The Office of Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Commissioner Michelle Aguilar-Ong (OCCMAO) convened the 22 State Universities and Colleges (SUC) presidents under her leadership, collectively known as the “Magnificent 22,” to strengthen academic partnerships during the 2nd Presidents' Roundtable Meeting for Unified Strategic Growth, held at Clark Freeport Zone, Pampanga, on July 8–9, 2026.

One of the highlights of the gathering was the signing of a multilateral Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), under which Pampanga State University (Pampanga State U) will serve as the lead institution in coordinating internship and immersion opportunities in Clark, Pampanga, for students endorsed by the 21 participating SUCs.

The MOU also establishes a framework for academic collaboration among the participating SUCs in the areas of research, innovation, and academic exchange.

On the second day of the event, Pampanga State University President Dr. Enrique G. Baking, together with the University's vice presidents and members of the Administrative Council, welcomed OCCMAO and the presidents of the 21 other SUCs. 

They hosted the delegates during a tour of the University's Bacolor Campus as part of the Cultural and Industry Immersion Program.

During the campus visit, the delegates toured the University Gymnasium, the Olympic-sized swimming pool, the University's Gender and Development Wellness Center at the Extension Lot, and viewed the mural at the University Auditorium, which showcases the rich history of Bacolor, Pampanga.

Photo credits: Public and Media Affairs Unit

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