Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan successfully had its Joint Ceremonial Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) and Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) Signing with Central Mindanao University (CMU) and Del Monte Philippines, Inc (DMPI) on 27 April 2026 at the XU Board Room, 1st Floor, Old Library, Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan.
The event marked a significant step in strengthening partnerships among academia and industry in support of innovation, research collaboration, and sustainable development initiatives.
The program was formally opened by Xavier University President Fr Mars P Tan, SJ with his welcome remarks, where he emphasized the value of strategic collaborations in addressing present and future challenges through education, research, and shared expertise.
MOA Signing between Xavier University and Central Mindanao University. From left to right: Dean of the XU College of Engineering
Dr Christine May C Salvaloza; XU Research Dean Dr Heide R Rabanes; Project HERMES Leader and HYDROGENIUS Program Leader
Dr Shierlyn S Paclijan; XU President Fr Mars P Tan, SJ; CMU Professors for IBS-Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Genetics and Microbiology Division
Dr Emmanuel P Leaño and Dr Merced G Melencion; CMU Institute of Biological Sciences Director Dr Florfe M Acma; CMU Center for Natural Science
Research Director Dr Maria Melanie P Guiang.
A key part of the ceremony was the presentation of the rationale and project overview by Project HERMES Leader and HYDROGENIUS Program Leader Dr Shierlyn S Paclijan. In her message, Dr Paclijan shared that Project HERMES emerges at the intersection of two pressing national challenges: rising wastewater generation and increasing energy demand. As the Philippines moves toward a more sustainable and resilient energy future, the initiative seeks to harness the untapped potential of industrial wastewater to produce green biohydrogen, offering an innovative pathway that simultaneously addresses environmental management and clean energy generation.
She further emphasized that the ceremonial signing symbolizes a collective commitment to innovation and sustainability, highlighting the importance of partnerships in advancing renewable energy technologies and sustainable solutions through research and innovation.
Representatives from Central Mindanao University and Del Monte Philippines, Inc also shared messages of support, expressing their commitment to collaborative initiatives that connect academic knowledge with industry needs and practical applications.
MOU Signing between Xavier University and Del Monte Philippines, Inc. From left to right: DMPI Renewable Energy Department Supervisor
Engr Cel Gaddie G Abing; XU College of Engineering Dean Salvaloza; XU President Fr Tan; Project HERMES Leader Dr Paclijan; Research Dean Dr Rabanes
The ceremonial signing of the MOA and MOU by authorized signatories from Xavier University, CMU, and DMPI formalized the partnership and opened new opportunities for joint projects, research activities, and knowledge exchange.
The event concluded with a photo opportunity and closing remarks from Dean of the XU College of Engineering Dr Christine May C Salvaloza, who thanked all partners and participants for their continued trust and cooperation.
Through this milestone event, Xavier University reaffirmed its commitment to building meaningful partnerships that contribute to sustainable development, innovation, and progress in Mindanao and beyond.