14/05/2026
PARTNERSHIP FOR CHANGE: MONCAST, LGU MONKAYO, AND DSWD UNITE FOR COMMUNITY TRANSFORMATION
A stronger bridge toward hope, opportunity, and inclusive development was formally established as Monkayo College of Arts, Sciences, and Technology (MonCAST), the Local Government Unit of Monkayo, and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) sealed their partnership through a Ceremonial Signing of Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) held on May 13, 2026, at the MonCAST Audio-Visual Room (AVR).
More than a ceremonial signing, the event symbolized a shared commitment to bring government services, sustainable livelihood opportunities, and community-based programs closer to the people, particularly those belonging to marginalized sectors.
Representing the partner institutions were Dr. Gary P. Lagatiera, College President for MonCAST; Hon. Manuel JayR N. Zamora, Jr., Municipal Mayor and Board of Trustees Chairperson for the LGU of Monkayo; and Dir. Merlinda A. Paragamac, RSW, MSDA, Assistant Regional Director for DSWD. Together, the three institutions affirmed their unified vision of empowering communities through education, extension services, and sustainable interventions.
In his message, Hon. Zamora emphasized that the partnership is not merely about implementing programs, but about transforming lives and ensuring that no sector is left behind.
For MonCAST, the collaboration reinforces the institution’s growing role beyond academics, positioning the College as an active partner in social development and community empowerment. Under the leadership of Dr. Lagatiera, the College continues to strengthen its extension initiatives by building meaningful partnerships that respond to real community needs.
The implementation of the partnership’s programs and projects will be coursed through the Research, Development, and Extension Office (RDEO) headed by Mr. Ronald D. Manolong, LPT, MAEd-ELT, Vice President for Research, Development, and Extension. Through community extens