The University of Northern Philippines strengthened its push for global engagement and internationalization as Dr. Allan Guillermo, Assistant Dean of the College of Technology, joined a high-level Philippine delegation in a four-day strategic mission to China from September 9 to 12, 2026, forging academic, industry, and institutional linkages aimed at expanding opportunities for collaboration and advancing the University’s international partnerships.
The engagement commenced on September 9, 2026, with the delegation attending the opening of the China International Fair for Trade in Services (CIFTIS) 2026. Dr. Guillermo explored international exhibits showcasing breakthrough developments in technology, education, and industry innovation. The visit to the Philippine pavilion also allowed UNP to strengthen ties with local co-delegates and partner organizations, mapping out potential collaborations between Philippine higher education institutions and Chinese industries.
Highlighting the industry leg of the mission, on September 10, 2026, Dr. Guillermo visited Beifang Automotive Education to inspect advanced training facilities and discuss collaborations in technical education, skills development, and research. During the visit, Beifang Automotive Education announced that it will fully sponsor a free two-week training program commencing at the end of October 2026. UNP is slated to participate in this exclusive training initiative to directly boost its technical education and skills development capabilities, with both parties moving forward to finalize a memorandum of understanding ensuring a mutually beneficial framework for faculty and students. The afternoon concluded with an academic visit to Beijing Foreign Studies University (BFSU), where the delegation evaluated potential institutional partnerships and joint research activities.
The momentum continued on September 11, 2026 with a visit to the historic Peking University to benchmark international higher education practices and explore future cooperation in academic programming and faculty development. Dr. Guillermo then proceeded to tech giant Xiaomi for an immersive industry visit, gaining firsthand exposure to cutting-edge smart technologies, electric vehicles , and new-energy automotive breakthroughs. This experience provided critical curriculum insights for the UNP College of Technology, particularly for its programs in mechatronics, automotive technology, and industrial technology.
The four-day engagement concluded on September 12, 2026 with a high-level forum featuring H.E. Jaime A. Flor Cruz, Philippine Ambassador to China. Joined by representatives from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and various Philippine universities, Dr. Guillermo participated in a cross-sectoral dialogue with Chinese government and industry partners to strengthen international cooperation on higher education, technology, tourism, agriculture, skills training, and research.
The successful mission is expected to directly enhance UNP’s mechatronics and industrial programs through stronger global academe-industry linkages, the upcoming free technical training, and cross-border innovation.
