MSEUF joins CHED IV-A SOAR conference; recognized for excellence in internationalization

The Manuel S. Enverga University Foundation (MSEUF) participated in SOAR: Synergy, Opportunities, Advancement, and Recognition through Internationalization (IZN), a regional conference spearheaded by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Region IV-A in cooperation with the Association of International Relations Officers 4A (AIRO 4A), held at the Twin Lakes Hotel, Tagaytay City on December 15, 2025. Representing MSEUF were Vice President for External Relations Celso D. Jaballa and Dr. Jennifer B. Reyes, Director of the Global Engagement and Linkages Office.

The conference opened with the Conference Overview delivered by Dr. Josefa Carrillo, President of AIRO 4A, who emphasized the importance of synergy, collaboration, and shared vision among higher education institutions in the CALABARZON region in advancing internationalization initiatives. In his Opening Remarks, Dr. Rogelio T. Galera, Jr., Regional Director of CHED IV-A, highlighted the essence of SOAR as a strategic platform to strengthen institutional synergy, expand opportunities for global engagement, advance internationalization practices, and recognize exemplary contributions of higher education institutions and international relations officers in the region.

A major highlight of the conference was the series of plenary sessions delivered by distinguished speakers. The representative of Atty. Lily Freida M. Milla, Director of the CHED International Affairs Service (IAS), presented an in-depth discussion on the Philippine Transnational Higher Education Landscape, outlining key policies, regulatory frameworks, and emerging directions in cross-border education. 

Dr. Nestor R. Ong, ASEAN Engineer, discussed Transnational Higher Education Models, Challenges, and Pathways, providing valuable insights into global education models, implementation challenges, and strategic pathways for Philippine higher education institutions. Dr. Ma. Veronica P. Penaflorida, Director for International and Local Collaboration and Linkages Office of Cavite State University, who spoke on Synergy and Shared Goals in Internationalization, underscoring the importance of collaboration, shared accountability, and alignment of institutional goals in achieving sustainable internationalization outcomes. 

During the conference, MSEUF was conferred a Certificate of Recognition in sincere acknowledgement of its continued support and significant contributions to the Internationalization efforts of CHED Region IV-A, as Awardee for the International Rankings Awards during the CHED ICONS Awards 2025. The recognition is geared toward the advancement of a globally competitive Philippine higher education system and serves as a manifestation of CHED’s deep appreciation for MSEUF’s dedicated service in higher education, an achievement deemed worthy of emulation. MSEUF’s participation and recognition at the SOAR Conference affirm the University’s strong commitment to global excellence, institutional innovation, and meaningful international engagement to further strengthen its presence in the global academic community and contribute to the internationalization agenda of Philippine higher education.