The delegates also engaged in the rich cultural dances of the region with the assistance of the BSU-KONTAD (Highland Cultural Dance Troupe). Through the demonstration and learning of various traditional dances, the group gained a deeper appreciation of the region’s cultural expressions and traditions. Adding to the experience, the delegates had the opportunity to wear cultural attires representing the different provinces of the Cordillera.

The delegates then visited the Diplomat Hotel and Mirador Heritage and Eco Park, where they were introduced to the history and significance of these well-known landmarks.

Through these activities, the Kyutech delegates experienced the Cordillera beyond its landscapes – discovering its living traditions, artistry, and cultural identity while strengthening the bonds of friendship and cultural exchange between Japan and the Philippines.

#BenguetStateUniversity, #KyushuInstituteofTechnology, #SocioCulturalImmersion […]

As part of the activity, the delegates shared aspects of Japanese culture and traditions, giving BSU students an opportunity to learn more about Japan through direct interaction with the delegates.

They also introduced basic Japanese vocabulary and grammar, which the students could use as an introduction to the Japanese language and its everyday expressions.

Through the classroom activities, the Kyutech delegates and BSU students shared knowledge and experiences while strengthening their understanding of each other’s language and culture.

#BenguetStateUniversity, #KyushuInstituteofTechnology, #SocioCulturalImmersion […]

As part of the activity, the delegates shared aspects of Japanese culture and traditions, giving BSU students an opportunity to learn more about Japan through direct interaction with the delegates. They also introduced basic Japanese vocabulary and grammar, which the students could use as an introduction to the Japanese language and its everyday expressions.

Through the classroom activities, the Kyutech delegates and BSU students shared knowledge and experiences while strengthening their understanding of each other’s language and culture.

#BenguetStateUniversity, #KyushuInstituteofTechnology, #SocioCulturalImmersion […]

Organized by the Food and Fertilizer Technology Center (FFTC) in collaboration with the Taiwan Agricultural Research Institute (TARI), Taiwan Livestock Research Institute (TLRI), and Taichung District Agricultural Research and Extension Station (TCDARES), the workshop convened experts, policymakers, and industry leaders from across the Asia-Pacific region. The discussions centered on the theme “Smart Low Carbon Agrifood Systems: Digital Innovation in Crops, Livestock, and Pathways to Net Zero.”

Dr. Pablo delivered a presentation entitled “AGRINNOVATE: Optimizing Efficiency of the Vegetable Value Chain for Nutrient Return and Circular Economy.” Her talk highlighted BSU’s initiatives in advancing sustainable agriculture through innovation and circular economy practices.

Over the three day program, participants engaged in sessions on sustainable soil management, water efficient crop production, livestock technologies, and smart electrification for agriculture. Key highlights included presentations on IoT-based soil moisture management, blockchain-enabled carbon credits for livestock, and Philippine innovations in low-carbon rice farming.

The workshop also featured roundtable discussions on bridging data gaps and adapting policies for sustainable agrifood systems. Closing remarks emphasized the importance of collaborative pathways toward achieving net zero agriculture in the Asia Pacific region.

Benguet State University takes pride in Dr. Pablo’s contribution to this international dialogue, underscoring the University’s commitment to advancing research, innovation, and sustainable development in agriculture.

Photo Credit: Dr. Janet P. Pablo

#AGRINNOVATE, #BenguetStateUniversity, #SustainableAgriculture […]

Following the interactive activities, the participants shared their insights and reflections, highlighting the lessons and experiences gained.

The activity served as an avenue for the Kyutech delegates and BSU students to build connections, learn from one another, and strengthen intercultural exchange between Japan and the Philippines.

#BenguetStateUniversity, #KyushuInstituteofTechnology, #SocioCulturalImmersion […]

The group visited Narda’s Weaving Shop at the Winaca Eco-Cultural Village in Acop, Tublay, Benguet, where they gained firsthand experience of the weaving process and learned about the craftsmanship, skills, and traditions behind the production of handwoven textiles.

The cultural immersion continued at Narda’s Handwoven Arts & Crafts in Baguio City, where the delegates explored a wide range of finished woven products that showcase the artistry of local weavers. The same also purchased several handcrafted items as souvenirs and expressions of support for the local weaving industry.

To conclude the day, the Kyutech delegates explored the BenCab Museum, where they discovered diverse works of art and deepened their appreciation of Philippine culture, history, and creativity as reflected in the museum’s collections and exhibits.

The activities provided the delegates with meaningful insights into the Cordillera’s cultural identity while fostering greater intercultural understanding and appreciation between the Philippines and Japan.

#BenguetStateUniversity, #KyushuInstituteofTechnology, #SocioCulturalImmersion […]

They also visited the College of Teacher Education- Secondary Laboratory School to observe and interact with Grade 10 and Grade 12 learners, where they engaged in meaningful practical discourse sessions. Through these interactions, the Japanese delegates and BSU learners had the opportunity to get to know each other and share a glimpse of their school life and culture.

The day concluded with a reflection session where the delegates shared the results of their interviews, what they learned from the day’s activities, and their personal realizations and reflections.

#BenguetStateUniversity, #KyushuInstituteofTechnology, #SocioCulturalImmersion […]

Joining the BSU community in the activity, JICA Volunteer Kikuchi Otoha joined in caring for and greening the university campus. Together with BSU employees, she took part in the activity, contributing to the university’s continuing efforts toward environmental stewardship and sustainability.

The activity, organized by the College of Forestry, Department of Environmental Science, Center for Geoinformatics, and International Relations Office, brought the BSU community together in caring for both newly planted and existing trees across the campus.

This activity highlights BSU’s continued efforts to care for the environment and keep the campus green.

#BenguetStateUniversity, #BSUstainable, #CampusGreeningActivity […]

The delegates visited the Research and Extension Building, where they explored the Agro-Trade Fair featuring research products, innovations, and technologies during the RAISE Summit 2026. They also visited the university’s strawberry farm and souvenir area as part of their campus experience.

In the afternoon, the delegates visited the Cordillera Regional Apiculture Center, where they had an enrichment discussion with Farm Technician (Apiarist) Mr. Hanter Paul M. Bangitao, Science Research Assistant Mr. Hemar T. Batil, University Research Associates Mr. Tristan B. Apiles and Ms. Schereid Joi N. Ugnasi, and College of Veterinary Medicine Interns. The group toured the farm and center and learned about the different processes and practices involved in beekeeping.

The delegates then proceeded to the Institute of Highland Farming Systems and Agroforestry (IHFSA), where they met with Mr. Junee Mark D. Gayaso and Mr. Jaymar Ross P. Garcia, Farm Worker and Administrative Aide of IHFSA, respectively. They learned about the different coffee species grown by the university and in the region, as well as the coffee harvesting, production, and post-harvest processes practiced by the institute.

The day gave the delegates an opportunity to see how BSU’s research and agricultural initiatives support local industries and communities while gaining firsthand knowledge of the university’s work in these areas.

#BenguetStateUniversity, #KyushuInstituteofTechnology, #SocioCulturalImmersion […]

With the theme “Building the Philippine Higher Education Institution that Students, Employers, and the Future Actually Need,” the forum focused on the changing landscape of higher education amid the growing influence of artificial intelligence (AI) in teaching and assessment, the development of a national micro-credential framework, and the need to scale effective teaching practices across higher education institutions.

The event provided opportunities for participants to engage in practical discussions on how institutions can respond to these emerging shifts. Discussions examined the implications of integrating AI into pedagogy, developing credentials that provide meaningful value to graduates and employers, and strengthening institutional approaches to teaching and learning.

Emphasizing real conversations grounded in practice, Teach Forward Manila 2026 served as a venue for participants to exchange experiences, explore current challenges, and learn from institutions and practitioners working to address the evolving needs of Philippine higher education.

Representing BSU were Igrelyn P. Pinos-an, IRO Coordinator-OU; Delia W. Leon, IRO Coordinator-Bokod Campus; Jacqueline L. Gawisan, IRO Coordinator-CHE; Decimae G. Carantes, Representative-OSS; and Roldan G. Day-ong, IRO Staff.

Through its participation, BSU gained insights and perspectives that may contribute to ongoing efforts toward innovation, responsive education, and institutional development in the face of emerging technological and workforce demands.//Dan

#BenguetStateUniversity, #ShapingPhilippineHEIs, #TeachForward2026 […]

On their first day, the delegates were presented to the administrative officials and university employees before proceeding to a courtesy visit at the Office of the University President, where President Kenneth A. Laruan formally welcomed them.

This was followed by a campus tour that included visits along the Marketing Center, University Library, and University Museum, among others. The afternoon activities highlighted a courtesy visit to Provincial Governor Melchor Diclas and a guided tour of the Benguet Museum with discussions led by Tourism Officer Kenneth Kelcho. Said tour and discussion emphasized about the culture, traditions, and heritage of the Province.

#BenguetStateUniversity, #KyushuInstituteofTechnology, #SocioCulturalImmersion […]

The nationwide forum was hosted by Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) as part of a CHED-funded project conducted in partnership with 14 Philippine Higher Education Institutions (PHEIs), including BSU. The project aims to map and monitor the different Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) initiatives being carried out by higher education institutions across the country.

The forum also provided an opportunity for participating universities to learn from one another and share practices that can help improve their contributions to sustainable development. It focused on helping PHEIs assess their performance based on the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings, share successful practices in research, instruction, and extension, and encourage discussions on policies and partnerships that can support sustainability efforts.

Representing BSU, International Relations Office Director Dr. Rex John G. Bawang shared the university’s practices and initiatives related to SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being and SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities.

BSU’s efforts in these areas were also reflected in its performance in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2026, where the university placed 201–300 in SDG 3 and 401–600 in SDG 10 among participating universities worldwide.

Through its participation in the forum, BSU continues to share its experiences and learn from other higher education institutions in strengthening its SDG initiatives and making its contributions to sustainable development more meaningful and impactful.

#BenguetStateUniversity, #BSUstainable, #SDGForum2026 […]

PISTA 2026, an international conference held on September 3, 2026, online via zoom, initiated by the Department of Filipino of the College of Arts and Humanities in collaboration with the BSU International Relations Office and BSU Alumni Association Incorporated, brought together educators, researchers, and language enthusiasts from different places to explore this year’s theme: “AI as a Tool in Language Research, Pedagogy and Learning of Languages.”

From discussions on AI literacy and human agency to the role of Filipino and other languages in the digital age, the sessions gave us so much to reflect on and bring into our classrooms and research.

A heartfelt thank you to our plenary speakers for sharing their expertise and thoughts:

Dr. Daniel Kaufman – Queens College, CUNY, USA

Luiz Carlos Rodrigues – University of Huelva, Spain

Dr. Lina Abraitiene – Vytautas Magnus University, Lithuania

Dr. Marilyn W. Macwes – Benguet State University

And to our featured research presenters:

Eugene M. De Guzman – PhD Student, BSU

Patricia Mae B. Munar – MA Student, BSU

We are also grateful to the BSU officials and all the participants who supported and shared their enthusiasm throughout the day. 🤍

Grateful to have been part of PISTA 2026—a meaningful international space for learning and conversations on the future of language, education, research, and AI. //G. Sildon, CAH IRO Coordinator

#BenguetStateUniversity, #LanguageLearning, #PISTA2026 […]

With the theme “AI as a Tool in Language Research, Pedagogy, and Learning of Languages,” the symposium will feature four plenary speakers and two featured presenters who will share their knowledge, research, and experiences on language, education, and the use of AI.

📅 September 3, 2026 (Thursday)🕗 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (PHT | UTC+8)💻 Online via Zoom💰 Registration Fee: ₱500.00👥 Limited to 250 participants

📌 Register here:https://forms.gle/JTfVcGa3zzyzrLx17

Only 4 days to go! We look forward to seeing you at PISTA 2026.

#BenguetStateUniversity, #LanguageLearning, #PISTA2026 […]

“AI as a Tool in Language Research, Pedagogy, and Learning of Languages”

🌏 Featuring speakers from the Philippines and other countries, the symposium brings together diverse academic perspectives on language, education, research, and emerging technologies.

Meet our featured speakers:

🎤 DR. DANIEL KAUFMANAssociate Professor of LinguisticsQueens College and the CUNY Graduate CenterDepartment of Linguistics and Communication DisordersQueens College, City University of New York, USA

🎤 LUIZ CARLOS RODRIGUESTeacher, interpreter, and translatorCreator and reviewer of teaching materialsPredoctoral Research ProfessorUniversity of Huelva, Spain

🎤 DR. LINA ABRAITIENĖEnglish lecturerInstitute of Foreign LanguagesVytautas Magnus University, Lithuania

🎤 DR. MARILYN W. MACWESAssistant ProfessorDepartment of FilipinoCollege of Arts and HumanitiesBenguet State University, Philippines

Join us as we explore the theme:“AI as a Tool in Language Research, Pedagogy and Learning of Languages”

📅 September 3, 2026 (Thursday)🕗 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (PHT | UTC+8)💻 Online via Zoom💰 Registration Fee: ₱500.00👥 Limited to 250 participants

📌 Register here:https://forms.gle/UTituWJrEerDfGhX9

Only 9 days left! Secure your slot and be part of the conversation.

#BenguetStateUniversity, #LanguageLearning, #PISTA2026 […]

The morning session, held for students and staff of the College of Human Kinetics, centered on research, academic writing, and the effective presentation and interpretation of research findings. With the theme “Beyond the Numbers: Presenting Results and Writing Insightful Discussions,” the session provided participants with valuable insights on going beyond the presentation of numerical data and developing meaningful discussions from research results.

The seminar opened with welcome remarks from Dr. Marlon S. Tabdi, Dean of the College of Human Kinetics, followed by the rationale presented by Kaycee P. Bugtong of CHK Research. Rex John G. Bawang, Director of the International Relations Office (IRO), introduced Prof. Cano Jimenez before the seminar proper. The morning session also included an open forum, allowing participants to engage with the speaker and deepen their understanding of the topics discussed.

In the afternoon, Prof. Cano Jimenez continued the lecture series online via Zoom for students and staff of the College of Public Administration and Governance. The session focused on the timely and evolving role of artificial intelligence in the public sector, carrying the title “AI in Governance: From Technological Innovation to Public Value, Trust, and Responsible Government.”

The lecture explored how AI can move beyond technological innovation to contribute to public value while emphasizing the importance of trust, accountability, ethics, and responsible government. The session provided participants with an opportunity to examine the implications of AI adoption in governance and its potential to support more responsive and effective public administration.

Through the two sessions, Prof. Cano Jimenez shared international perspectives that complemented BSU’s commitment to strengthening research capacity, academic engagement, and internationalization. The lecture series also highlighted the value of knowledge exchange between BSU and international academic partners in equipping students and personnel with relevant perspectives and competencies for an increasingly interconnected and technology-driven world.

On August 19, Prof. Cano Jimenez also visited the BSU Open University, where he met with faculty and staff. He also met with Open University Director Samuel S. Poliden to discuss possible areas of collaboration and partnership, including the potential delivery of a Spanish language program through the Open University, as well as other initiatives that may strengthen academic cooperation between the two institutions.

#BenguetStateUniversity, #PartnershipForInternationalization, #UniversityOfHuelva […]

Professor Pablo’s visit began at the College of Teacher Education (CTE) Secondary Laboratory School, where he was toured around by Ms. Imee Cuadra and Ms. Judith Sacley. IRO Director Rex John G. Bawang accompanied Professor Pablo throughout the tour, which also provided an opportunity for a brief exchange on international mobility experiences and discussions on possible areas of collaboration and activities with the Secondary Laboratory School.

The visit continued at the College of Teacher Education, where Professor Pablo met with CTE Dean Divina M. Yango and CTE IRO Coordinator Dolores Alawas. He also observed one of the classes and engaged with students in a discussion on language and culture. Following the class, he met with the Dean and IRO Coordinator to discuss possible areas of collaboration and activities for the college.

In the afternoon, Professor Pablo was invited to serve as a panelist during a session with Bachelor of Arts in English Language (BAEL) students from the College of Arts and Humanities, who are currently taking Foreign Language and Translation Studies. The students presented their research on Spanish language and culture, giving them the opportunity to share their work and receive insights from a native Spanish speaker and educator. Professor Pablo shared his perspectives and experiences, helping the students gain a deeper understanding of the language and culture they were studying.

The day concluded with a cultural welcome hosted by Benguet State University. The gathering was attended by faculty and staff from the College of Arts and Humanities and the College of Teacher Education, including faculty members who were once Professor Pablo’s students in Spanish language.

During the program, CTE IRO Coordinator Dolores Alawas formally opened and welcomed Professor Pablo and shared that this marks his fourth visit to Benguet State University, reflecting the continuing connection between the University and the University of Huelva.

Adding to the warm welcome, the BSU KONTAD showcased the University’s rich cultural heritage through a series of traditional dances. The BSU RONDALLA, conducted by Ms. Alma Vida G. Gallardo, also provided a series of musical performances that enriched the evening.

The cultural welcome concluded with a community dance participated in by the faculty, staff, students, and guests, bringing everyone together in celebration of friendship, culture, and international exchange.

Professor Pablo’s visit further strengthens the continuing partnership between Benguet State University and the University of Huelva, creating opportunities for academic exchange and collaboration in education, language, culture, research, and international mobility.

#BenguetStateUniversity, #PartnershipForInternationalization, #UniversityOfHuelva […]

The delegation was composed of Prof. Dr. Arifuddin Mas’ud, S.E., M.Si., Ak; Prof. Sarani Yusuf; Prof. Dr. Sudirman Zaid, S.E., M.Si.; Dr. Sri Wiyati Mahrani, S.E., M.Si.; Dr. Halifatullah, S.H., M.H. Alwi, S.Sos.; and Far Faisal.

During the courtesy visit at the Office of the University President, the delegation was welcomed by BSU President Kenneth A. Laruan, IRO Director Rex John G. Bawang, and Marviz Kiong, a student from the College of Teacher Education who is set to participate in a student mobility program at Halu Oleo University.

Also present during the courtesy visit were representatives from the Department of Education–Cordillera Administrative Region (DepEd-CAR), including Aladin M. Dobinto, Chief Education Supervisor; Melchor C. Tican, Public Schools District Supervisor; and Delarosa Delmas, Public Schools District Supervisor.

Following the courtesy visit, the delegation toured the BSU campus and visited the Cordillera Regional Apiculture Center, one of the University’s research centers. They learned about BSU’s beekeeping programs and other related initiatives. The delegates also visited the College of Forestry and observed one of its classes.

The visit continued with a meeting at the IRO Hall with representatives from the College of Agriculture, College of Forestry, College of Teacher Education, and the International Relations Office. The meeting provided an opportunity for both universities to learn more about each other’s programs and identify possible areas of collaboration.

Among the areas discussed were student and faculty mobility, joint research, research publication, and research presentations. The meeting ended on a positive note, with both institutions expressing interest in developing a formal partnership through a Memorandum of Agreement.

#BenguetStateUniversity, #HaluOleoUniversity, #PartnershipsCorner […]

The partnership seeks to provide opportunities for the exchange of professors, researchers, and staff, as well as cultural exchanges, traineeships, study visits, and immersion activities for undergraduate and graduate students. It will also pave the way for collaborative initiatives in marketing, program promotion, and information sessions that support international education and career development.

The MOU was signed by BSU President Kenneth A. Laruan and PTCP ECCS CEO/Manager Ms. Elisabeth Joy P. Sudango, with IRO Director Rex John G. Bawang and PTCP ECCS Assistant Manager Irene Victore serving as witnesses.

Through this partnership, BSU and PTCP ECCS reaffirm their shared commitment to expanding global opportunities and empowering students, faculty, and staff through meaningful international experiences. //R. Day-ong

#BenguetStateUniversity, #NewPartnership, #PTCP-ECCS […]

The program opened with remarks from International Relations Office Director Rex John G. Bawang, who welcomed the visitors, faculty, staff, and students from the College of Agriculture. He also gave a brief introduction to the culture that the participants would be watching and experiencing during the program.

Mr. Jamesly T. Andres, Project Leader of the Pomology Project, introduced the visitors and discussed their respective engagements with the project. Ms. Kikuchi Otoha is a JICA volunteer who will be serving under the Pomology Project for two years, while Mr. Akira Tsutsui, a student from the Tokyo University of Agriculture, will observe the research activities being conducted under the project and undertake his one-month on-the-job training.

Mr. Marvin T. Valentin, Special Assistant to the Vice President for Academic Affairs, also delivered an inspirational message. He encouraged students to gain another perspective by learning about the education systems and experiences of other countries. He also encouraged them to take advantage of international opportunities similar to the engagement of the visitors.

Mr. Constantino T. Sudaypan also shared a message and briefly recounted how Ms. Otoha came to be a JICA volunteer at BSU. He shared that the engagement with JICA started through a proposal submitted in 2022. The proposal was resubmitted over the succeeding years until 2025, when a volunteer was identified for the project. In 2026, Ms. Otoha began her engagement with the Pomology Project and, at the time of the program, had already been with the project for five months.

He also welcomed Mr. Tsutsui and expressed his gratitude to both visitors for their future contributions to the project and the University. He hoped that their engagement at BSU would also become meaningful to them, so that when they return to Japan, they would continue to remember the University and their experiences here.

The program proceeded with presentations from Ms. Otoha and Mr. Tsutsui. Mr. Tsutsui introduced the Tokyo University of Agriculture and shared insights into Japanese culture and agriculture. Ms. Otoha then presented various aspects of Japanese culture, including Japanese shrines and temples, onsens, and school festivals. She also shared practices related to sustainable agriculture and the management of unsellable fruits and vegetables.

To synthesize the program, Mr. Jake L. Galian, College of Agriculture IRO Coordinator, shared that the gathering served not only as a way to welcome the visitors but also as an opportunity to consider them friends and part of the University community. He expressed hope that the visitors would have a good experience, create meaningful memories, and gain fruitful learning during their stay at BSU. He also thanked the organizers, participants, and visitors for making the activity possible.

The cultural welcome reflects BSU’s continuing commitment to internationalization by creating opportunities for students, faculty, and international partners to learn from one another and build meaningful connections through agriculture, culture, and shared experiences.

#BenguetStateUniversity, #JICA, #PartnershipForInternationalization, #TokyoUniversityofAgriculture […]