October 18, 2026 | Agri-Eco Convention Hall, GSU–Salvador Campus
Guimaras State University (GSU) warmly welcomed delegates from Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP) during a welcoming ceremony held on October 18, 2026, at the Agri-Eco Convention Hall, GSU–Salvador Campus. The event brought together GSU officials, CST Program Heads, and students and the UTP delegates to celebrate international collaboration and cultural exchange.
The ceremony commenced with the presentation of the UTP delegates by Prof. Adrian J. Forca, Dean of the College of Science and Technology (CST), followed by a warm welcome from GSU officials.
Among those present were GSU Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Ervin L. Isogon; University Researcher V Mr. Julius Gabiota, representing Dr. Julius T. Vergara, Vice President for Research, Extension, Training, and Innovation (VPRETI); CST Program Heads; CST Dean Prof. Adrian J. Forca; and the UTP delegates.
The program formally opened with welcome remarks delivered by Dr. Lea P. Ymalay, CST Associate Dean and BSCS Program Head.
This was followed by a message from Dr. Ervin L. Isogon, who welcomed the visiting delegates and underscored the significance of academic engagement and international partnerships.
One of the ceremony’s significant moments was the Ceremonial Student Manifesto Signing, during which the delegates pledged to obey all school rules and regulations promulgated by the duly constituted authorities of GSU. The signing marked their commitment to uphold the university’s guidelines throughout their stay.
The highlight of the event was the cultural exchange, which provided an opportunity for both institutions to share their traditions and artistic expressions. The UTP students opened the cultural presentations, followed by performances from GSU’s Dalawidaw Chorale, Taga Isla Dance Company, and Gus Rondalla Ensemble. Through music, dance, and cultural presentations, the participants celebrated the richness of their respective cultures and strengthened their connections beyond the academic setting.
The ceremony continued with the giving of tokens and a photo opportunity to commemorate the occasion and the growing partnership between the two institutions.
To formally conclude the program, Mr. Julius Gabiota, University Researcher V, delivered the closing remarks on behalf of Dr. Julius T. Vergara, VPRETI.
The welcoming ceremony served as a meaningful start to the delegates’ engagement at GSU, fostering an atmosphere of hospitality, cultural appreciation, and international cooperation. Through initiatives such as the mobility program, GSU and UTP continue to create opportunities for students and academic communities to learn from one another and build connections across borders.
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