The Department of Social Welfare and Development – Field Office Cordillera Administrative Region (DSWD-FO-CAR) and John Hay Management Corporation (JHMC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to expand livelihood opportunities for marginalized communities within the John Hay Reservation Area.
The agreement, signed by JHMC President and CEO Manjit Singh Reandi and DSWD-FO-CAR Regional Director Dr. Maria A. Catbagan-Aplaten, opens Camp John Hay to community-based programs under the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP). Witnesses included Atty. Michael Remington A. Nerez, members of the JHMC Board of Directors, and Ms. Cecille A. Basawil, Director II and Assistant Regional Director for Operations.
Under this MOU, JHMC and DSWD-FO-CAR will play crucial roles in collaborative efforts such as capacity-building seminars, product showcasing opportunities, and market access for qualified beneficiaries. JHMC will provide venue support and coordination assistance, while DSWD-FO-CAR will oversee beneficiary selection and program implementation. These initiatives aim to strengthen micro-enterprise development and foster sustainable programs within target communities.
“This partnership ensures communities are not only supported but truly empowered,” said Dr. Catbagan-Aplaten. “Together, we bring government services closer to the people who need them most.”
Singh Reandi emphasized inclusivity: “Guided by inclusivity, compassion, and sustainability, we are building a living community that strengthens social protection and creates pathways to empower individuals as partners in development.”
The collaboration sets the stage for future joint initiatives that promote resilience, stakeholder engagement, and inclusive economic growth.
