To advance family empowerment initiatives in higher education institutions (HEIs) through the launching of the Project PAG-IBIG Program: Family Empowerment Center (FEC) Consortium of Romblon State University (RSU), Pampanga State University (Pampanga State U) joined 77 other State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) in signing a multi-university Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) held via Zoom on June 03, 2026.

The agreement aims to establish the Project PAG-IBIG Program: Family Empowerment Center (FEC) Consortium, a collaborative initiative that promotes knowledge sharing and the replication of best practices in supporting family-centered parents, guardians, and economically vulnerable families.

Through the consortium, member institutions will establish and strengthen their respective FECs by adopting the model pioneered by RSU, which serves as the benchmark institution for the framework's three core components: childcare, parent care, and university care.

The event also featured the simultaneous ceremonial ribbon-cutting of Child-Minding Facilities across participating SUCs, including Pampanga State U, marking the launch of dedicated spaces that support solo parents and student-parents while pursuing their studies and professional responsibilities.

During the launch, CHED Commissioner Dr. Michelle Aguilar-Ong expressed her support for the initiative, noting its potential to create more opportunities for solo parents while benefiting their children, families, and communities.

“We are opening the gates of the state universities and colleges to accommodate our solo parents. Our possible contributor to the 20% economic growth of our GDP. Ang laking bagay po ito. Not just to the solo parents, but for the children of the solo parents, for the families, for the community,” Ong said.

“Kaya ako po ay natutuwa na nandito po kayo na sumusuporta. Kasi ang ibig pong sabihin nito ay nandyan po kayo para sa amin. Kayo po ang inspiration namin,” she added.

Representing Pampanga State U during the signing and facility launch were Executive Vice President Engr. Reden M. Hernandez, Vice President for Research, Innovation, Training and Extension Dr. Ranie B. Canlas, Vice President for Student Affairs and Services Dr. Dolores T. Quiambao, and members of the GAD Focal Point System Office.

The lead institution, RSU, was headed by University President Dr. Merian P. Catajay-Mani together with key university officials.

The event concluded with the hybrid ceremonial signing of the pledge of commitment under CHED ARUGA.

Photo credits: Public and Media Affairs Unit

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