Department of Social Welfare and Development-Davao (DSWD-11) sealed a partnership commitment with the Santo Tomas College of Agriculture, Sciences and Technology (STCAST) on Wednesday to strengthen the implementation of the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) and other social development initiatives.

Mayor Roland Dejesica signed the memorandum of agreement (MOA) together with DSWD-11 Assistant Regional Director for Operations Merlinda Paragamac and STCAST officer-in-charge President Dr. Hazel Montepio.

“As we formally seal this agreement today, we do so with optimism and confidence that this partnership will generate meaningful outcomes —strengthened livelihood opportunities, enhanced skills and entrepreneurship, research-driven program improvements, and a broader reach of social protection services across our communities,” Paragamac said in a statement.

Focusing on livelihood assistance, micro-enterprise development, skills training, and community research engagement, the partnership aims to enhance the socioeconomic capacities of vulnerable and marginalized communities in the Davao Region.

The agreement, effective for five years, highlights the vital role of institutional partnerships in advancing inclusive, sustainable, and research-driven community development.

“May this collaboration serve as a model of institutional cooperation, guided by service, integrity, and our shared vision of a more inclusive and resilient society,” Paragamac added.

Dejesica thanked DSWD-11 for the initiative, noting its significant impact on students.

“I am very grateful to DSWD for joining us in building a stronger foundation that supports quality education, and collaborative programs that benefit students and the community,” he said. (PNA)