Isabela State University (ISU) and the Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino (KWF) partnered to establish a Sentro ng Wika at Kultura (SWK) at the University through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) Signing Ceremony held on January 16, 2026.
The MOU was signed on behalf of ISU by Dr. Boyet L. Batang (University President) who was joined by members of the University’s executive management: Dr. Precila C. Delima (Vice President for Academic Affairs), Dr. Hilda A. Manzolim (Vice President for Administrative and Finance Services), Dr. Isagani P. Angeles, Jr. (Vice President for Planning and Development), and Dr. Orlando F. Balderama (Vice President for Research and Development, Extension and Training).
Representing the Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino was Atty. Marites A. Barrios-Taran (Chairperson, KWF), accompanied by Commissioner Benjamin M. Mendillo, Jr. (for Ilokano) and Commissioner Carmelita C. Abdurahman (for Samar-Leyte).
The partnership aims to institutionalize the Sentro ng Wika at Kultura at ISU as an academic and cultural unit tasked to preserve, develop, and promote the Filipino language and other Philippine languages, including local dialects and ethnolinguistic cultures. As part of KWF’s nationwide network of language and culture centers, the SWK at ISU will serve as a hub for research, instruction, and community-based initiatives that strengthen linguistic and cultural heritage, particularly in the region.
Under the agreement, the SWK will focus on several key areas of engagement. These include research on language and culture, covering indigenous knowledge systems and traditional practices; language promotion, particularly the development and use of Filipino and local languages across various domains such as orthography and writing systems; and cultural preservation, which involves advancing appreciation of local cultural expressions including arts, theater, and other creative forms.
The center will also play a role in education by providing instruction and serving as a local partner in implementing programs of the KWF. Moreover, the SWK is expected to strengthen collaboration among ISU, KWF, and other institutions to expand language and cultural programs across regions, provinces, and municipalities.
Overall, the MOU signing is part of the University’s aim to promote national identity through language, culture, and scholarship, and maintain the relevance of local voices and traditions in contemporary Philippine society.