CNSC-CAS and Brgy. Catandunganon Forge Partnership for Community Empowerment
On May 30, 2023, a new partnership was established through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement between CNSC–College of Arts and Sciences (CAS), represented by College President Dr. Marlo M. De La Cruz, and the Barangay Council of Catandunganon, Mercedes, Camarines Norte, led by Punong Barangay, Jovito Gardona. The agreement aims to empower local communities—including staff, people’s organizations, and various sectors—by enhancing quality of life through income-generating initiatives, capacity-building, livelihood training, and environmental conservation programs.
Following the MOA signing, both parties actively participated in Part 2 of the planning activity, facilitated by Dr. Rusty G. Abanto, lead proponent of the project and BS Biology faculty member. With the support of Extension Coordinator Ms. Sheela G. Salvador and BS Biology faculty member Ms. Maria Angelica M. Ella, the visiting barangay representatives were also given a guided campus tour to cap off the day’s meaningful collaboration.