USM Strengthens International Engagement in PEHEIC Meeting

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The University of Southern Mindanao (USM) reinforced its commitment to regional collaboration and academic development by actively participating in the Philippine-EAGA Higher Education Institutions Consortium (PEHEIC) hybrid meeting on March 5, 2025.

Held at the CHED Regional Office XI Conference Hall, the event gathered key education leaders to discuss strategic initiatives for the Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Philippines-East ASEAN Growth Area region.

As one of the nine founding member higher education institutions (HEIs) of the consortium, USM played a crucial role in advancing discussions on PEHEIC’s 2025-2026 strategic direction, membership expansion, and preparations for the upcoming BIMP-EAGA Research Conference and Training.

Represented by USM Vice President for Research, Development, and Extension (VPRDE) Dr. Debbie Marie B. Verzosa, and Prof. Bryan Lloyd P. Bretaña, Executive Assistant for International Affairs, the university reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening academic and research collaborations within the region.

Currently, Prof. Bryan Bretaña serves as a member of the Technical Working Group (TWG) and the Vice President for External Affairs of PEHEIC, further solidifying USM’s presence in the consortium’s leadership and decision-making processes.

The meeting, hosted by CHED Regional Office XI, was attended by CHED RO XI Regional Director, Dr. Maricar R. Casquejo, PEHEIC President, Dr. Hanlie A. Taha, and PEHEIC Founding Officers and Advisory Board members from Regions IX, X, XI, XII, CARAGA, MIMAROPA, and BARMM.

Aligned with CHED’s Internationalization Roadmap, USM’s participation highlights its dedication to fostering regional cooperation and expanding opportunities for academic growth.