Center for Community and Local Governance Studies and Policy Development

𝐂𝐀𝐑𝐄 𝐏𝐔𝐑𝐀 𝐔𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞 |

On June 18, 2026, TSU-CCLGSPD partnered with the College of Arts and Social Sciences–Psychology and Human Services Department and Pura's Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office to hold a seminar, "Kung Ano ang Puno: Kwentuhan Tungkol sa Values," for parents of daycare children under the CARE Program.

Dr. Grace Anne C. Hasegawa led the discussion on moral values in parenting, encouraging parents to be good role models and pass on strong values to their children. Ms. Jezreel Zam A. Nocido and Mr. Vincent Joshue R. Valino facilitated activities that helped parents examine their own values and influence on their children.

The seminar reminded parents that their beliefs and actions shape their children, and that strong moral values serve as a lifelong guide. Parents left with practical insights on raising respectful, responsible kids.

𝐓𝐒𝐔 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐌𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐩𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐀𝐧𝐚𝐨 𝐑𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐰 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐂𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐝 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐔𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐀𝐑𝐄 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭

Tarlac State University (TSU), through its Center for Community and Local Governance Studies and Policy Development (CCLGSPD), and the Municipality of Anao, Tarlac renewed their Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the Consultancy and Research on Localizing Child Protection Policy in the Municipality of Anao, known as the CARE-Anao Project, on June 18, 2026, at the Mayor's Conference Hall of the Anao Municipal Hall.

The renewed agreement extends the partnership until May 2028, continuing a collaboration aimed at helping the local government craft and implement a localized child protection policy, strengthen the capacity of the Local Council for the Protection of Children (LCPC), and provide legal, psychosocial, and technical assistance to the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO).

The ceremony was attended by key officials from both sides. TSU was represented by Atty. Brigido B. Corpuz, Executive Assistant, on behalf of University President Dr. Jasper Jay N. Mendoza, along with VP for Research, Innovation, and Extension Dr. Niño B. Corpuz, College of Education Dean Dr. Cynthia G. Quiambao, CCLGSPD Director Asst. Prof. Vien Jamaica D. Samson, and Department Head Mr. John H. Lanuzo.

The Municipality of Anao was represented by Mayor Hon. Gian Pierre O. De Dios, Sangguniang Bayan members, and MSWDO Officer Ms. Maricar Butay.

Dr. Niño Corpuz delivered the welcome remarks, highlighting the importance of early childhood education and the value of programs that directly benefit children. Asst. Prof. Samson followed with a presentation on the CARE program's accomplishments in the municipality over the past two years. Both Atty. Corpuz and Mayor De Dios then delivered their respective Statements of Commitment, pledging continued support for the project and for the children of Anao.

The CCLGSPD extends its sincerest congratulations to Asst. Prof. Vien Jamaica D. Samson on her designation as the new Director of CCLGSPD!

Having served the center with excellence and dedication as its Department Head, Asst. Prof. Samson's journey with CCLGSPD is a testament to her unwavering commitment to the center's vision and mission. Her familiarity with the center, combined with her proven leadership and passion for community governance and policy development, makes her more than ready to take on this new responsibility.

We have no doubt that her appointment will usher in a new era of growth, innovation, and impactful service for CCLGSPD. Congratulations, Asst. Prof. Samson — this is a well-earned and well-deserved recognition of your hard work and dedication.

The entire CCLGSPD family is behind you all the way!

The Center for Community and Local Governance Studies and Policy Development congratulates and celebrates Dr. Cynthia G. Quiambao on her designation as the new Dean of the College of Education at Tarlac State University!

As we cheer on this well-deserved milestone, CCLGSPD also takes this moment to express its deepest gratitude to Dr. Quiambao for her dedicated service as Director of CCLGSPD. Her leadership, vision, and passion for community engagement and policy development have shaped the center into what it is today. She has been a driving force behind every initiative, every collaboration, and every breakthrough that CCLGSPD has achieved under her watch.

While we will greatly miss her presence and guidance as our Director, we take pride in knowing that her new role as Dean will allow her to continue making a profound impact — this time, in shaping the future of education at TSU.

Congratulations, Dr. Quiambao! CCLGSPD is forever grateful for your service, and we wish you every success as you take on this exciting new chapter.

CCLGSPD extends its heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to Atty. Wilmark J. Ramos as he steps down from his role as Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension of Tarlac State University.

Your leadership, dedication, and unwavering commitment to advancing research, innovation, and extension have left a lasting mark on the university and the communities we serve. Under your guidance, CCLGSPD and the entire TSU community have grown, thrived, and made meaningful strides toward excellence.

The Center for Community and Local Governance Studies and Policy Development (CCLGSPD) extends its warmest congratulations to Dr. Niño B. Corpuz on his designation as the new Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension (VPRIE) of Tarlac State University!

As we welcome Dr. Corpuz into this pivotal role, CCLGSPD looks forward to meaningful collaborations and shared milestones that will advance the university's mission of service, excellence, and innovation. May his leadership bring impactful breakthroughs and transformative programs that will benefit the university and the communities we serve.

Congratulations and welcome, Dr. Niño B. Corpuz!

𝐂𝐂𝐋𝐆𝐒𝐏𝐃 𝐀𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐬 𝐂𝐞𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐂𝐏𝐀𝐆 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐬

The CCLGSPD recently awarded Certificates of Completion to the interns from the College of Public Administration and Governance for successfully completing their 200-hour internship program.

Throughout their internship, the students actively contributed to the center by assisting in daily office operations and participating in various community-related initiatives. Their dedication, teamwork, and willingness to learn played a vital role in supporting the center's ongoing projects and services.

The CCLGSPD extends its heartfelt gratitude to the interns for their meaningful contributions and encourages them to stay engaged in public service and continue supporting community development.

𝐂𝐂𝐋𝐆𝐒𝐏𝐃 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐅𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐒𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐒𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐲 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐃𝐫𝐚𝐟𝐭 𝐎𝐫𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐏𝐮𝐫𝐚 𝐋𝐆𝐔

On June 2, 2026, CCLGSPD met with Hon. John Paul M. Balmores, Municipal Mayor of Pura, Tarlac, to present the findings of the research study entitled “Evaluating Food Establishment Compliance with the Sanitation Code in Pura, Tarlac: A Foundation for Enhanced Local Governance.”

The study, led by Mr. Aljon N. Lusong and co-authored by Ms. Vien Jamaica D. Samson and Dr. Cynthia G. Quiambao, assessed the compliance of food establishments with Presidential Decree No. 856, Chapter III, or the Sanitation Code of the Philippines. It examined the profile of food establishments, their level of compliance with sanitation standards, factors influencing compliance, and the common challenges encountered by food business operators.

During the meeting, the research team presented the key findings and recommendations of the study, highlighting areas that may be strengthened to improve food safety and sanitation practices in the municipality. The team also presented a draft ordinance formulated from the study’s findings and recommendations, providing an opportunity for stakeholders to share insights and recommendations for its further enhancement.

Representatives from the Rural Health Unit, Business Permit and Licensing Office, and some members of the Sangguniang Kabataan participated in the discussion, reflecting a collaborative effort among local stakeholders to promote public health, food safety, and evidence-based local governance in Pura.

𝐂𝐂𝐋𝐆𝐒𝐏𝐃 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐭𝐬 𝐍𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐬 𝐀𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐌𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐑𝐚𝐦𝐨𝐬 𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐇𝐢𝐠𝐡 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥 𝐭𝐨 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐄𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐈𝐧𝐧𝐨𝐯𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧

CCLGSPD conducted a needs assessment meeting with Ramos National High School on May 29, 2026, at the school campus to discuss the institution’s request for technical assistance and capacity-building initiatives. The consultation focused on key areas identified by the school, including Electronics and Robotics, Research and Artificial Intelligence (AI) Integration, and the enhancement of pedagogical approaches and effective teaching strategies in Science Education.

The meeting was attended by Dr. Cynthia G. Quiambao, Director of CCLGSPD; Ms. Vien Jamaica D. Samson, Department Head; and faculty experts from various academic units of the university. Representatives from the College of Computer Studies included Dr. Carlos Flores Jr., Mr. Gilbert Gonzales, Mr. Joselito Tan, Mr. Rengel Corpuz, Mr. Kwinno Pineda, Ms. Karizza Felix, and Ms. Jiane Moiniwue Diamzon. Also present were Engr. Mark Benz Pineda and Engr. Don Louie Sanvictores from the College of Engineering, Mr. Jayson Punzalan from the College of Education, and Engr. Emir Lenard S. F. Sicangco, Director of the Office of the University Extension Services.

Representing Ramos National High School were Dr. Evelyn D. Gallarde, School Principal, together with the STEM and STE teachers who actively participated in the discussions and shared the current needs and challenges encountered by the institution.

The meeting served as a platform for both parties to comprehensively assess the school’s needs and determine the most appropriate interventions and extension initiatives that could be provided by the university. Through open dialogue and collaborative discussions, participants exchanged ideas, identified existing issues and concerns, and explored potential strategies to strengthen the school’s programs in science, technology, research, and innovation.

The activity highlighted the commitment of both institutions to fostering academic excellence and advancing educational opportunities for learners and teachers. The insights gathered during the needs assessment will serve as the basis for developing responsive extension programs and collaborative projects aimed at enhancing the competencies of educators and promoting quality science and technology education at Ramos National High School.

𝐓𝐒𝐔 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐌𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐩𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐂𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐂𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐝 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐓𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐑𝐓+

Tarlac State University (TSU), through the Center for Community and Local Governance Studies and Policy Development (CCLGSPD), officially forged a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Municipality of Camiling on May 26, at the Sangguniang Bayan Hall in Camiling, Tarlac. The occasion marks Camiling as the fifth among eight municipalities to formally come on board with Project START+: Advancing Capacity of Child Development Workers Across All Municipalities — a long-term extension and research initiative dedicated to elevating the skills, knowledge, and professional growth of Child Development Workers (CDWs) serving the communities of Tarlac Province.

Representing TSU at the ceremony were University President Dr. Jasper Jay N. Mendoza, Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension Atty. Wilmark J. Ramos, Executive Assistant to the OVPAA Mr. Deyo Carlos Dela Cruz, CCLGSPD Director Dr. Cynthia G. Quiambao, and Department Heads Ms. Vien Jamaica D. Samson and Mr. John H. Lanuzo. The local government of Camiling was represented by Mayor Hon. Joyce Benitez Agustin, Vice Mayor Hon. Gladys T. Agustin, Councilors Hon. Albert B. Jose and Hon. Jesus A. Corpuz, and MSWDO Officer Ms. Rikka Kireina Lamorena Andres.

Atty. Ramos opened the program with remarks that set a meaningful tone for the event, reminding those in attendance that true community progress begins with a strong foundation built for children — and that this is only possible when those who care for them, the CDWs, are equipped with the right knowledge and skills. His words underscored the urgency and relevance of Project START+ as a vehicle for lasting change in the lives of both workers and the communities they serve.

Ms. Samson followed with a presentation on the background and rationale of the project, providing context on why such an initiative is critical at this point in time. Mr. Lanuzo then laid out the project's key objectives in detail, which include widening access to CDW training and development opportunities, providing tailored support for children with special needs, fostering stronger parental engagement in early childhood programs, and championing local legislation that safeguards the rights and welfare of CDWs.

University President Dr. Mendoza opened his message by recognizing the irreplaceable role of CDWs in every child's journey, noting that long before a child enters a formal classroom, it is the CDW who serves as their first teacher — nurturing curiosity, building confidence, and laying the earliest foundations of learning. It is in their hands, he emphasized, that a child's future quietly begins to take shape.He then affirmed TSU's commitment to opening lasting pathways for CDWs to pursue continuing education, stressing that growth must never stop at a single seminar. He pledged that through Project START+, CDWs will be equipped with the knowledge, tools, and support they need to grow in their profession and serve with greater confidence. TSU, he added, will actively study their welfare through genuine research — ensuring their needs are not just heard, but acted upon. He closed with an inspiring outlook, expressing his belief that Camiling, years from now, will stand as a community made stronger because its leaders chose to invest in the right people today.

Mayor Hon. Joyce Benitez Agustin likewise took the floor to share her thoughts on the partnership, calling it a meaningful milestone for the local government of Camiling. She emphasized that the MOA reflects a shared commitment between the LGU and TSU to genuinely strengthen the capacities of CDWs through education and community development. Mayor Agustin also expressed her deep appreciation for the university's initiative in reaching out to local governments like Camiling — extending not just academic expertise, but a sincere and collaborative spirit of partnership that the municipality warmly welcomes.

Dr. Quiambao closed the program with warm and grateful remarks, extending her appreciation to the Municipality of Camiling and to every individual whose dedication and hard work made the partnership a reality.

With Camiling now officially part of the fold, Project START+ continues to expand its reach across Tarlac Province, with five of eigth municipalities having signed the MOA. The growing list of partners reflects a collective resolve to uplift the CDW community and, in doing so, build a stronger foundation for the children and families they serve every day.