ZAMBOANGA CITY — To foster collaborative ties between the higher education sector and the judiciary, Sultan Kudarat State University (SKSU) President Atty. Cyrus E. Torrena, DPA, MNSA, paid an official courtesy visit to Hon. Shaldilyn B. Bangsaja, Presiding Judge of the Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 33, today, September 17, 2026, at the Hall of Justice in Sta. Barbara.
Upon the arrival of President Torrena, Judge Bangsaja extended a warm welcome and expressed her congratulations to the newly appointed SKSU president. The meeting served as an inter-institutional dialogue aimed at exploring shared public service initiatives across Regions IX and XII.
During the discussion, both officials explored opportunities for legal education and internship support. This includes potential field immersion and clinical education programs designed to equip SKSU’s law and public administration students with practical judicial experience.
The dialogue also highlighted a synergy between public service and national security. Leveraging Torrena’s extensive background in public administration and national security, the two leaders aligned on how academic programs can better support judicial reforms. Furthermore, they discussed potential joint community outreach advocacies focusing on access to justice, legal awareness, and environmental and social governance.
In response, Judge Bangsaja acknowledged the importance of the visit, emphasizing the crucial role that higher education institutions play in supporting rule-of-law initiatives and promoting public integrity at the grassroots level.
The meeting concluded with a strong reaffirmation of mutual support between SKSU and RTC Branch 33. Both institutions are expected to outline prospective follow-up initiatives and formalize the discussed academic and public service partnerships in the near future.
