On July 2, 2026, the University of the Philippines (through the UP Diliman Extension Program in Pampanga) and the Department of Economic Planning and Development (DEPDev) Region 3 officially signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to strengthen academic-industry collaboration.

The signing was graced by Regional Director Nerrisa T. Esguerra and Chief Administrative Officer Daisy D. Sarmiento, alongside UPDEPPO Director Dr. Patrick C. De Leon.

This partnership formalizes the midyear internship program for BA in Business Economics students of UPDEPPO Clark Campus at DEPDev 3, providing them with valuable experiential learning opportunities and exposure to professional practice in the field of development economics.

Through this timely initiative, UPDEPPO continues to actively strengthen its programs, by preparing students for meaningful contributions to both local and regional development.