Reaffirming its commitment to producing industry-ready graduates, the University of Saint Louis Tuguegarao (USLT) participated in the General Membership Meeting (GMM) 2026 of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry – Cagayan Chapter (PCCI Cagayan) held on April 14, 2026, at Santander’s Hall, Hotel Carmelita.
The event, themed “Forging Stronger Partnerships: Business, Government, and Academe United for Cagayan’s Growth,” brought together leaders from the private sector, government agencies, and higher education institutions to align strategies for the province’s economic and human capital development.
One of the key sessions of the meeting featured “Messages of Support” from provincial and regional directors, underscoring the government’s commitment to this tripartite alliance, with notable officials in attendance including Mary Ann C. Dy, Provincial Director of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Cagayan; Genaro Ronald P. Ibay, Provincial Director of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Cagayan; Rosemary G. Aquino, Regional Executive Director of the Department of Agriculture (DA) Region 02; Jayferson D. Mabborang, Provincial Director of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Cagayan; and Laura B. Diciano, Provincial Director of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Cagayan.
The highlight of the assembly was the Simultaneous Tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) Signing. USLT, alongside other leading academic institutions in the region, formalized its partnership with PCCI Cagayan and the PCCI Human Resource Development Foundation (PCCI HRDF).
This landmark agreement is designed to bridge the gap between academic theory and industry practice. Through this collaboration, USLT aims to enhance its Pre-Employment Education and Training (PET) initiatives, ensuring that Louisian students acquire competencies and skills that are directly aligned with the evolving demands of the global labor market.
The event was spearheaded by PCCI Cagayan President Ms. Evelyn L. Velasco, who delivered the State of the Chamber Address, and PCCI Cagayan BOD Mr. Cloyd C. Velasco, who provided the GMM overview. The program was moderated by Mr. Ramon A. Morales, Chairman of the Board.
The gathering also featured inspirational messages from Cagayan Governor Edgar “Manong Egay” Aglipay and PCCI Region 02 Governor Jose Avelino C. Diaz, both of whom underscored the importance of unity in building a “Prosperous Tomorrow” for the province.
Dr. Alberto P. Fenix, Jr., President of PCCI HRDF, served as the Guest of Honor and Inducting Officer. In his keynote address, Dr. Fenix emphasized the vital synergy between government, industry, and the academe as the cornerstone of a sustainable and competitive workforce.
Moreover, representing USLT in the event were Rev. Fr. Macwayne N. Maniwang, CICM, PhD, University President; Dr. Luisa B. Aquino, Vice President for Academics; Dr. Rizza V. Ramos, Dean of the School of Accountancy, Business, and Hospitality (SABH); and Dr. Mary Ann C. Bartolome, Department Head of the Business Administration program.
By formalizing this partnership, USLT strengthens its position at the forefront of career-integrated education. The university remains committed to delivering experiential learning opportunities and competency-based training that equip students with skills aligned to industry needs. Through active engagement with key stakeholders, USLT ensures that its programs are integrated into the broader regional development agenda. This collaboration further enables Louisian graduates to benefit from a strong network of government support and industry opportunities, preparing them to thrive in a competitive workforce.
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