Northern Samar Welcomes Delegates to AAACU 2025 Summer Enrichment Program

New York City – Northern Samar is proudly hosting the 2025 Summer Enrichment Program of the Asian Association of Agricultural Colleges and Universities (AAACU), which runs from July 20 to August 2 at the University of Eastern Philippines (UEP) in Catarman.

This two-week program brings together agriculture students from across Southeast and East Asia, including delegates from Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, South Korea, Taiwan, Japan, and the Philippines. Designed as an intensive training and cultural exchange initiative, the program offers participants a valuable opportunity to experience local agricultural practices, technologies, and community life in the host country.

Now in full swing at UEP, the enrichment program includes hands-on training, field visits, and academic discussions focused on sustainable agriculture, food security, and innovation. It serves as a vital platform for cross-cultural collaboration and knowledge-sharing among future leaders in the region’s agriculture sector.

On July 22, a delegation of 35 students—accompanied by AAACU officials and university representatives—paid a courtesy visit to Governor Harris Ongchuan at the Provincial Capitol. Among those in attendance were Dr. Filma Calalo, Technical Assistant to the AAACU Executive Secretary; Dr. Amado A. Angeles of the University of the Philippines Los Baños; UEP President Dr. Cherry I. Ultra; and Prof. Brenfred N. Romero, Project Leader and UEP Director for Admissions.

The courtesy call served to formally introduce the AAACU to the Provincial Government and to explore avenues for partnership to strengthen agricultural education and development in the region. Hosting the international program for the first time, Northern Samar is stepping into a significant role as an emerging hub for agricultural innovation and academic collaboration.

Governor Ongchuan warmly welcomed the delegates, voicing his support for the program and emphasizing the importance of regional cooperation in addressing agricultural challenges and unlocking shared opportunities.

The AAACU Summer Enrichment Program highlights both the growing capabilities of Northern Samar in the agriculture sector and the University of Eastern Philippines’ commitment to becoming a major player in international academic exchange and rural development.

As the program progresses, participants will continue to engage in community-based learning and fieldwork throughout the province, gaining deeper insights into local farming systems and the cultural heritage of Northern Samar.

With ongoing support from both local stakeholders and international partners, the province aims to build on this milestone and promote further initiatives that benefit agricultural education and industry alike.