Clark Development Corp. (CDC) said it teamed up with the largest private university in Mindanao to create an industry-ready workforce.
CDC and the University of Mindanao (UM) signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) on March 20, 2025 at the Clark Visitor Center, launching an internship program that connects Mindanao’s future professionals with valuable opportunities here.
“This exchange will enrich both individuals and Clark as a destination,” CDC President and CEO Atty. Agnes VST Devanadera said.
“And in every family, I hope each one of you here will be the heroes of your family. Because we have done our duties, we have studied, we have completed our studies, and we are very good members of our respective communities,” the CDC chief said.
UM president and chief executive Dr. Guillermo Torres Jr. said this opportunity aligns with UM’s mission to provide accessible education and career pathways for students.
“Our students, they don’t come from rich families. They don’t come from financially disadvantaged families. And our goal was to provide them quality, affordable, and open education so that they have a better chance in life. And this on-the-job training [OJT] arrangement from CDC could be a big help to those students who come from the lower classes. So, it’s our way of helping others,” he said.
Established in 1946, the University of Mindanao has been a leader in higher education in Southern Mindanao, producing top graduates in various fields including criminology, education, engineering and business, said Dr. Torres.
The state-run corporation signed an agreement with Iloilo schools including St. Paul University Iloilo (SPU-Iloilo), Central Philippine University (CPU) and Visayas Aerospace College and Technology (VACTI), on March 18 at Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo.