Under the leadership of Regional Director Atty. Arnaldo E. Escober, Jr., CESO III, DILG Region 5 formalized its partnership for the CSO Academy of Bula, Camarines Sur through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with key stakeholders. The ceremony took place on January 22, 2025, at the Aquilino P. Bonto Building, Bicol University, and brought together vital collaborators:

• Bicol University Jessie M. Robredo Institute of Governance and Development (BUJMRIGD), led by President Dr. Baby Boy Benjamin D. Nebres III and Director Dr. Noemi Lobrigo-Ibo

• Local Government Unit of Bula (LGU Bula), represented by Hon. Gregorio L. Pontanal on behalf of Mayor Hon. Amelita A. Ibasco, alongside CSO Desk Officer/MPDO Dr. Mary Ruth Parro, EnP and Hon. Nellie P. Largo

• Municipality of Bula People’s Council (MBPC), led by President Dr. Antonio A. Raluta

In his message, RD Escober underscored the significance of collaboration between Bicol University, LGU Bula, and CSOs in fostering transparency, accountability, and sustainable development. He emphasized that this initiative is a vital step toward empowering civil society and strengthening participatory governance across the Bicol region.

The CSO Academy of Bula is the only CSO Academy established in the Bicol Region and the third of its kind in the country. Ahead of the MOA signing, the four parties engaged in strategic discussions to outline the operational and implementation plans for the CSO Academy. DILG 5, represented by LGMED Chief/RPMO Head LGOO VII Darlyn D. Ayende and DMO IV Gwyneth Andrae J. Jacob, provided insights and pledged full support in terms of technical assistance and resource augmentation to ensure the Academy’s success.