ILOILO CITY, PHILIPPINES – A new era of academic and research collaboration was launched on August 22, 2025, as John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University (JBLFMU)-Molo, Inc. and Northern Iloilo State University (NISU) formally signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) and a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The signing ceremony, held in Iloilo City, marks a commitment by both institutions to enhance their respective educational, research, and extension services.

 

The partnership is founded on the shared missions of the two universities: JBLFMU's dedication to quality maritime education and training, including marine engineering, and NISU's mandate to provide advanced education in fields such as information technology, engineering, and industrial technology. The MOA specifically involves NISU's College of Information and Computing Studies (CICS), the College of Engineering (COE) - Mechanical Engineering Program, and the College of Industrial Technology (CIT).

 

The agreements, which are set for a three-year term and are subject to renewal, outline a comprehensive scope of collaboration, with a significant focus on joint research and development projects. Key collaborative research presentations during the ceremony included:

 

* "Auto Ship Heeling System" presented by Dr. Felipe P. Vista IV, Director of R&D Services and the Concurrent OIC Director for Office of External Grants & Linkages of NISU.

* "Innovative Refrigeration Units for Fishing Motorboat" presented by Dr. Lovell O. Baria, Chair of Mechanical Engineering of NISU.

* "Upgrading of Marine Sewage Treatment Plant using Sensors" presented by Dr. Rolando A. Alimen, Research Coordinator of JBLFMU-Molo, Inc.

The MOA and MOU also facilitate other collaborative initiatives, such as faculty and student exchange programs, as well as the sharing of expertise and academic resources.

 

 

Key officials from both universities signed the agreements. Representing NISU were University President Dr. Bobby D. Gerardo, Dr. Larry B. Deysolong, Vice President for Research and Extension, and the deans of the collaborating colleges: Dr. Rosalie Grace S. Dela Cruz, Dean of the College of Industrial Technology; Dr. Raul D. Deguma, Dean of the College of Engineering, and Dr. Felicisimo V. Wenceslao, Jr., Dean of the College of Information and Computing Studies. JBLFMU-Molo, Inc. was represented by its Administrator, Engr. Roberto Neal S. Sobrejuanite.