Surallah, South Cotabato—August 15, 2025. Holy Child Central Colleges, Inc. (HCCCI) has formally had a discussion to grow its partnership with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Surallah to strengthen collaboration in addressing pressing community needs through research-driven solutions. Anchored in HCCCI’s mission of producing globally competitive and socially responsible professionals, the institution will serve as the LGU’s academic and research partner, ensuring that community development initiatives are not only responsive but also evidence-based, measurable, and sustainable.

The technical meeting, held at the Surallah Municipal Hall, brought together HCCCI leaders and key municipal representatives to examine priority concerns in education, health, and livelihood. Particular attention was given to barangays with the highest proportion of indigenous families, where challenges such as access to quality education, wellness services, and livelihood opportunities remain pressing. As the research partner, HCCCI committed to providing data-driven insights, conducting studies on local concerns, and supporting the LGU in developing innovative responses to observed declines in various socio-economic activities.

Present during the meeting were representatives from the LGU, including the Municipal Planning and Development Council, the Municipal Health Office led by Ms. Cristine Daraug, RN, the Barangay Affairs Office represented by Mr. Serafin Ellaga Jr., the Early Childhood Care & Development (ECCD) Program represented by Ms. Melona Barrientos, the Public Employment Service Office (PESO) represented by Ms. Chelcy Huertas, and CDIP represented by Ms. Gracezyl Segura. From HCCCI, participants included Mr. Marlon L. Viejo, Director for Research; Mr. Jack Robin Lacerna, International Relations and Linkages Officer; Ms. Grasya T. Lumba, Community Extension Services Coordinator; and Ms. Rosecil S. Bayot, Head Librarian and Book Nook Surallah representative.

Each office of HCCCI plays a vital role in ensuring the partnership’s success. The Community Extension Services Office will spearhead on-the-ground projects and community programs, bringing academic expertise into meaningful action that uplifts families and strengthens local initiatives. The Book Nook Surallah and the School Library will serve as literacy hubs and safe learning spaces, enriching educational development and nurturing a culture of reading among children and youth. Meanwhile, the International Relations Office will leverage HCCCI’s global linkages to introduce fresh perspectives, foster cross-cultural collaborations, and connect Surallah’s community programs with international opportunities for growth and innovation. Collectively, these offices will align their efforts to create a holistic, research-based, and sustainable model of community development that showcases Surallah as a hub of inclusive and forward-looking initiatives.

Both parties expressed optimism in co-developing initiatives guided by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). By harnessing the strengths of academic research and local governance, HCCCI and the LGU aim to deliver projects that empower indigenous families, reduce inequalities, and create resilient and future-ready communities. The collaboration stands as a model of how higher education institutions and local governments can work hand in hand to drive inclusive, research-informed, and sustainable development.

With this partnership, both HCCCI and the LGU of Surallah reaffirm their shared commitment to transform research into action turning local challenges into opportunities for inclusive growth. By uniting the rigor of academic research with the responsiveness of local governance, the collaboration is set to deliver lasting impact not only for Surallah but also as a model for other municipalities in South Cotabato. This milestone marks the beginning of a long-term journey toward building empowered communities, nurturing indigenous heritage, and shaping a future where education, health, and livelihood thrive hand in hand with sustainability.