By Shanell Jay Aguinaldo

Mariano Marcos State University and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Region I signed a memorandum of agreement (MoA) today, September 13, at the Center for Flexible Learning to establish a Job Placement Office (JPO) in MMSU.

This partnership promotes equal employment opportunities and provides comprehensive job assistance to all MMSU graduates and job seekers. In his welcome remarks, Dr. Oscar M. Agpaoa, vice president for finance and administration, reiterated the university’s commitment to address unemployment and inequality. 

DOLE Regional Director Exequiel Ronie Guzman commended MMSU as one of the first universities to partner with the agency. “We are now giving the academe the authority to do job fairs and bring employers opportunities to consult and address the issue of job mismatch.” He also shared his BBM formula to address employment problems between job seekers and potential employers: Bridging the gap, Building Opportunities, and Making it happen. 

Also gracing the event was Hon. Albert Chua, city mayor of Batac, who praised DOLE and MMSU for the partnership. He affirmed the city’s strong partnership with MMSU for the development and welfare of students and welcomed opportunities for collaboration with the national agency. 

Dr. Prima Fe Franco, MMSU OIC President, emphasized the importance of this collaboration, stating that the university is committed to helping its graduates find meaningful employment. She boasted of MMSU's efforts to develop ready human capital for the job world. With prior initiatives such as job fairs, student placement assistance, and support mechanisms. “With this new partnership, we hope to bridge the gap further and build opportunities,” Dr. Franco said. 

The signing ceremony was witnessed by officials and staff from MMSU, DOLE Region I, and the City Government of Batac.

Dr. Fides Bernardo Bitanga, director of HRMO, lauded the new partnership and encouraged support for the new office, which will be assigned to Ms. Madelyn Quitoriano under the Office of Student Affairs and Services. 

The creation of the JPO follows the requirements set by Section 2 of DOLE Department Order No. 157, Series of 2016, underscoring the university's compliance with national employment initiatives.