By Mikee Natinga Norico

CPU President Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy (center left), IAIN Pontianak Rector Prof. Dr. H. Syarif (center right), and Vice-Rector Dr. Ismail Ruslan (standing behind, wearing a songkok/kopiah), pose for a group photo with CPU administrators and faculty members after signing the MOU, marking a historic step toward interreligious and intercultural collaboration.

On November 7, 2024, Central Philippine University (CPU) reached another milestone in international collaboration by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Institut Agama Islam Negeri (IAIN) Pontianak, Indonesia. Held on CPU Rex D. Drilon Hall Conference Room, the event was warmly opened by Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy, CPU’s University President, setting the stage for a partnership rooted in a shared commitment to interreligious and intercultural understanding.

Representatives from IAIN Pontianak, including Rector Prof. Dr. H. Syarif and Vice-Rector Dr. Ismail Ruslan, met with CPU administrators and faculty members to formalize this partnership. The MOU outlines mutual goals in research, faculty and student exchanges, and reinforces CPU’s dedication to its ecumenical stance.

Among CPU’s notable attendees were Prof. Joshua Zonita, who facilitated the event; Rev. Dr. Jerson Narciso, convenor; and Rev. Dr. Bernabe C. Pagara, Dean of the College of Theology. Key administrative figures, including Dr. Irving Domingo L. Rio, Vice President for Academic Affairs; Dr. Rowena M. Liboon, Dean of the School of Graduate Studies; and Prof. Lesley Joy L. Dignadice, Acting Director of the Local and International Linkages and Affiliation Center, were also present. CPU’s Office of Communications Director, Rev. Dr. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on, Prof. Rea Angelica F. Villeza, Chairperson of the Department of Religion & Ethics, and Prof. Melanie C. Arandela further underscored CPU’s support for this initiative.

Both institutions aim to develop collaborative research, focusing on interreligious, intercultural, and peace studies, as well as Business Management and Public Administration. This academic partnership promises to benefit both CPU and IAIN Pontianak by enhancing research programs and contributing to the promotion of a culture of peace in the Asian region.

The partnership will primarily focus on faculty exchanges and collaborative research projects. Through these, CPU and IAIN Pontianak look forward to fostering enriched academic and cultural exchanges, which will enhance learning and collaboration for both institutions.