A significant step toward strengthened community development was marked on March 3, 2026, as the University of Northern Philippines and the local government unit of San Vicente formally entered into a memorandum of agreement during a signing ceremony held at the Office of the Municipal Mayor.
The agreement was signed by UNP President Dr. Erwin Cadorna and Municipal Mayor Hon. Jonan Tabanda, signifying a unified commitment to bring essential services, technical expertise, and developmental programs to the people of San Vicente. The partnership reflects a shared vision between the academe and the local government to promote inclusive growth, strengthen public service delivery, and empower communities through collaborative action.
Witnessing the ceremony were Dra. Paula Cynthia Valencia, Sangguniang Bayan Member; Ms. Crispina Remular, Private Secretary; Prof. Jake Soria, University Coordinator for Disaster Risk Reduction Management; and Prof. Randal Rabacal, Coordinator for Research Dissemination and Advocacy. The agreement was coordinated by Prof. May Evelia Ruadap, University Extension Coordinator, whose efforts facilitated the collaboration between the two institutions.
Under the terms of the agreement, UNP will extend a broad range of services and capacity-building programs to the municipality. These include the provision of medical and dental services for residents, conduct of information drives and advocacy initiatives, and implementation of skills training, technology transfer, and livelihood projects designed to enhance economic opportunities within the community.
Recognizing the increasing importance of disaster preparedness, the University will also conduct training programs on disaster risk reduction and management, including basic life support, first aid, and rescue operations. In addition, comprehensive training initiatives covering health, technology, education, economic development, and business management will be rolled out to equip municipal employees, officials, and residents with essential competencies.
The partnership shows UNP’s commitment to fulfill its mandate in instruction, research, and extension by translating academic knowledge into tangible community impact. At the same time, it reinforces the LGU of San Vicente’s dedication to pursue innovative and sustainable strategies that uplift the welfare of its constituents.
As the agreement takes effect, both institutions expressed confidence that the collaboration will foster a more resilient, informed, and economically empowered San Vicente—demonstrating the transformative power of synergy between the academe and local governance.
