TACLOBAN CITY, PHILIPPINES (May 19, 2026) – Signing of Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) Between Leyte Normal University (LNU) and Brgy. Paraiso Council.

Leyte Normal University (LNU) and Barangay Paraiso, San Jose, Tacloban, officially sealed their partnership for the PROGRAM DISCIPLE (DoIng SCIence for the peoPLE) through a signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) at the LNU OUP Conference Room on May 19, 2026.

Present in the event were LNU President Dr. Gil Nicetas B. Villarino and CESO Director Dr. Lowell A. Quisumbing, alongside BS Biology Program Head Prof. Facundo Rey M. Ladiao, BSED-Science faculty Jill Christine H. Miralles, and other BS Biology faculty members.

Barangay Paraiso was represented by Brgy. Captain Hon. Jan Michael L. De Veyra, Secretary Mrs. Carmencita B. Petencio, and Mr. Roque Regis, Chairman of the Paraiso Tacloban Fisherfolk Mangrove Eco Learning Service Cooperative (PATFIMELPSECO).

The extension initiative is composed of four specialized projects:

(1) BS Biology major in Biotechnology spearheads the Project PETER or the Propagation and Enhancement through Tissue-cultured Ceriops tagal for Ecological Restoration and Rural livelihood in Tacloban City;

(2) BS Biology major in Environmental Biology for Project PHILIPS, a Community-Based Conservation and Sustainable Management of Mangrove Ecosystems;

(3) BS Biology major in Medical Biology for Project BARTHOLOMEW, that is Building Awareness for Resilient Health THrough Optimal LifEstyle ManagemEnt and Well-being; and

(4) BSED Science for Project JAMES, Joint Action for Mangrove Education and Sustainability.

This initiative promotes community development in Barangay Paraiso through science-based efforts in environmental conservation, sustainable livelihoods, education, and health. It also aims to foster resilience, environmental responsibility, and empowerment for sustainable growth and a better quality of life.

Published by: Rico Combinido | IT Support Office