The Central Bicol State University of Agriculture (CBSUA) and the Department of Labor and Employment Region V (DOLE V) formalized a new partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on February 19, 2026, at the CBSUA Agriville. The agreement supports the integration of the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged Workers (TUPAD) program into the initial phase of the university’s pioneering Agrovoltaic Project.
The university is set to begin the development of its agrovoltaic farming site. In line with this initiative, the Agrovoltaic Farming Project and the University Job Placement Office, under the Office of Student Affairs and Services (OSAS), sought assistance from DOLE Region V. The engagement will run for 90 days and will deploy 100 eligible student beneficiaries to work on the project site. Participating students will receive corresponding compensation for their services under an earn-while-you-learn scheme. The program provides students with exposure to technical, agricultural, and construction-related tasks aligned with national competency standards. Skills developed throughout the program may qualify them for Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) National Certificates such as Solar PV Installation NC II, Masonry NC II, Carpentry NC II, and Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) NC II.
Present during the MOA signing was DOLE Region V Regional Director Imelda F. Gatinao. In her message, she affirmed DOLE V’s prompt response to the university’s call for support and underscored the importance of delivering timely and relevant services. She also encouraged student participants to take an active role in the program, stating, “We can only guide you. No one else can walk the path for you.”
In a short discussion, Engr. Dulce Maria Abigail Jastio, project head of the Agrovoltaic Farming Project, presented an overview of the initiative to DOLE V officials and explained how the newly forged partnership strategically supports its implementation. The officials were then toured around the site where the project will be developed.
Also present during the visit were key proponents of the partnership: Dr. Jessel Anne P. Rodriguez, OSAS Director (Pili); Mr. Rizalino S. Nidea, Job Placement Officer (Pili); and head of the partner unit, Dr. Jayson Dañas, Director of CBSUA Agriville and Learning Hub. Gracing also with their presence are OIC President and Vice President for Admin and Finance, Atty. Dominador F. Faurillo, and Campus Administrator, Dr. Allan B. Del Rosario.
The partnership reflects CBSUA’s commitment to providing relevant, learner-centered opportunities that prepare students early for work integration in their future professions.
