CENTRAL PHILIPPINE UNIVERSITY

Autonomous Status granted by CHED – Sept. 16, 2024 – Sept. 15, 2027
ISO 21001:2018 (Educational Organizations Management System)- valid from August 19, 2025, until August 18, 2028

DSWD KALAHI-CIDSS and CPU formalize partnership for community development initiatives

by | Jul 17, 2026 | The Centralian Link | 0 comments

By Karren Jay G. Asgar

 

Central Philippine University (CPU) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office VI through the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan–Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KALAHI-CIDSS) formalized their partnership through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing held on July 9, 2026, at the BOT Conference Room.

The agreement aims to support the implementation of the Community-Driven Development (CDD) approach by creating opportunities for academic institutions and government partners to work together in addressing community needs through participatory and sustainable development programs.

Through the partnership, CPU faculty members and students will have opportunities to engage in community-based initiatives, research activities, training programs, and extension projects implemented under KALAHI-CIDSS. The collaboration seeks to connect academic expertise with field-based practices while promoting innovation, evidence-based development planning, and meaningful community participation.

The MOA also establishes a framework for cooperation in implementing mutually beneficial programs and activities, including internship and practicum opportunities, technical assistance, knowledge sharing, and other initiatives aligned with the mandates of DSWD and CPU.

Representing DSWD Field Office VI during the signing were Regional Director Joselito G. Estember and Regional Executive Assistant Irese Muyana. The KALAHI-CIDSS delegation was composed of Deputy Regional Program Manager Engr. Silverio Von V. Maguad III; OIC Promotive Services Division Chief Judith T. Barredo, RSW, MSW, Social Welfare Officer IV; and Fraye Cedrick Anona, Project Development Officer III and Regional Stakeholders and Partnership Building Officer (RSPOB).

Representing CPU were University President Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy; College of Engineering Dean Engr. Mary Earl Daryl A. Grio; and Civil Engineering Department Chairperson Engr. Shevanee Ruth dela Cruz.

The partnership reflects the shared commitment of DSWD KALAHI-CIDSS and CPU to strengthen community empowerment, develop future practitioners in community development, and advance inclusive and sustainable local development through collaboration among government, academe, and communities.