09 September 2025
In a historic highlight of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s state visit to Cambodia, the Philippines and Cambodia sealed a new partnership in higher education to strengthen academic exchanges and regional collaboration.
Through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Higher Education Cooperation, Commission on Higher Education Chairperson Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis and Cambodian Minister of Education, Youth, and Sport Dr. Hang Chuon Naron formalized the partnership in a ceremony witnessed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Prime Minister Hun Manet at the Peace Palace in Phnom Penh on September 8, 2025.
The MOU provides a comprehensive framework to strengthen academic and research ties between higher education institutions of both countries. It covers student and faculty exchanges, joint research initiatives, academic information-sharing, credit transfer arrangements, and collaboration in educational events such as conferences, workshops, and training courses.
Key fields identified for cooperation include aviation, health sciences, allied medical services, science, technology, and innovation.
To oversee its implementation, a Joint Working Group (JWG) will be created to review, monitor, and approve specific initiatives.
“This partnership is a powerful reminder that education is not only an investment in people but also in the shared future of our nations. It underscores the commitment of both nations to expand educational opportunities, foster academic excellence, and strengthen people-to-people ties, solidifying the Philippines and Cambodia’s role as partners in advancing inclusive growth, innovation, and sustainable development in the region,” Chairperson Agrupis said.
The signing ceremony formed part of the President’s official program in Cambodia, which also featured a meeting with the Filipino community in Cambodia and bilateral and networking meetings.
Other members of the Philippine delegation included First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos, along with DFA Secretary Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro, DA Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr., DTI Secretary Ma. Cristina Aldeguer-Roque, DMW Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac, PCO Acting Secretary Dave M. Gomez, Ambassador Flerida Ann Camille P. Mayo, and DOTr Undersecretary Jim C. Sydiongco, who accompanied President Marcos in the official engagements in Phnom Penh.
Joining CHED Chairperson Agrupis in the higher education delegation were Atty. Angelo A. Jimenez, President of the University of the Philippines; Dr. Tirso A. Ronquillo, President of Batangas State University; and Dr. Arthur I. Ibañez, President of Cagayan State University, underscoring the strong support of Philippine higher education institutions in advancing academic cooperation with Cambodia.
(SGD.)
SHIRLEY C. AGRUPIS, PhD
Chairperson