Two of the Philippines’ leading academic institutions, De La Salle University (DLSU) and the University of the Philippines (UP), have signed a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to boost academic cooperation focused on social entrepreneurship and service learning.
Read how UP and DLSU continue to elevate Philippine education in global university rankings.
The signing ceremony took place on May 2, 2025, at UP Diliman and was attended by top officials from both universities. The agreement aims to promote a culture of sustainability through joint initiatives in research, academic programs, and community engagement.
DLSU President Br. Bernard S. Oca, FSC, emphasized the university’s strong commitment to social enterprise through its Lasallian Social Enterprise for Economic Development (LSEED) Center.
“Our efforts are very consistent with the mission of our university to be of service to the country, especially the poor and the marginalized,” he said.
He shared that LSEED leads 35 universities across the Philippines in implementing a National Social Enterprise Development Roadmap, and has received the SDG Initiative of the Year (Asia Pacific) award for two consecutive years.
DLSU’s service learning program, under the Center for Social Concern and Action (COSCA), has also become a regional hub in Asia and Oceania, with 100% of undergraduate academic units integrating service learning.
The St. La Salle Hall is illuminated in green and maroon to highlight the partnership of De La Salle University and the University of the Philippines:
UP President Atty. Angelo A. Jimenez described the partnership as
“a conscious effort to promote a culture of sustainability in the country,”
saying it will benefit both institutions and the wider academic and national communities.
The MOU outlines areas of collaboration that include:
- Joint academic initiatives and innovations
- Implementation of agreed-upon programs and research projects
- Resource mobilization
- Exchange of academic materials
- Other forms of academic cooperation
UP Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Leo D.P. Cubillan clarified that each activity will be governed by a separate agreement between the participating faculties or schools.
“Service learning offers an opportunity for our students to see the social relevance of their disciplines, actively engage with their communities, enhance their interpersonal skills, and provide space for personal growth,” he added.
The UP Quezon Hall was bathed in maroon and green lights, representing the University of the Philippines and De La Salle University, after both higher education institutions signed a Memorandum of Understanding:
The historic partnership highlights the shared vision of DLSU and UP in promoting inclusive, sustainable development through academic excellence and public service.
Read more inspiring stories of collaboration and innovation among Filipino institutions on GoodNewsPilipinas.com.
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