The University met with the University of Tsukuba on May 21, 2026, during an institutional visit at the university’s Administration Building in Japan to discuss ongoing partnerships and new areas for collaboration.
The meeting built on the long-standing relationship between the two institutions, particularly through the ASEAN International Mobility for Students (AIMS) exchange program, where USLS students have actively participated over the years. Both universities discussed ways to strengthen existing programs and create more opportunities for students and faculty.
Representing USLS were Dr. Ricver Ureta, Dr. Romeo Teruel, Dr. Manuel De La Paz, and Dr. June Carl Seran. They met with University of Tsukuba officials Sanae Iwami, Head of the Office of Global Initiatives; Yoshihiko Takenaka, Vice-President for Education; Mitsuyasu Kato, Provost; and Nakao Nakamura, Director of the Division of International Exchange Support.
Discussions included plans for Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) programs, joint social impact initiatives, graduate study opportunities for USLS faculty, and efforts to strengthen the University of Tsukuba’s Philippine Alumni Network. The delegation also met with FAST – the Association of Filipino Scholars in Tsukuba, where Dr. Romeo Teruel is one of the founding members, and thanked the group for supporting USLS exchange students in Japan.
A separate discussion with Dr. Alvin Valderrama also focused on a Social Impact Project, reflecting both institutions’ shared interest in community engagement and international collaboration. The visit opened more opportunities for future exchanges and academic partnerships between USLS and the University of Tsukuba.