A Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the Central Bicol State University of Agriculture and the Local Government Unit of Calabanga was signed on March 3, 2025, at the Municipal Hall of LGU Calabanga. This marks a significant collaboration to develop a destination branding project for the municipality.
Hon. Eugene Norman B. Severo, Municipal Mayor of Calabanga, emphasized the importance of shaping a destination identity. By leveraging the municipality’s cultural, historical, and natural assets, this initiative aspires to define and develop Calabanga as a well-positioned destination municipality, setting a clear direction for its long-term growth and identity. His vision led to the conceptualization of the University as an Extension project, which seeks to establish and eventually enhance Calabanga’s identity as a tourist destination in the region. Additionally, through the CBSUA’s commitment to assisting the communities’ development, the project will integrate academic research and expertise in tourism development and ensure an impactful approach to branding the municipality.
Representing CBSUA at the event was Dr. Ernesto D. Doloso, Jr., Campus Administrator of CBSUA Calabanga, standing in for CBSUA President Dr. Alberto N. Naperi. The agreement signing was also witnessed by key officials from both institutions, including Ms. Eliosa Joyce Igno, who represented Prof. Ramona Isabel S. Ramirez, Vice President for Research and Innovation; Dr. Philip N. Talay, Dean of the College of Economics; and Prof. Vladimir R. Foronda, Director for Extension Services Division. CBSUA faculty members present included Ms. Mia Bella R. Fresnido, Mr. Enrique Antonio Villamor, Ms. Jennifer V. Perez, and its Project Leader, Prof. Hanilyn A. Hidalgo.
On the part of LGU Calabanga, Senior Tourism Operations Officer Ms. Miel S. Bongon, Municipal Councilor Hon. John Oliver Tabinas, Ms. Filipina E. Celso, CCC Administrator Angel Belleza, and Mr. Arnel Bueza were in attendance, showing their support for the initiative.
This partnership underscores the commitment of both CBSUA and LGU Calabanga to promoting rural tourism and fostering economic growth through a well-defined and strategic destination branding project. With the collaborative efforts of the academic and local government sectors, Calabanga is poised to shape a distinct and forward-looking identity for the municipality and position itself as a model for sustainable and inclusive growth. | 𝘙𝘦𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘱𝘩𝘰𝘵𝘰𝘴 𝘣𝘺 𝘔𝘢𝘳𝘷𝘪𝘯 𝘔𝘰𝘭𝘪𝘯
