Nine faculty members from Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) will proudly represent the Philippines in the upcoming 1st International Community Service (ICS) 2025, to be held from May 19 to 22 at Novotel Yogyakarta Malioboro, Indonesia.
The event, to be spearheaded by Universitas PGRI Semarang (UPGRIS) in collaboration with Universitas Negeri Jakarta, is expected to bring together educators and researchers from Malaysia, Uzbekistan, Indonesia, and the Philippines to foster academic engagement and enhance international collaboration in community service initiatives.
On the opening day, participating universities will present their institutional profiles. Representing ISAT U, Engr. Adrian Pillano is scheduled to showcase the university’s pioneering community outreach programs and technological innovations that uplift local communities. This session will aim to foster intercultural dialogue and lay the foundation for collaborative academic partnerships to address common regional challenges.
A major highlight of ICS 2025 will be the official launch of the Sustainable ICS Consortium, an initiative led by Prof. Dr. Mohammad Rize, Chairperson of the ICS 2025. The consortium will focus on developing long-term strategies for sustainable development through academic-community partnerships. ISAT U, with its strong track record in service-based research, is anticipated to be recognized for its valuable potential contributions to the consortium’s goals.
Another anticipated highlight is the Panel Session on Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), where Dr. Cora Biton of ISAT U is expected to share the university’s role in assisting Filipino entrepreneurs. Her presentation will detail how ISAT U integrates research findings into community enterprises and provides technical support to enhance productivity—reflecting the university’s commitment to inclusive economic growth and the ICS vision of education as a tool for societal transformation.
On the second day, delegates will be divided into clusters for community immersions in Indonesian villages, including visits to BUMDES (village-owned enterprises), Pustaka Desa Wukirsari (village library), and SMPN 3 Imogiri. These visits will give participants a firsthand look at grassroots governance and educational systems in rural Indonesia.
Additional groups will participate in cultural and livelihood activities, such as Wedang Uwuh and herbal tea production, traditional Batik-making at Batik Giriloyo, and crafts including bamboo work, knitting, and WAYANG (puppet-making). Participants will also explore agricultural initiatives led by Kelompok Wanita Tani (Women’s Farmers Group) and observe local food production like Keripik Sagu, gaining insights into sustainable practices deeply rooted in community resilience and cultural heritage.
These interactions are expected to offer enriching experiences and spark discussions on possible joint research and community service initiatives among ASEAN countries and beyond, strengthening intercultural bonds and academic cooperation.
The third day of the event will feature a cultural tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Borobudur Temple. ISAT U faculty members will have the opportunity to admire the temple’s spiritual symbolism and architectural grandeur. The tour will also include visits to Punthuk Setumbu (Information Center) and a climb up 50 meters of sacred steps leading to the main temple complex. The day will continue with lunch at Svarga Bumi and a scenic Botswagen Safari through surrounding Borobudur villages. Stops will include Rengginan Bu Yatin for traditional pulot (or katen) making and Ashfa Madu’s souvenir shop near Kalyandra Hill. The tour will conclude with a group photo at Randu Alas and a cultural dinner at Jejuran, immersing participants in authentic Indonesian rural life.
Through this international engagement, ISAT U is expected to further strengthen its global academic linkages and reaffirm its leadership in sustainable, inclusive community service. Faculty delegates aim to return home inspired and equipped with new perspectives to enhance local programs that align with global development goals and regional solidarity.
ISAT U Members:
Engr. Adrian L. Pillano- CEA
Dr. Cora E. Biton – CIT
Dr. Iryn B. Delos Santos – COE
Mr. Andrew G. Falsis -CAS
Ms. Keith S. Guantero –LEON
Mr. Aaron Paul P. Puljanan – DUMANGAS
Dr. Medania T. Malagsic –MIAG-AO
Mr. Fritz Jason G. Monsale – MIAG-AO
Ms. Rennia Joy B. Obsiana- MIAG-AO
