Written by: Dr. Filibert Patrick F. Tad-awan
The University of Baguio (UB), through its School of Criminal Justice and Public Safety (SCJPS), continues to strengthen its academic and research partnerships with leading institutions in the Cordillera region. This collaboration was further reinforced through participation in an academic re-echo session hosted by the University of the Cordilleras’ Peace and Justice Innovation Center, in partnership with the Rights2Life VLIR-UOS Project. The partnership aims to contribute to the development of a responsive and inclusive criminal justice system, aligned with global standards and sustainable development priorities.
On March 17, 2025, Dr. Filibert Patrick F. Tad-awan represented UB-SCJPS in the re-echo session of the Global Minds Scholarship Program held at the Innovation and Technology Transfer Office (InTTO), UC Legarda Campus. The activity served as a platform for sharing research insights, academic experiences, and international engagement outcomes from scholars who participated in short-term research programs abroad.
Since the establishment of this collaborative initiative, the partnership has benefited faculty members, researchers, and students from both institutions. While the re-echo session itself catered to selected faculty representatives, its ripple effect extends to hundreds of students and academic stakeholders who benefit from enhanced instruction, research integration, and knowledge transfer.
Notable milestones include the successful dissemination of international research experiences by Global Minds scholars, fostering a culture of research excellence and global engagement within participating institutions. The involvement of UB faculty, particularly through representation by Dr. Tad-awan, signifies an expanding network of academic collaboration that enhances teaching, research capability, and institutional development.
The partnership continues to evolve through a series of academic and research-oriented initiatives, including:
- Re-echo sessions of international scholarship programs such as the Global Minds Scholarship Program
- Research collaboration opportunities between faculty members of partner institutions
- Knowledge-sharing forums highlighting global best practices in criminal justice and public safety
- Faculty development engagements aimed at strengthening research competencies
- Institutional linkages facilitated by innovation and global engagement offices
Active participation from faculty members, such as Dr. Tad-awan, demonstrates the commitment of the University of Baguio to remain actively engaged in scholarly exchanges. These initiatives also indirectly benefit students, as faculty integrate newly acquired knowledge into classroom instruction and research mentorship.
This partnership directly supports several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly:
- SDG 4: Quality Education
The activity promotes access to high-quality education through faculty development, research sharing, and international academic exposure. By enhancing teaching and research capabilities, the partnership contributes to improved educational outcomes. - SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
Central to the initiative is the goal of developing a responsive criminal justice system. The exchange of research and best practices strengthens institutional frameworks and promotes justice, accountability, and inclusivity. - SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
The collaboration between the University of Baguio, the University of the Cordilleras, and international partners exemplifies strong institutional partnerships. These collaborations enable resource sharing, joint research, and sustained academic engagement.
The participation of Dr. Filibert Patrick F. Tad-awan in this academic engagement underscores the University of Baguio’s unwavering commitment to excellence, collaboration, and global relevance. Through sustained partnerships with institutions such as the University of the Cordilleras and international research networks, UB continues to position itself as a proactive contributor to the advancement of education and the criminal justice system.
Moving forward, the university aims to expand its participation in similar programs, increase the number of beneficiaries, and strengthen research collaborations that generate meaningful impact. With continued engagement, these partnerships will serve as a catalyst for innovation, academic growth, and the promotion of peace and justice in society.