The Agusan del Sur State College of Agriculture and Technology (ASSCAT) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Caraga formalized a strengthened partnership today through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) during the Man, Mine and Land Forum: Shared Responsibility, Shared Future held at the Socio-Cultural Center of the ASSCAT Main Campus.

The forum served as a strategic platform for both institutions to reaffirm their shared commitment to sustainable land management, environmental conservation, and responsible resource utilization. These priorities respond to the increasingly complex environmental challenges faced by communities across the Caraga Region.

The discussions were enriched by the participation of representatives from DENR, local government units, partner agencies, and the private sector. Among the key participants were For. Ricardo Calderon, National Project Manager for Forest and Landscape Restoration, For. Jerome H. Albia, CENR Officer of DENR Bunawan, and For. Orlando Panganiban, Social Forestry Specialist. Their presentations emphasized the need for coordinated and science-based approaches to address land degradation, deforestation, and resource management.

Philsaga Mining Corporation also joined the forum and presented its ongoing efforts under the Annual Environmental Protection and Enhancement Program and its Corporate Social Responsibility programs. Their contribution demonstrated the role of responsible mining stakeholders in advancing environmental protection, community development, and long-term sustainability initiatives in the province.

Representing ASSCAT President Dr. Joy C. Capistrano, Dr. Sarah M. Ravelo, Dean of the College of Agriculture, reiterated ASSCAT’s commitment to environmental stewardship through research, instruction, and community extension. She was joined by Dr. Rodrigo L. Bongolan Jr., who discussed mulberry production in relation to sustainable agroforestry systems, and Mr. Leandreux D. Ocasion, who presented updates on soil research and development in Agusan del Sur.

Agriculture students from ASSCAT also played an important role in the event. They participated in learning sessions and demonstrated their understanding of environmental conservation through a poster-making competition and a quiz bowl organized to reinforce academic competencies with practical insights.

The MOU signing served as the culminating activity of the forum and reflected the shared direction of ASSCAT and DENR Caraga toward stronger multisectoral cooperation. This initiative advances the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, specifically SDG 13 on Climate Action, SDG 15 on Life on Land, and SDG 17 on Partnerships for the Goals.

The Man, Mine, and Land Forum concluded with renewed collaboration, unified perspectives, and a strengthened commitment to environmental resilience across the region.