Estancia, Iloilo, Philippines, April 8, 2026 — The John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University (Arevalo), Inc. actively participated in a benchmarking activity hosted by the Northern Iloilo State University focused on best practices in research and extension, reinforcing institutional collaboration through knowledge exchange, innovation, and partnership-building. The activity culminated in the formal signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between both institutions.
The initiative was spearheaded by Dr. Roderick R. Germo, OIC Research Coordinator of JBLFMU-A, who led and organized the JBLFMU-A delegation throughout the benchmarking engagement. His leadership ensured the smooth coordination of institutional participation and strengthened JBLFMU-A’s commitment to advancing research and extension systems through strategic partnerships.
Opening Program and Institutional Welcome
The program formally opened with an invocation, followed by the singing of the Philippine National Anthem and the NISU Hymn. The welcome remarks were delivered by Dr. Larry B. Deysolong, Vice President for Research and Extension of NISU, who introduced the university’s key research and extension officials and emphasized the importance of inter-institutional collaboration in advancing innovation, research productivity, and community engagement
Presentation of JBLFMU-A Delegates and Institutional Overview
The presentation of JBLFMU-A delegates was delivered by Dr. Brian Gil S. Sarinas, OIC Director for Research and Development and Community Extension Services of JBLFMU, on behalf of Mr. Robert O. Parcia, Administrator of JBLFMU-A.
Dr. Germo, as the lead organizer of the delegation, ensured the proper coordination and participation of all JBLFMU-A representatives.
During the session, Dr. Sarinas also presented a comprehensive video overview of the JBLFMU system, highlighting the university’s academic programs, maritime training facilities, research initiatives, and extension services. This provided NISU participants with a holistic understanding of JBLFMU-A’s institutional systems and development direction.
Sharing of Best Practices in Research, Innovation, and Extension
The benchmarking activity featured structured presentations from NISU’s experts:
- Research Initiatives – Ms. Ladelyn Tolentino, Research Specialist II, NISU Research Office
- KMITT Initiatives – Dr. Bon Eric Besonia, University Director, Knowledge Management, Innovation, Technology Transfer (KMITT)
- Extension Initiatives – Dr. Rene Jun B. Belgica, University Director, Extension Services Office
These presentations highlighted effective systems in research management, innovation development, and community extension programs that promote sustainable development and institutional excellence.
An open forum followed, allowing both institutions to exchange insights and identify potential areas for future collaboration.
MOA and MOU Signing: Formalizing Institutional Collaboration
A significant milestone of the activity was the ceremonial signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), formally strengthening the partnership between NISU and JBLFMU-A.
The agreement establishes collaboration in:
- Joint research and extension programs
- Faculty, staff, and student exchanges
- Capacity building and professional development
- Innovation and knowledge sharing
- Disaster Risk Reduction and resilience initiatives
- Intellectual property and research collaboration
Dr. Brian Gil S. Sarinas and Dr. Geneva Eler, Dean of the Graduate School served as representatives of Mr. Robert O. Parcia, MSMM, Administrator of JBLFMU-A.
On the NISU side, Dr. Larry B. Deysolong, Vice President for Research and Extension, represented Dr. Bobby D. Gerardo, D. Eng., University President of NISU, and also served as witness to the agreement.
The MOA and MOU reflect both institutions’ shared commitment to advancing academic excellence, strengthening institutional systems, and promoting impactful research and extension initiatives.
A Step Toward Stronger Academic Synergy
The activity concluded with both institutions reaffirming their commitment to sustain collaboration through future joint programs, research initiatives, and extension engagements.
Through this benchmarking activity led by Dr. Roderick R. Germo, JBLFMU-A strengthened its institutional linkages with NISU and gained valuable insights into best practices in research and extension. The engagement underscores a shared vision of transforming academic collaboration into meaningful, sustainable, and impactful contributions to society and the maritime industry.