EMA Collaborates in Erasmus+ Information Session with CHED and EUD in the Philippines

On April 15, 2025, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), in partnership with the European Union Delegation (EUD) to the Philippines, hosted a successful Erasmus+ Information Session at CHED Central Office in Quezon City. The event, aimed at fostering academic exchange, institutional partnerships, and international engagement, brought together delegates from higher education institutions across the country. Led by CHED Chairman Dr. Prospero E. De Vera III, EMA President Dr. Md Ashiqur Rahman and Erasmus+ Focal Point Atty. Lily Freida M. Milla, the session highlighted Erasmus+ opportunities and celebrated growing EU–Philippine academic ties. The Erasmus Mundus Association (EMA) also played a collaborative role during the session.

The 2025 Erasmus+ Information Session in the Philippines marked another milestone in strengthening academic ties between the Philippines and the European Union. Held on April 15 at the CHED Central Office in Quezon City, the event was a dynamic gathering of stakeholders from Philippine higher education institutions (HEIs), EU representatives, and Erasmus+ alumni and advocates.

The event was graced by CHED Chairman Hon. Dr. Prospero E. De Vera III, whose leadership and advocacy for international academic exchange continue to open global doors for Filipino students and institutions. The programme was spearheaded by Hon. Atty. Lily Freida M. Milla, CESO IV, who currently serves as the Erasmus+ National Focal Point, as well as the OIC Deputy Executive Director and Director of CHED’s International Affairs Service (IAS). Her efforts have significantly contributed to enhancing international collaboration through strategic global programmes like Erasmus+.

Dr. Ana Isabel Sánchez-Ruiz, Deputy Head of Delegation of the European Union to the Philippines, delivered a warm welcome address, emphasizing the EU’s enduring commitment to supporting educational mobility and capacity-building in the Philippines. She also gave an engaging overview of the Erasmus+ programme, spotlighting its immense value in creating transformative experiences for both individuals and institutions.

Adding to the session’s significance, CHED Commissioners Hon. Dr. Ethel Agnes Pascua-Valenzuela and Hon. Dr. Engr. Desiderio R. Apag III, PCpE, delivered inspiring messages reinforcing CHED’s commitment to advancing the Philippine higher education system through internationalization and quality assurance.

A key highlight of the session was the contribution of Dr. Md Ashiqur Rahman, President of the Erasmus Mundus Association (EMA) and Regional Project Manager – Asia, Centralised Support to Erasmus+ National Focal Points. Dr. Rahman provided an insightful overview of EMA’s structure, mission, and current initiatives aimed at promoting European education excellence globally. He emphasized EMA’s role in supporting alumni engagement, fostering regional collaborations, and enhancing the visibility of Erasmus+ as a transformative global programme. His message resonated with participants, inspiring stronger participation from Philippine HEIs and alumni in future EMA-led initiatives.

The session was emceed by Ms. Celina Marino from CHED’s IAS, who ensured the smooth facilitation of discussions and audience engagement. The information session concluded with high enthusiasm and optimism for the continued growth of Erasmus+ in the Philippines, further solidifying the country’s place in the global academic landscape. It was not just a meeting of institutions—it was a celebration of shared values, cross-cultural learning, and mutual academic empowerment.

By Nicky Cardenas, MA, EMJMD-NOHA

EMA Country Representative for the Philippines