𝐌𝐒𝐔-𝐓𝐂𝐓𝐎, 𝐆𝐂𝐚𝐬𝐡 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐭𝐨 𝐀𝐝𝐯𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐜𝐡 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐃𝐢𝐠𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐒𝐤𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐓𝐚𝐰𝐢-𝐓𝐚𝐰𝐢
The MSU-TCTO team visited GCash to strengthen ongoing initiatives on June 11, 2025, exploring new opportunities for collaboration. Led by Chancellor Prof. Mary Joyce Z. Guinto-Sali, the delegation included Atty. Datu Mikee Esma P. Maruhom, Assoc. Prof. Charisa L. Abalie, and Assoc. Prof. Calvin J. Caliat. The team received valuable updates on the project and set the stage for upcoming training sessions in Bongao, Tawi-Tawi—an effort expected to bring meaningful progress to the community.
The team was welcomed by Ms. Gilda Patricia Maquilan, Vice President for Corporate Affairs, and Ms. Mabel Niala, Public Affairs and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Officer. Sage Ideas Inc., headed by Chief Executive Officer Ms. Luvy Villanueva, was also present, along with team members Ms. Mayang Ignacio, Ms. April Torres, and Ms. Mayette Macapagal.
During the meeting, Ms. Villanueva, a pivotal partner in this initiative with GCash, delivered a presentation outlining the foundation of their collaboration, key insights from the baseline research, and the strategic objectives of the training program. She noted that in 2024, MSU-TCTO and GCash formalized their partnership by signing a Memorandum of Agreement. This collaboration aims to advance fintech services and enhance digital skills in the communities of Tawi-Tawi, ultimately fostering transformative growth and new opportunities.
Assoc. Prof. Caliat, the university’s project chair, highlighted the careful preparations undertaken for the upcoming training. Assoc. Prof. Abalie, in turn, proudly emphasized the readiness and state-of-the-art quality of the university's facilities, ensuring a conducive learning environment. Atty. Maruhom then outlined the university’s visionary plans for the project’s future, reinforcing its long-term commitment to progress. Finally, Chancellor Guinto-Sali passionately affirmed the university’s continuous dedication to this initiative, which not only aligns with its vision for future endeavors but also exemplifies a steadfast belief in quality and innovation in education.
Following a productive meeting, Ms. Niala expertly guided the team on an insightful tour of their offices, offering a glimpse into the dynamic environment they would be working in.
The MSU-TCTO team’s engagement with GCash marks a promising step forward in advancing digital literacy and fintech accessibility in Tawi-Tawi. With the upcoming training sessions and continued collaboration, this initiative is set to empower communities, foster innovation, and create lasting opportunities for growth."
Contributor: Assoc. Prof. Calvin J. Caliat
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