ISUFST, Korea-Ph Rotary clubs ink MOU for global grant for automotive training upgrade

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The Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST), the Rotary Club of Namweon Central (District 3620) in South Korea, and the Rotary Club of Iloilo (District 3850) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) last night for a PHP 2-million Rotary International Global Grant. The grant, titled “Automotive Industry Modernization in Iloilo” (AIM Iloilo), aims to upgrade ISUFST’s automotive training facilities. The event took place during a regular meeting of the Rotary Club of Iloilo at the Diversion 21 KTV Bar Function Room in Mandurriao, Iloilo City.

Approximately 50 Rotarians and Rotary Annes attended the signing ceremony, including former District Governors John Michael “Kano” Ng and Ramon Cua Locsin. The event was led by Rotary Club of Iloilo President Peter John Raymund Pacheco, with Past President Engr. Jesus Anayas facilitating the program. Seven prominent Rotarians from District 3620 in South Korea graced the occasion, including Mr. Wang Hee Kim, Global Grant Chairperson of Namweon Central; Yunkil Nam, President of Namweon Central; Hyungcheol Park, Secretary; Jaehee Seol, Past President; Changhun Lee, President-elect; Mark Hongjae Jeong, Past President of the Rotary Club of Zamboanga North (District 3850); and Helen Inhye Kim from the Rotary Club of Roxas City (District 3850).

The MOU was signed by Mr. Wang Hee Kim, Atty. Pacheco, and ISUFST President Dr. Nordy Siason Jr. The grant is intended to modernize the automotive training facilities at ISUFST’s College of Industrial Technology (CIT), benefiting students, extension beneficiaries, and the broader Iloilo community.

A Vision for Service and Partnership

Yunkil Nam, President of the Rotary Club of Namweon Central, highlighted the significance of the collaboration, stating, “This MOU is not just a piece of paper; it symbolizes our shared commitment to serve the community and enhance education quality. We are grateful for ISUFST’s hospitality during our ocular visit, and we look forward to future partnerships for meaningful projects.”

Dr. Nordy Siason expressed his gratitude for Rotary’s trust in ISUFST, emphasizing the institution’s mission to educate marginalized but capable students. “This grant is essential for improving our ability to deliver high-quality technical education, empowering students to compete globally. We are committed to maintaining excellence in our teaching methods, faculty services, and institutional processes to ensure the project’s success,” Siason said.

Atty. Pacheco, representing the Rotary Club of Iloilo, reiterated the club’s dedication to the AIM Iloilo project. “We are committed to ensuring the successful implementation of this project, thanks to our Korean Rotarian partners. Their resources and expertise will enable us to assist those who need our help, not just in Iloilo but across the country,” he said.

In his closing remarks, Mr. Wang Hee Kim encouraged Rotarians to work collectively to make a lasting impact. “Let us elevate each other and exemplify ‘Service Above Self’ as we collaborate on this significant project,” he said.

Language and Cultural Exchange

While there were initial language barriers during the signing and discussions, the presence of interpreters, including Capiz-based Korean couple Helen and Mark, facilitated a smooth exchange of ideas. This partnership is seen as both a technical and cultural collaboration, fostering stronger ties between the two nations.

The evening concluded with a fellowship that lasted until 10:30 p.m., with participants from both countries sharing stories and strengthening their camaraderie. The meeting began with dinner at 6:30 p.m.

Key Figures Behind AIM Iloilo

Dr. Herman Lagon, an educator, leads the AIM Iloilo project as the Rotary Grant Leader and Primary Contact. Journalist Francis Allan Angelo serves as the Secondary Contact, ensuring effective communication between all stakeholders. For the Rotary Club of Namweon Central, Mr. Wang Hee Kim and Yunkil Nam serve as the primary and secondary contacts, respectively.

The project aims to provide state-of-the-art equipment for hands-on training at ISUFST’s automotive facilities, significantly benefiting both instructors and students.

Building Toward a Brighter Future

Earlier in the day, Dr. Siason and Atty. Pacheco, along with fellow Rotarians, conducted an ocular inspection at ISUFST’s Main Campus-Tiwi Site. This visit was part of preparations for the full implementation of the AIM Iloilo project, which aims to upgrade the automotive laboratories at the College of Industrial Technology with modern tools, equipment, and instructional resources.

“This initiative aligns perfectly with our mission to empower students and communities through modernized technical education,” Dr. Siason said. “It offers a vital opportunity for sustainable development and positive change in the region.”

The AIM Iloilo project is expected to modernize training facilities, foster partnerships for equipment procurement, build capacity, and extend community outreach programs. Both Rotarians and ISUFST leadership are optimistic about the project’s long-term benefits for Iloilo and beyond.

The success of AIM Iloilo is seen as a crucial step in advancing technical-vocational education in the region, enhancing ISUFST’s role in delivering globally competitive education.

(Photos by Herman Lagon, Ricky Ramos, and Mia Jane Dumangas/Text by Lagon/PAMMCO)