The University of Northern Philippines (UNP) reaffirmed its commitment to internationalization, research collaboration, and academic partnership as one of the co-hosts of the Inaugural Synergia International Research Conference, held on May 6–8, 2026, at Saint Louis College of San Fernando, La Union, with the theme “Weaving Ideas, Celebrating Cultures, Shaping the Future.”
Hosted by Saint Louis College of San Fernando, La Union, the conference brought together educators, researchers, students, institutional leaders, and partner organizations from the Philippines and abroad to promote academic collaboration, highlight innovative research, and strengthen linkages across institutions and disciplines.
The conference was organized in partnership with other local and international co-hosts and partner institutions, including St. Xavier’s College, Kathmandu, Nepal; Saigon Business School, Vietnam; Multimedia University, Malaysia; Philippine Council of Deans and Educators in Business; Philippine Association of Collegiate Schools of Business; University of Saint Louis; Saint Mary’s University, Bayombong; Virgen Milagrosa University Foundation; and Saint Louis University.
As part of its participation, UNP contributed to the academic exchange through research presentations in areas such as education, intelligent systems and technology, governance and public service, culture and community studies, tourism and heritage, and institutional sustainability. The UNP presenters included Dr. Dean Alvin L. Pablico, Prof. Mark Christian Arizala, Dr. Florida U. Ursulom, Ar. Mon-Cres A. Toje, Dr. Loraine Ann Madera, and Prof. Precious Lyn C. Babida. The delegation was also joined by Dr. Joseph R. Taban, Assistant Director of the University Research and Development Office.
A key highlight of UNP’s participation was the signing of two formal agreements with Saint Louis College of San Fernando, La Union: a Memorandum of Understanding for institutional partnership and a Memorandum of Agreement for UNP’s co-hosting of the conference. The MOU affirms both institutions’ commitment to quality education, academic exchange, research collaboration, faculty and student engagement, cultural activities, and community-oriented initiatives, while the MOA formalizes UNP’s role as a co-host of the conference.
Representing the University of Northern Philippines during the signing ceremony were UNP President Dr. Erwin F. Cadorna and University Research and Development Office Director Dr. Edelyn A. Cadorna. Saint Louis College of San Fernando, La Union, was represented by its College President, Rev. Fr. Roderick G. Villamar, CICM, PhD.
In his message, Dr. Cadorna emphasized that the conference theme reflects the value of bringing together institutional ideas, cultures, and strengths in the service of a shared future. He also expressed UNP’s openness to building wider academic friendships with institutions that share the university’s commitment to research, innovation, cultural understanding, and community service.
The event highlighted the value of synergy among higher education institutions in advancing research, strengthening partnerships, and creating opportunities for wider academic collaboration. For UNP, its participation reflects its continuing commitment to instruction, research, extension, and internationalization.
