CLARK FREEPORT – Clark Development Corporation (CDC) has allied with the largest private university in Mindanao to create an industry-ready workforce.
CDC and the University of Mindanao (UM) signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on March 20, at the Clark Visitor Center, launching an internship program that connects Mindanao’s future professionals with valuable opportunities here.
“This exchange will enrich both individuals and Clark as a destination,” she said.
“And in every family, I hope each one of you here will be the heroes of your family. Because we have done our duties, we have studied, we have completed our studies, and we are very good members of our respective communities,” the CDC chief added.
For his part, UM President and CEO Dr. Guillermo Torres, Jr. emphasized how this opportunity aligns with UM’s mission to provide accessible education and career pathways for students.
“Our students, they don’t come from rich families. They don’t come from financially disadvantaged families. And our goal was to provide them quality, affordable, and open education so that they have a better chance in life. And this on-the-job training (OJT) arrangement from CDC could be a big help to those students who come from the lower classes. So, it’s our way of helping others,” he said.
Vice President for Engineering Services Engr. Teresito Tiotuyco, Vice President for Administration and Finance Jose Miguel de la Rosa, Vice President for Security Services PMGen. Lina Sarmiento, Special Assistant to the PCEO Ma. Zoraida Camello, and Assistant Vice President for Administration Atty.
Bonifacio Tarenio, Jr. were among the key CDC officials who attended the event, along with other senior management members. (CDC Photo)
Established in 1946, the University of Mindanao has been a leader in higher education in Southern Mindanao, producing top graduates in various fields including criminology, education, engineering, and business, among others according to Dr. Torres.
The state-run corporation recently signed an agreement with Iloilo schools, namely St. Paul University Iloilo (SPU-Iloilo), Central Philippine University (CPU), and Visayas Aerospace College and Technology (VACTI), on March 18 at Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo.
