Boac, Marinduque, Philippines — Marinduque State College (MSC) has bolstered its collaboration with the Department of Social Welfare and Development Regional Field Office IV-B (DSWD RFO IV-B) to enhance the implementation of various activities under the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) through a review of Memorandum of Agreement on April 26, 2024 at the MSC OP Conference Room, Tanza, Boac, Marinduque. This partnership aims to empower communities and promote socio-economic development in the region.

The Sustainable Livelihood Program, a flagship initiative of the DSWD, seeks to alleviate poverty and empower marginalized sectors by providing them with opportunities for sustainable livelihoods. Through skills training, capacity-building, and access to resources, the program enables beneficiaries to improve their socio-economic well-being and achieve self-sufficiency.

The review of the proposed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was attended by representatives of both parties which includes Asst. Prof. Raoul J. Magcamit (VP for Academic Affairs), Atty. Arlyn R. Retardo (MSC Legal Officer), Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ernesto L. Largado (Dean, College of Arts and Social Sciences), Asst. Prof. Rosalinda E. Punzalan (Program Chair, BSSW) & Mr. Arjay Am Historillo and Ms. Pamela L. Santillana (PDOs II of DSWD RFO IV-B for SLP).

Once approved, the partnership between MSC and DSWD RFO IV-B will facilitate the implementation of SLP initiatives in the Province of Marinduque. By leveraging the expertise and resources of both institutions, the partnership aims to maximize the impact of the program and reach a wider range of beneficiaries.

The MSC President, Prof. Dr. Diosdado P. Zulueta, represented by, Asst. Prof. Raoul J. Magcamit, Vice-President for Academic Affairs, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, emphasizing the importance of empowering communities through education and economic opportunities. “We are committed to working closely with DSWD RFO IV-B to support the Sustainable Livelihood Program and contribute to poverty reduction efforts in our region,” he stated.

Under the partnership, MSC will provide technical assistance, training facilities, and expertise in various fields within the scope of SLP. Additionally, the college will mobilize its faculty, students, and resources to support the implementation of SLP activities and initiatives.

The collaboration between MSC and DSWD RFO IV-B reflects a shared commitment to promoting inclusive growth, poverty reduction, and sustainable development. By harnessing the synergies between education and social welfare initiatives, the partnership aims to create lasting positive change in the lives of individuals and communities across Marinduque and beyond.

As the partnership between MSC and DSWD RFO IV-B continues to evolve, it is expected to yield tangible benefits for beneficiaries, including enhanced skills, increased incomes, and improved quality of life. Through concerted efforts and collective action, the two institutions are poised to make a meaningful difference in the lives of the most vulnerable members of society.

The strengthened partnership between Marinduque State College and the Department of Social Welfare and Development Regional Field Office IV-B represents a significant step forward in advancing sustainable livelihoods and promoting social inclusion. By working together, these institutions are paving the way for a brighter and more prosperous future for all.

At present, DSWD RFO IV-B is also one of the host training establishments for the implementation of Student Internship Program in the Philippines (SIPP) for students under the BS in Social Work (BSSW) program.

(Raoul J. Magcamit/Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs)