DE LA SALLE University–Dasmariñas has been elected chair of the Philippine Academic Consortium for Latin American Studies, with Provost Dr. George Francisco set to lead the national network until 2028.

The leadership transition from the University of Asia and the Pacific to DLSU-D marks a new phase for the consortium and highlights the university’s growing role in international academic cooperation and area studies.

Established in 2002 through an initiative of the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Forum for East Asia–Latin America Cooperation, PACLAS serves as a platform to strengthen political, economic, and cultural ties between the Philippines and Latin America through scholarly collaboration.

As incoming chair, DLSU-D is expected to spearhead initiatives that promote joint research, develop specialized academic programs, and facilitate cultural exchanges aimed at deepening mutual understanding between the two regions.

PACLAS member institutions include Ateneo de Manila University, University of the Philippines, University of Santo Tomas, University of the East, Colegio de San Juan de Letran, and the University of Asia and the Pacific.

The new leadership builds on the momentum of the international conference on fiestas and festivals in the Philippines and Latin America hosted by DLSU-D in February 2025, which brought together scholars and cultural advocates from both regions.