MSU at Naawan Fosters Local Development Through Aquaculture and Community Engagement in Gitagum

Earlier today, Janaury 15, 2025, Assoc. Prof. Mariefe B. Quiñones, Director for Extension, and Mr. Victor R. Navarro, Director of MSUN CARES, conducted a strategic visit to Gitagum, Misamis Oriental, as part of MSU at Naawan’s continuing commitment to community empowerment and sustainable livelihood development.

The main purpose of the visit was to initiate a dialogue with key stakeholders regarding the proposed establishment of an aquaculture site and the formulation of potential extension programs. Representatives from the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Gitagum, MORESCO I, Pangayawan Barangay Council, and the Pangayawan Fisherfolk Organization actively participated in the meeting.

Discussions focused on identifying viable areas for collaboration, particularly in the context of aquaculture development and community-based livelihood initiatives targeted at MORESCO I member-consumers in Barangay Pangayawan. The engagement highlighted the shared vision of promoting inclusive development through resource-based partnerships.

As a follow-up to this initial meeting, a consultative dialogue is being organized for February, to be spearheaded by LGU-Gitagum. This upcoming session aims to deepen discussions and formalize collaboration among the involved stakeholders.

At the core of this initiative is the prospective signing of a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between LGU-Gitagum, MORESCO I member-consumers, and MSU at Naawan. The MOU will serve as a cornerstone for implementing livelihood and capacity development programs, with the goal of uplifting the socio-economic conditions of the local community while advancing sustainable aquaculture practices.

This engagement reinforces MSU at Naawan’s commitment to advancing its extension mandate by fostering inclusive partnerships, promoting innovation in aquaculture, and supporting grassroots development in Northern Mindanao.