The Department of Education (DepEd) Dagupan City Alternative Learning System (ALS) forged a partnership with Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University-Mid La Union Campus (DMMMSU-MLUC) College of Education. The strategic collaboration utilizes the Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program (ETEEAP) to improve ALS teachers’ educational backgrounds and abilities.

The partnership was formalized during a coordination meeting attended by key officials from both institutions last February 28, 2025 at DMMMSU-MLUC. DepEd Dagupan City ALS was represented by Dr. Edwin R. Ferrer, ALS Supervisor, Mr. Freddie M. Soriano, Education Program Specialist, and ALS teachers Mr. Eunike Bautista and Mr. Ernie Aquino. DMMMSU-MLUC was represented by Dr. Eduardo C. Corpuz (Chancellor), Dr. Cedric Anthony E. Ochoco (Dean, CE), Prof. Myal A. Guba (Program Chairperson, Bachelor of Technical-Vocational Teacher Education and the Bachelor of Technology and Livelihood Education), and Dr. Frederick M. Manuel, Officer-In-Charge.

The initiative demonstrates DepEd Dagupan ALS and DMMMSU-MLUC’s dedication to expanding inclusive learning. Through their support of teacher development initiatives, the partnership works to enhance the quality of educational instruction in ALS classrooms, which leads to better learning opportunities for various students throughout the region. (By Arrianne Michelle Fabro)