On November 7, 2024, the Nagoya University Asian Satellite Campus in the Philippines (NUASC-PH) and the Nagoya University Alumni Association Philippine Branch (NUAL-PH) collaborated to host the NUAL-PH and NUASC-PH Joint Symposium: Bridging Japanese Education to Philippine Society. The symposium aimed to provide a platform for NUAL and NUASC-PH scholars and alumni to engage with fellow alumni and to promote the NU-ASCI transnational doctoral programs as a pathway for pursuing a PhD at Nagoya University. A total of 28 participants attended the event, although 11 prospective students who registered online were unable to make it. The NUAL-PH was represented by 13 members, led by Dr. Neil Tan Gana (President, NUAL-PH). Thirteen speakers were invited to deliver 5-10 minute presentations on their current or recently completed research activities and to serve as panelists. Dr. Mary Jean G. Bulatao, Director and Designated Associate Professor of NUASC-PH, introduced the NU-ASCI Transnational Doctoral Programs for Leading Professionals in Asian Countries and encouraged guests interested in pursuing a doctorate degree to apply for the program or share the information within their networks. 

Three speakers represented the current students of the NUASC-PH: Mr. Angelo M. Tapia (Assistant Professor, UPLB), Mr. Freddiewebb B. Signabon (University Researcher, UPLB), and Ms. Rowena A. Dorado (Assistant Professor, UPLB). Additionally, four speakers represented recent graduates: Engr. John Jowhell Villegas (Associate Professor and Dean, Antipolo Institute of Technology); Dr. Darwin Landicho (Senior Quarantine Officer, Bureau of Plant Industry, Department of Agriculture, NUASC-PH  Alumnus); Dr. Abriel S. Bulasag (Associate Professor, UP Rural High School); and Dr. Hadji C. Jalotjot (University Researcher, UPLB, NUASC-PH Alumnus). During the discussion, five members of NUAL-PH served as panelists: Dr. Rhea Mae P. Maningo (Senior Operations Assistant, Asian Development Bank, NUASC-PH Alumna); Dr. Joy B. Banayo (University Researcher, UPLB, NUASC-PH Alumna); Dr. Maria Kristina G. Alinsunurin (Associate Professor, UPLB); Dr. Rodmyr F. Datoon (Assistant Professor and Director of the Agricultural Systems Institute, UPLB); and Dr. Neil H. Tan Gana (Senior Lecturer, UP Manila). Dai Sempai Dr. Cristino Collado delivered the closing remarks. 

Photo by NUAL-PH (Nagoya University Alumni Association-Philippine Branch)

 Photos by Christine Viray