April 17, 2026 — The Dr. Emilio B. Espinosa Sr. Memorial State College of Agriculture and Technology (DEBESMSCAT) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office V (DSWD-5) formally renewed their partnership for the implementation of the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) during a ceremonial signing held at the DEBESMSCAT College Board Room.
The renewed collaboration aims to strengthen efforts in improving the socio-economic conditions of poor, vulnerable, and marginalized communities across Masbate through capacity building, skills training, and sustainable livelihood interventions.
Present during the event were DEBESMSCAT SUC President III Dr. Arnel B. Millesca, Vice President for Research, Extension, Innovation, Creative Works, and Knowledge Management Dr. Rodolfo B. Burac Jr., and Director for Technical Advisory and Extension Services Dennis G. Corlet. Representing DSWD-5 was Regional Director Norman S. Laurio, along with Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) Project Development Officers from Masbate.
Also in attendance were selected SLP beneficiaries, who witnessed the ceremonial signing, highlighting the direct impact of the partnership on grassroots communities and underscoring the program’s people-centered approach.
The partnership, formalized through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), underscores the shared commitment of both institutions to poverty alleviation and community development. It outlines coordinated efforts in providing technical education, enterprise development, and continuous support services to program beneficiaries.
Under the agreement, DSWD-5 will lead in identifying and preparing qualified participants, while DEBESMSCAT will provide technical expertise, training, and extension services to ensure the sustainability of livelihood projects. Both parties will also engage in joint monitoring, evaluation, and documentation of best practices to further enhance program implementation.
The collaboration is expected to cover the entire province of Masbate and will run for three years, subject to annual review, reinforcing a long-term commitment to inclusive growth and sustainable development in the region.
The renewed partnership highlights the vital role of government-academe linkages in empowering communities and advancing resilient, livelihood-driven development initiatives.
Ladies and gentlemen,
