Text and Photo from the UP Manila Office of International and Local Linkages

The Commission on Higher Education-National Capital Region (CHED-NCR) successfully conducted the “Meet the hIROs: Year-End Kumustahan” on Dec. 6, 2024 at the Trinity University of Asia in Quezon City. Organized by the Transnational Higher Education (TNHE) Unit of CHED-NCR, the event brought together International Relations Officers (IROs) from diverse higher education institutions (HEIs) in the region.

A highlight of the event was the recognition of outstanding HEIs in internationalization initiatives where the University of the Philippines (UP) was awarded with a certificate of recognition for its exemplary leadership, dedication, and initiatives in advancing the internationalization of higher education in the region.

UP also received the “SUC Idol in Internationalization” award for consistently showcasing outstanding performance and active participation in international university rankings exemplifying the highest standards of academic excellence among state universities and colleges in the NCR.

Office of International and Local Linkages (OIL) Director Vivien Fe Fadrilan-Camacho and College of Medicine International and Local Linkage Coordinator Christine Susean Sagpao received the awards on behalf of the university.

The “Kumustahan” aimed to foster collaboration and networking among IROs, discuss best practices and challenges in internationalization, and recognize the outstanding contributions of HEIs in this endeavor. It served as a platform for the CHED NCR to gather all IROs in the region to understand the evolving challenges of HEIs in terms of internationalization and adapt best practices and future initiatives. The event is a testament to the combined commitment to support the internationalization efforts of HEIs in the region.