Palawan State University formally joined a network of partner institutions under the Philippine-American Educational Foundation (PAEF) during the 78th anniversary celebration of Fulbright Philippines, held on March 24, 2026, at SPACE at One Ayala in Makati City.
The commemorative reception gathered partners, alumni, scholars, and leaders from the country’s premier higher education institutions to celebrate the enduring legacy of the Fulbright Program and to mark two key milestones: the signing of new institutional partnerships and the official launch of the Consortium for Study Abroad in the Philippines (CSAP).
During the event, the University signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with PAEF, becoming a new institutional partner and joining the 22 Philippine universities participating in the consortium. Representing Palawan State University were Prof. Marissa S. Pontillas, Officer-in-Charge of the Office of the University President, and Dr. Lhynette T. Zambales, Director of the Transnational Education, International Affairs and Linkages Office. Their participation signified the university’s commitment to strengthening international partnerships and advancing global academic collaboration.
The MOU between PalawanSU and PAEF establishes a framework for a bilateral relationship grounded in mutual cooperation in teaching, research, and extension initiatives. The partnership aims to enhance academic engagement through the exchange of information and relevant resources that support faculty research and teaching.
Under the agreement, both institutions will explore joint research activities and potential participation in seminars and academic meetings. The collaboration also opens opportunities for scholarships, training programs, and institutional exchanges jointly organized by PalawanSU and PAEF. In addition, the university will participate in the PAEF-led consortium of higher education institutions designed to enrich cross-cultural understanding and advance education through collaborative study abroad programs between the Philippines and the United States.
The event was graced by distinguished guests, including Atty. Louise Araneta-Marcos, First Lady of the Philippines; Mr. Y. Robert Ewing, Chargé d’ Affaires of the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines; Dr. Arsenio Balisacan, Secretary of the Department of Economy, Planning and Development; and Mr. Cezar Consing, President and Chief Executive Officer of Ayala Corporation. The evening celebrated the longstanding partnership between the Philippines and the United States through the Fulbright Program, which has played a vital role in fostering educational exchange, leadership development, and mutual understanding between the two nations.
Through its participation in the consortium and new partnership with PAEF, Palawan State University strengthens its internationalization efforts and opens new pathways for academic cooperation, research collaboration, and cross-cultural learning for its faculty and students.
