USTP Villanueva gains PHIVIDEC locator status through MOA signing
By Crystal Dale B. Bermejo, STRATCOMM Coordinator, USTP Villanueva
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The University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines in Villanueva, Misamis Oriental (USTP Villanueva), formally strengthened its partnership with the PHIVIDEC Industrial Authority through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing on March 26, 2026, at the PHIVIDEC Administration Building, PHIVIDEC Industrial Authority Complex, Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental.
The event gathered key officials, stakeholders, and representatives from both institutions. The event gathered key officials, stakeholders, and representatives from both institutions. Leading the PHIVIDEC delegation were CEO/Administrator II Atty. Joseph Donato J. Bernedo, together with other PHIVIDEC-IA officers: Deputy Administrator I for Operations Atty. Benjamin C. Medrano, Enterprise Assistance Division Chief Mr. Ian Valencia, and Deputy Administrator I for Support Services EnP Hyessa S. Suegay. Representing USTP were System PresidenT Ambrosio B. Cultura II and Villanueva Campus Administrator Prof. Colbert G. Rabaya.
The MOA signing marked a significant milestone as USTP Villanueva was formally recognized as a PHIVIDEC locator, reinforcing its role as a strategic partner in regional industrial and economic development. Notably, the campus stands as the first and only university in the Philippines situated within an established industrial ecozone, positioning it at the intersection of academia and industry.
This distinction enables USTP Villanueva to further enhance its contributions in research, innovation, workforce development, and industry collaboration within the PHIVIDEC Industrial Estate. It also provides students with direct exposure to real-world industrial environments.
The activity also featured an open-house segment that highlighted opportunities for collaboration between academia and industry, reinforcing shared commitments to sustainable development, technological advancement, and inclusive growth in Northern Mindanao.
In his message, USTP System President Dr. Ambrosio B. Cultura II emphasized the importance of aligning academic programs with industry needs. Prof. Rabaya reaffirmed the campus’s commitment to producing globally competitive graduates, while Atty. Bernedo underscored PHIVIDEC’s vision of fostering strong partnerships that drive economic progress and community development.
This partnership reflects a shared commitment between USTP Villanueva and PHIVIDEC to cultivate innovation ecosystems that empower students, industries, and local communities.
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