Continuing Excellence: The University of Luzon’s Commitment to Academic-Driven Development

The University of Luzon reaffirms its dedication to fostering regional growth and academic excellence, as evidenced by its active participation in the recent Strategic Planning and Synergy Workshop hosted by the Center for Pangasinan Studies (CPS). The two-day event, held on August 27 and 28 in Aguilar, Pangasinan, brought together key academic and governmental leaders to chart a course for the future of research and development in the province. The workshop was a direct response to operational challenges faced by the Center since its establishment and was designed to ensure its services remain effective and fully aligned with the strategic goals of the current provincial administration under Governor Ramon V. Guico III.

Representing the University of Luzon were Dr. Jeanica C. Joson, Director for Center Research, and Professor Darwin M. Juguilon, Coordinator for the Center for Integrated Extension Services. Their presence underscores our institution’s commitment to collaborative academic initiatives that translate into tangible benefits for the community. The workshop, facilitated by Professor Arellano A. Colongon, Jr. of the University of the Philippines-Baguio, was a dynamic forum for constructive dialogue among representatives from the eleven consortium member institutions, including Vice Presidents for Research and Research Directors. Notable attendees also included Dr. Raymundo D. Rovillos, President of Pangasinan Polytechnic College, and Ms. Maria Luisa Amor-Elduayan, Head of the Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office.

A highlight of the proceedings was the powerful message of support from the provincial government, delivered by Provincial Administrator Mr. Melicio F. Patague II on behalf of Governor Guico. Mr. Patague specifically praised the CPS’s salt-making research, citing it as a prime example of how academic inquiry can directly inform and improve government policy. He noted that this particular research was instrumental in the successful reclamation and management of a salt farm in Bolinao, demonstrating the real-world impact of scholarly work. He urged the CPS, led by its Executive Director Dr. Perla E. Legaspi, to continue focusing on research initiatives that are in direct harmony with the aspirations of the province. The collaborative spirit demonstrated at the workshop serves as a testament to the shared vision of advancing the region through informed, research-driven action. For all Luzonians, this event serves as a clear reminder of how our institution’s academic pursuits contribute to the broader mission of societal betterment.

The strategic discussions and planning at the workshop underscore the University of Luzon’s and its partners’ commitment to continuous improvement and innovation. This focus on refining operations and enhancing contributions aligns directly with several of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Specifically, these activities contribute to SDG 4: Quality Education by strengthening research capabilities and fostering collaboration among academic institutions; SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth by promoting research that supports key local industries like salt production; and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals by forging strong alliances between academic institutions and local government to address regional challenges and achieve shared development objectives.