From L to R: Noel Cortez, Unilab Education Chief Operating Officer; Atty. Jose Maria Ochave, Unilab Education President and Chief Operating Officer; Juan Miguel Montinola, President of Far Eastern University Group of Schools; and Rosanna Esguerra Salcedo, Chief Finance Officer of Far Eastern University Group of Schools
Far Eastern University (Ƶ) is expanding its academic footprint in Central Luzon with the official launch of Ƶ Pampanga in partnership with UNILAB Education under a new venture, Higher Academia Inc. (HAI). This new campus aims to become a vital contributor to the inclusive economic growth of Region III by developing globally competitive graduates through innovative academic programs and strong industry partnerships.
“Unilab, a leader in the health and science sectors, is the first non-school partner of Ƶ. They have made a strategic decision to be in education, and we are privileged to be a partner. For Ƶ, Unilab Education fulfills a key role in helping to shape curriculum to align with industry needs and advancements,” said Juan Miguel Montinola, Ƶ and HAI President. Ƶ maintains numerous industry collaboration agreements, however, the joint venture partnership with Unilab Education is designed to offer distinct strategic benefits in critical areas such as curriculum innovation, program implementation, talent acquisition, and real-world immersion opportunities, that includes joint research initiatives that leverage both institutions’ expertise, providing exclusive access to Unilab’s extensive network of professionals to enhance students’ career prospects, as well as customized training workshops led by industry experts.
Located in San Fernando, this campus will be henceforth known as Ƶ Pampanga, and currently offers bachelor’s degrees in accountancy, criminology, engineering, psychology, and tourism management. Programs in business administration and hospitality management are awaiting approval as extension programs. Other programs from the Ƶ owned network of schools will likewise be deployed.
The senior high school department is among the pilot implementers of the strengthened SHS curriculum, featuring fewer core subjects and greater work immersion hours to produce graduates who are employable post-graduation but also well-prepared for college and industry demands.
Instruction will be delivered through a mix of traditional, hybrid, and online formats, broadening access to working professionals and students across provinces. The curriculum emphasizes character formation, experiential learning, industry certifications, and essential soft skills.
Faculty will comprise highly qualified educators, industry practitioners, and visiting experts, all undergoing continuous training in pedagogy, research, and community engagement. Additionally, students will benefit from enhanced career counseling, job placement services, and leadership development, positioning them for success in their chosen fields.
Graduates are expected to secure employment within months of graduation or licensure, equipped with the adaptability, competence, and values required in today’s competitive workforce.
“With Ƶ Pampanga, Far Eastern University reinforces the mission of its founder, Dr Nicanor Reyes, to uplift Filipinos and the Philippines. This campus will equip learners for meaningful careers,” Montinola added.




