31/08/2025
IN PHOTOS || BIMP-EAGA International Conference Ignites Dialogue on Resiliency and Sustainability
The CityState Asturias Convention Center was bustling with intellectual exchange as the Philippine-EAGA Higher Education Institutions Consortium, in partnership with Palawan State University (PalawanSU), officially launched the BIMP-EAGA International Research Conference and Training on August 26, 2025. The three-day event, themed "Strengthening BIMP-EAGA Foundation on Resiliency, Inclusivity, Sustainability, and Economic Competitiveness," kicked off with a day of pivotal activities and high-profile discussions.
The day began with a flurry of activity as participants completed their registration, eager to engage with colleagues and experts from across the region. The formal opening was led by PalawanSU President, Dr. Ramon M. Docto, and Chairman of the PEHEIC Advisory Board, who delivered a warm and insightful opening message that set the tone for the conference. His remarks were followed by the acknowledgment of distinguished guests and participants from various institutions, facilitated by Dr. Hanlie Taha, Conference Convenor and PEHEIC National President. A highlight of the morning was the inspirational message from Dr. Maricar Casquejo, CHED Regional Director, Region XI, also the Chairperson of Philippine EAGA Socio-Cultural and Education Cluster for HEIs, whose words resonated with the audience, reinforcing the conference's core themes.
Dr. Rolyn C. Daguil, President of Caraga State University delivered the introduction of the two esteemed keynote speakers in the persons of Honorable Congressman Jude Acidre, Chairman, Committee on Higher and Technical Education, House of Representatives, and Honorable Leo Tesoro A. Magno, Secretary of the Mindanao Development Authority, sparked excitement and anticipation for the in-depth talks to follow.
The signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Palawan State University and Universiti Malaysia Sabah solidified a new partnership aimed at fostering cross-border research and academic exchange. This was immediately followed by the signing of a Letter of Intent, both of which were smoothly facilitated by Dir. Rodrigo B. Giducos, Director IV, Investment Promotion & Public Affairs Office of the Mindanao Development Authority, and the PEHEIC Officials. These key agreements signify a stronger commitment to collaborative efforts and knowledge-sharing within the BIMP-EAGA sub-region.
The afternoon plenary session featured a dynamic and comprehensive discussion on sustainable development and regional policy, moderated by two distinguished academic leaders: Dr. Janet B. Oab, Faculty Regent of Palawan State University, and Dr. Maria Jovita Serrano, Director of the Office of International and Global Engagement at CSU.
The session was organized into two parts, with the first part focusing on high-level perspectives from influential figures on key issues facing the BIMP-EAGA region, from sustainable development to regional economic integration and stakeholder collaboration. Following a brief break, the second plenary session shifted focus to practical applications and policy analysis. The discussions provided valuable insights into funding guidelines for future projects and best practices for policy coordination, offering attendees concrete pathways for cooperation. Included also is a topic with a look back at historical context to inform future collaborative efforts.
Additionally, a specialized session designed to equip participants with the skills necessary for navigating the complexities of multi-partner, cross-border projects was taken up. This segment, focused on the critical role of regional collaboration, featured a valuable orientation on the Mindanao Knowledge Center. This presentation provided attendees with a deeper understanding of how to utilize this vital resource for evidence-based policy formulation and effective project development, reinforcing the importance of shared knowledge in achieving cooperative goals.
The afternoon plenary sessions were concluded by an open forum, giving attendees a platform to engage directly with the speakers and moderators, fostering a lively exchange of ideas.