To revitalize agriculture and inspire the next generation of agricultural leaders, the Provincial Local Government Unit of Sorsogon (PLGU Sorsogon) and Sorsogon State University (SorSU) formalized a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on June 10, 2025, at the People’s Mansion, Capitol Compound, Sorsogon City.
The partnership officially launched the Agri-Kids Scholarship Program, a transformative initiative designed to support students from farming families by providing them with the education and resources necessary to advance agricultural innovation.
Under the program, fifty (50) qualified BS Agriculture students from Sorsogon State University-Castilla Campus will receive a monthly allowance of PHP 10,000 to support their education. In addition, each scholar’s family will receive a one-time cash grant of PHP 50,000 as startup capital to cultivate and develop their family-owned agricultural land.
SorSU President De Jesus expressed sincere appreciation to Sorsogon Governor Edwin Hamor and his administration for selecting the university as a key partner in the implementation of this agricultural development program. In her message to the students, she said, “This initiative is a valuable opportunity presented to you, so treasure it. Kun pag abot san panahon mag asenso kamo sa buhay, pay it forward. Tinabangan kamo, tabangi din niyo an mga nangangaipo.”
The MOA signing was led by Hon. Gov. Edwin “Boboy” B. Hamor, representing the Provincial Local Government Unit of Sorsogon, and SUC President III, Dr. Geraldine F. De Jesus, representing Sorsogon State University.
The ceremony was witnessed by Dr. Jhonner D. Ricafort (Vice President for Academic Affairs), Prof. Andrew F. Detera (Campus Director-Castilla Campus), Dr. Rochelle N. Aragon (Dean, College of Agriculture-Castilla Campus), Mr. Arthur M. Balmadrid (AgriKIDS Program Director, PGDH, PHRMO), Dr. Maria Teresa V. Destura (AgriKIDS TWG Member, PGDH, OPAg), and Atty. Cesar J. Balmaceda (7K Program Manager).
This partnership is a strong move toward improving agricultural development in Sorsogon, giving young people the tools to lead rural progress and support food security. (SorSU PIO)
