SLSU eyes hosting of English Language Fellow, Meets with US Embassy RELO

Southern Leyte State University (SLSU) is moving closer to hosting a US English Language Fellow as part of its growing partnership with the US Embassy’s Regional English Language Office (RELO), through the Faculty of Arts and Sciences and the Center for Foreign Language and Culture.

The meeting, held at the SLSU Board Room on May 23, 2025, brought together SLSU officials and US Embassy RELO guest, Mr. Terrance Toledo. The session opened with a prayer, followed by the formal introduction of participants led by the Executive Assistant to the President, Ms. Claerchille Jhulia C. Robin-Tan. SLSU President Dr. Jude A. Duarte delivered the welcome remarks, emphasizing the university’s vision for strengthening its English language programs and expanding international collaboration.

Central to the agenda was SLSU’s initiative to collaborate with RELO in enhancing the institution’s English teaching programs. During the exploratory meeting, RELO representative, Mr. Terrance Toledo, discussed the potential deployment of a Fellow to SLSU for the first semester of Academic Year 2025–2026. He then led a comprehensive presentation on the English Language Fellow (EL Fellow) Program, a US Department of State initiative that deploys American educators around the world to strengthen English language teaching and professional development.

In addition to academic planning, part of the exploratory discussion centered on practical preparations—including logistics, accommodation options, local living conditions, and ensuring the overall safety and well-being of the future EL Fellow. These considerations reflect SLSU’s commitment to providing a secure and supportive environment for international educators.

An open forum encouraged the exchange of insights and clarified next steps in the collaboration. Dr. Constantino Medilo Jr., Vice President for Academic Affairs, concluded the session with closing remarks, highlighting the university’s readiness to welcome the EL Fellow Program as a driver for academic growth.

Leading the exploratory meeting was University President Dr. Jude A. Duarte, joined by the vice presidents: Dr. Constantino G. Medilo Jr. (Academic Affairs), Dr. Dewoowoogen P. Baclayon (Administration and Finance), Dr. Francis Ann R. Sy (Research, Innovation, and Extension Services), and Dr. Marie Khul C. Langub (Student and Auxiliary Services). Also in attendance were Ms. Claerchille Jhulia C. Robin-Tan, Executive Assistant to the President; Dr. Ingrid M. Uy, Director of External Linkages and International Affairs; Dr. Aldwin M. Teves, Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Sciences; Mr. Roselleto Cadavos, LLCH Area Chair; Mr. Exekiel Ed E. Elizan, CFLC Head; and Ms. Irene Marcel Hufalar-Lagua, AA-AIL Head.