Tacurong City, Sultan Kudarat – In a significant step towards promoting peace and community development, the 1st Mechanized Infantry (Maaasahan) Brigade and Sultan Kudarat State University (SKSU) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on October 29, 2024. The signing ceremony took place at the Headquarters of the 1st Mechanized Infantry Brigade, Camp Leono, Barangay Kalandagan, Tacurong City.
BGen Andre B. Santos, PA, and Dr. Jesusa D. Ortouste, OIC President of SKSU, led the MOU signing to foster stronger ties between the military and the academic community in Sultan Kudarat. The partnership aims to educate SKSU students on preventing radicalization and violent extremism by understanding and countering extremist influences on the respective campuses. Regular lectures will be conducted to prevent students from involvement in such activities and raise awareness about the dangers of illegal drugs and explosive threats. The initiative also focuses on encouraging constructive dialogue and critical thinking to help students resist extremist ideologies and support those at risk. Additionally, it seeks to inspire patriotism among the youth and reject violence, contributing to nation-building.
Dr. Ortouste was accompanied by Dr. Reynaldo H. Dalayap, Jr., Vice President for Finance, Administration, and Resource Generation, as well as representatives from the Planning and Legal Offices who played an instrumental role in this initiative. These representatives included Mr. Ralfh Andrew Dacutin, Ms. BC Aiza D. Hechanova, Engr. Katherine Joyce S. Lauraya, Engr. Cyril Bryan M. Sales, Mr. Peping A. Badal, and Engr. Abdulmanap K. Tato.
Expressing her excitement, Dr. Ortouste noted that it was her first visit to the camp and, as far as she can remember, the first formal partnership between SKSU and the Brigade. She grew emotional as she shared that she will be retiring from government service by the end of the year. She commended the SKSU team for their commitment in bringing the MOU to realization and expressed hope that the partnership would be maintained and strengthened.
The collaboration will be supported by the Joint Task Force Talakudong, led by COL Ronel R. Manalo, ARM (GSC), PA. Notable attendees included PLTC Jose Ramirez Simangan, Chief of the Provincial Operations Management Unit of SKPPO, and MAJ Librado Ulonan Jr. of the 1202 CDC, 12RCDG, who will play vital roles in implementing the collaboration.
This partnership underscores a strong commitment to enhancing academic and community engagement. By bridging military operations with educational initiatives, the MOU paves the way for a comprehensive approach to peacebuilding and regional development, fostering a secure and prosperous future for generations to come.
