Saint Louis College of San Fernando, La Union (SLC-SFLU) reaffirmed its commitment to advancing global engagement and institutional internationalization as three of its internationalization program implementers participated in KAPIT-BISIG: United from Within to Beyond, a national capacity development program that convened higher education leaders and internationalization practitioners from across the country on July 13โ14, 2026, at the SMX Convention Center, Clark, Pampanga. Representing the College were Dr. Rhonalie Apilado-Dumo, Program Head of Teacher Education; Dr. Neil Tristan Baga, Dean of Student Affairs; and Dr. Leo Esteene Galap, Director of the Global Affairs Office.
Organized and spearheaded by the University of the Philippines Office of International Linkages (UP OIL), the two-day program gathered higher education institution leaders, International Relations Officers, Internationalization Focal Persons, faculty administrators, and academic professionals committed to advancing internationalization in Philippine higher education. The training forms part of the ANTENA and UNICATION Erasmus+ Capacity Building Projects and serves as the Philippine replication initiative designed to enhance institutional competencies, foster collaboration among HEIs, and cultivate a vibrant community of practice for internationalization.
The program formally commenced with the singing of the Philippine National Anthem and an invocation, followed by opening remarks from Dr. Gino Angelo M. Velasco, Officer-in-Charge and Deputy Director of the UP OIL. A message of support was delivered by Atty. Angelo A. Jimenez, President of the University of the Philippines, underscoring the critical role of internationalization in strengthening the quality, relevance, and global competitiveness of Philippine higher education.
A highlight of the opening day was the Fireside Conversation on “Global Trends in Internationalization and Implications for Philippine Higher Education,” featuring distinguished internationalization experts Dr. Gino Angelo M. Velasco, Dr. Romyen Kosaikanont, Dr. Jasmine Ryu, Dr. Muthia Pramesti, and Ms. Natacha Moniz. The dialogue explored emerging global developments, regional cooperation, and innovative approaches that can guide Philippine HEIs in navigating the evolving international higher education landscape.
Participants then engaged in parallel learning modules that provided practical and strategic perspectives on institutional internationalization. The first day featured Module 1: “Shared Vision: Collaborate to be Competitive,” facilitated by Dr. Gino Angelo M. Velasco of the University of the Philippines; Module 2: “Strategic International Engagements,” led by Dr. Muthia Pramesti of Universitas Indonesia; and Module 3: “Internationalization Policy Alignment,” presented by Mr. Guillian M. Mecate of the University of the Philippines. The day’s activities concluded with a welcome dinner that fostered networking and collaboration among delegates from participating institutions nationwide.
On the second day, discussions focused on translating institutional strategies into sustainable internationalization initiatives. Module 4: “Integration of ASEAN Projects and Networks,” facilitated by Dr. Romyen Kosaikanont of Mae Fah Luang University, highlighted opportunities for regional collaboration and participation in ASEAN-driven academic initiatives. This was followed by Module 5: “Development of Internationalization Projects,” led by Mr. Ivan Kurt M. Monasterial of the University of the Philippines, where participants developed project concepts that respond to the internationalization needs of their respective institutions. The program concluded with a closing plenary session, the presentation of certificates, and closing remarks delivered by Mr. Guillian M. Mecate.
The participation of the SLC-SFLU delegation in KAPIT-BISIG reinforces the College’s strategic commitment to building institutional excellence through internationalization. By engaging in national and international capacity-building initiatives, SLC-SFLU continues to strengthen its leadership, expand collaborative opportunities, and equip its academic community with the knowledge and competencies necessary to thrive in an increasingly interconnected global higher education environment. Through sustained professional development and active participation in internationalization networks, the College remains steadfast in its mission of preparing globally competent Louisians while contributing meaningfully to the advancement of Philippine higher education.
