As an institution dedicated to providing balanced quality education, the University of Baguio always strives to maintain strong relationships with leading industry organizations from all over the world. These partnerships allow UB to have the necessary resources to build a stronger learning environment that will help students to build the necessary skills needed to address the needs of an ever-evolving world.
This year, to celebrate its partnerships and to continue to improve the landscape of education and professional development, UB once again held its annual GAIL event on May 7, 2025, at the UB Cardinals Gym. Standing for Government, Academe, Industry, and Linkages, this occasion celebrates collaboration and the continued pursuit of excellence that the university shares with its partner organizations. It is more than just a stage to commemorate partnerships; it is a space where these institutions can exchange ideas, align goals, and spark new opportunities for innovation and growth.
This year’s GAIL was especially focused on shared development and growth between the educational sector and its partner industries. It set the stage for four exceptional professionals who spoke about the shifting landscape of the professional world and how it ties back to modern educational needs.
Following the opening ceremonies, the first speaker to share their insights was Dr. Erlinda Palaganas (RN,FAAN), a Professional Lecturer at the UP Manila College of Nursing. Her background in international healthcare education provided an in-depth understanding of the state of healthcare education all over the globe, highlighting evolving tools and methodologies such as AI that can help train students to develop key competencies that will allow them to push the boundaries of the Allied Medical Health field.
After this, the next individual to speak was Dr. Zandra Alinsunurin Navarez-Maningas, the Vice President for Academics at California Metropolitan University. Her segment explored the rapidly shifting economic landscape and the need for forward-thinking approaches in business education. She underscored the value of financial literacy, digital transformation, and data-driven decision-making in the 21st Century. Her extensive business acumen and educational experience highlighted the importance of aligning with global market demands through comprehensive professional development and training.
The next speaker to take the stage was Dr. Antonio Mangaliag, the Principal of the University of Baguio Science High School. His segment revolved around developing the field of teacher education through innovative strategies that fully utilize modern and emerging technologies and tools. He emphasized the importance of equipping future educators with the tools and skills necessary to navigate a tech-driven learning environment, highlighting the need for adaptive teaching methods and continuous professional development in order to meet the needs of modern learners.
Last but certainly not least, Engr. Raniel Taripe (CIE, MBA-FM, CFMP, CATA, CScFE) a faculty member of the Industrial Engineering Department of Quezon City University, took up the mic to give an enlightening talk on the intersection of engineering and information technology. His discussion revolved around the use of modern tools and digital solutions in optimizing systems, streamlining processes, and enhancing decision-making within different industries. He also stressed the importance of continuous upskilling, especially in the global market where new technologies and standards are constantly being introduced.
Following those insightful presentations, the program then launched into a panel discussion portion, bringing the speakers together along with Mr. Aaron Black, CEO of ZIP Travel Philippines (one of UB’s external partners), and facilitators from UB, Dr. Michelle Ranges (School of Teacher Education and Liberal Arts, Program Chair) and Ms. Melanie Rulla-Saro (Linkages Office, Director). Their discussion delved into emerging industry trends, exploring the future of educational innovation and the changing landscape of the global workforce.
Maintaining relationships with industry partners is one of the key ways that the university is able to attain the Sustainable Development goals, in particular SDG No. 4: Quality Education and No. 17: Partnerships. By ensuring that its different schools and offices are able to consult and collaborate with experts from diverse fields, industries, and academic institutions, UB ensures that it is able to provide transformative learning experiences that continue to nurture healthy and long-term social, academic, and professional development within its commuity.
This year’s GAIL continues to reaffirm UB’s commitment to championing ever-evolving education through its collaborative efforts with the different sectors of the community. Whether it’s government units, private businesses, non-profit organizations, or other fellow higher education institutions, UB is committed to making meaningful progress in building a steady academic institution that can raise the next generation of competent professionals.
