Building Bridges: MIMAROPA SUCs and SEAnergy HEI Members Enhances Cross-Border Collaboration at UTP-Philippines Industry Partners Roundtable

Manila, Philippines | February 12, 2025  – The Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP), in partnership with the Embassy of Malaysia in Manila, successfully organized the UTP-Philippines Industry Partners Roundtable at Salcedo Village, Makati. This event gathered key stakeholders from academia, industry, and government to discuss strategic collaborations in research, innovation, and education focused on sustainability. 

State Universities and College (SUCs) from MIMAROPA, along with members of the Southeast Asia Network for Engineering, Research, and Global Sustainable Development Goals (SEAnergy) Consortium, participated in the discussions that highlighted engineering education, renewable energy, blockchain technology, and partnerships between industry and academia. Representatives from Western Philippines University (WPU), Palawan State University (PalSU), Occidental Mindoro State College (OMSC), Mindoro State University (MinSU), Marinduque State University (MarSU), Romblon State University (RSU), Technological University of the Philippines (TUP), Batangas State University (BatStateU), Guimaras State University (GSU), Kalinga State University (KSU), University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP), and other institutions from various regions engaged in key dialogues, further strengthening regional and international collaboration.

The roundtable provided a platform for enhancing international ties, strengthening connections between Philippine HEIs and Malaysia’s top university in engineering and technology. Conversations revolved around joint research projects, faculty exchange initiatives, technology-driven solutions, and industry collaborations aimed at tackling sustainability issues. 

More than just a discussion, the roundtable was an incubator of ideas. Some of the most compelling moments included:

1. A presentation of the SEAnergy Consortium’s first short course on mechanical and electrical engineering, developed in collaboration with UTP experts, marking a significant step in the consortium’s dedication to capacity-building and training aligned with industry needs. 
2. The integration of Blockchain in Halal Technology through HATTS (Halal Transparent Traceability System), which utilizes blockchain and IoT to enhance food security, traceability, and transparency within the halal sector. 
3. Innovations in Renewable Energy and Research Commercialization (RIC), showcasing UTP’s groundbreaking work in solar energy, green hydrogen, biofuels, and AI-driven energy solutions as exemplary models for the future of energy in the Philippines.
4. The signing of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) between UTP and Adamson University and UTP and Davao del Sur State College reaffirmed a shared commitment to academic exchange, joint research, and knowledge-sharing.

Beyond the presentations and panel discussions, the impact of the roundtable was evident in the meaningful collaborations formed. Conversations extended beyond the sessions, with participants exchanging insights, establishing partnerships, and exploring ways to integrate these innovations into their institutions and industries.

For CHED MIMAROPA and its HEIs, the event marked another milestone in advancing internationalization—reinforcing the role of Philippine universities in global research, education, and industry collaboration.

As the discussions concluded and the day ended in Makati, it was clear that this gathering was just the beginning. The partnerships forged in that room—among institutions, industries, and experts—will drive future opportunities, research breakthroughs, and innovations that contribute to sustainable development.

For more updates on CHED MIMAROPA’s internationalization initiatives, follow our official channels.

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