The Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology (NEUST) and Manuel V. Gallego Foundation Colleges, Inc. (MVGFC) formalized a partnership for collaborative research and extension services through a ceremonial signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on May 20, 2026, at the President’s Conference Room, NEUST General Tinio St. Campus, Cabanatuan City.

NEUST President Dr. Rhodora Jugo signed the agreement on behalf of the university, while MVGFC President Dr. Joseph Gallego represented and signed for MVGFC.

The MOA provides a framework for cooperation in implementing extension programs under the Globalized Research-based Extension and Training through the Comprehensive Program for Empowerment and Development (GREAT-COPED), as well as for conducting collaborative research activities in communities within Nueva Ecija and nearby areas.

In her message, Dr. Jugo emphasized the value of institutional collaboration in building better communities and advancing the university’s mission in research and extension.

“As the saying goes, it takes a village to raise a child; in the same vein, it takes institutions that need to collaborate in order to build better communities,” Dr. Jugo said.

She also underscored the importance of making the presence of the university felt in the community through initiatives that help uplift the lives of stakeholders.

Dr. Jean Guillasper, NEUST Vice President for Research, Extension, and Training, said the partnership is expected to create productive engagements, innovative initiatives, and lasting institutional relationships between the two higher education institutions.

Under the agreement, NEUST will lead the technical implementation of extension programs under GREAT-COPED by providing expertise, best practices, technical assistance, and research-extension models to support community-based programs, training, and capacity-building activities.

MVGFC, meanwhile, will collaborate with NEUST by identifying target communities and beneficiaries, providing logistical and administrative support, and mobilizing its faculty, staff, and students for extension and research activities.

Both institutions will also work together in conducting joint research, including needs assessments, program evaluations, impact studies, fieldwork, data gathering, publication, dissemination of findings, and monitoring and evaluation to ensure the quality, relevance, and impact of their collaborative programs.

Dr. Gallego expressed MVGFC’s commitment to the partnership, saying the collaboration would help strengthen institutional capabilities and create opportunities for faculty, researchers, and students.

“We believe that by combining our strengths and resources, we can contribute more effectively to community development and nation-building,” Dr. Gallego said.

Dr. Marilene Hipolito, Director of the NEUST Research Services Department, said the MOA reflects the shared commitment of both institutions to advance research, extension, innovation, and community development.

She added that the partnership seeks to translate research into responsive extension programs that directly benefit society.

In her closing remarks, Dr. Marivic Villegas, Director of the NEUST Extension Services Department, said the collaboration opens opportunities for innovation, growth, and meaningful service through extension services, research, community development, and resource sharing.

“When institutions work together for a purpose, greater things can be achieved,” Dr. Villegas said.

The agreement will remain in full force for three years, providing both institutions with a sustained platform for academic cooperation, community engagement, and evidence-based development initiatives.

The ceremonial signing was witnessed by NEUST officials, including Dr. Kenneth Armas, Director of the Planning and Development Office, and Dr. Filwyn Villanueva of the Extension Services Department, together with MVGFC representatives Dr. Rachael Moralde, Dr. Rene Boy Abiva, Teny Peralta, Emilie Pamplona, and Hiroshi Ruiz.

Through GREAT-COPED, NEUST continues to advance its extension mandate by integrating research, innovation, and community engagement toward transformative and sustainable outcomes.

By forging partnerships of this nature, NEUST strengthens its role as a university that brings knowledge, research, and public service closer to communities while promoting sustainable, inclusive, and innovation-driven development in Nueva Ecija and beyond.

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