To bridge the gap between academic learning and industry demands, Wesleyan University-Philippines, in partnership with East West International Education Specialist, Inc. and ePLDT VITRO Academy, implemented the Certified Data Center Technician (CDCT Level 1) and Certified Data Center Associate (CDCA Level 2) programs under the VITRO Academy micro-credential initiative. This program aimed to develop the next generation of Filipino data center professionals and contribute to making the Philippines the APAC hub for data center excellence.

The VITRO Academy micro-credential program was conducted in two phases. The first was the Certified Data Center Technician (CDCT Level 1) in September 2024 where 62 students underwent intensive training. Out of these 62 trainees, 30 students passed the CDCT Level 1 assessment and received certification. This was succeeded by the Certified Data Center Associate (CDCA Level 2) in December 2024. At this phase, 24 CDCT Level 1 passers advanced to Level 2 training where eight students passed the CDCA Level 2 certification.

These students would have the opportunity to progress to the Certified Data Center Professional (CDCP Level 3) certification and intern at VITRO Data Centers, the country’s largest data center facility.

In line with these, a Recognition Ceremony was held on February 13, 2025, at the University Amphitheater to honor the students who completed the training and passed the certification assessments. The event was attended by university officials, program partners, faculty members, and students.

Dr. Wilfredo C. Ramos, Vice President for Academic Affairs, emphasized the University’s commitment to enhancing technical and professional skills through industry partnerships in his message.

Mr. Dennis Franco M. Layug, President and CEO of East West International Education Specialist, Inc., delivered his inspirational message and Mr. Jose Gabriel Fornier, Head of Learning, Engagement, and Communications of VITRO Data Center Academy congratulated the completers.

Dr. Ryan John L. De Lara, Dean of the College of Engineering and Computer Technology, highlighted the importance of continued learning and professional development in the growing field of data center management.

With this milestone that provided students with industry-recognized certifications, equipping them with the necessary skills to thrive in the data center industry, WUP with East West International Education Specialist, Inc. and ePLDT VITRO Academy, would continue to support students by offering Certified Data Center Professional (CDCP Level 3) training and certification, providing internship opportunities at VITRO Data Centers to further enhance real-world experience, and expanding micro-credential programs to include other emerging technology fields.

The following were the completers of the programs:

CDCT Level 1 Passers

1. Daniela Salazar (4th Year BSIT)
2. Mark Angelo Ramos Jr. (4th Year BSECE)
3. Lance Brian Ugatillo (4th Year BSCpE)
4. Christian Geordel De Guzman (4th Year BSIT)
5. Ramil M. Rodriguez Jr. (4th Year BSIT)
6. Mikeila Viernes (4th Year BSIT)
7. Rainier Lloyd Ventura (4th Year BSIT)
8. Benedict Herrera (4th Year BSECE)
9. Jethro Louis Borillo Flores (4th Year BSCpE)
10. Erica Mae Cape (4th Year BSIT)
11. Theodore Batangan (4th Year BSECE)
12. John Darnell Basa (4th Year BSECE)
13. Edrick Vincent Pili (4th Year BSCpE)
14. John Patrick Yadao (4th Year BSCpE)
15. Gene Rev Feliciano (4th Year BSIT)
16. Hannah Beatriz Abarientos (4th Year BSIT)
17. Clarence Mallare (4th Year BSECE)
18. David Exoucia Lungos (4th Year BSCpE)
19. Rhoderick Aldrine Castro (4th Year BSCpE)
20. Onin John Paul Binuya (4th Year BSCpE)
21. Charisma Beltran Vendivel (4th Year BSCpE)
22. Ivan Zuñiga (4th Year BSECE)
23. Marc Melgar (4th Year BSCpE)
24. Zoren Corbillon (4th Year BSCpE)
25. Wendell Lopez (4th Year BSCpE)
26. Jan Nathaniel Memita (4th Year BSCpE)
27. Justin Hernandez (4th Year BSCpE)
28. Lance Ivan Atendido (4th Year BSIT)
29. Angel Christ Juganas (4th Year BSIT)
30. Giovanni Lacabe (4th Year BSCpE)

CDCA Level 2 Passers

1. Charisma Beltran Vendivel (4th Year BSCpE)
2. Hannah Beatriz Abarientos (4th Year BSIT)
3. Lyca Daniela Salazar (4th Year BSIT)
4. Rainier Lloyd Ventura (4th Year BSIT)
5. Ramil M. Rodriguez Jr. (4th Year BSIT)
6. Gene Rev Feliciano (4th Year BSIT)
7. Onin John Paul Binuya (4th Year BSCpE)
8. Marc Melgar (4th Year BSCpE)

#Information from Dr. Ryan John L. De Lara
#Photos provided by CECT