Republic of the Philippines

Commission on Higher Education

REGIONAL OFFICE 1

Committed to opening global doors for Filipino scholars, the Commission on Higher Education – International Affairs Service (CHED-IAS), in partnership with the Commission on Higher Education Regional Office I (CHED ROI), conducted the Foreign Scholarships and Training Program (FSTP) at The Monarch Hotel in Calasiao, Pangasinan Held on October 23, 2025.

The FSTP brought together representatives from various higher education institutions in Regions I, II, III, and CAR, along with aspiring scholars, to explore a wide array of international learning opportunities.

The event placed a spotlight on the FSTP as one of CHED’s flagship initiatives, implemented in partnership with various foreign governments and institutions.

Funded through official development assistance, the program aims to strengthen the nation’s human resource capacity by equipping scholars with world-class education and technical expertise.

Over the years, FSTP scholars have returned to the Philippines with enhanced knowledge and leadership skills that contribute to national development and institutional growth.

To provide a clearer picture of the scholarship landscape, Ms. Mabel A. Gutierrez, OIC Chief Education Program Specialist of CHED’s International Affairs Service, gave an introduction to the FSTP and CHED’s role in the selection process, outlining how collaboration between local and international partners ensures fair and transparent scholarship opportunities for Filipinos.

The program also featured presentations from key international partners, beginning with Ms. Jewel Mae Regnim from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), who discussed available scholarship programs in Japan.

Her session was complemented by CDR Lana Rita Yap of the Philippine Coast Guard, who shared insights from her academic experience as a JICA scholar.

Meanwhile, representatives from the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), Ms. Subin Choi and Ms. Andrea Conopio, introduced their scholarship initiatives for Filipino professionals.

Ms. Janyne Luna of DTI – Nueva Ecija, followed by sharing her personal journey as a KOICA scholar in South Korea, highlighting the importance of cross-cultural learning and global cooperation.

Ms. Gutierrez also detailed the Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship Programme, emphasizing Hungary’s commitment to educational exchange with the Philippines.

Dr. Dianne Joy Aguilon from the University of the Philippines Los Baños then shared her enriching experience as an SH scholar, emphasizing how international training broadens perspectives and fosters academic excellence.

Representing the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office, Ms. Rica Gabrielle Ortiz introduced various scholarship opportunities available for Filipinos in Taiwan, while Ms. Joanne Fajardo from the Philippine – American Educational Foundation wrapped up the day with an overview of the Fulbright Programs, highlighting the United States’ long-standing partnership with the Philippines in advancing educational exchange.

“The day concluded with a shared sense of inspiration among participants, serving as a reminder that education, when given the opportunity to cross borders, becomes a bridge that connects nations, cultures, and aspirations,” remarked Dr. Al Gerald Barde, CHED ROI’s Focal for Internationalization.

𝘣𝘺 𝘑. 𝘉𝘦𝘳𝘮𝘶𝘥𝘦𝘻