BALAGTAS, BULACAN — In a significant move to strengthen local government capability and promote professional excellence in public service, the Bulacan Agricultural State College (BASC) and the Municipality of Balagtas formally signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the implementation of a Capacity Enhancement Program aimed at preparing municipal employees for the upcoming Civil Service Commission (CSC) Examination.

Held on February 12, 2026, at the 4th Floor of the Municipal Government Plaza in Bigaa, Borol 1st, the ceremonial signing marks another milestone in BASC’s continuing efforts to extend its academic expertise beyond the classroom and into the communities it serves.

The program will benefit 40 employees of the Municipality of Balagtas, equipping them with effective strategies, review sessions, and mentoring support as they prepare for the CSC Examination scheduled on March 8, 2026. Through this initiative, BASC aims to empower public servants with the competencies and confidence needed to achieve eligibility and enhance their professional growth.

This undertaking is part of BASC’s ongoing commitment to community engagement and public service. The review sessions were originally developed for the College’s own non-teaching personnel through the coordinated efforts of the Human Resource Management Office (HRMO) and the Public Affairs and Information Office (PAIO), and following its success, the program has been expanded to support partner local government units. The Balagtas initiative represents Phase II of the project, building on the achievements of Phase I conducted in the Municipality of San Ildefonso.

“This is about extending the expertise of our institution beyond the classroom. By helping our partners strengthen their workforce, we contribute to better governance and improved public service delivery”, explained Mr. Alvin DC. Pangilinan, Phase II Proponent, as he emphasized the importance of sharing the knowledge and expertise of BASC with its stakeholders.

Leading the BASC delegation were College President Dr. Jameson H. Tan, Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Cecilia S. Santiago, and College of Education Dean Dr. Maria Krisvie Abigale F. Mendoza, along with instructors Mr. Jerald D. Valmores, Phase I Proponent, and Mr. Pangilinan. The Municipality of Balagtas was represented by Mayor Adrian J. Santiago, Councilor Ian S. De Guzman, and Human Resource Management Officer Ms. Teresita D. Reyes.

The partnership is set to run until August 30, 2026, with both institutions already exploring opportunities for its continuation and expansion. Beyond examination preparation, the collaboration seeks to promote lifelong learning, professional development, and the strengthening of human resources in local governance.

More than just a review program, the initiative highlights the power of collaboration between higher education institutions and local government units. By investing in the professional growth of public servants, BASC and the Municipality of Balagtas are working together to build a more competent, responsive, and resilient public sector.

As the participants begin their intensive preparation, the program stands as a testament to BASC’s vision of being a catalyst for innovation, community development, and inclusive growth. Through partnerships like this, the College continues to demonstrate its commitment to nation-building, empowering individuals, and creating meaningful impact beyond its campus.

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