Davao de Oro State College welcomed the seventeen-member student delegation from Harvard University for their cultural immersion today, January 12, 2026, at the DdOSC Main Campus Audio-Visual Room, Compostela.

The visit is part of the Harvard J-Term 2026 under the Harvard Undergraduate Philippine Forum (HUPF), which provides Ivy League students with unique, short-term academic and skill-building experiences outside of their institution.

The DdOSC Sining Dayong and Duyog Madayaw group accorded a lively welcome to the HUPF delegation with a cultural presentation showcasing Maranao music and dance.

In her opening remarks, SUC President Dr. Lilybeth M. Matunhay emphasized the importance of international linkages and meaningful connections that extend beyond academic institutions and national borders.

“We are happy that you considered DdOSC as part of your visit here in the Philippines. We value opportunities like these…connections that go beyond the College and the country. Also, we are proud of Ms. Aryenne Ysabelle Rodrigo, a pride of Compostela, Davao de Oro.” Dr. Matunhay shared.

Meanwhile, the Compostela-native Rodrigo, HUPF Co-Partnership Chair, introduced the group as a student organization aiming to nurture curiosity and foster deeper cultural understanding.

To further introduce the institution, promotional videos highlighting the College’s initiatives, best practices, and various projects led by the Extension Services Division were presented to the visiting students.

Additionally, Provincial Local Government Unit of Davao de Oro Supervising Tourism Operations Officer Christine Dompor detailed the delegation’s two-day tour of the province, which included dropping by the Solidarity Ring, picking and harvesting at a local mangosteen farm, and a trip to Maragusan to explore its scenic waterfalls.

One of the highlights of the program was the song rendition of “Leron Leron Sinta” performed by Koro de Oro, accompanied by their Choir Director, Dr. Jeric E. Suguis, which put the Filipino musical culture in the spotlight.

Internationalization Head Karesha Faith C. Cañetan then gave her message of gratitude, expressing appreciation for the partnership and the meaningful exchange fostered by the visit.

Present during the activity were Extension Services Division Director Dr. Jeson N. Geroche, Student Affairs and Services Division Director Judith R. Tudy, along with other DdOSC personnel.