SLSU Welcomes U.S. Regional English Language Office Officials

As fiscal year 2026 officially opened, Southern Leyte State University set a strategic tone for the year by welcoming officials from the U.S. Regional English Language Office on January 6, 2026, at the Hotel de SLSU Ballroom, SLSU Main Campus. This visit from the U.S. Embassy RELO marks SLSU’s first major international engagement of 2026.

The university was honored by the visit of Mr. Jeffrey Mcllvenna, Regional English Language Officer based in Manila, who supports English language programs in the Philippines, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and Brunei. He was joined by Mr. Terrance Toledo, Cultural Affairs Assistant of the Regional English Language Office, U.S. Embassy Manila, Public Affairs Section. The delegation was also accompanied by Prof. Maryann Miller, an English Language (EL) Fellow assigned at Southern Leyte State University, whose work focuses on strengthening English language teaching and learning through faculty and student engagement.

The welcome program provided a venue to strengthen academic and cultural ties between SLSU and the U.S. Embassy through the RELO, particularly by advancing English-language education and professional development.

Mr. Mcllvenna lauded SLSU’s sustained collaboration with the U.S. Regional English Language Office, noting that this engagement reflects the University’s pursuit of excellence in English language programs and long-term academic cooperation.

The event was graced by the support of the university's key officials, led by Dr. Jude A. Duarte, the SLSU University President. Together with him are the Vice Presidents: Dr. Constantino G. Medilo, Jr., Vice President of Academic Affairs, Dr. Christine Alma Mae M. Daguplo, Vice President for Administration and Finance, Dr. Marie Khul C. Langub, Vice President for Student Engagement and Support Services, and Dr. Francis Ann R. Sy, Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension Services.

Also in attendance were the Campus Director of Tomas Oppus Campus, faculty deans, faculty members, and staff, who warmly received the delegation.

Following the welcome program, a strategic meeting was held between SLSU and the U.S. Regional English Language Office in the Board Room, SLSU Main Campus, focusing on the EL Fellow’s accomplishments and future activities, including: the implementation of co-teaching initiatives with language teachers; the integration of contextualized, technology-enhanced instruction; and the conduct of community outreach and extension programs.

Through the visit and collaborative discussions, SLSU showcased its achievements in English language programs and its dedication to building enduring, high-impact international partnerships.