Filamer Christian University (FCU) has taken another significant step toward elevating faculty development and academic excellence through its participation in the Scholarship for Instructors’ Knowledge Advancement Program (SIKAP) of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) during a ceremonial signing of Memorandum of Agreement at the CHED Regional Office VI in Iloilo City, August 11.

This partnership, formalized under CHED Memorandum Order No. 09, series of 2025, positions FCU among the select institutions in Western Visayas recognized as Approved Delivering Higher Education Institutions (DHEIs) under SIKAP.

SIKAP aims to expand graduate education opportunities for higher education faculty, enabling them to pursue master’s and doctoral studies in reputable institutions. By joining the roster of delivering institutions, FCU affirms its role as a hub for advanced learning, providing a platform for educators in the region to further their professional qualifications while contributing to the quality of instruction in their home institutions.

FCU President Dr. George Cortel emphasized that this collaboration aligns with FCU’s mission to produce competent, committed, and Christ-centered educators and professionals. “This partnership is a testament to FCU’s dedication to academic excellence, not only for our own faculty but for educators across the region,” he said.

Photo Credit to Commission on Higher Education – Regional Office VI Facebook Page & Dr. Minnie P. Chan

Also present were officials of recipient educational institutions including Vice Presidents for Academic Affairs (VPAA), Graduate School Dean, Program Chair, Scholarship Management Officer (SMO), Faculty and Staff from the following ten (10) DHEIs: Capiz State University, Central Philippine University, Guimaras State University, Iloilo Science and Technology University, Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology, John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University, University of San Agustin, West Visayas State University – Calinog Campus, and West Visayas State University – Main Campus.

Representing FCU were Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Minnie Chan, Graduate School Dean Dr. Felimon Pimentel, and University Registrar Mrs. Esther Sarmiento.

The signing was led Dr. Raul C. Alvarez Jr., REE, CESO III, Regional Director – CHEDRO VI and Dr. Paulo C. Cabanero, Supervising Administrative Officer of SIKAP PAFP.

With this milestone, FCU continues to strengthen its graduate programs and reaffirm its commitment to nurturing leaders, innovators, and servant-leaders who will shape the future of education in the country.