To support college students with financial needs through the Cash-for-Work program, Catanduanes State University (CatSU), represented by President Dr. Gemma G. Acedo, formalized its partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Region V through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) for the agency’s “Tara, Basa! Tutoring Program” this afternoon, March 16, 2026, at Vela Hotel, Legazpi City.

President Acedo expressed the University’s full support and active participation in the initiative, which aims to promote literacy development and assist low-income families and college students.

Under the program, college students will serve as tutors for children struggling with reading and as Youth Development Workers, facilitating Nanay-Tatay Teacher Sessions to strengthen parents’ capacity to support their children’s learning.

Mandated under Executive Order No. 76, this flagship program ensures the cooperation of national and local government agencies in establishing a collaborative learning program. 

Launched in August 2023 and expanded in 2024, the program is now in its second cycle for 2026, partnering with agencies from the Department of Education Regional Office V, State and Local Universities and Colleges, and Provincial and Municipal Local Government Units.

Joining Dr. Acedo at the signing were Dr. Maria Sheila R. Gregorio, Dean of the College of Education, and Jowi B. Resayaga, Director of Extension Services and the program’s focal person. 

Through this collaboration, CatSU, DSWD Region V, and the Department of Education reaffirm their commitment to academic excellence and social development in the region.