. Jebie A. Balagosa, PhD, CPU Associate Professor and Balik Scientist under the DOST-PCIEERD Program; Dr. Aries Roda D. Romallosa, Acting Vice President for Research, Development, and Extension; Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy, University President; Dr. Clement T. Camposano, Chancellor; Dr. Sharon N. Nuñal, Director of the Regional Research Center; and Engr. Leonard King Jao, University Researcher I at the MSN Laboratory, pose for a photo after the successful signing of the MoU and MoA.

Central Philippine University (CPU) and the University of the Philippines Visayas (UPV) have officially forged a research and capacity-building partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) held on October 7, 2025, at the Henry Luce III Library Conference Room.

The historic collaboration aims to strengthen scientific research, innovation, and knowledge exchange between the two universities, particularly in the fields of material science and nanotechnology. The agreement supports the research work of Engr. Jebie A. Balagosa, PhD, CPU Associate Professor and DOST-PCIEERD Balik Scientist, under the DOST 2025 Philippines–Korea Joint S&T Research Program Project GEO-DYNAMEA.

The event opened with a prayer led by Dr. Florence P. Bogacia, Vice President for Finance and Enterprises, followed by the singing of the National Anthem.

In his welcome message, Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy, University President, warmly welcomed the UPV delegation and expressed gratitude for their shared commitment to academic and research excellence. He underscored the significance of the partnership in advancing both institutions’ missions, emphasizing CPU’s dedication to integrating science and faith in education. Quoting Romans 11:33–36, he reminded everyone that all wisdom and knowledge ultimately come from God.

CPU Administrators, student leaders, faculty and staff, together with UPV representatives, pose for a group photo after the successful signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between Central Philippine University (CPU) and the University of the Philippines Visayas (UPV) held at the Henry Luce III Library Conference Room.

Delivering the message of commitment, Dr. Clement T. Camposano, Chancellor of UP Visayas, reaffirmed UPV’s mission to serve the Filipino people through education and innovation. He highlighted the importance of collaboration over competition, saying that “true progress comes through partnerships.” Dr. Camposano thanked CPU for its openness to work with UPV in advancing research, education, and public service toward national development.

“We believe that the best way to maximize this investment is not by standing apart, but by working shoulder to shoulder with our partner institutions—conducting research together, generating knowledge together, and serving our communities together. This is why today’s partnership is particularly meaningful. It signifies not only collaboration, but also the expansion of opportunities for our students, faculty, and partner institutions,” Dr. Camposano said.

The rationale of the partnership agreement was presented by Engr. Jebie A. Balagosa, who shared his personal journey from being a struggling student to earning his PhD in South Korea. He reflected on how perseverance and collaboration shaped his research path and emphasized that the partnership between CPU and UPV is not only about technology but also about uniting shared expertise, resources, and a common goal for sustainability and innovation.

“This collaboration is not just about technology—it is about synergy between disciplines, expertise, and purpose. Through this partnership, CPU gains access to UPV’s advanced facilities, while UPV benefits from CPU’s field testing and student research initiatives. Together, we aim to co-author publications, establish testing standards, and nurture a new generation of engineers and scientists who will lead with integrity and innovation,” Engr. Balagosa said.

Prof. Lesley Joy C. Larroza-Dignadice, Director of the Local and International Linkages and Affiliations Center, formally read the contents of the MOU and MOA. The agreements outline the responsibilities of both universities in supporting joint research initiatives, particularly the use of UPV’s Material Science and Nanotechnology (MSN) Laboratory for sample processing, data analysis, and capacity-building activities.

Under the agreement, UPV will provide analytical services, including Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS), and pH determination, while CPU will prepare samples and conduct three capacity-building activities. Both institutions also agreed to co-author publications, co-own resulting intellectual properties, and ensure the proper dissemination of scientific results.

The documents were signed by Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy, University President; Dr. Aries Roda D. Romallosa, Acting Vice President for Research, Development, and Extension; Dr. Evelyn Grace D. Ayson, Director of the University Research Center; and Engr. Jebie A. Balagosa, PhD, CPU Associate Professor and Balik Scientist under the DOST-PCIEERD Program, representing Central Philippine University. Representing the University of the Philippines Visayas were Dr. Clement T. Camposano, Chancellor; Prof. Encarnacion Emilia S. Yap, Vice Chancellor for Research and Extension; Dr. Sharon N. Nuñal, Director of the Regional Research Center; and Engr. Leonard King Jao, University Researcher I at the MSN Laboratory.

Following the signing, messages of support were delivered by Dr. Aries Roda D. Romallosa, Acting Vice President for Research, Development, and Extension; Dr. Merle Lorca-Junsay, Acting Vice President for Academic Affairs; Engr. Shevanee Ruth G. Dela Cruz, Chairperson of the Department of Civil Engineering; Dr. Evelyn Grace D. Ayson, Director of the University Research Center; and Dr. Sharon N. Nuñal, Director of the Regional Research Center, UPV.

In her closing remarks, Dr. Evelyn Grace D. Ayson expressed appreciation to all the signatories and highlighted that this partnership stands as a testament to both institutions’ shared pursuit of research excellence and innovation for societal good.

The event concluded with a photo opportunity featuring CPU and UPV representatives, followed by a lunch fellowship that fostered stronger academic ties and camaraderie.

Through this collaboration, CPU and UPV reaffirm their shared commitment to scientific advancement, sustainable innovation, and the development of knowledge that benefits the Filipino people.