MANILA, Philippines—To enhance the academic offerings in both institutions, particularly in engineering and its graduate programs, Adamson University (AdU) and Biliran Province State University (BIPSU) forged a partnership in collaborative teaching and faculty development, held at Adamson University, Manila, on November 29.  

The partnership was formalized through the signing of the memorandum of agreement (MOA) spearheaded by Fr. Daniel Franklin E. Pilarion, president of Adamson University, and Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr., president of Biliran Province State University. 

Witnessing the said MOA signing from BiPSU were the OIC-Vice President for Administration and Finance Engr. Vivencio A. Pelesco, Planning Officer I Engr. Ronn Lennard Napala, and University Media and Information Office Director Apple Joy Balondo-Visitacion, while attending from AdU were Dean Dr. Merlinda A. Palencia, and Engineering Program Chairpersons Engr. Jerome Jordan F. Famadico, Engr. Jerry G. Olay, Engr. Joan D. Sta. Ana, Engr. Adrian Raymund C. Fernandez, Engr. Noemi B. Fernandez, and Engr. Lester Alfred M. Olasiman. 

The  MOA outlines a commitment between the two universities to engage in joint teaching in undergraduate engineering programs at AdU. These programs include Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering, Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering, Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering, and Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering.

Under this partnership, BIPSU will provide qualified faculty members to collaborate with their counterparts at AdU in delivering professional courses. 

Adamson University will also offer graduate study opportunities to eligible faculty from BiPSU. These include master’s programs in engineering disciplines, such as Master of Engineering major in Civil, Computer, Electrical, and Mechanical Engineering, as well as specialized programs like Master of Science in Construction Management and Master of Science in Civil Engineering, Major in Geotechnical Engineering.

The modes of delivery for delivering the programs include in-person classes at AdU, online or blended learning platforms, and collaborative research initiatives or joint projects, which may be conducted at AdU or BIPSU's research facilities. 

In his message delivered before the AdU officials, BiPSU President Cañezo expressed his hope that the partnership will not only improve the quality of instruction for students but will help the institution attain the COPC compliant for the engineering programs. 

“Indeed there is a spirit of cooperation and not competition  by sharing your (AdU) human resource  to help our engineering programs. We are happy to avail the services of AdU so not only we can improve the quality of instruction but this partnership will also contribute in realizing your vision and your mission to help those underprivileged.”  

AdU President, Fr. Pilarion revealed plans to expand the university’s program offerings in Mindanao. However, he highlighted that partnering with BiPSU presents an opportunity to extend their services first  in the Visayas. 

The president of AdU also noted that Biliran could become a central hub for universities in Eastern Visayas, particularly in offering  master’s programs in engineering. “We are grateful for this opportunity,” he said. “Sharing expertise is essential—the more it is shared, the greater the impact," he disclosed.

Key officials from the AdU Engineering Department, including President Pilarion, are scheduled to visit BiPSU at the start of the second semester in January 2025. The visit will include a face-to-face meeting with faculty and students from BiPSU's Engineering Department.

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[This article aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 4: Quality Education]