The College of Public Administration (CPAd) in partnership with the Office of the Vice President for Research and Extension (OVPRE), spearheaded the MOA Signing cum Advocacy and Community Service, under the 2nd Project Disnudo YVG2: Youth Volunteerism for Good Governance, and the 4th Project ABC: Alliance Building and Citizen Engagement, held at Barangay Salapasap, Cabugao, Ilocos Sur, on June 2, 2025. The Projects ABC and Disnudo were initiatives from the classes under Dr. Society Salcedo.
The extension activity commenced with the welcome remarks delivered by SBM Jofel Solmerin, Chairperson of the Committee on Social Services, followed by the presentation of the rationale and significance of the initiative by Dr. Alma C. Somera, CPAd Extension Unit Coordinator.
The key highlight of the program was the formal signing of the Memorandum of Agreement between Barangay Salapasap, headed by Punong Barangay Kaizer Solmerin Jr., and the University of Northern Philippines, headed by Dr. Erwin Cadorna. Dr. Fatima Rocamora, VPRE joined the ceremony together with CPAd Faculty members, the Barangay Officials, and residents. The MOA signifies a strengthened partnership and a sustained commitment to community-based partnership and service initiatives. Dr. Rocamora also expressed her gratitude to the stakeholders, officials, and residents of Barangay Salapasap for their unwavering support and active participation.
Moreover, Prof. Arnold Pio and Dr. Loraine Ann Madera served as resource speakers. Prof. Pio delivered a comprehensive lecture on human rights and the rights of senior citizens, while Dr. Madera discussed the benefits and privileges available to the elderly, further reinforcing the advocacy for inclusive and informed citizenship among the senior citizens.
Meanwhile, the activity also featured free haircut for senior citizens, offered by Bullalyaw ti Vigan Inc., headed by Federated President Mr. Raimundo Arce with Raymund, Danny, and Lovely as the volunteer haircutters. This organization is a valued partner of the college in its various extension initiatives.
Lastly, Clarito Sinampaga, Sangguniang Barangay Member, concluded the program with an encouraging closing message to the participants and expressed heartfelt gratitude to the organizers.
Article by Marc Adrian Tabisula and Society Salcedo
