CCAD formally strengthened its commitment to cultural engagement and industry collaboration through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with VIBO PLACE on July 6, 2026, at UP Cebu FabLab. The partnership establishes a collaborative framework that expands opportunities for creative placemaking, experiential learning, and public engagement through arts and culture.
The MOA was signed by Allen Andre Suarez, Director of the Vibo Group of Companies and Vibo Land; Dean Crina Tanongon of the College of Communication, Art, and Design; and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Palmy Tudtud, who represented UP Cebu Chancellor Leo B. Malagar during the signing ceremony. The agreement signifies a shared commitment to building stronger connections between the academe and the creative industry while fostering initiatives that contribute to Cebu’s vibrant cultural landscape.
Among the key initiatives identified under the partnership are the proposed Sining Cebu Monument Initiative, the development of internship and practicum pathways for Communication and Arts students, collaborative cultural programming, and the use of VIBO Place as an alternative venue for academic, artistic, and community-centered events. Through these initiatives, CCAD and VIBO Place seek to create meaningful opportunities where students and faculty can apply their knowledge beyond the classroom while contributing to public art and cultural development.
Witnessing the signing on behalf of the Vibo Group were Phoebe Kate F. Avila, Marketing Associate of Axis Prime, and Shawn Rosal, Marketing and Events representative of VIBO Place. Representing CCAD as witnesses were Dr. Laya Gonzales, Studio Arts Coordinator; Dr. Lionel Sanchez, Product Design faculty member; and Instr. Marlen Limpag, Chair of the CCAD Internship, Linkages, and Partnership Committee and Communication faculty member. Their presence underscored the collaborative spirit shared by both institutions in advancing education through meaningful industry and community partnerships.
The partnership reflects CCAD’s continuing efforts to cultivate learning environments that extend beyond the university by connecting students, faculty, and industry leaders through creative collaboration.
As plans for the Sining Cebu Monument Initiative and other joint programs move forward, the partnership with VIBO Place is poised to contribute to the development of Cebu’s cultural ecosystem while providing students with valuable opportunities for professional growth, artistic practice, and civic engagement.