Davao: Department of Social Welfare and Development-Davao (DSWD-11) sealed a partnership commitment with the Santo Tomas College of Agriculture, Sciences and Technology (STCAST) on Wednesday to strengthen the implementation of the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) and other social development initiatives.
According to Philippines News Agency, Mayor Roland Dejesica signed the memorandum of agreement (MOA) alongside DSWD-11 Assistant Regional Director for Operations Merlinda Paragamac and STCAST officer-in-charge President Dr. Hazel Montepio. The partnership is set to focus on livelihood assistance, micro-enterprise development, skills training, and community research engagement, aiming to enhance the socioeconomic capacities of vulnerable and marginalized communities in the Davao Region.
The agreement, which will be effective for five years, underscores the importance of institutional partnerships in promoting inclusive, sustainable, and research-driven community development. Paragamac expressed optimism about the collaboration, anticipating outcomes such as strengthened livelihood opportunities, enhanced skills and entrepreneurship, and a broader reach of social protection services across communities.
Mayor Dejesica acknowledged the initiative's potential impact on students, emphasizing the importance of building a strong foundation that supports quality education and collaborative programs. This collaboration is intended to serve as a model of institutional cooperation, guided by service, integrity, and a shared vision of a more inclusive and resilient society.
