THE U.S. Embassy in the Philippines launched its first-ever “EducationUSA University Fair” on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at the University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP) Obrero Campus, Social Hall, bringing educational opportunities for Filipino students to study abroad.
The fair featured 15 American colleges, universities, and testing organizations with free admissions for those who are interested in studying in the United States of America. It also marks the 80th year of the US-PH diplomatic relations, where educational corporations have been a strong component for partnership.
Participants were also invited to join the Graduate Studies Cohort Program (GSCP), a merit-based initiative to increase Filipino representation in U.S. graduate STEM programs, particularly in robotics, space science, artificial intelligence (AI), and civil nuclear power.
The students will be guided through five steps, namely researching options, financing their studies, completing the application, applying for a visa, and preparing for departure.
The event was attended by George Mesthos, U.S. Embassy deputy director of public engagement, and USeP president Dr. Bonifacio Gabales Jr.
In an interview with Mesthos, he said that Davao City is the largest market for EducationUSA’s free virtual services outside of Metro Manila, and they had also helped Davaoenos from high school get full-ride scholarships to prestigious universities.
“When we look at all the bilateral priorities we have, such as US-Philippine priorities, especially in science, technology, engineering, and math or STEM, the talent is here [Davao City] for us to build the jobs and the opportunities of the future,” he said.
He also shared that there is a long tradition of educational cooperation between the United States and all parts of Mindanao, including exchange programs or university-to-university partnerships.
