To support higher education institutions in enhancing their internationalization programs, the Commission on Higher Education Regional Office XVIII – Negros Island Region held the Fortifying Bridges: Seminar-Workshop on Faculty and Student Mobility on September 30, 2025, at the Function Hall of Ayala Malls Capitol Central in Bacolod City.
Representing CHMSU were Keith Brandon Cari-an, Information Officer of the Center for Internationalization and External Relations; Charmaine Sabio, Alijis Coordinator for Alijis Campus; and Jay Jay Pisueña, CIER Coordinator for Fortune Towne Campus.
CIER / Keith Brandon Cari-an & Charmaine Sabio photos
Attending the seminar-workshop were representatives from HEIs in Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, and Siquijor.
In his opening remarks, Regional Director Raul Alvarez emphasized the importance of student and faculty mobility in achieving the internationalization goals of both public and private HEIs.
Director Edel Carmela Csoka of the International and Local Linkages Office of West Visayas State University shared their experiences and best practices in faculty mobility across Asia and the Pacific.
She also offered insights into various programs and networks that HEIs can tap into to strengthen their international mobility initiatives.
Meanwhile, Director Lesley Joy Dignadice of the Local and International Linkages and Affiliations Center of Central Philippine University gave participants a glimpse into how the university manages inbound and outbound student exchanges.
She also discussed how they leverage international networks and advocate for support in their student mobility programs.
OIC Director June Carl Seran of the University of St. La Salle’s Center for Linkages and International Affairs introduced participating HEIs to opportunities available through the Asian International Mobility for Students (AIMS) program.
He encouraged participants to pursue these opportunities, despite the application process requiring multiple qualifications, noting that such efforts would open HEIs to greater mobility and internationalization prospects.
The seminar-workshop concluded with updates and reminders delivered by OIC CEPS and Internationalization Focal Danebeth Narzoles.
