Sorsogon State University (SorSU) has embarked on a transformative journey towards global collaboration and knowledge exchange with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Dagam Farm of South Korea. This landmark partnership is set to elevate the university’s internationalization efforts, offering unique opportunities for cross-cultural learning and innovative practices – internships and postgraduate studies for students, trainings for faculty members, and other areas of collaboration.
On November 20, 2023, a historic visit by the Dagam Farm delegation to the SorSU Castilla Campus marked a significant milestone for both institutions. The campus community extended a warm and spirited welcome to the guests, including students specializing in Crop Science, Animal Science, Agricultural Education, Agricultural Technology, and Agribusiness. The campus came alive with the fluttering of Philippine and Korean flags, as the SorSU Marching Band filled the air with joyful melodies. To further enhance the cultural exchange, the SorSU Dance Troupe captivated the visitors with a traditional Filipino dance performance before they entered the Integrated Academic Laboratory and Library Building.
Prof. Andrew F. Detera, Campus Director of SorSU Castilla, commenced the proceedings with a heartfelt address, expressing gratitude to Dagam Farm for their commitment to potential collaborations in the field of Agriculture. Prof. Detera highlighted the immense opportunities awaiting SorSU students, instructors, and staff, including practical experiences, training programs, and advanced academic pursuits in South Korea.
Engr. Annelin Paming, Consultant of the Agri-Tech International Exchange, introduced the esteemed Dagam Farm delegation, which featured Mr. Kang Chang Goog, Chief Executive Officer of Dagam Farm, and representatives from South Korea and the Philippines, including Engr. Julian Martinez, Ms. Jung Myeong Seo, and Mr. Kim Seung Hyun. Engr. Paming, a Bicolana with nearly 24 years of residence in South Korea, elaborated on Dagam Farm’s noble objectives, particularly their dedication to nurturing the passion for agriculture among the younger generation. Their vision is to ensure the long-term sustainability and advancement of the agricultural sector.
Mr. Kang Chang Goog, CEO of Dagam Farm, expressed his deep appreciation for the warm reception despite inclement weather. He shed light on the array of skill development opportunities, exposure to innovative practices, and academic pursuits that Dagam Farm offers to its trainees. Mr. Kang emphasized that Dagam Farm holds a prestigious status as a cultural heritage site in South Korea and underlined the importance of adopting integrated policies and innovative solutions to propel local agricultural production to new heights.
Adding cultural richness to the occasion, the Culture and Arts Club graced the event with a performance of the Bicol song “Sarong Banggi” offering a glimpse into the vibrant Bicolano culture. Following this, an engaging audiovisual presentation of Dagam Farm showcased its activities and impact. The presentation included firsthand accounts of previous Filipino interns who shared their experiences at the farm. The event culminated in a virtual campus tour, providing an immersive overview of the various areas, offices, and facilities at the SorSU Castilla Campus.
Ms. Mari Anne B. Gojar, Coordinator of the Castilla Campus International Relations Office (IRO) and the Lady of Ceremony, expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated working committees and university officials who made this event possible. She extended special thanks to the University President, Dr. Geraldine F. De Jesus; SorSU Castilla Campus Director, Prof. Andrew F. Detera; International Relations Office Director, Dr. Vivien L. Chua; Career and Job Placement/ILDO Head, Prof. Lelanie L. Berjuega; and Career and Job Placement/ILDO Coordinator, Ms. Melody L. Llabres for their unwavering support. A special commendation was also extended to the Dagam Farm team for their invaluable contributions in turning this vision into a reality.
The program concluded on a high note with a group photo, capturing the collective enthusiasm of guests, campus officials, faculty members, staff, and students. The historic moment was further etched into memory as pili seedlings were ceremonially planted in front of the Integrated Academic Laboratory and Library Building, symbolizing the blossoming of a promising partnership between Sorsogon State University and Dagam Farm. This collaboration is poised to open new horizons for academic excellence, innovation, and cross-cultural enrichment.