Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University (DMMMSU) and the Department of the Interior and Local Government – Local Government Academy (DILG-LGA) formalized their partnership through a ceremonial signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) during the 9th Capacity Development Accelerator Awards on December 12, 2024, at Centennial Hall, The Manila Hotel.

Dr. Bernardo D. Lamadrid, the Executive Director of the Open University System (OUS), represented DMMMSU President, Dr. Jaime I. Manuel, Jr. during the MOA signing. Also present was Prof. Claudia Denise P. Barbadillo, the Head for Extension at the Open University System (OUS).

The said MOU serves as a blueprint for cooperation between DILG-LGA, DILG Region I, and DMMMSU, focusing on developing innovative strategies to improve local governance and the efficient delivery of services. Central to this partnership is the shared vision of equipping LGUs, DILG personnel, and other stakeholders with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in governance and leadership. The agreement highlights several collaborative initiatives: Capacity Development Services, Resource Pool Expansion, and Research and Knowledge Sharing. This collaboration allows DMMMSU to contribute to building resilient and effective LGUs through education, research, and technical assistance.

DILG-LGA, the training arm of the DILG, is at the forefront of developing programs that empower local leaders and promote sustainable governance. By partnering with state universities like DMMMSU, LGA leverages academic expertise and resources to create localized, high-impact training modules. (By Claudia Denise P. Barbadillo)