The University of Northern Philippines and the Metropolitan Institute of Arts and Sciences (MIAS) have formalized a strategic academic partnership with the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on November 26, 2025, at MIAS San Ramon in Magsingal, Ilocos Sur.
Anchored in the College of Teacher Education’s flagship extension initiative, Securing FUTURE, the collaboration features the “Mentoring the Mentor Program” and its centerpiece, the SIRIB Project—Sharing of Insights, Resources, and Instructional Benchmarking. The initiative is set to enhance teacher competence, foster inclusive and gender-responsive education, and broaden community-focused engagement.
The event began with a formal introduction of partner institutions, delivered by Ms. Genevieve Delmonte, Assistant Principal of MIAS, and Dr. Ma. Teresa Susan Manzano, Dean of UNP’s College of Teacher Education. Their remarks accentuated the shared vision and commitment of both institutions to fostering purposeful academic collaboration, setting a tone of cooperation, innovation, and mutual growth for the initiatives ahead.
Following the opening introductions, Dr. Lloyd Mata, Officer-in-Charge of the University Extension Office, outlined the core areas of collaboration between the two institutions, highlighting joint initiatives in training, research, and capacity-building programs. To ensure all parties had a clear understanding of the partnership, Dr. Necy Cesaria Romo, Head, Academic Standards and ISO Coordinator, meticulously read through the provisions of the Memorandum of Agreement before the formal signing. Her presentation stressed the specific roles, responsibilities, and planned activities of each institution, setting a transparent and structured foundation for the academic collaboration.
Delivering an inspiring message during the ceremony, Dr. Maribel Collado, President of MIAS, expressed her deep gratitude for the partnership with the University of Northern Philippines. She acknowledged that, while MIAS is still a young institution, it remains resolute in its commitment to provide accessible and high-quality education to its students.
Dr. Collado highlighted that the collaboration with UNP goes beyond formal agreement, serving as a meaningful platform to enhance teacher development, promote innovative teaching strategies, and strengthen overall instructional quality. She emphasized that by working together, both institutions can equip educators with the necessary skills to meet evolving educational demands, ultimately benefiting learners and the wider community.
The ceremony saw the active participation of prominent figures from both institutions, including Dr. Luzviminda Relon, Director of Instruction and Faculty Development; Dr. RainaldaRambuyon, MAEd Program Head; Dr. Alma Josefina Bobita of the College of Teacher Education; and Ms. Genevieve Delmonte, alongside MIAS faculty, staff, and students. Their presence highlighted a shared commitment to forge stronger academic linkages, foster professional development, and nurture a culture of excellence that benefits both educators and learners alike.
A centerpiece of the program was the launch of a gender and development – focused capacity-building initiative aimed to promote gender equality in the classroom. Dr. Eleanor Belizar, Special Assistant to the President and a noted advocate for gender-responsive instruction, served as the resource speaker, guiding participants on strategies to foster inclusive, bias-free learning environments. The session emphasized practical approaches to enhance teachers’ understanding of gender-sensitive pedagogy and create safer, more equitable classrooms.
The partnership between the University of Northern Philippines and the Metropolitan Institute of Arts and Sciences marks a significant stride toward advancing inclusive, high-quality, and gender-responsive education through sustained collaboration and capacity-building efforts.
Article by Dr. Rainalda Rambuyon
