By Francis Neil G. Jalando-on

Dr. Lorna Grande, Dean of CPU-CBA, and Mrs. Annie Laurie Bacle, Principal of LNHS, formalize the MOA between their institutions as witnessed by Dr. Christine Golilao.

In a significant stride towards enhancing education and community development, Central Philippine University (CPU) and Lo-ong National High School (LNHS) inked a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) during the outreach program organized by the CPU College of Business and Accountancy (CBA) at LNHS in Concepcion, Iloilo. The MOA signing ceremony took place on March 8, 2024, marking a pivotal moment in the collaboration between the two educational institutions.

The signing ceremony was graced by Mrs. Annie Laurie G. Bacle, Principal of LNHS and a proud Centralian, alongside Dr. Lorna T. Grande, Dean of CBA, representing CPU. The faculty members of both institutions were also present during the signing. The event was opened with a prayer led by Lyndon John Coronado and later, the closing remarks by Ron Xavier Caldito, followed by a closing prayer by Tim Andrew Magaling, all students of CBA.

The MOA delineates the commitment of both CPU and LNHS to foster academic growth and community upliftment. CPU, through its College of Business and Accountancy, pledges to extend training, technical assistance, and advisory services to LNHS, particularly in enhancing its Senior High School program, with a focus on the Accountancy, Business, and Management (ABM) strand.

Under the agreement, CPU will conduct training programs and seminars on various subjects including values reorientation, accounting, business management, computer technology, livelihood opportunities, health, sanitation, agribusiness, biodiversity conservation, and barangay governance. Additionally, CPU will provide technical assistance for the improvement of instructional materials and cater to other specific needs identified by both parties.

CPU-CBA Faculty members with Mayor Milliard Villanueva of Concepcion, Iloilo.

The role of LNHS in this partnership involves facilitating the activities conducted by CPU within its premises, providing necessary assistance, and participating actively in outreach activities organized by CPU. The Local Government Unit (LGU) of Concepcion also plays a crucial role in supporting the collaboration, offering assistance as needed and augmenting certain needs identified during the implementation of the partnership.

Dr. Lorna T. Grande, Dean of CBA, expressed her enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “This partnership symbolizes our commitment to holistic education and community development. Through collaborative efforts, we aim to empower students and contribute to the betterment of society.”

Similarly, Mrs. Annie Laurie G. Bacle, Principal of LNHS, echoed her sentiments, emphasizing the transformative potential of the partnership. “We are excited to embark on this journey with CPU. Together, we can create a positive impact on the lives of our students and the community,” she remarked.

The MOA, effective upon approval, is set for a period of three years, with provisions for renewal upon agreement by both parties. It underscores the shared vision of CPU and LNHS to harness education as a tool for social transformation and sustainable development in Concepcion, Iloilo.