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  • ISPSC, KWF expands collaborative efforts for language, culture, and policy research

    The Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College (ISPSC) and the Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino (KWF) formalized their partnership to advance research, policy development, language preservation, cultural heritage documentation, and establishment the Sentro ng Wika at Kultura (SWK) through the signing of two Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) at the Office of the President, ISPSC Main campus, on October 16, 2026.

    The first MOU establishes a framework for joint research and development initiatives focusing on language, culture, heritage, public administration, and governance. Through the partnership, the two institutions aim to promote the use of Filipino and indigenous languages in research, education, public service, and policy development.

    Under the agreement, ISPSC and KWF will collaborate on research concerning indigenous knowledge systems, cultural traditions, and local governance practices. The partnership also covers the translation of local ordinances, resolutions, executive orders, and other government documents into Filipino and indigenous languages, as well as the development of language policies, specialized glossaries, academic publications, policy briefs, and digital repositories.

    The collaboration will support capacity-building activities, including seminars, conferences, workshops, and community-based research and extension programs. These initiatives seek to expand the use of Filipino and indigenous languages in knowledge production, policymaking, and community development while contributing to the documentation and preservation of local languages and cultural heritage.

    The second MOU focuses on the establishment and development of the Sentro ng Wika at Kultura (SWK), which will serve as a hub for language and cultural initiatives within the College. The center will undertake activities such as language and cultural research, documentation, conferences, seminars, workshops, and other programs that promote Filipino and the country's other languages.

    Under this agreement, KWF will provide technical guidance, training, and relevant reference materials to support the SWK's programs. ISPSC, meanwhile, will provide institutional support, including office space, personnel, research assistance, and other resources necessary for the center's operations, subject to institutional policies and available resources.

    The SWK will also foster partnerships with government agencies, educational institutions, local government units, and cultural organizations to advance language and cultural preservation initiatives. Its activities will include supporting KWF programs, promoting local cultural heritage, and encouraging the participation of faculty members, students, and community stakeholders in language and cultural development.

    For the implementation of the research partnership, ISPSC's Public Administration and Governance Policy Research Center (PAGPRC) will serve as the primary coordinating unit, working closely with the Sentro ng Wika at Kultura and KWF. The PAGPRC will oversee the coordination, monitoring, documentation, and evaluation of joint programs, while the SWK will provide technical support for activities involving language, translation, and cultural documentation.

    ISPSC President Dr. Mario P. Obrero and KWF Chairperson and Chief Commissioner Atty. Marites A. Barrios-Taran represented their respective institutions in the agreements. Dr. Monita Pops F. Ambrocio, Director, Sentro ng Wika at Kultura; Mr. Kenedy G. Flores, Director, Public Administration and Governance Policy Research Center; and Comm. Benjamin M. Mendillo, Jr. Commissioner, Administration and Finance witnessed the signing.

    The partnership provides a five-year framework for cooperation. It likewise outlines the responsibilities of both institutions in developing and sustaining the center. 

    Through these agreements, ISPSC and KWF seek to advance research-driven policymaking, promote culturally responsive governance, and strengthen the role of Filipino and indigenous languages in education, public service, and community development. (PAJ)
    Photos by Eryll Mae Q. Toquero

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