The Ateneo de Davao University (ADDU) participated in the first Philippines-Canada Higher Education Forum on 07 November 2023 at the Fairmont Makati. Representing ADDU, Mr. Jeremy S. Eliab, Executive Vice President, attended the forum.
The Universities Canada and the Embassy of Canada to the Philippines successfully hosted the forum, with the aim of strengthening linkages between higher education institutions in both nations. The collaboration between the Embassy of Canada to the Philippines and Universities Canada—an organization that unifies the voices of university presidents across Canada in advocating for higher education, research, and innovation—brought together academic leaders from both Canada and the Philippines. Universities Canada facilitates collaboration among universities, governments, the private sector, communities, and international partners, offering a platform for university leaders to exchange ideas and address challenges in higher education.
The Philippines-Canada Higher Education Forum provided institutions with an opportunity to share perspectives on global issues, trends, and the evolution of higher education delivery and research.
The day commenced with welcoming remarks from Philip Landon, Interim CEO and President of Universities Canada; Philip Steenkamp, President and Vice-Chancellor of Royal Roads University and Chair of the International Committee, Universities Canada; and H.E. David Hartman, Ambassador of Canada to the Philippines. Dr. J. Prospero De Vera, Chairperson of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), Philippines, provided introductory remarks, followed by signing the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between CHED and Universities Canada.
Morning sessions focused on sustainable and long-term institutional partnerships between Canadian and Philippine institutions. Panel discussions explored collaboration in mobility, education, and training, emphasizing sustainability and best practices. Speakers included Philip Steenkamp, President of Royal Roads University; Kevin Hall, President of Victoria University; and from the Philippines: Dr. Laurene Chua-Garcia, Vice President for External Relations and Internationalization; Ambassador Laura Quiambao-Del Rosario, President of Miriam College; and Dr. Junifer Rey Tabafunda, Chancellor of Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University.
After lunch, Philippine universities presented on forging networks for sustainability, with speakers such as Lesley Rigg, President of Brock University; Jacques Frémont, Rector of the University of Ottawa from Canada; and Dr. Orlando Balderama, Vice Chancellor for Research and Development, Extension and Training, Isabela State University, and Prof. Cecilia B. Moran, Executive Assistant for Research Operations and Management, University of Santo Tomas, from the Philippines. Insights on research practices and industry-academia collaboration were shared.
Concurrent thematic sessions explored climate-smart agriculture, indigenous knowledge systems, and the role of women in higher education. The day concluded with B2B meetings between Canadian and Philippine university presidents, fostering direct and meaningful partnerships. A networking reception provided an opportunity for further dialogue and relationship-building.
In his closing remarks, Philip Landon emphasized the event’s significance in fostering international collaboration. Universities Canada looks forward to future initiatives contributing to the advancement of higher education and sustainable development in both countries.
