Welcome to the new Benilde website where you’re FREE TO BE! Click here to view the old version.
Welcome to the new Benilde website where you’re FREE TO BE! Click here to view the old version.
31 March 2025
Benilde continues to build international academic collaborations, strengthening global opportunities for its students through educational partnerships, cross-cultural exchanges, and diplomatic initiatives. Earlier this March, the College made important strides in Mexico, strengthening its international connections through discussions with universities, Lasallian institutions, and the Philippine Embassy.
Lasallian Internationalization Summit at La Salle Pachuca
At the Lasallian Internationalization Summit, held from March 4 to 7, 2025, representatives from 17 Lasallian institutions convened at La Salle Pachuca to discuss best practices in global education. Sherlo Reyes, Director of Benilde’s Center for External Linkages, joined the gathering to explore new international opportunities for Benilde students and faculty.
The summit focused on the evolving landscape of international education, exploring strategies to help universities navigate challenges, foster cross-border engagement, and build globally relevant programs. Reyes represented Benilde in discussions on student mobility, virtual learning initiatives, and expanding institutional partnerships, ensuring that Filipino students gain valuable access to international opportunities.
The other participating schools were La Salle Mexico, La Salle Pachuca, La Salle Saltillo, La Salle Morelia, La Salle Bajío, La Salle Puebla, La Salle Nezahualcóyotl, La Salle Oaxaca, La Salle Cancún, La Salle Noroeste, La Salle Chihuahua, La Salle Cuernavaca, Manhattan University, De La Salle Lipa, and De La Salle University-Dasmariñas.
Academic Partnership Talks with UPAEP
Beyond the summit, Reyes met with Dr. Andres Barba, Vice President for Outreach and International Affairs at Universidad Popular Autónoma del Estado de Puebla (UPAEP), alongside representatives from De La Salle University-Dasmariñas (DLSU-D) and De La Salle-Lipa (DLSL).
Their conversation focused on student mobility programs, faculty exchanges, and collaborative research, ensuring that Benilde students benefit from expanded international learning experiences. Discussions are underway to launch student exchange programs, connecting students across Mexico and the Philippines.
Strengthening Diplomatic Ties at the Philippine Embassy
On March 8, 2025, Reyes and other Lasallian representatives visited the Philippine Embassy in Mexico, where they met with Ambassador Lilybeth R. Deapera and key diplomatic officials. The meeting explored ways to expand academic and cultural collaborations between Philippine and Mexican institutions.
During the visit, discussions focused on creating meaningful international opportunities for Benilde students. One of the key initiatives explored was the student exchange program, designed to give Filipino students firsthand experience in international learning environments. By immersing themselves in different academic cultures, students gain new perspectives that prepare them for global careers.
The conversation also touched on internship opportunities, which would allow students to work and train abroad, developing skills that align with industry standards worldwide. These experiences ensure that graduates enter the workforce with a competitive edge, equipped with practical knowledge from international settings.
Another major topic was the Philippine Studies initiative, aimed at deepening cultural connections between the Philippines and Mexico. Through academic collaborations, institutions can introduce programs that highlight Philippine history, culture, and identity—fostering a space where cross-cultural learning thrives.
This diplomatic engagement strengthened Benilde’s commitment to global education, laying the groundwork for academic collaborations that benefit students while aligning with the Philippines’ broader efforts in internationalization and cultural diplomacy.
Looking Ahead
With new partnerships on the horizon and strengthened diplomatic connections, Benilde is continuing to expand its global reach. Students can expect greater access to international opportunities, ensuring they graduate well-equipped for global careers.
For more information on Benilde Global, the College’s internationalization program, contact the Center for External Linkages at (63) 2 8230 5100 local 1515 or global@benilde.edu.ph. You may also visit www.benilde.edu.ph/global.
For admissions-related inquiries:
