- June 8, 2026
Mapúa Malayan Colleges Laguna and Science Park of the Philippines, Inc. Forge Strategic Partnership to Advance Innovation and Industry Engagement
On May 20, 2026, Mapúa Malayan Colleges Laguna (Mapúa MCL) formally strengthened its commitment to innovation, experiential learning, and industry collaboration through the ceremonial signing of a Memoranda of Understanding and Agreement (MOUA) with Science Park of the Philippines, Inc. (SPPI). The landmark partnership underscores a shared vision of fostering student development, enhancing workforce readiness, and contributing to national progress.
Leading the ceremonial signing on behalf of Mapúa MCL were Dr. Dodjie S. Maestrecampo, President and Chief Executive Officer; Engr. Anthony Hilmer S. Medrano, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer; and Prof. James Ronald O. Mesina, Vice President for External Linkages, Internationalization, and Transnational Education (ELITE). Their presence highlights the institution’s strong commitment to cultivating meaningful industry partnerships that enrich academic programs and student experiences.
Representing Science Park of the Philippines, Inc. and its affiliated organizations were key executives and leaders, including Mr. Richard Albert I. Osmond, President and Chief Executive Officer; Mr. Noel C. Neric, Executive Vice President; and Mr. Marcial David D. Caluag, Vice President for Operations (LISP I – Cabuyao), Vector Property Managers, Inc. Also in attendance were Ms. Anna Russielle P. Macale, Vice President for Human Resources and Administration, ICCP Group; Mr. Jon Alan M. Cuyno, Assistant Vice President for Operations (LISP II – Calamba), Vector Property Managers, Inc.; and Mr. Ronnie M. Tapnio, Assistant Vice President and Executive Director, ICCP Group Foundation, Inc.
Further reinforcing the collaborative effort were Ms. Donna Patricia L. Manio, Assistant Vice President for Corporate Communications; Ms. Ma. Dina R. Cascarro, Assistant Manager for Industrial Relations and Client Services, Vector Property Managers, Inc.; and Mr. Jo Mari Cocorpuz, Supervisor for Corporate Communications.
In their respective messages, leadership from both organizations emphasized that the agreement is not merely a starting point, but a continuation of a deeply rooted relationship. It was highlighted how Mapúa MCL and companies within the SPPI ecosystem have worked together for years through student development and industry engagement.
Dr. Maestrecampo underscored the value of building on this foundation, noting that while the agreement formalizes cooperation, the document fundamentally reflects years of mutual trust and support. Echoing this sentiment, Mr. Osmond shared that the partnership represents both a milestone and a renewed commitment, one that honors past accomplishments while setting the stage for deeper engagement and expanded opportunities.
Through this partnership, Mapúa MCL and SPPI aim to further develop and implement collaborative initiatives that directly benefit students and the broader community. These initiatives will focus on creating meaningful opportunities for experiential learning, including internships, industry immersion programs, and professional exposure. By bridging the gap between academic instruction and real-world applications, the collaboration seeks to equip students with the competencies and practical experience necessary to thrive in today’s dynamic workforce.
Moreover, the partnership is expected to open pathways for career development and employment opportunities, providing students with direct access to industry networks and professional environments within SPPI’s expansive ecosystem. This strategic alliance aligns with Mapúa MCL’s mission to produce globally competitive graduates who are not only academically prepared but also industry-ready.
Beyond student engagement, the collaboration also emphasizes professional development and knowledge exchange between academia and industry practitioners. By fostering continuous dialogue and cooperation, both institutions aim to contribute to the advancement of innovation and sustainable development within the country.
Importantly, this initiative supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly, SDG 4: Quality Education, by enhancing access to relevant and industry-aligned learning experiences, SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, by promoting employability and workforce readiness, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, by strengthening collaborative efforts between educational institutions and industry leaders.
Vice President for External Linkages, Internationalization and Transnational Education (ELITE) Prof. James Ronald O. Mesina gladly reported that more than 40% of the locators of SPPI have been partnered with Mapúa MCL since 2011 for practicum and internship. To level up the engagement, Mapúa MCL would like to explore further the collaboration in the area of research and innovation with the help of SPPI and its locators in Batangas and Laguna areas.
