by Cherrie Mae M. Manuel
Baguio Central University (BCU), through its College of Business Administration (CBA), marked a significant milestone in community engagement and academic extension by signing a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with Barangay Loacan, Itogon, Benguet on July 18, 2025. The ceremonial signing, held at the Barangay Hall of Loacan, formalized the shared commitment of both institutions to foster development through education, social initiatives, and sustainable partnerships.
The MOA was signed by BCU University President and Chair, Board of Trustees, Dr. Margarita Cecilda B. Rillera and Punong Barangay Hon. Franklin M. Almoza, representing the university and the barangay, respectively. It underscored BCU-CBA’s dedication not only to building strong linkages with local government units but also to fulfilling its social responsibility as an academic institution by implementing programs that uplift and empower residents in the community, imbued with business skills and innovative entrepreneurial spirit.
This partnership is more than a paper because it signifies the shared commitment of both parties in changing the community through the different programs to be conducted.
BCU-CBA upholds the belief that its responsibility goes beyond academic instruction. As a higher education institution, it carries a moral and social obligation to actively engage in outreach efforts that are both meaningful and transformative, addressing the real needs of its partner communities. The collaboration with Barangay Loacan exemplifies this commitment—bridging academic knowledge with practical, community-centered initiatives. This partnership aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals: SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).
The signing was witnessed by notable officials from both parties. Representing BCU were Dr. Elma D. Donaal, Vice President for Academic Affairs; Dr. Cherrie Mae M. Manuel, College Dean; Ms. Arlene A. Mintas, University Extension Coordinator; and Dr. Jolly B. Mariacos, College Extension Focal Person. From Barangay Loacan were Kagawad Estrellita C. Apidos, Chair of the Committee on Finance, Budget & Appropriation, Social Services, Women, Children & Gender; Kagawad Deborah C. Todse, Chair of the Committee on Education and Culture & Arts; and SK Chairman Gessie P. Agustin, Chair of the Committee on Youth & Sports Development and Tourism.
As highlighted in the agreement, BCU-CBA recognizes the critical role of Local Government Units (LGUs) and civil society in shaping holistic education and community development. Through this collaboration, the university aims to implement outreach programs responsive to the developmental, educational, and livelihood needs of families in the barangay.
Barangay Loacan, in turn, expressed full support for the partnership, affirming its commitment to help realize BCU-CBA’s vision and mission by providing a platform for meaningful engagement.
Ultimately, this MOA not only reinforces BCU’s thrust to build linkages, but also exemplifies its greater mission—to be a catalyst of positive change through socially responsive and transformative academic actions. With this collaboration, both the university and the barangay move forward together in pursuit of inclusive growth and empowered communities.