5th iPOVCON MOA Signing Ceremony: A Landmark Event for Poverty Alleviation and Sustainable Development

The 5th International Conference on Poverty Alleviation and Sustainable Development (iPOVCON), hosted by Samar State University (SSU) and co-hosted by Southern Leyte State University (SLSU), marked a significant milestone in fostering partnerships aimed at poverty alleviation and sustainable development. The ceremonial signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) took place on July 29, 2024, at Hotel Estrella in Tacloban City. The event commenced with opening messages from prominent figures. Dr. Redentor S. Palencia, University President of SSU, and Dr. Sherrie Ann C. Labid, Executive Director for Research at SSU, welcomed the participants and underscored the importance of collaboration in achieving the conference's goals. Messages from various national agencies were delivered, highlighting the shared commitment to poverty reduction and sustainable development. The agencies included Southern Leyte State University (SLSU), Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), and Commission on Population and Development (CPD). These partnerships are pivotal in implementing community-based poverty reduction programs and amplifying multidimensional strategies for effective poverty alleviation.

The ceremony was graced by Dr. Francis Ann R. Sy, SLSU Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension Services, on behalf of SLSU President, Dr. Jude A. Duarte. Her presence underscored the collaborative spirit and shared vision for sustainable development. Engr. Mirador G. Labrador, Vice President for Research and Extension at SSU, delivered the closing remarks, emphasizing the conference's mission to innovate, build, and serve communities through sustainable solutions and innovations. The 5th iPOVCON MOA Signing Ceremony reinforced the commitment of academic institutions and national agencies to work together towards poverty alleviation and sustainable development. The collaborations formed during this event are expected to foster stronger connections within the community and drive effective poverty alleviation strategies.

This event aligns with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 1: No Poverty, SDG 2: Zero Hunger, SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being, SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, SDG 10: Reduced Inequality, SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities and SDG 17: Partnership for the Goals. For more information, visit SSU's official Facebook page or contact the organizers through ipovconofficialssu.edu.ph. Together, let’s continue to innovate, build, and serve towards a sustainable future.