A significant step toward expanding educational opportunities for Indigenous Peoples (IP) students was marked by the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between Southern Luzon State University (SLSU) and Quezelco II Electric Cooperative, Inc. on April 27, 2026, held at the Quezelco II Main Office in Brgy. Gumian, Infanta, Quezon.
The partnership centers on Project T.I.K.A.S. (Tungo sa Integrasyon ng Karunungan at Abilidad ng mga Student IPs)—a collaborative initiative jointly developed by SLSU and the Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP) as part of an approved institutional research and capstone project. The initiative aims to empower Indigenous students through expanded access to education, strengthened career readiness, and holistic development.
Under the agreement, Quezelco II commits to providing scholarships to qualified IP students within its service areas who are enrolled at SLSU. This initiative forms part of the cooperative’s corporate social responsibility program, reflecting its dedication to inclusive growth and community development.
The MOA was formally signed by Dr. Frederick T. Villa, University President, and Ms. Annie A. Moises, Board President of Quezelco II. Serving as witnesses were Dr. Noreen P. Echague, Project Leader and DAP Scholar, and Engr. Von Erwin G. Azagra, General Manager of Quezelco II.
The event was also attended by key officials and stakeholders, including Ms. Maritess O. Villa, Officer-in-Charge of the Presidential Management Coordinating Office; Violeto N. Coronacion, Campus Director of SLSU Infanta; and Asst. Prof. Jan Marie P. Lubuguin, Program Chair of BS Mathematics and Focal Person for IP students. Members of the Quezelco II Board and its employees were likewise present to witness the milestone event.
This collaboration highlights a shared commitment between SLSU and Quezelco II to promote equitable access to higher education and create meaningful opportunities for Indigenous learners in Quezon Province. Through Project T.I.K.A.S., the partnership aspires not only to support students academically but also to empower them to contribute positively to their communities.
Under the agreement, Quezelco II commits to providing scholarships to qualified IP students within its service areas who are enrolled at SLSU. This initiative forms part of the cooperative’s corporate social responsibility program, reflecting its dedication to inclusive growth and community development.
The MOA was formally signed by Dr. Frederick T. Villa, University President, and Ms. Annie A. Moises, Board President of Quezelco II. Serving as witnesses were Dr. Noreen P. Echague, Project Leader and DAP Scholar, and Engr. Von Erwin G. Azagra, General Manager of Quezelco II.
The event was also attended by key officials and stakeholders, including Ms. Maritess O. Villa, Officer-in-Charge of the Presidential Management Coordinating Office; Violeto N. Coronacion, Campus Director of SLSU Infanta; and Asst. Prof. Jan Marie P. Lubuguin, Program Chair of BS Mathematics and Focal Person for IP students. Members of the Quezelco II Board and its employees were likewise present to witness the milestone event.
This collaboration highlights a shared commitment between SLSU and Quezelco II to promote equitable access to higher education and create meaningful opportunities for Indigenous learners in Quezon Province. Through Project T.I.K.A.S., the partnership aspires not only to support students academically but also to empower them to contribute positively to their communities.
Article: Noreen Echague
Photo: Maritess O. Villa and Quezelco II Electric Cooperative, Inc
Photo: Maritess O. Villa and Quezelco II Electric Cooperative, Inc