The Department of the Interior and Local Government XII, through its LGRRC DOSE, and the University of Santo Tomas – General Santos inked Memorandum of Understanding today, July 7, 2025, in General Santos City.

The partnership aims to foster evidence-based policy and program development, enhance local governments performance, and contribute meaningfully to community development efforts across the region.

Atty. Rochelle D. Mahinay-Sero, CESE, Regional Director of DILG Region XII, underscored that the partnership between the Department and the University of Santo Tomas – General Santos has the potential to significantly contribute to both national and global development goals by accelerating the implementation of key priorities. She also reaffirmed the Department’s commitment to supporting the University’s objectives, including providing opportunities for students through the On-the-Job Training (OJT) Program and extending technical assistance as needed.

Meanwhile, Prof. Edilberto Manahan, PhD, Associate Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs, expressed the University’s full support for the collaboration and pledged to share their institutional expertise and resources in pursuit of shared goals.

Present during the ceremonial signing are Rev. Fr. Gerard Zabala, OP, Associate Vice-Rector for Religious Affairs, Mr. Silver S. Hiponia, Director of Communications Bureau, and Assoc. Prof. Leonardo M. Canoy, PhD, OIC Director of School of Business and Accountancy from the UST General Santos, while LGOO VII Ian Jon S. Clemente, LGMED Chief, Atty. Jane S. Torreon, Legal Officer, LGOO VI Mary Ann R. Traspe, LGCDD Assistant Chief, and Ms. Karen Grace A. Mohinog, Planning Officer, attended from the DILG Dose.