Atty. Lily Freida M. Milla, CESO IV, Deputy Executive Director IV of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) International Affairs Service (IAS) attended the DMMMSU ASEAN Month 2024 celebration and the ceremonial unveiling of the Quacquarelli Symonds (QS), World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI) and Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Ranking markers at the International Convention Center (ICC) on August 22, 2024.
Atty. Milla delivered a keynote address on the theme of internationalization, underscoring the importance of global academic collaboration and the role of higher education institutions in strengthening regional ties. Her speech highlighted CHED’s commitment to enhancing ASEAN partnerships and promoting international academic exchanges.
She commended the University for crafting its DMMMSU Strategic Internationalization Plan (SIP), noting that it sets a clear direction for future growth. Atty. Milla said that the SIP is a “testament to the University’s forward-thinking approach.”
She also praised the University, led by President Jaime I. Manuel, Jr., for its deep understanding and effective drive towards internationalization. She stressed that it truly “makes a difference when a president appreciates and actively mobilizes stakeholders to enhance and advance their internationalization efforts. President Manuel’s leadership is instrumental in propelling these initiatives forward.”
Dr. Jesus Rafael B. Jarata, Director for International Affairs, engaged the attendees with his presentation on “Global Horizon: DMMMSU’s Internationalization Journey and How DMMMSU is Making It Happen.” Likewise, the presentation included insights into the university’s Strategic Internationalization Plan (SIP), detailing how it supports and drives these global initiatives.
A highlight of the event was the ceremonial unveiling of internationalization markers, a symbolic gesture recognizing DMMMSU’s commitment to global engagement and academic excellence. Atty. Milla graced this ceremony, which celebrated the university’s progress in fostering international partnerships and enhancing its global impact through its successful fete in Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) in 2022, World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI) in 2023 and 2024, and Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Ranking in 2024.
CHEDRO1 Regional Director Christine N. Ferrer and her officials were also present during the celebration. In her speech, RD Ferrer expressed her commitment to continuing support for programs and projects of DMMMSU that address key regional needs.
The celebration also included various cultural performances from the DMMMSU-NLUC Northern Chorus, emphasizing the university’s commitment to regional integration. These vibrant displays of culture and tradition highlighted the diverse heritage of the Ilocos Region, showcasing a rich tapestry of local customs and artistic expression. (By Jesus Rafael B. Jarata)
