MSU-TCTO, through its Department of Public Administration, College of Arts and Sciences (CAS), and the Local Government Unit of Bongao signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on the “Empowering Barangay Leaders: Enhancing Leadership and Administrative Capacities of Barangay Officials in Bongao” program.
Held on November 8, 2025, at the Conference Room of the Sabdani J. Bulante Hall, the ceremonial signing was led by Chancellor Prof. Mary Joyce Z. Guinto-Sali, PhD for MSU-TCTO and Mayor Hon. Jasper S. Que, Al-Hajj for the Bongao LGU. Present during the event were Dean Prof. Mona Froida M. Langoh, PhD, Department Chairperson Prof. Zulfikarl B. Halun, DPA, university officials, faculty members of the Public Administration Department, Assistant Prof. Mylene C. Matolo, Lead Proponent of the Barangay Leadership Program, and Ms. Sheeremar B. Alih, representing the Sangguniang Bayan of Bongao.
The program aims to strengthen the leadership and governance capacities of Bongao’s 35 barangay chairmen, along with their secretaries, treasurers, and councilors. It includes leadership retreats, administrative systems workshops, participatory planning and budgeting clinics, and on-site mentoring. Each barangay is expected to produce a Barangay Leadership Development Plan (BLDP), which will be integrated into the Municipal Development Plan of Bongao.
The MOA outlines MSU-TCTO’s role in curriculum development, research, and technical mentorship, while LGU-Bongao commits to logistical support, funding, and mobilization. Both parties will jointly pursue external grants and sponsorships to sustain the program.
This partnership aligns with the 2025–2030 Municipal Development Plan of Bongao and supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities). It marks a significant step in advancing participatory governance, institutional resilience, and community empowerment in Bongao.
