Holy Child Central Colleges, Inc. (HCCCI) was deeply honored to take part in the celebration of the 114th National Day of the Republic of China (Taiwan) on October 9, 2025, held at the Grand Ballroom of the Grand Hyatt Manila, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. The event, hosted by His Excellency Ambassador Wallace M.G. Chow and Mrs. Chow, gathered diplomats, government officials, and academic representatives from across the country to commemorate Taiwan’s national pride, progress, and enduring partnerships in the region.

Present at the celebration were Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis, Chairperson of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED); Dr. Michelle A. Ong, newly appointed CHED Commissioner; Atty. Lily Freida M. Milla, CESO IV, Director IV of CHED’s International Affairs Staff (IAS); and Director Tony Lee of the Education Division of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO). All are steadfast advocates for advancing internationalization, academic excellence, and global partnerships among higher education institutions. Their presence underscored the continued commitment of both CHED and TECO to foster stronger educational cooperation and cultural understanding between the Philippines and Taiwan.

Also in attendance were representatives from Advanced Semiconductor Engineering, Inc. (ASE), a global leader in semiconductor packaging and testing services headquartered in Kaohsiung, Taiwan. Holy Child Central Colleges, Inc. (HCCCI) is honored to be among ASE’s educational partners, reinforcing the institution’s dedication to fostering industry linkages and advancing global learning opportunities for its students.

President Marivet S. Caballero and Executive Vice President Vanessa Marie L. Antiquin, MMEM, were likewise graciously invited to represent Holy Child Central Colleges, Inc. (HCCCI) on behalf of the institution to celebrate with the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) and to reaffirm the college’s commitment to international cooperation.

The occasion provided an opportunity for meaningful conversations and connections, highlighting shared aspirations between Taiwan and the Philippines in advancing education, innovation, and sustainable development. For Holy Child Central Colleges, Inc., the invitation was not merely a ceremonial gesture but a recognition of the growing engagement of provincial and community-based higher education institutions in the global arena. As one of the few colleges in South Cotabato that serves the tri-people, HCCCI continues to advocate for inclusive education and global collaboration—ensuring that the benefits of internationalization reach even the most underserved communities.

Taiwan remains a shining example of how innovation and education can drive national progress. The country is globally known for its leadership in the semiconductor and information and communication technology (ICT) industries, excelling in manufacturing, research and development, and digital transformation. Taiwan’s contributions to the global economy through companies such as TSMC and its advancements in fields like artificial intelligence, 5G technology, quantum computing, photonics, and green innovation serve as a source of inspiration for developing institutions aiming to integrate innovation into their systems.

HCCCI’s attendance at the event also echoed the insights and lessons gained from its earlier academic explorations and partnership-building activities in Taiwan. These experiences strengthened the institution’s resolve to adopt digital tools, promote innovation-centered learning, and initiate collaborative projects that bridge cultures and enhance educational practices. By attending such a prestigious gathering, HCCCI reaffirmed its desire to continue learning from Taiwan’s model of technological excellence and educational cooperation—an approach that aligns perfectly with the college’s goal of nurturing future-ready students who are globally aware and locally grounded.

This engagement also resonates deeply with the principles of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). HCCCI’s participation supports the advancement of quality education by fostering collaborations that make learning more inclusive and globally connected. It also contributes to innovation and infrastructure development through the exchange of knowledge and best practices from Taiwan’s world-leading industries. Most importantly, it emphasizes partnerships for sustainable development, recognizing that progress is achieved not in isolation but through the shared commitment of nations and institutions working together toward a better future.

Through its growing international linkages and continued involvement in global events such as this, Holy Child Central Colleges, Inc. demonstrates that internationalization is not limited to large or metropolitan universities. Even a community-rooted institution from South Cotabato can take part in shaping global dialogues, build meaningful partnerships, and open pathways of learning that transcend borders.

The college extends its sincere gratitude to Ambassador Wallace M.G. Chow, Mrs. Chow, and the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in the Philippines for their gracious invitation and warm hospitality. The celebration of Taiwan’s 114th National Day was not only a diplomatic event—it was a reaffirmation of friendship, respect, and the shared pursuit of innovation, education, and sustainability.

As Holy Child Central Colleges, Inc. continues to strengthen its international presence with guidance from the Commission on Higher Education, it remains steadfast in its mission to bring the world closer to its students—proving that even from the heart of Mindanao, the spirit of global learning, cooperation, and innovation can thrive.