Meralco Power Academy, MSU-IIT promote energy education via MoU

The Meralco Power Academy (MPA) and Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to advance collaboration in energy education and innovation.

Key officials from both institutions formalized the partnership during a signing ceremony at Meralco’s headquarters in Pasig City. The MoU aims to enhance capability-building through specialized learning events, training programs and industry immersion opportunities for students.

Present at the signing were MPA executive director Ian Chester V. Colorina, Meralco senior vice president and chief human resources officer Edgardo V. Carasig, Meralco executive vice president and chief operating officer and MPA president Ronnie L. Aperocho, MSU-IIT Chancellor Alizedney M. Ditucalan, and Professors Moheddin Sumagayan and Noel Estoperez of MSU-IIT.

As part of its mission to equip and empower future power industry professionals, MPA will work with MSU-IIT on a range of joint initiatives. These include organizing the Mindanao leg of the Young Engineers and Scientists Summit, co-developing curricula for advanced degree programs in renewable energy and nuclear science, and hosting professional lectures and research conferences.

“This collaboration is more than just an agreement — it reflects a shared vision of building a future-ready energy workforce,” said Aperocho, an MSU alumnus. “Together with MSU-IIT, we strive to equip aspiring engineers and scientists with the skills and knowledge to drive the Philippines toward a more sustainable energy landscape.”

Chancellor Ditucalan highlighted the importance of closer ties between the academic and corporate sectors to address the evolving demands of the energy industry.

“In the past, higher education institutions and industry were moving in different directions,” he said. “The solution is strengthening collaboration — not only in the development of talent and workforce but even in the field of research and development.”

The partnership will also support laboratory collaborations and contribute to building the country’s pool of energy professionals as it transitions towards cleaner and more sustainable sources of power.