TSU, SOBIDA Motors Corp. explore internship and industry partnership opportunities

Tarlac State University (TSU), through the Office of International Affairs and Linkages (OIAL), held an exploratory meeting with SOBIDA Motors Corporation on June 24, 2026, to discuss potential areas of collaboration focused on student development, industry immersion, and workforce readiness.

The meeting was attended by Prof. Bryan Christopher C. Sico, Dean of the College of Industrial Technology (CIT); Dr. Ninez B. Tulo, Director of OIAL; Engr. Cid Lapuz, Internationalization (IZN) Coordinator of the College of Engineering (COEng); Mr. Duane Emmanuel Martinez and Mr. Richard Dugay of the Student Affairs Services (SAS); together with OIAL heads and staff. 

Representing SOBIDA Motors Corporation were Ms. Susie Jane Vargas, Human Resources Manager; Ms. Janella Marie Nacional, Human Resources Supervisor; and Mr. Jeric Sarmiento, Senior Human Resources Specialist.

A key agenda of the meeting was the exploration of internship opportunities for TSU students, particularly those enrolled in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, and programs under the College of Industrial Technology (CIT). Both parties discussed possible avenues for students to gain valuable industry exposure and practical experience through structured on-the-job training and internship placements within SOBIDA Motors Corporation.

Beyond student internships, the discussion also touched on the potential donation of equipment from SOBIDA Motors to TSU. The initiative aims to strengthen the University's learning facilities and provide students with access to industry-relevant tools and technologies that can enhance their technical competencies.

Other matters explored during the meeting included opportunities for faculty immersion programs, which would allow educators to gain firsthand industry experience and align classroom instruction with current workplace practices. The participants likewise discussed the role of TSU alumni in facilitating job placement opportunities and strengthening industry-academe linkages.