UM Joins Fulbright Philippines Consortium of Study Abroad Program

Davao City, Philippines — The University of Mindanao proudly took part in the Philippine-American Educational Foundation’s (PAEF) Higher Education Partnership Ceremony held on March 24 at SPACE at One Ayala, Makati City. The event marked the ceremonial launching of the Consortium for Study Abroad in the Philippines (CSAP) and the formal signing of partnerships between PAEF, also known as Fulbright Philippines, and participating Higher Education Institutions - an important milestone that strengthens global academic collaboration and mobility.

UM is one of the twenty-two HEIs in the country to be part of this prestigious consortium, making us eligible to host American students and faculty for exchange-related activities. Representing the university in this event are Vice President for External Relations and International Affairs, Dr. Reynaldo Castro, and Linkage Officer, Ms. Izza Aima Montederamos.

The ceremony featured inspiring messages from distinguished speakers, including a welcome remarks by Mr. Julio Amador III, Executive Director of PAEF; a message from the U.S. Government delivered by Ms. Jessica Simon, Counselor for Public Affairs at the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines; and keynote remarks from Dr. Shirley Agrupis, Chairperson of the Commission on Higher Education, and Ms. Christine Joy Cari, Assistant Secretary of the Department of Tourism.

The event also coincided with the 78th anniversary of Fulbright Philippines, highlighted by a commemorative reception attended by esteemed Guests of Honor, including First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos, U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Y. Robert Ewing, DEPDev Secretary Arsenio Balisacan, and Ayala Corporation President & CEO Mr. Cezar Consing.

This meaningful gathering celebrated the enduring partnership between the Philippines and the United States and reaffirmed a shared commitment to advancing education, cultural exchange, and global engagement.