The United States (U.S.) Embassy in the Philippines, in partnership with EducationUSA and hosted by the University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP), officially brought the first-ever EducationUSA University Fair to Davao City and Mindanao on May 23, 2026, at the USeP Obrero Campus, gathering students, educators, and representatives from U.S. colleges and universities for academic exchange and international learning opportunities.
Prior to the formal opening of the fair, participants attended a series of pre-fair information sessions focused on international education opportunities and application processes. Discussions included an introduction to EducationUSA services, the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) examination through the British Council, exchange and scholarship opportunities through Fulbright Philippines, the Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) examination with the College Board, and insights on applying to U.S. colleges and universities through an alumni and student panel interview.
The event also featured cultural presentations from student artists of the USeP Marahuyo Rondalla, the USeP Harmonia Polifonica Chorale, and Bachelor of Physical Education students showcasing Filipino artistry and culture, while the Sahaya Dance Collective welcomed guests and participants at the registration area with a vibrant performance set to Filipino music, offering a warm cultural reception at the start of the program.
In his opening remarks, U.S. Embassy Deputy Director of Public Engagement George Mesthos emphasized the role of EducationUSA in making international education more accessible to students and families. He highlighted that EducationUSA supports students in navigating the college search process and exploring study opportunities in the United States across various academic disciplines.
“As Secretary of State Marco Rubio says, America is the place where anyone, from anywhere, can achieve anything,” Mesthos said, noting that EducationUSA continues to assist Filipino students in connecting with prestigious universities in the U.S.
University President Dr. Bonifacio G. Gabales, Jr. expressed the University’s appreciation to the U.S. Embassy for bringing the EducationUSA Fair to Davao City and Mindanao, describing the event as an important platform that connects Filipino students with international academic opportunities.
In his message, Dr. Gabales reflected on the enduring educational relationship between the Philippines and the United States by drawing parallels between the Philippine eagle and the American bald eagle as symbols of distinct strengths and shared excellence.
“This event is also significant, as this year marks 80 years of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and the United States, as we celebrate a long-standing partnership that continues to place education among its strongest bridges between peoples and institutions,” he said.
Dr. Gabales also shared his experience as a Fulbright Philippines alumnus, having completed an Advanced Research Fellowship at Kent State University from 2009 to 2010. He emphasized how international academic exchange strengthens research capacity, intercultural understanding, and professional development.
The University President likewise acknowledged the support of the United States government in advancing USeP’s research and innovation initiatives, including collaborations under the USAID STRIDE Program and the University’s recognition as a Model Career Center in 2019.
Representing Davao City Mayor Hon. Sebastian Z. Duterte, City Council’s Education Committee Chair Councilor Antoinette Principe conveyed the city government’s support for expanding global educational opportunities for Filipino students.
In the mayor’s message, the city government vowed that education remains one of its priorities and expressed hope that the fair would empower students to become proactive in pursuing academic excellence and contributing meaningfully to their communities and the country.
The official opening of the fair concluded with a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by representatives from the U.S. Embassy, the Davao City Government, the Commission on Higher Education Regional Office XI, and the USeP administration, formally welcoming participants to engage with U.S. university exhibitors and explore pathways for international education.
The event aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education) by expanding access to international learning opportunities, SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) by broadening access to global education pathways for students in Mindanao, and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through multi-institutional collaboration.
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