DEBESMSCAT-International Relations

04/07/2026

⁨Scholarship opportunities across ASEAN are now easier to explore.

Through ASEAN GEMS, students can access a centralized platform to explore scholarship opportunities across ASEAN Member States.

Education has the power to bring ASEAN closer, one student, one scholarship, and one opportunity at a time.⁩

01/07/2026

🎓🌍 Explore leadership and career development opportunities in the United States through the Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program.

The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) is pleased to inform interested parties of the call for applications to the Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program for Academic Year 2027–2028, offered by the Philippine-American Educational Foundation (Fulbright Philippines).

The Humphrey Program is a Fulbright exchange initiative that provides experienced Filipino professionals with opportunities for professional enrichment in the United States. Through academic engagement, leadership development, and knowledge exchange, the program fosters mutual understanding and collaboration on issues of shared importance between the United States and participating countries.

The fellowship includes support for monthly living expenses, professional development activities, books and supplies, health and accident insurance, exchange visitor visa processing, and round-trip international travel.

🗓 Application deadline: 07 August 2026

Further information on the focus fields, impact areas, eligibility requirements, documentary requirements, and upcoming information sessions may be found in the attached Program Brochure.

For inquiries and further guidance, interested parties may directly contact Fulbright Philippines through:
📩 [email protected]

Take this opportunity to strengthen your leadership, expand your global perspective, and create meaningful impact in your profession and community. 🇵🇭🇺🇸✨

01/07/2026

🇮🇳🎓 Namaste! Explore new opportunities for academic growth and collaboration!

The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) is pleased to inform interested parties of the call for applications to the Faculty Development Program under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) Programme of the Government of India, to be conducted by the Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar (IITGN) from 14 to 25 September 2026.

The programme offers faculty members from ASEAN-based and Global South universities valuable opportunities for professional and academic development through specialized training and international knowledge exchange.

Funded by the Government of India, selected participants will receive round-trip economy airfare, a gratis visa, and local hospitality and transportation in accordance with ITEC guidelines.

🗓 Application deadline: 14 August 2026
Interested applicants may submit their applications through the ITEC Portal:
🔗 https://www.itecgoi.in

Further information on the programme, including its terms and conditions, may likewise be accessed through the same portal.

For inquiries, interested applicants may coordinate with Mr. Shiv Lal Meena of the Embassy of India in Manila through:
📩 [email protected]

Take this opportunity to strengthen your professional expertise, foster international collaboration, and contribute to excellence in higher education. 🇵🇭🇮🇳✨

15/06/2026

Happy Birthday, Dr. Elreen A. Delavin! 🎉

Today, we celebrate not only your special day but also your inspiring leadership, dedication, and unwavering commitment to academic excellence. Your passion for education and service continues to inspire the entire DEBESMSCAT community.

May this year bring you abundant blessings, good health, happiness, and continued success in all your endeavors. Thank you for your guidance, wisdom, and invaluable contributions to shaping minds and transforming lives.

Warmest birthday wishes from your DEBESMSCAT Team and Family! 💚💛

06/05/2026

DEBESMSCAT Ranks Top 3 in Bicol, 67th Nationwide in WURI 2026; Global Rank 302

Dr. Emilio B. Espinosa, Sr. Memorial State College of Agriculture and Technology (DEBESMSCAT) has strengthened its standing in the 2026 World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI), emerging as a Top 3 higher education institution in the Bicol Region and ranking 67th nationwide among Philippine institutions included in the global assessment.

At the international level, the College secured Rank 302, improving from Rank 370 in 2025, reflecting its sustained progress in innovation-driven higher education.

The 2026 WURI results likewise highlight the expanded scope of DEBESMSCAT’s institutional performance, with recognized excellence increasing from three categories in 2025 to seven categories in 2026.

The College earned notable placements across various innovation areas, including Rank 13 in SDG- and ESG-Based Responses to Global Challenges, Rank 22 in University-Based Entrepreneurial Projects, and Rank 29 in Visionary Leadership. It also recorded Rank 46 in technological innovation, Rank 56 in good governance, Rank 73 in entrepreneurial culture and ecosystem, and Rank 95 in crisis management.

These achievements are anchored on the Commission on Higher Education’s (CHED) ACHIEVE Agenda and the College’s DAMGO Vision, which guide DEBESMSCAT’s strategic direction toward innovation, institutional excellence, and sustainable development.

The recognitions highlight DEBESMSCAT’s growing contributions to innovation, leadership, and community-responsive development, strengthening its role as a key higher education institution in the Bicol Region and an emerging contributor to the national and global academic landscape.

05/05/2026

DEBESMSCAT Advances in Global Innovation Rankings, Secures Higher Standing in WURI 2026

The Dr. Emilio B. Espinosa, Sr. Memorial State College of Agriculture and Technology (DEBESMSCAT) has strengthened its global standing after advancing to Rank 302 in the World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI) 2026, marking a significant rise from its Rank 370 placement in 2025.

The rise in ranking goes beyond numbers, reflecting a wider impact across the institution. From having just three recognized categories in 2025, DEBESMSCAT now has seven in 2026, showing how its efforts have improved and reached more areas. This progress highlights the College’s stronger drive to advance innovation, promote sustainability, and support inclusive development across various fields.

Leading this year’s achievements is Project ARISE (Advancing Resilience through Integrated Sustainable Education) under Category A8 (SDG- and ESG-Based Responses to Global Challenges), which secured an impressive Rank 13. The project was initiated by Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Elreen A. Delavin and authored by Dr. Nikki Faith A. Bantillo highlighting strong academic leadership in sustainability-driven education.

In Category C7 (University-Based Entrepreneurial Projects), the RAISE Bicol Project 1G: Developing the Intellectual Property and Technology Business Management (IPTBM) earned Rank 22. The initiative was both written and led by Engr. Marco Angelo R. Dejucos, demonstrating a unified effort in advancing intellectual property development and technology-based enterprise within the institution.

Further reinforcing visionary governance, the DAMGO (Dream for Reality): Visionary Presidential Leadership and Long-Term Governance for a Premier DEBESMSCAT by 2050) placed Rank 29 under Category B1 (Visionary Leadership). Initiated by SUC President III Dr. Arnel B. Millesca and authored by Dr. Bantillo the program reflects strategic leadership aimed at long-term institutional transformation.

In the field of technical innovation, Project ATAMAN: Advanced Technical Approaches in Mapping and Analysis of Natural Resources (Using QGIS) achieved Rank 46 under Category B6. The project was initiated by Dr. Delavin and authored by Dr. Bantillo, showcasing the College’s capabilities in geospatial analysis and resource management.

Promoting collaborative and people-centered governance, Together Everyone Achieves More (TEAM) 2.0 ranked 56th under Category B2 (Empowerment-Based Management). The program, authored by Dr. Bantillo and initiated by Dr. Millesca, emphasizes participatory leadership and organizational synergy.

Under Category A4 (Entrepreneurial Culture and Ecosystem), two programs demonstrated DEBESMSCAT’s grassroots innovation strength. STARPRENEUR, authored and initiated by Ms. Nonalyn D. Tombocon, and EntrepRise Food Garden, initiated by Ms. Tombocon and authored by Ms. Teresa A. Aguilar, both secured Rank 73. These initiatives highlight sustainable livelihood development and entrepreneurial empowerment within the campus and surrounding communities.

Meanwhile, in Category A5 (Crisis Management), the DEBESMSCAT Bangon (RISE) Program: Recovery and Inclusive Support for Empowerment – Crises Management Initiatives placed Rank 95. The program was authored by Mr. Carl James T. Cabarles and initiated by Dr. Millesca, underscoring the institution’s proactive response to disaster resilience and recovery efforts.

The College’s strong performance is anchored in the collective leadership of its key officials, including SUC President III Dr. Arnel B. Millesca, Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Elreen A. Delavin, Vice President for Administration and Finance Dr. Erwin H. Malto, Vice President for Research, Extension, and Innovation Dr. Rodolfo B. Burac Jr., and Planning Director Engr. Nenette M. Laurio.

This milestone affirms DEBESMSCAT’s continuing commitment to innovation, global competitiveness, and community impact. With its improved ranking and expanded recognition, the College further solidifies its role as a leading higher education institution in the Bicol Region, driving transformative programs that respond to real-world challenges and contribute to sustainable development.

06/04/2026

April 6, 2026| DEBESMSCAT recently held an exploratory meeting with the Wadhawani Foundation to discuss potential areas for collaboration and partnership that could benefit the institutions and its stakeholders.

During the meeting, representatives from the Wadhawani Foundation shared an overview of their programs and key objectives, as well as the potential benefits and opportunities that DEBESMSCAT may gain through a possible partnership—particularly in strengthening innovation, research, and capacity-building initiatives.

Representing DEBESMSCAT were Dr. Rodolfo B. Burac, Jr., Vice President for REICWKM, Dr. Nikki Faith Bantillo, International Relations Officer, Dr. Arnold I. Malag, Dean of the College of Engineering, Ms. Rowelyn Ramiso, Dean of the College of Computing and Information Technology, Engr. Marco Angelo R. Dejucos, Director of Intellectual Property and Technology Business Management Office and Engr. Vivian R. Compracion, Project Technical Assistant III of IPTBMO.

The discussion marked an important step towards fostering meaningful collaboration and future joint initiatives.

02/04/2026

Visiting Lecturer Session at Universitas Negeri Jakarta: Reimagining Physics Teaching in the Digital Era

The Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences at Universitas Negeri Jakarta recently hosted Dr. Nikki Faith Bantillo as a visiting lecturer for the Physics Department’s undergraduate students. Dr. Bantillo delivered a compelling session titled “Reimagining Physics Teaching: Pedagogical Skills in the Digital Era.”

During her visit, Dr. Bantillo discussed innovative strategies for enhancing physics education through technology integration, emphasizing learner engagement, creativity, and adaptability in modern classrooms. Drawing from her background in educational leadership and science pedagogy, she encouraged future educators to rethink traditional teaching approaches and embrace digital tools that promote deeper conceptual understanding.

Aside from the lecture, Dr. Bantillo also met with the Dean of the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences and faculty members from the Physics Department to explore potential academic collaborations and knowledge exchange initiatives. The discussion underscored shared aspirations to strengthen international cooperation and promote effective teaching practices in science education across Southeast Asia.

The visiting lecturer session served as an inspiring platform for students and faculty to reflect on the evolving role of educators in the digital age, reaffirming the commitment of Universitas Negeri Jakarta and its partners to advancing innovative, learner-centered education.

01/04/2026

DEBESMSCAT Reaffirms Commitment to Global Education through Second SEA Teacher Project Participation

Dr. Emilio B. Espinosa Sr. Memorial State College of Agriculture and Technology (DEBESMSCAT) continues to expand its international linkages through its second participation in the Batch 11 Southeast Asian (SEA) Teacher Project in partnership with Universitas Negeri Jakarta (UNJ), Indonesia.

Three education students from DEBESMSCAT have been selected to take part in this international academic exchange program, which provides future educators the opportunity to gain meaningful teaching experience in diverse cultural and educational settings. Joining the student participants is Dr. Nikki Faith A. Bantillo, who will serve as a Visiting Lecturer in the Department of Physics Education, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences at Universitas Negeri Jakarta.

The SEA Teacher Project, initiated by the Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization (SEAMEO), aims to enhance pre-service teachers’ professional competencies, pedagogical understanding, and cross-cultural engagement through international teaching internships within the ASEAN region. The program commenced with an opening ceremony and will conclude on April 17, 2026.

This international engagement is firmly anchored in the DAMGO Strategic Development Plan of DEBESMSCAT under the dedicated leadership of Dr. Arnel B. Millesca, SUC President III. It reflects the institution’s strategic direction toward Global Competitiveness and Internationalization, emphasizing the importance of global academic collaboration and the development of internationally competent graduates.

Participation in the SEA Teacher Project marks another milestone in advancing DEBESMSCAT’s Strategic Internationalization Plan. It strengthens the college’s academic and institutional partnerships with higher education institutions abroad, promotes knowledge exchange, and broadens the international exposure of its faculty and students.

Beyond its academic scope, this initiative also benefits the wider DEBESMSCAT community. Upon their return, the participating students are expected to share their learnings and experiences to further enrich local teaching practices and inspire a culture of educational excellence. This endeavor exemplifies DEBESMSCAT’s continuing commitment to develop globally competent educators who embody excellence in teaching, research, and service.

Through sustained international engagements such as the SEA Teacher Project, DEBESMSCAT reaffirms its vision of becoming a leading institution that nurtures globally competitive individuals prepared to contribute meaningfully to both national and regional development.

31/03/2026

The Commission on Higher Education is pleased to inform interested parties of the call for applications to the ASEAN Master in Sustainability Management for nationals of ASEAN Member Countries.

The ASEAN Master in Sustainability Management is offered as a full scholarship funded by the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and implemented in collaboration with the ASEAN University Network (AUN) Secretariat, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) Indonesia, and the University of Agder (UiA) Norway. The program is a full-time 2-year MBA (120 ECTS) co-taught by UGM and UiA professors with guest lecturers from AUN universities across ASEAN.

Interested applicants must submit their applications through the link ugm.id/ApplicationASEANMaster3 on or before 31 March 2026. Detailed information on the eligibility criteria, documentary requirements, and selection process may be found in the attached Program Brochure. The same may also be accessed at www.asean-sustainability.mba.

The Commission on Higher Education is pleased to inform interested parties of the call for applications to the ASEAN Master in Sustainability Management for nationals of ASEAN Member Countries.

The ASEAN Master in Sustainability Management is offered as a full scholarship funded by the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and implemented in collaboration with the ASEAN University Network (AUN) Secretariat, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) Indonesia, and the University of Agder (UiA) Norway. The program is a full-time 2-year MBA (120 ECTS) co-taught by UGM and UiA professors with guest lecturers from AUN universities across ASEAN.

Interested applicants must submit their applications through the link ugm.id/ApplicationASEANMaster3 on or before 31 March 2026. Detailed information on the eligibility criteria, documentary requirements, and selection process may be found in the attached Program Brochure. The same may also be accessed at www.asean-sustainability.mba.