03/06/2026
SDO Alaminos City, PSU-AC forge stronger partnership to advance learning recovery, educational innovation
The Schools Division Office (SDO) of Alaminos City and Pangasinan State University-Alaminos City Campus (PSU-AC) further strengthened their commitment to quality education and learner development through the formalization of their partnership during the opening of the PSU Summer Camp 2026 on June 3, 2026, at the PSU-AC in Barangay Bolaney, Alaminos City.
The event gathered 50 learners from public elementary and secondary schools participating in the DepEd’s Academic Recovery and Accessible Learning (ARAL) Summer Program, composed of 25 Grades 1 to 3 learners and 25 Grades 7 to 10 learners, together with their teachers who also serve as ARAL tutors.
More than a summer literacy and numeracy activity, the two-day camp marked a significant milestone in the collaboration between the two institutions as officials signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) formalizing multiple areas of partnership aimed at supporting learner achievement, educational innovation, and institutional development.
The partnership highlights the shared commitment of SDO Alaminos City and PSU-AC to address learning gaps in literacy and numeracy while creating opportunities for learners to experience engaging, meaningful, and transformative educational activities beyond the traditional classroom setting.
The opening program featured the statement of purpose delivered by Dr. Jocelyn De Vera, Dean of the College of Teacher Education, who underscored the importance of providing learners with enriching experiences that build confidence, develop essential skills, and inspire lifelong learning.
In her welcome message, Dr. Liza L. Quimson, PSU-AC Campus Executive Director, encouraged the campers to embrace challenges and view setbacks as opportunities for growth as she reminded them not to be afraid of failing or making mistakes, but to continue trying, learning, and striving to excel until they achieve their dreams.
Dr. Quimson also highlighted her personal mantra, “Basta sama-sama, lahat magagawa” (Together, everything is possible), emphasizing that meaningful educational outcomes are achieved when schools, families, government agencies, higher education institutions, and communities unite behind a common purpose. She noted that the Summer Camp exemplifies the power of collaboration in helping learners overcome challenges and realize their full potential.
Providing context for the activity, Dr. Orlando I. Guerrero, Chief of the Curriculum Implementation Division, presented the rationale behind the ARAL Program and shared critical literacy and numeracy data that demonstrate the need for sustained interventions to help learners recover from learning gaps and improve academic performance.
He emphasized that partnerships with higher education institutions such as PSU-AC play a vital role in strengthening the implementation of learning recovery initiatives and in providing learners with meaningful educational experiences that support their holistic development.
Dr. Ely S. Ubaldo, Schools Division Superintendent, in her message, expressed her gratitude to PSU-AC for its unwavering support of the Department of Education’s learning recovery efforts.
She noted that the university’s collaboration significantly complements the implementation of the ARAL Program in Alaminos City and reflects a shared commitment to ensuring that no learner is left behind.
Dr. Ubaldo also took the opportunity to recognize the dedication of teachers and ARAL tutors who continue to go beyond their regular responsibilities to provide additional learning support to struggling learners.
She likewise called on parents and stakeholders to strengthen their support for educators.
“Let us continue to love and support our teachers who are doing so much work and making countless sacrifices for the benefit of our learners,” she emphasized.
Representing City Mayor Arth Bryan C. Celeste, Atty. Odessa S. Bengson, Executive Assistant on Legal Affairs, reaffirmed the City Government’s continuing commitment to education and youth development.
She assured participants, parents, and educators that the local government remains steadfast in supporting programs and initiatives that contribute to learner success and community development, particularly innovative interventions such as the PSU Summer Camp.
The activity is likewise being implemented in partnership with the Office of Congressman Arthur F. Celeste, further demonstrating the strong support of local leaders for initiatives that promote academic recovery and educational excellence.
A highlight of the program was the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement between SDO Alaminos City and PSU-AC, signifying a broader and more strategic collaboration between the two institutions. Beyond the Summer Camp, the partnership opens opportunities for future projects that will benefit both learners and educational personnel.
During the discussions, Dr. Ubaldo also proposed a possible collaboration with PSU-AC in the development and adoption of a Leave Management System and a Service Record System, which are envisioned to enhance administrative efficiency and strengthen service delivery within the division.
For the campers, the two-day activity promises a rewarding and enriching experience. Each participant will receive training kits and enjoy free snacks and meals throughout the duration of the camp, ensuring a conducive and engaging learning environment.
The strengthened partnership between SDO Alaminos City and PSU-AC demonstrates that collaborative leadership and shared responsibility remain key drivers in advancing educational transformation and ensuring that every learner is given the opportunity to succeed.
