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| (Image Source: De La Salle Lipa) |
De La Salle Lipa (DLSL) took an active role in the World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI) 2025 Global Conference held last September 24–26, 2025 at Tongmyong University in Busan, South Korea. The annual gathering brings together universities, academic leaders, and innovators from around the world to highlight transformative practices in higher education and to advance the culture of innovation across institutions. Representing DLSL were Vice Chancellor for Academics Dr. Tessie Palma, Quality Assurance Manager for Sustainability and Impact Rankings Rhea Algozo, and Sustainability Officer Antonina de Jesus.
In one of the conference’s main activities — university innovation case presentations across 16 categories — Dr. Palma presented the institution’s case under B2 Category: Empower-based Management, showcasing DLSL’s commitment to progressive governance and sustainable development. The institution’s presence at the conference comes on the heels of its strong debut in the WURI 2025 Rankings where DLSL earned top-50 placements in three categories: 33rd in Cost-Effectiveness Management (B7), 42nd in Empowerment-Based Management (B2), and 50th in Industrial Application (A3). These recognitions underscore the impact of initiatives such as the ipLAUnCh program, the Stakeholders’ Concerns Coordination Meeting, and the institution’s pivotal role in the USAID ESP CREATE Energy Hub. With these achievements, DLSL has joined the global ranks of institutions redefining the role of higher education in addressing real-world challenges. Beyond case presentations, the WURI 2025 Global Conference featured cross-learning opportunities, roundtable discussions, and exchanges of best practices among university leaders, experts, and stakeholders. With its emphasis not only on research output but also on social impact, adaptability, educational experimentation, and technology transfer, the conference highlighted how universities can actively respond to societal challenges in shaping a sustainable and innovative future.
DLSL’s active participation and recent recognition in the WURI Rankings reflect its continuing mission to inspire futures, build communities, and transform lives, while strengthening its presence in the global education landscape. By sharing its own practices and learning from peers worldwide through accreditations such as the WURI, and submitting the institution to others like the STARS® reporting framework and PAASCU, among others, De La Salle Lipa reaffirms its dedication to delivering quality, future-ready education that empowers both its students and its community.
(With words by Cristina Alfarita Larombi, De La Salle Lipa)
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De La Salle Lipa Seals International Partnership With South Korea's Tongmyong University
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| (Image Source: De La Salle Lipa) |
De La Salle Lipa (DLSL) has once again expanded its international network by formalizing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Tongmyong University (TU) in Busan, South Korea. The ceremonial signing, held last September 25, 2025, marked an important milestone in DLSL’s commitment to global collaboration and transformative education. The partnership between the two institutions paves the way for a wide range of initiatives designed to enrich academic life and expand opportunities for both students and faculty.
Central to the agreement is the exchange of students through cultural immersion programs and short-term study opportunities such as summer and winter courses. Faculty and staff exchanges are also part of the collaboration, encouraging shared expertise and professional development across borders. Beyond academic mobility, the MOU also emphasizes the creation of international internship and field training programs that will allow students to gain valuable hands-on experience in both the Philippines and South Korea. Another key area of cooperation is the development of joint academic projects anchored on the Regional Innovation System for Education (RISE), which seeks to promote innovation and regional growth through higher education. In addition, both institutions are committed to enhancing language education and training, further equipping learners with the global competencies needed in today’s interconnected world.
Representing De La Salle Lipa at the MOU signing were Vice Chancellor for Academics Dr. Tessie Palma, Quality Assurance Manager for Sustainability and Impact Rankings Rhea Algozo, and Sustainability Officer Antonina de Jesus. Tongmyong University was represented by International Affairs Department Dean Dr. Yo Han A; College Dean of Culture, Design, and Management Yeo Kyung Natalia Kim; and Busan International College (BIC) Vice Dean Kyungdaw Jay Kang. This new partnership affirms DLSL’s dedication to expanding its global footprint and providing learners with opportunities that go beyond the classroom. By aligning with Tongmyong University, a distinguished institution in South Korea, DLSL strengthens its academic portfolio and continues to nurture a culture of collaboration and innovation.
(With words by Dr. Dfezie Torres-Tipan, De La Salle Lipa)
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DLSL Champions Peaceful Conflict Resolution In Academe Through ADRAS Seminar
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| (Image Source: De La Salle Lipa) |
De La Salle Lipa (DLSL) took a proactive step in championing a more harmonious academic environment by hosting a two-day seminar on Alternative Dispute Resolution in the Academic Setting (ADRAS) last September 18–19, 2025 at the Nexus Innovation Labs. The seminar aimed to equip administrators, faculty, and staff with practical skills for addressing conflicts through negotiation, mediation, and other non-litigious methods.
Facilitated by Atty. Christopher Cruz, Ph.D. (University Legal Counsel, De La Salle University) and Atty. Daniel Hofileña (Partner, KPH Law), the sessions introduced participants to a range of alternative resolution mechanisms — including mediation, arbitration, early neutral evaluation, and mini-trials — under the framework of Republic Act 9285. ADR, as defined by law, involves processes that resolve disputes outside of formal court or administrative proceedings, with a neutral third party guiding the discussion to achieve mutually acceptable outcomes. The discussions highlighted how ADR empowers individuals to retain control over outcomes, reduces costs and stress, and preserves relationships — critical factors in the academic context where disputes may involve faculty, students, administrators, or staff. Unique challenges such as power dynamics, academic freedom, intellectual property issues, and ethical concerns like plagiarism were examined to show how ADR can provide balanced and confidential avenues for resolution. Workshops covered key principles of negotiation, the stages of mediation, and best practices for drafting agreements. Participants explored real-world scenarios, learning to maintain respectful dialogue, focus on shared interests, and create “win-win” solutions.
By the seminar’s close, attendees gained a deeper appreciation of how constructive conflict management can promote openness, innovation, and growth. DLSL’s commitment to integrating ADR into institutional policies underscores its vision of a campus culture where disagreements are not merely avoided but resolved with fairness, empathy, and integrity.
(With words by Dr. Dfezie Torres-Tipan, De La Salle Lipa)
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Renewed Commitment: Rebel Sports Continues To Back DLSL Varsity And Community
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| (Image Source: De La Salle Lipa) |
De La Salle Lipa (DLSL) and Rebel Sports reaffirmed their strong collaboration through a ceremonial Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing and renewal of sponsorship held last September 17, 2025 at the DLSL Boardroom. Present to formalize the agreements for the were Head of Sales Jerome Tumbagahon and Vice President Justin Cu for Rebel Sports and De La Salle Lipa Vice President for Finance Luz Magpantay and Resource Generation and Sustainability Office Manager Ivy Margaret Leyesa for the MOA signing and Sports and Culture Directorate J. Rex Atienza and DLSL Chancellor Dr. Merlin Teodosia Suarez for the renewal of the sponsorship agreement.
Magpantay emphasized how the partnership goes beyond providing quality merchandise: “It has always been our aspiration to provide quality merchandise to our community, and more importantly, to reach our alumni across the globe. That is why we worked hard to find a platform that could help us achieve this — and fortunately, Rebel has the facility to make it happen.” She expressed her hope that the collaboration will continue to be a “win-win partnership” that will foster growth and success for both organizations. Rebel Sports, in turn, highlighted the growth of the relationship since its inception. Sales and Marketing Relations Officer Ricky Sta. Maria recalled how the partnership began with a simple request that has since blossomed into a sustained alliance: “What started as a simple request from Coach Imee has grown into a strong partnership. Now, here we are, celebrating our third year together. We are truly grateful for the trust and for the success this collaboration has brought to both our organizations.” He assured that Rebel Sports will continue its steadfast support to DLSL and provide quality service to the Lipa Lasallian community. Echoing the same spirit, Atienza described the partnership as nothing less than a “winning partnership”. He noted that what began as a sponsorship of varsity athletes has now expanded to include the entire DLSL community, stating, “This year, that support grows even bigger, because the pride of wearing the winning Rebel brand will not be exclusive only to our athletes but will extend to our students, teachers and staff, alumni, parents, and all our Green Stallion supporters.”
Meanwhile, Chancellor Suarez highlighted the deeper meaning of the collaboration, affirming that “this is more than us being sponsored with merchandise; it is also prompting school spirit”. The DLSL Green Stallions have consistently demonstrated excellence in athletics, dominating the CALABARZON sports arena and earning recognition on both national and international stages. In pursuing sporting excellence, athletes are given the necessary training, guidance, conditioning, and equipped with quality gear and uniforms designed for durability, comfort, and peak performance — gear that empowers the Green Stallions to compete confidently and showcase their skills on every stage. Their achievements stand as a testament to the commitment, discipline, and Lasallian spirit that drive the institution’s student-athletes to excel in every competition. With the renewed commitment between De La Salle Lipa and Rebel Sports, the institution looks forward to sustaining and strengthening the culture of sportsmanship and unity that inspires the Lasallian community.
(With words by Cristina Alfarita Larombi, De La Salle Lipa)
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Sustainability In Action: DLSL Signs MOU With UPLB-BIOTECH For Agricultural Innovation
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| (Image Source: De La Salle Lipa/UPLB BIOTECH/Jose Paulo P. Umali) |
De La Salle Lipa (DLSL) and the University of the Philippines Los Baños – National Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (UP BIOTECH) formally sealed a Memorandum of Understanding last August 29, 2025 at the UPLB Campus' BIOTECH Lobby. Anchored in shared values of innovation, sustainability, and community impact, this partnership reaffirms a joint commitment to revitalize Batangas’ black pepper industry — a crop deeply rooted in the province’s cultural and agricultural heritage.
By combining UPLB BIOTECH’s expertise in micropropagation, value-adding technologies, and sustainable farm management with DLSL’s mission to inspire futures, build communities, and transform lives, the collaboration goes beyond agricultural revitalization. It opens avenues for academic and research synergy through faculty and researcher exchanges, student internships and exchange programs, collaborative research and extension projects, as well as joint lectures, symposia, and capacity-building initiatives — ensuring that the pursuit of innovation not only strengthens local industries but also enriches education and community development. Present during the ceremonial signing were UPLB Chancellor Jose V. Camacho Jr. and DLSL Chancellor Dr. Teodosia Merlin C. Suarez who signed the agreement alongside BIOTECH Director Scientist Fides Marciana Z. Tambalo and DLSL Vice Chancellor for Academics Dr. Tessie M. Palma. Distinguished witnesses from both institutions also graced the event, followed by a guided tour of BIOTECH’s laboratories and facilities.
Beyond academic collaboration, the initiative demonstrates De La Salle Lipa’s commitment to leading sustainable innovation in Batangas and beyond, bridging education, industry, and community for inclusive development. By aligning its institutional vision with national expertise, DLSL ensures that its students, faculty, and partner communities benefit from cutting-edge research and real-world applications that pave the way for a future-ready generation of Lasallians.
(With words by Cristina Alfarita Larombi, De La Salle Lipa)
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Batangas Coffee Research Goes Global Through DLSL-UniLaSalle Collab
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| (Image Source: De La Salle Lipa) |
De La Salle Lipa (DLSL) continues to strengthen its global academic network with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with UniLaSalle Rio de Janeiro in Brazil, held virtually last August 11, 2025. The partnership marks a new chapter in advancing research and international collaboration, particularly in the field of coffee studies, an area deeply rooted in Batangas heritage and globally recognized as a driver of culture, livelihood, and sustainability. Representing UniLaSalle were Chancellor Br. Jardelino Menegat FSC and Legal and International Advisor Dr. Carlos Coelho. From De La Salle Lipa, Chancellor Dr. Teodosia Merlin Suarez and Research, Management, and Coordination Office (RMCO) Director Dr. Analiza Resurreccion took part in the signing.
Through the MOU, both institutions committed to fostering synergies across academic and research frontiers by pursuing collaborative research on coffee-related studies, facilitating short- and long-term faculty and researcher exchanges to broaden expertise and encourage knowledge transfer, organizing joint conferences, workshops, and seminars to enrich the academic community, and leveraging existing and prospective partnerships to maximize the impact of international collaboration. This partnership reinforces DLSL’s vision of positioning its Batangas Coffee Research Hub as a premier center for heritage-based research and global academic engagement. The collaboration with UniLaSalle Rio de Janeiro builds on earlier virtual dialogues with La Salle institutions in Brazil, Mexico, and Colombia in February and April 2025, led by DLSL’s RMCO. These discussions underscored shared goals of expanding research opportunities and creating platforms that connect local expertise with global innovation.
Through this MOU, DLSL and UniLaSalle Rio reaffirm the Lasallian tradition of excellence and cross-border collaboration. While advancing coffee research remains central, the partnership also opens doors to academic exchanges that will benefit students, faculty, and communities, fostering knowledge, sustainability, and global connectedness with other La Salle Universities across the world.
(With words by Cristina Alfarita Larombi, De La Salle Lipa)
