TSU participates in UGNAYAN 2026: The 1st General Assembly for the Central Luzon Association of International Relations Officers (CLAIRO) and ACHIEVE Conference

Malolos City, Province of Bulacan — Tarlac State University (TSU) joined over 50 state universities and colleges (SUCs) and private higher education institutions (HEIs) across Central Luzon at the 1st General Assembly of the Central Luzon Association of International Relations Officers (CLAIRO) and the ACHIEVE Conference. Organized by CHED Regional Office III, the event was held at Bulacan State University on March 25, 2026.

Anchored on the theme Unifying Global Networks and Yielding Academic Niches (UGNAYAN), the gathering brought together internationalization officers and academic leaders to strengthen collaboration and align efforts toward advancing internationalization (IZN) initiatives in the region.

The program opened with a performance by the BulSU Saring Himig, followed by a welcome message from Bulacan State University President Dr. Teody C. San Andres. He emphasized the need to cultivate the ACHIEVE agenda from inside-out, stressing that it should go beyond compliance and be embraced collectively by Philippine higher education institutions—not solely by CHED.

CHEDRO III IZN Focal Person Dr. John Wesley S. Calagui I, on behalf of CHEDRO III Director Dr. Maura Consolacion D. Cristobal, then set the tone for the conference by outlining key perspectives on the ACHIEVE agenda. He presented current regional IZN data from SUCs, LUCs, and private HEIs, discussed common challenges faced by institutions, and shared practical approaches to implementing internationalization programs beyond formal agreements.

CLAIRO President Dr. Mildred M. Crisostomo of Pampanga State University delivered the statement of purpose, highlighting that “the world is the new classroom.” She pointed that internationalization goes beyond global rankings, framing it instead as a meaningful contribution to nation-building. She also emphasized the importance of the assembly in fostering shared direction and collaboration among institutions.

Dr. Calagui also conveyed the message of CHED Chairperson Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis, who called for global engagement that translates into tangible learning outcomes for students and faculty. She emphasized the importance of coherence across institutions and encouraged the development of partnerships that extend beyond exchange programs.

The morning plenary session, moderated by Dr. Crisostomo, focused on building sustainable IZN partnerships and programs. Speakers were the different International Relations Officers (IRO) from SUCs/LUCs and private HEIs in the region. Atty. Eric G. Claudio of Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology (NEUST) shared his early experiences in managing an international affairs office, noting the importance of active participation in conferences to better understand the field. Atty. Gloria J. Victoria-Banas, President of City College of San Fernando Pampanga (CCSFP) highlighted the role of local partnerships, reminding participants that internationalization is not limited to global linkages and that memoranda of understanding should lead to concrete, actionable collaborations. Dr. Parsons N. Hail of Central Luzon State University (CLSU) emphasized the need to institutionalize IZN policies and strategically develop niche programs into areas of international strength. Addressing funding concerns, he also shared how their university secured external support through partnerships with various agencies.

The afternoon session, which served as the centerpiece of the assembly, commenced with the introduction of Dr. Christine N. Ferrer, Officer-in-Charge Director of the International Affairs Service of Commission on Higher Education (CHED). In her presentation, Dr. Ferrer outlined the ACHIEVE agenda framework and offered comprehensive guidance on how higher education institutions can align their projects, programs, and activities with internationalization goals. She gave emphasis that internationalization (IZN) should not be viewed merely as a compliance requirement for schools, but as a strategic investment in the country’s future—enhancing the global competitiveness and employability of Filipino students and graduates.

Following the discussion, CLAIRO officers convened for their oath-taking ceremony. Among those inducted was our very own Dr. Grace N. Rosete, Director of the Office of International Affairs and Linkages of Tarlac State University, who formally assumed her role as Auditor.

The event marked another significant milestone in advancing internationalization efforts and fostering stronger institutional collaborations. Anchored on the theme “UGNAYAN,” the initiative highlights the importance of connection and partnership in embedding internationalization into both regional and institutional cultures—ensuring that no one is left behind.