Multi-Purpose Hall— The University, along with officials from the Provincial Local Government Unit and the Philippine National Police-Mountain Province, warmly welcomed Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rexlon T. Gatchalian and his delegation today 20 February 2026, for the Panagyaman: A Celebration of Partnership and Appreciation program. The event highlighted the Universityโs strengthened partnership with DSWD through student engagement and the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA).
The program commenced following Secretary Gatchalianโs radio interview on DZRA 107.3 FM Radyo Pilipinas Bontoc. Beneficiaries of DSWD Educational Assistance Programs, University officials, and representatives from partner agencies gathered to honor the occasion.
In his welcome message, University President Dr. Edgar G. Cue expressed gratitude on behalf of MPSU for the sustained collaboration with DSWD, emphasizing their shared commitment to student welfare and development.
Student beneficiaries also extended their appreciation. Ryan Valdez, representing cash assistance recipients, acknowledged the financial relief provided by DSWD. Mark Marquez, spokesperson for students who received food packs under the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) program, thanked Secretary Gatchalian and DSWD for their support. Meanwhile, Arriane Anongos, a grantee under the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program, expressed her gratitude for the agencyโs investment in education.
The signing of the MOA between President Cue and Secretary Gatchalian followed, witnessed by officials from MPSU, DSWD, and the PLGU.
Secretary Gatchalian reaffirmed DSWDโs commitment to continue providing financial assistance, cash-for-work opportunities, and other development programs to students. “We will continue extending financial assistance to our students, and we will continue to make sure not only to put emphasis on social welfare but also to focus on the development side,” he said.
Provincial Congressman Maximo Y. Dalog, Jr., also conveyed his thanks for DSWDโs assistance to students.
Prior to the program proper, DSWD-CAR conducted an open forum and mini-orientation led by Ms. Fatima Florendo.
Sec. Gatchalian was also honored by Mountain Province as its ‘adopted son,’ receiving the name “Sumeg-ang.”
Also in attendance during the program were DSWD-CAR OIC Regional Director Enrique H. Gascon, Jr.; Vice Governor Jose โJetโ O. Dominguez, who also represented Governor Bonifacio C. Lacwasan, Jr.; Board Members Joseph Alejandro C. Dominguez and Joshua B. Fronda; and Atty. Cyphrine Maxcel Dalog-Duclan from the Congressional Office.
From MPSU, Vice Presidents Dr. Geraldine L. Madjaco (Academic Affairs) and Mr. Reynadlo P. Gayo (Administration and Finance), VP for Innovation, Research, Development, Publication, and Extension Dr. Epiphania B. Magwilang represented by Ms. Luzlyn Magwilang, Chief of Staff to the University President Dr. Karen B. Cue, MPSU-Bontoc Administrator Dr. Arel B. Sia-ed, Scholarships and Grants Coordinator Mr. Jay B. Napanoy, other University officials, personnel and students.
The event marked a significant milestone in the continuing partnership between MPSU and DSWD to support student, social welfare and development.
