Chancellor Limbona emphasized that the partnership aligns with university’s mission to advance education and community empowerment through research, innovation, and collaboration. The consultation marked an initial step toward a shared goal of promoting sustainable development and peace in the Bangsamoro region.

The meeting centered on identifying high-impact areas where both institutions could combine their expertise to benefit communities across BARMM. Among the proposed initiatives are joint research projects and focus group discussions with madaris, psychosocial assessments in flood-affected areas, and livelihood support for vulnerable sectors. Plans also include collaboration on Halal food system training, the development of a specialized entrepreneurial module for farmers, and the implementation of capacity-building and cultural livelihood programs for Islamic Relief’s existing beneficiaries.

To translate these initiatives into action, both parties agreed to organize a Training of Trainers program for Barangay Local Government Unit (BLGU) officials, focusing on the identified areas of collaboration. An internship program will likewise be established to provide FPE101 students with practical field experience through Islamic Relief.

Also present during the meeting were Dr. Raquel Santiago-Arenas, Vice Chancellor for Research and Extension, and Asst. Prof. Alvin Lois E. Pembarat, Director of the Institute for Peace and Development in Mindanao (IPDM).