By Mikee Natinga Norico

Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy (left), CPU President, and Dr. Tsang Ho Yin Kenneth (right), Chairperson of the Association for Theological Education in Southeast Asia (ATESEA) Inc., formally sign the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at the President’s Office.

Central Philippine University (CPU) formally strengthened its academic collaboration with the Association for Theological Education in Southeast Asia (ATESEA), Inc., through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on March 3, 2026, at the CPU President’s Office.

The agreement establishes a framework for cooperation between CPU and ATESEA, particularly in the secure, sustainable, and efficient management and operation of ATESEA’s digital depository. The partnership aims to enhance access to theological resources for scholars and institutions, not only in Southeast Asia but also worldwide.

In his welcome message, CPU President Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy expressed his gratitude and described the occasion as a historic milestone for both institutions. He underscored that the agreement is a “win-win proposition” that will greatly benefit both institutions and the wider theological community—not only in Southeast Asia but also globally—as scholars gain greater exposure to Southeast Asian theological scholarship. In closing his message, Dagohoy reflected on a passage from Romans 11:33–36, giving honor and praise to God for His wisdom and guidance in bringing the partnership to fruition.

From left to right: Rev. Dr. Eleuterio Revollido, ATESEA Treasurer; Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy, CPU President; Dr. Tsang Ho Yin Kenneth, ATESEA Chairperson; Rev. Dr. Gloria Lita Mapangdo, ATESEA Secretary; and Dr. Limuel Equina, ATESEA Executive Director, pose for a group photo following the successful signing of the MOU between CPU and ATESEA.

Meanwhile, Dr. Limuel Equina, ATESEA Executive Director, highlighted the significance of the initiative in advancing the dissemination of information among member institutions within and beyond Asia. He also expressed appreciation to CPU for its hospitality and for sending its librarian to assist ATESEA, noting that support was instrumental in the process.

The official signing of the MOU was led by University President Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy for CPU and Dr. Tsang Ho Yin Kenneth, Chairperson of the Association for Theological Education in Southeast Asia (ATESEA). Witnessing the signing were Dr. Limuel Equina, ATESEA Executive Director; Rev. Dr. Eleuterio Revollido, ATESEA Treasurer; and Rev. Dr. Gloria Lita Mapangdo, ATESEA Secretary.

This partnership marks another milestone in CPU’s continued commitment to fostering global academic linkages and strengthening theological education in the region and beyond.