Holy Child Central Colleges, Inc. (HCCCI) continues to reaffirm its dedication to innovation and inclusive community development through a ceremonial partnership event with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Provincial Office XII, held on October 13, 2025, at the HCCCI Campus 1 Lobby. This event marked the beginning of a strategic collaboration between the two institutions aimed at advancing community-based research and fostering a culture of scientific inquiry, technological innovation, and sustainable development across Mindanao and beyond. The ceremony also coincided with the grand launch of the Center for Innovation and Robotics Initiative (CiRi), a newly established hub designed to integrate science, technology, and research into the heart of education at HCCCI.

The event opened with an inspiring message from HCCCI’s Executive Vice President, Ms. Vanessa Marie L. Antiquin, MMEM, who underscored the institution’s steadfast mission to bridge academic excellence with real-world innovation that responds to community needs. Mr. Marlon L. Viejo, HCCCI’s Research Director, further highlighted the institution’s remarkable journey in cultivating a strong culture of research and innovation, alongside its expanding international collaborations. Together, these efforts demonstrate HCCCI’s vision of shaping educational models that are globally connected yet deeply rooted in local realities.

Present during the MOU ceremonial signing were Provincial Director Giselle Eve O. Siladan of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) South Cotabato Provincial Office and Mr. Joseph Latoza, PIC-II from the Department of Education (DepEd) Surallah Central District. Representing the HCCCI administration were Vanessa Marie L. Antiquin, Executive Vice President; Dr. Erwin M. Faller, Academic Director; Engr. Edicio M. Faller, Designate IT and Robotics Consultant; Mr. Lowel D. Pasinag, LPT, MMEM, Basic Education Principal; Mark Laurence J. Fano,LPT, MALT, CHRA, Dean of the College of Teachers Education; Mr. Marlon L. Viejo, Research Director; Mr. Rey Patrick Jugos, Program head of the College of Criminal Justice; Ms. Marhivic O. Baldon, MIT, Program Head of the College of Computer Studies; and Ms. Kimberly Jean Surmion, RPh, MSPh, Program Head of the College of Allied Health and Sciences.

The HCCCI–DOST partnership is anchored on a shared vision of harnessing science, technology, and innovation to achieve inclusive national development. It seeks to nurture and train technologically adept individuals who can transform knowledge into solutions that improve lives and strengthen communities. Beyond academic pursuits, the partnership emphasizes collaborative research and extension activities that engage local government units, national agencies, and other educational institutions. At its core, it promotes ethical principles, community ownership, sustainability, and cultural sensitivity—ensuring that every innovation remains grounded in human values and local identity.

This collaboration also aligns closely with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities). By fostering community-based research and expanding access to innovation, DOST and HCCCI contribute to building more resilient and equitable societies. The partnership envisions research initiatives that address critical issues such as health accessibility, environmental sustainability, technological inclusion, and economic empowerment—laying the foundation for long-term social transformation across local communities.

As HCCCI continues to expand its research frontiers through CiRi, this collaboration with DOST opens new pathways for innovation-driven education and grassroots empowerment. It reflects a shared belief that technological progress must be guided by compassion, cultural understanding, and inclusivity. The partnership will serve as a catalyst for interdisciplinary projects, community-based innovation hubs, and student-led initiatives that utilize science and technology for the common good.

Moving forward, both institutions are committed to transforming this ceremonial partnership into concrete action. Future plans include the establishment of joint research programs, faculty and student capacity-building initiatives, and community extension projects that embody sustainable and ethical research practices. Collaborative studies will prioritize local challenges—ranging from agricultural innovation and climate resilience to digital transformation and indigenous community development. Through these efforts, HCCCI and DOST aim to co-create a model for education and research that aligns with the national development agenda while strengthening Mindanao’s role as a center for sustainable innovation.

The partnership between HCCCI and DOST marks a transformative milestone toward realizing a shared vision where science and education go hand in hand in building a future that is both technologically advanced and socially inclusive. With the Center for Innovation and Robotics Initiative (CiRi) as a cornerstone, this collaboration embodies HCCCI’s continuing mission—to empower learners, uplift communities, and contribute to a world where progress truly serves all.