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| (Image Source: De La Salle Lipa) |
De La Salle Lipa (DLSL) marked a significant milestone in its internationalization journey with the formal inauguration of the External Linkages and International Relations Office (ELIRO) and the International Student Center (ISC), held at the Senator Diokno Library E-Hub. The new space stands as a symbol of DLSL’s growing commitment to global engagement, providing a dedicated hub for international students and strengthening the institution’s ties with global academic partners. Designed to foster innovation, cultural exchange, and collaboration, the ELIRO and International Student Center are primed to be central in enhancing the Lasallian academic experience with a global perspective.
Gracing the ceremony were key members of the academic community including DLSL Chancellor Dr. Merlin Teodosia Suarez, faculty and staff, students, guests, and the institution’s current international students. In her welcome message, ELIRO Director Grace Sanchez emphasized the role of the new office and center in connecting the DLSL community to the world, sharing, “This is for the students, the staff, and the Lasallian partners — to be connected beyond the perimeters of De La Salle Lipa. The International Student Center, in particular, serves our current international students and will support various international relations activities. Staying true to our institutional tagline ‘Be Near. Go Far.’, this space allows us to get near our home but go far — globally.” Sanchez also highlighted how internationalization responds to CHED’s and DepEd’s call to expand educational quality and reach, stating, “We strive to deliver a world-class student experience, and internationalization is one way to uphold and enhance our educational standards. La Salle is not just for the Philippines — it is ready for the world.”
This school year alone, De La Salle Lipa has established academic linkages with institutions across the globe including Concordia University of Edmonton (Canada), Manhattan University (USA), La Salle Chanthaburi (Thailand), Truong Vinh Ky Secondary and High School (Vietnam), and Universiti Teknologi Petronas (Malaysia). With the continued expansion of its international network, DLSL is positioning itself as a global academic hub in Southern Luzon. The launch of ELIRO and the International Student Center reaffirms De La Salle Lipa’s commitment to being a welcoming home not just for Filipino students but also for learners from around the world. In today’s interconnected world, DLSL stands ready to lead in global education, innovation, and collaboration.
(With words by Cristina Alfarita Larombi, De La Salle Lipa)
