The Bachelor of Arts in English Language major in Applied Linguistics (BAELAL) program proudly concludes the English Language Enhancement (EngAGE) Program and Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) with Phenikaa University of Vietnam, celebrating a successful run of intercultural collaboration, academic growth, and meaningful engagement between partner institutions. This was held on May 22, 2025 via Zoom. The virtual gathering was more than simply a formal conclusion; it was a sincere celebration of scholarly cooperation, cross-cultural exchange, and the development of enduring bonds.
Key figures from both institutions attended the closing ceremony. Representing USeP, Dr. Marnie Grace I. Sonico, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS), delivered the opening remarks. She was joined by Assoc. Prof. Sajed S. Ingilan, BAELAL Program Head; Dr. Adora Zerrudo, Director of the International Affairs Division; and Asst. Prof. Joy R. Risonar, OJT Instructor and Associate Dean of CAS. Phenikaa University was represented by Assoc. Prof. Nguyen Dang Suu, Dean of the English Language Faculty, and Dr. Dang Thi Huong Thao, Vice Dean.
From its inception, the program was widely praised for creating an environment where teachers and students could engage in meaningful cross-cultural interactions while fostering academic excellence. Assoc. Prof. Dang Suu of Phenikaa University expressed his pride in the partnership’s achievements, emphasizing that students from both institutions had clearly benefited from the collaboration.
The program’s scholarly value and potential for long-lasting impact were further highlighted by the Bachelor of Arts in English Language Program Head, Assoc. Prof. Sajed S. Ingilan, who followed up with an inspiring message of gratitude, thanking Phenikaa University for their partnership and inviting participants to submit scholarly works to the Southeastern Philippines Journal of Research and Development (SPJRD).
Moreover, Ms. Kate Marie S. Getalla provided an emotional and insightful reflection on the experience. She acknowledged the difficulties encountered in a virtual learning environment while highlighting the fundamentals of good teaching, saying that:
“Effective teaching is not solely dependent on physical presence or perfect conditions. It lies in the ability to connect meaningfully, to adapt with empathy, and to foster a learning environment even within the limitations of virtual space.”
Her views were echoed by Ms. Luna Phung, a student representative from Phenikaa University, who discussed the intellectual and personal development that students went through during the program, stating that:
“More than just gain experience, we gained new friendships, new ways of thinking, and a special memory that we will always treasure.”
Also, one of the event’s main highlights was the presentation of Phenikaa University student’s group projects, which included creative vlogs and educational infographics. In addition to showcasing their learning, these outputs served as evidence of their collaboration, originality, and cross-cultural proficiency. Themes like language, culture, identity, and digital collaboration were all included in each presentation, demonstrating that virtual environments may be rich for deep interaction.
The ceremony concluded with a heartfelt message from Dr. Adora Zerrudo, who expressed her deep gratitude to all participants, facilitators, and partner institutions. She highlighted how well the program has done in fostering a purposeful and cooperative learning environment.
The lasting impact of the EngAGE and COIL program extends far beyond certificates and completed tasks—it lives on in the meaningful discussions, enriched perspectives, and a collective dedication to cross-cultural learning.
