The College of Business Administration and Accountancy (CBAA) renewed its partnership with Barangay Ayusan Norte, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur, through a formal signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on March 20, 2025. The event, held at Ayusan Norte, marked another milestone in promoting sustainable community development through the B.U.S.I.N.E.S.S. in the Communities program.

Present at the event were esteemed representatives from UNP, including Dr. Fatima Rocamora, Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Erwin Tolbe, Dean of CBAA, Dr. Nathalie Almero, Assistant Dean for graduate programs, Dr. Eileen Rose Paculan, extension coordinator, Prof. May Evelia Ruadap, extension coordinator, and Dr. Scott Jason Llanes, program head of graduate programs. Also in attendance was Barangay Chairman Wilfredo Pido and some barangay officials representing the community of Ayusan Norte.

During the program, Dr. Erwin Tolbe delivered his words of gratitude, emphasizing the significance of strengthening the university’s community engagement efforts. He highlighted how the renewed partnership will pave the way for continued capacity-building initiatives, sustainable livelihood programs, financial literacy enhancement, and entrepreneurial skills development. Dr. Tolbe expressed his optimism about the positive impact of the collaboration on the lives of the residents of Barangay Ayusan Norte.

Barangay Chairman Mr. Wilfredo Pido also expressed his appreciation to UNP for its unwavering support and commitment to the community. He acknowledged the positive changes brought about by previous projects and expressed hope for continued progress through this renewed collaboration.

Through this strengthened alliance, both UNP and Barangay Ayusan Norte are poised to create a lasting impact by combining academic

Article by Emman Trevor Quilala.