BENGUET STATE UNIVERSITY

INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS OFFICE

The Lead Office in Facilitating and Coordinating International Partnerships for the University

BSU to the WORLD,

the WORLD to BSU

July 1, 2025πŸ“Host University: Bursa Technical UniversityπŸ—ΊοΈCountry: Bursa, TurkiyeπŸ“…Date: within the Academic Year 2025-2026πŸ’°Grant Coverage: 2,771 Euros

Download the Application Form

#BSUtotheWorld, ErasmusKa+171, StaffTeachingMobility, Turkiye […]

June 25, 2025BSU Welcomes AGRI-TECT team; Promoting International Opportunities

Benguet State University welcomed the AGRI-TECT Team through a cultural welcome dinner held at the IRO Function Hall on June 25, 2025. The event served not only as a moment of fellowship but also as a vibrant showcase of the rich cultural heritage from northern Luzon.

Twelve visitors composed the delegation from Taiwan – Asia University (AU), National Central University (NCU), Yuan Ze University (YZU) from Taiwan, De La Salle University (DLSU) from the Philippines.

In his welcome remarks, IRO Director Rex John Bawang expressed his gratitude to the visiting delegation. Stating that projects brought in by this partnership help in the innovation of agricultural practices especially on semi-temperate crops. He also introduced the Cordilleran culture and contextualized the overview of the performances.

KONTAD Cultural Dance Troupe captivated guest with traditional dances representing the diverse heritage of the province of Abra and Ifugao.

On behalf of BSU President Kenneth A. Laruan, VPRE Roscinto Ian Lumbres welcomed the participants and highlighted the importance of sustained collaboration and encouraging strong partnership between the institutions involved in the AGRI-TECT Project.

AGRI-TECT Taiwan Team Leader Professor Chih-Yang Lin from National Central University, expressed his admiration for the Cordilleran climate and their interest in conducting researches with BSU and DLSU. He ended his speech with presenting tokens to the other project partner institutions.

Project Partners Professor Chi Wen Lung from Asia University and Professor Isack Farady from the Yuan Ze University, also gave their messages of thanks for the warm welcome organized for them.

DLSU Project proponent Ronnie S. Concepcion II, shared his ongoing collaborative efforts with Benguet State University on several project on agricultural innovation including the E- Asia Project involving partners from Philippines, Japan, and Thailand.  He is committed to continuing the partnership between BSU and DLSU for future collaborations.

The Department of Science and Technology – CAR representative and assistant to the Regional Director Pepita Picpican, expressed her appreciation for involving the regional office in international projects like AGRI-TECT.

Concluding the event, BSU Project Proponent Jesson Del-amen expressed his gratitude for the continued partnership and the support received from DOST regional office and the BSU community.

To represent unity, the institutions concluded the welcome program exchanging institutional tokens as a symbol of camaraderie and collaboration.

Partners Promote Respective Universities

Additional to the event, representatives from the partner institution promoted international opportunities and research programs. Continuing the networking part of the event, representatives from the foreign universities took the opportunity to introduce their institutions.

Starting the discussion, Professor Chih-Yang Lin introduce the Department of Mechanical Engineering of the National Central University. He also discussed the role of their department in the AGRI-TECT project giving support to the Artificial Intelligence (AI) development of the project.

AGRI-TECH project staff and MECO-TECO scholar Andy Desman delivered a presentation on the AGRI-TECT project and its components. Discussing how AI determines plant growth and electromagnetic signals. And the ways forward of the AGRI-TECT project.

Yuan Ze University Professor and AGRI-TECT proponent Isack Farady introduced the Yuan Ze University. He introduced the YZU and the College of Electrical and Communications Engineering.

Lastly, Asia University Professor Chi Wen Lung presented on his researches in Product Design and the Taiwan Experience Education Program (TEEP) that his university offers through their Office of International Affairs. Encouraging the students to apply in this cultural immersion in Taiwan.

The Agricultural Thermoelectric Plant Patch Integration for Pathogenic Disease Resiliency and Computational Intelligence – Embedded Decision Support System through Internet of Living Things (AGRI-TECT) project aims to create a smart farming system that can monitor plant health in real-time, predict diseases outbreaks, and provide automated, data-driven recommendations for disease management. The project is funded by the Manila Economic and Cultural Office – Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (MECO-TECO). //SGVictorino & LMWan-aten/(BSDC IRO Intern)

Photos by: Elsie Bawayan (Benguet State University – UPAO), SGVictorino and LMWan-aten (BSDC IRO interns)

#AGRI-TECT, #BSUtotheWorld, #CulturalWelcome, #TheWorldToBSU […]

June 11, 2025This month, the International Relations Office (IRO) continued to foster meaningful collaborations and academic engagements:

βœ” Erasmus exchange with the University of Huelva.

βœ” Exhange of best practices with Bicol University.

βœ” Capacity Building for IRO Coordinators togear up for the 2026 THE and WURI submission.

As we move forward, the IRO remains committed to fostering meaningful global connections and advancing international collaboration.

#BSUtotheWorld, #Highlights, #TheWorldToBSU […]

May 26, 2025A three-day writeshop held from May 21 to 23, 2025, at Santiago Cove, Ilocos Sur, equipped International Relations Office (IRO) Coordinators with the knowledge and skills needed to prepare submissions for the Times Higher Education (THE) and World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI).

The first day opened with a session on Sustainability and Innovation led by IRO Deputy Director Doreen Allasiw, who emphasized the importance of integrating sustainability frameworks in higher educationβ€”setting the tone for the writeshop. This was followed by a session on effective writing for university rankings submissions and the ethical use of AI in academic writing, delivered by University Public Affairs Office (UPAO) Director Jennyline Tabangcura.

On the second day, participants were introduced to the indicators of the World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI) and Times Higher Education (THE). The coordinators then began drafting submissions for WURI, highlighting the innovative programs of their respective colleges and units. In the afternoon, they worked on their assigned Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and presented their initial outputs, allowing fellow coordinators to provide feedback and suggestions for improvement. These presentations aimed to help identify how each college could contribute to the SDG indicators. The day’s sessions were facilitated by IRO Deputy Director Doreen Allasiw and Office of Quality Assurance and Accreditation (OQAA) Director Joanna Alafag.

The third and final day focused on sharing reflections and insights, allowing participants to synthesize their learnings and exchange feedback. The activity concluded with the awarding of certificates to the speakers and IRO coordinators.//GBPalberas

#BSUtotheWorld, #CapacityBuildingWorkshop, #TheWorldToBSU […]

May 15, 2025#BSUtotheWorld, #Highlights, #TheWorldToBSU […]
May 9, 2025May 9, 2025 – A delegation from Bicol University visited the International Relations Office (IRO) earlier today to benchmark best practices related to the World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI) and Times Higher Education (THE) rankings.

The visiting team was composed of key academic officials and personnel: Dr. Ma. Julieta B. Borres, Vice President for Academic Affairs; Dr. Leonila B. Barbacena, Director for Internal Quality Assurance; Dr. Anthony C. Cabrillas, Prof. Ma. Julita B. Obiles, and Dr. Shiela I. Arroco, all members of the Internal Quality Assurance team; and Prof. Rogelyn P. Samar, Technical Staff of the VP for Academic Affairs.

They were warmly received by Imelda G. Parcasio, faculty member of the College of Teacher Education and representative to the Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA), along with Rex John G. Bawang, Director of the International Relations Office, and IRO staff member Racquel M. Fatog.

The benchmarking visit provided an opportunity for both institutions to engage in meaningful dialogue about innovative practices, strategic approaches, and institutional frameworks that contribute to global university recognition. Discussions highlighted BSU’s successful initiatives, documentation strategies, and IZN efforts

The visit concluded with a mutual expression of commitment to fostering collaboration between the two institution. BSU expressed its appreciation for the visit and looks forward to continued academic exchanges with Bicol University.//GBPalberas […]

May 9, 2025From all of us at the International Relations Office, we extend our deepest gratitude to our dedicated interns from the College of Information Sciences (CIS) and the College of Home Economics and Technology (CHET).

𝐁𝐚𝐜𝐑𝐞π₯𝐨𝐫 𝐨𝐟 π’πœπ’πžπ§πœπž 𝐒𝐧 𝐈𝐧𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐒𝐨𝐧 π“πžπœπ‘π§π¨π₯𝐨𝐠𝐲Mark Dominic AglanangJan Vincent CaoiliRoldan Day-ongAnthony PalaganasMaron SanchezMary Christine Yango

𝐁𝐚𝐜𝐑𝐞π₯𝐨𝐫 𝐨𝐟 π’πœπ’πžπ§πœπž 𝐒𝐧 π‡π¨π¬π©π’π­πšπ₯𝐒𝐭𝐲 𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭Myly Nam-aySybhelle Bezzei Patil-aoGerlyn PayadpadJudelyn Tinong

Your fresh insights, willingness to take on challenges, and genuine enthusiasm brought so much value to our work. From the smallest tasks to the biggest projects, your presence made a meaningful impact. You reminded us to stay curious, creative, and committed as we continue our mission of bringing BSU to the world and the world to BSU.

We are proud of the work you’ve accomplished and even prouder of the growth we’ve witnessed in each of you. The team wish you nothing but the best in your next stepsβ€”may they be filled with learning, fulfillment, and purpose.

With appreciation and warmest wishes,

IRO Team🌏

#BSUtotheWorld, #TheWorldToBSU […]

May 8, 2025Professors from the University of Huelva (UHU), Spain, delivered lectures on gender studies and social psychology in a hybrid seminar held on May 6, 2025. A total of 59 participants joined the sessionsβ€”25 onsite and 34 online via Zoom.

The morning session featured Dr. RocΓ­o Carrasco-Carrasco, an English Literature professor at UHU, who presented her research project titled β€œTrans-formations: Queer Practices of Use and Embodiment in Post-9/11 Narratives in English.” Her lecture introduced the concept of β€œqueer practices” as a lens to challenge prevailing narratives of exclusion and inequalityβ€”offering fresh insights into how literature can shape our understanding of identity and social change. The session sparked meaningful discussions among faculty members from various colleges.

In the afternoon, Dr. Sarrah Ben Abdennebi, Psychology professor in UHU’s Nursing program, led a session attended by faculty from the College of Social Sciences – Department of Psychology, along with staff from the Human Resource Development Office. Her lecture delved into key psychological frameworks relevant to nursing and human development.

Following the academic exchange, the visiting professors were hosted by the Pansigedan Advocacy Cooperative (PAC), where they were warmly welcomed by General Manager Rhea S. Loncio. The visit featured a guided tour of PAC’s facilities and an introduction to its diverse community-based initiatives. Co-founder Betty Listino gave an insightful presentation on the Dynamic Integration of Wellness Approaches (DIWA) Programβ€”PAC’s advocacy arm promoting mental health, well-being, and healthy lifestyles. She shared the cooperative’s overarching framework and how DIWA integrates wellness into community development through a holistic and inclusive approach, which sparked the visitors’ interest and opened discussions for potential collaboration in the future.//GBPalberas

#BSUtotheWorld, #TheWorldToBSU […]

May 7, 2025Two faculty members from the University of Huelva (UHU), Spainβ€”Prof. Sarrah Ben Abdennebi, a professor of Psychology in the Nursing program, and Prof. RocΓ­o Carrasco, an English Literature professorβ€”visited Benguet State University (BSU) on May 5–6, 2025, as part of the ongoing faculty mobility program between the two institutions.

The visiting professors were formally welcomed during BSU’s Monday flag-raising ceremony, where they were introduced to the university community. BSU President Dr. Kenneth A. Laruan extended a warm welcome during a courtesy call. They were joined by International Relations Office (IRO) Director Dr. Rex John G. Bawang, Deputy Director Dr. Doreen I. Allasiw, and the IRO staff.

During the courtesy meeting, the itinerary of activities was discussed, highlighting academic engagements and cultural immersion. The guests toured BSU’s main campus and key research facilities, including the Cordillera Regional Apiculture Center (CRAC), and the Institute of Highland Farming Systems and Agroforestry (IHFSA). They also had a brief stop at the Benguet Museum for an overview of the province’s rich cultural heritage.

In the afternoon, the professors visited the Museo Kordilyera at the University of the Philippines Baguio, where they explored exhibits on indigenous Cordilleran culture and traditions.

To conclude the day, a cultural dinner was hosted. The BSU Center for Culture and the Arts’ Rondalla Club serenaded the guests, while the College of Human Kinetics (CHK) students presented a series of Philippine folk dances and a demonstration of Arnis, the country’s national martial art.

Professors Ben Abdennebi and Carrasco are the second batch of faculty members from UHU to participate in the mobility exchange this year, following the visit of Ms. Erika Martinez in January 2025.//GBPalberas

#BSUtotheWorld, #TheWorldToBSU […]

April 28, 2025What will be the trend of agricultural product exports?Take this opportunity to learn and engage with us…We are delighted to invite you to join the upcoming webinar under the topic: β€œChange the Lens, Transform the Thinking, and Uncover the Future of Agri-Innovation”..Meet the Speaker fromDepartment of International Trade Promotion, Ministry of Commerce, Thailand..

πŸ—“οΈ Date: April 30th, 2025πŸ•™ Time: 09.00-11.00 Hrs. (GMT+7) Thailand timeConduct : EnglishOnline via Zoom

✍️ Register at: https://forms.gle/Sfyvh1AEkGTmRQ8U6

This post is shared for informational purposes only. For further details, follow the original post here.

#AgriInnovation, #FutureOfAgriculture, #GlobalTrade, #TradeAndInnovation […]

April 22, 2025#BSUtotheWorld, #TheWorldToBSU […]
April 8, 20252025 CRABS Coastal Cleanup, BSU – Hospitality Management, Coastal Reformation Awareness & Beach Safety […]
April 3, 2025La Trinidad, Benguet – Benguet State University (BSU) and the United States Peace Corps are working to revive their partnership, setting the stage for Peace Corps Volunteers to return and support BSU’s elementary and secondary schools. This renewed collaboration aims to strengthen quality education (SDG 4), global partnerships (SDG 17), and community development.

Jessica Sucgang, Program Manager of Peace Corps Philippines – Education Sector, expressed optimism, stating, β€œWe are looking forward to sending volunteers again to BSU.” She was joined by education volunteers Edward Foran and Maizie Anders in discussions with BSU’s International Relations Office (IRO) and the College of Teacher Education (CTE) on potential areas of collaboration, particularly in teacher training, English language education, and student development.

To assess BSU’s readiness to host volunteers, the team visited the Secondary and Elementary Laboratory Schools and discussed plans to conduct an orientation session for CTE faculty. Before the meeting, they paid a courtesy visit to the Office of the University President, where Atty. Andres Arnold W. Lampacan, Finance Division Chief and Officer-in-Charge for the day, warmly welcomed them.

Established in 1961, Peace Corps Philippines is the agency’s second-oldest program, with volunteers making lasting contributions to education, youth development, and coastal resource management. Through this partnership renewal, BSU reaffirms its commitment to enhancing education quality, fostering global cooperation, and promoting inclusive learning opportunities. The return of Peace Corps Volunteers is expected to empower local educators, enrich student learning, and strengthen international collaboration at BSU. //DIAllasiw

#PartnershipsCorner, #PCP-EDU, #PeaceCorps […]

April 3, 2025#BSUtotheWorld, #CrossCultureTrainingCamp2025, #TheWorldToBSU […]
March 20, 2025✨ From warm welcomes to cultural exchanges, language immersion, and traditional performances, this program fostered deeper connections and enriched experiences for both Benguet State University and Tottori University students.

Watch as they engage in meaningful interactions, embrace the vibrant local culture, and create lasting memories! πŸ’›πŸŽΆ

🎬 Photos by: Mark Dominic C. Aglanang, Roldan G. Day-ong, Maron Harvey Sanchez, and Mary Christine M. Yango (BSIT Interns)

🎞️ Video Edit by: Roldan Day-ong (BSIT Intern)

BSUXTottori, GlobalConnections, Socio-CulturalImmersionProgram, TheWorldBSU […]

March 13, 2025Benguet State University’s Department of Entrepreneurship is equipping future entrepreneurs with more than just business theoriesβ€”it is teaching them to practice what they learn by saving for their future.

From September to December 2024, 101 BS Entrepreneurship students collectively saved Php 233,100.00 as part of a Financial Literacy Savings Challenge, a hands-on project integrated into their Financial Management course.

Recognizing the importance of financial discipline for aspiring entrepreneurs, the department partnered with the BSU and Community Multi-Purpose Cooperative, where students opened savings accounts and learned cooperative policies through orientations facilitated by the cooperative’s Education Committee.

What made this initiative significant was that 91% of the participating students were first-time savers, opening accounts for the first time, while the remaining 9% sustained and strengthened their existing savings habits.

At the beginning of the project, students assessed their weekly allowance and committed to saving at least Php 50.00 per week. This small but consistent step became a building block for a habit of financial discipline, preparing them to manage finances as future business leaders.

β€œThis project aims to prepare our students to become global citizens equipped with entrepreneurial and financial competencies essential for business and beyond,” shared Mr. Michael Karl M. Barnuevo, Department Chairperson.

The initiative continues to impact the students as they prepare for their Business Plan Implementation in their senior year. Moving forward, the department plans to integrate this savings challenge for all first-year BS Entrepreneurship students, allowing them to cultivate financial discipline throughout their academic journey.

Students expressed their appreciation for the challenge, describing it as eye-opening and practical. One student shared that she now understands the importance of a savings account for financial growth, a perspective she did not have growing up. Another mentioned the experience felt β€œreal” compared to classroom exercises, while others shared lifestyle adjustments they made, such as choosing home-cooked meals over dining out or avoiding online shopping temptations to meet their savings goals.

For students who already had accounts, managing their savings themselves was an empowering step, reinforcing ownership over their financial decisions.

The project was not without challenges. Some students initially did not take the activity seriously, delaying their participation until they realized it was a course requirement, while others struggled with the mindset shift toward prioritizing savings. To address these, the department conducted several orientations and mentoring sessions to guide students.

Despite these hurdles, the initiative has proven successful in fostering financial literacy, discipline, and appreciation for savings among BSU’s entrepreneurship students. With optimism, the department envisions expanding this experiential learning model across the college and university, nurturing financially responsible and empowered graduates ready to contribute to sustainable economic development.//JBPPinos-an

Financial literacy […]

March 10, 2025This Women’s Month, we celebrate the dedicated leaders, bridge-builders, and advocates of global partnerships at BSU’s International Relations Office.

Their passion and hard work connect BSU to the world, fostering academic collaborations and cultural exchanges that empower students and faculty alike.

πŸ’‘ To all women making a difference in international education, we salute you! Your efforts inspire growth, innovation, and unity beyond borders. 🌍 […]

March 8, 2025As we honor the achievements of women worldwide, we also reaffirm our commitment to creating inclusive opportunities, fostering gender equality, and driving meaningful change. Let’s break barriers, amplify voices, and accelerate action toward a more equitable future. πŸ’œπŸ’ͺ

🎨 Social Media Card Design: Mary Christine Yango (BSIT intern)

AcceleratingAction, BSUInternational, GenderEquality, IWD2025, WomenEmpowerment […]

March 7, 2025A team of IRO coordinators (Leila P. Buluguey- Buguias, Violeta B. Bugtong-Bokod, Jennifer Paltiyan-Bugtong-CNS, Faustina Dio-as-CAH), led by IRO Deputy Director Doreen I. Allasiw, recently took part in an exciting networking session and orientation with top universities from British Columbia, including Thompson Rivers University, Capilano University, British Columbia Institute of Technology, and Vancouver Community College.

The event, organized by the Canadian Embassy in partnership with CHED, opened up valuable conversations between Philippine and British Columbia universities about possible collaborations in transnational education. From academic partnerships and research collaborations to innovative learning initiatives, there was plenty of room to explore ways to work together.

For BSU, some of the most promising areas for collaboration include healthcare, indigenous knowledge, hospitality, and tourismβ€”fields that align well with the university’s strengths and priorities. But while the opportunities are exciting, universities that have been down this path before shared an important reminder: successful partnerships take honesty and trust. As one speaker put it, “Being upfront about each institution’s strengths and weaknesses from the start is crucial to building a lasting and meaningful collaboration.”

With this in mind, BSU IRO is looking forward to strengthening connections and turning these conversations into real opportunities that benefit both faculty and students. The journey may have just begun, but the potential is already promising. //DIAllasiw

#BCCanada, #EducationCollaboration […]