MMDA and MLQU Sign Second MOA Expanding Partnership for Personnel Development and Educational Collaboration

Pasig City, Philippines — The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and Manuel L. Quezon University (MLQU) solidified their growing partnership through the signing of a second Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on October 11, 2024, at the MMDA Headquarters. MMDA Chairman Romando A. Artes and MLQU Executive Vice President Lucille P. Ortile represented the two institutions in this pivotal collaboration aimed at further enhancing the educational and professional development opportunities for MMDA personnel.

This MOA builds upon the initial agreement between MMDA and MLQU, which was primarily focused on providing post-graduate studies for MMDA officials and employees. The newly signed agreement significantly broadens the scope of collaboration to include continuing education, research, curriculum development, and hands-on training.

Expanding Educational Opportunities for MMDA Personnel

Under the new agreement, MMDA personnel will have access to specialized academic degree programs, short courses, and seminars offered by MLQU. In a move that highlights the shared commitment to capacity building, the MMDA will deploy thirty personnel—fifteen to enroll in the Bachelor of Science in Business Administration Major in Financial Management and another fifteen in the Bachelor of Science in Criminology—starting in the 2024 academic year. These programs are tailored to meet the specific needs of the MMDA workforce, ensuring that they acquire skills relevant to their roles in public safety, traffic management, and urban planning.

Additionally, MLQU will provide flexible learning arrangements for MMDA personnel, reflecting both institutions’ commitment to accessibility and professional development.

Curriculum Development and Research Collaboration

Another key area of the agreement focuses on joint efforts in curriculum development and research. Both parties will work together to continuously enhance MLQU’s academic programs, integrating real-world challenges faced by the MMDA. This partnership will help develop a workforce equipped to address the unique complexities of urban management in Metro Manila. Research projects, particularly in fields like financial management and criminology, will explore critical issues such as emergency fund creation, environmental crime, and zero-waste economies.

Hands-On Training for MLQU Students

Beyond academic collaboration, the MOA also paves the way for MLQU students to engage in on-the-job training and immersive learning experiences at MMDA. Through carefully coordinated student visits to non-confidential MMDA sites, students will gain a deeper understanding of urban management and public service.

Knowledge Exchange and Sharing of Resources

The agreement also promotes a culture of knowledge exchange. Both MMDA and MLQU personnel will serve as guest speakers and resource persons in each other’s seminars and trainings, allowing for a rich exchange of expertise. Furthermore, both institutions will share their facilities as necessary to implement the terms of this agreement.

A Stronger Partnership

Chairman Romando Artes highlighted the significance of this partnership in his remarks, stating, “Our collaboration with MLQU is not only about improving the skills of our personnel but also about contributing to the future of education and public service. This is a partnership that benefits both institutions and, more importantly, the communities we serve.”

Ms. Lucille Ortile echoed this sentiment, adding, “This MOA reflects MLQU’s commitment to community involvement and academic excellence. By working closely with MMDA, we are ensuring that our programs are not only relevant but impactful, preparing our students and their personnel to address the real-world challenges in urban governance and public service.”

The signing ceremony marks another significant step toward a long-term, impactful partnership between MMDA and MLQU. Both institutions look forward to continued collaboration that promotes professional growth, academic innovation, and societal development.

This partnership underscores a mutual vision for the future: one where education and public service go hand-in-hand, driving positive change in Metro Manila and beyond.