San Beda College Alabang (SBCA) and the University of San Agustin (USA), Iloilo City, have formally entered into an academic partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) held on September 19, 2025 at the SBCA campus.
The MOU, signed by Rector-President Rev. Fr. Gerardo Ma. de Villa, OSB of SBCA and Mr. John Paul P. Mondejar, Director of USA’s International Relations Office, outlines areas of collaboration such as student and faculty exchanges, joint academic initiatives, research partnerships, and intercultural programs.
In his message, Mr. Mondejar described the partnership as a “covenant of faith and mission,” noting that the Augustinian values of Caritas, Veritas, and Unitas resonate deeply with the Benedictine motto of Ora et Labora. Together, these charisms aim to form graduates who embody wisdom, compassion, and service.
Fr. de Villa emphasized that the agreement affirms SBCA’s mission of providing transformative education and values-driven leadership. He highlighted the importance of Catholic institutions working together to help shape a society grounded in truth, service, and faith.
To enrich the partnership’s launch, Mr. Mondejar engaged Bedan students in a dialogue on international relations, while a Model United Nations (MUN) Capacity Building Workshop was held. The workshop was facilitated by Mr. Andres Ceazar P. Bedonia, a senior Foreign Service student of USA and Head of its delegation to the 2025 Jakarta MUN. Bedan student leaders gained practical tools in diplomacy, negotiation, and global governance.
Through this collaboration, SBCA and USA commit to broadening opportunities for students and faculty while deepening their shared Catholic mission of service, knowledge, and global engagement.
That in all things, God may be glorified.
(photos courtesy of USA)
