MATUGUINAO, SAMAR — Strengthening its commitment to sustainable development and innovative energy solutions, Samar State University (SSU), the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Matuguinao, and Samar I Electric Cooperative (SAMELCO I) formalized their partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the development of a Renewable Energy Facility Hub in Matuguinao, yesterday, September 15, 2026.
The partnership marks a significant step toward advancing renewable energy initiatives in the municipality while fostering stronger collaboration among the academe, local government, and the electric cooperative. SSU President Palencia opened the event by underscoring the significance of the partnership and providing a brief background on the renewable energy project. He emphasized the importance of collective efforts among the partner institutions in promoting sustainable energy development and contributing to the continued progress of Matuguinao. Providing an overview of the project, Engr. Dacles presented the background of the proposed facility, its current status, and the details of the program. He also discussed the development and current situation of the Renewable Energy Facility Hub, providing participants with a clearer picture of the project’s direction.
Meanwhile, Engr. Alcos presented the project’s development plans and future directions. His presentation outlined the proposed activities, plans, and long-term vision for the Renewable Energy Facility Hub and its potential contribution to renewable energy development in Matuguinao. Prior to the signing, Director Albina introduced the MOA and explained its purpose and significance. She also presented the salient provisions of the agreement, highlighting the roles and shared commitments of SSU, the LGU of Matuguinao, and SAMELCO I in pursuing the renewable energy initiative. The much-anticipated MOA signing ceremony followed, formally signifying the commitment of the three institutions to work together toward the development and implementation of the Renewable Energy Facility Hub.
The agreement serves as a foundation for strengthened inter-institutional cooperation and collective action toward the promotion of sustainable and reliable renewable energy solutions in Matuguinao. Following the signing, Mayor Aran expressed his support for the initiative and shared his expectations for the partnership. He also provided a brief background on Matuguinao, highlighting the municipality’s development and the potential benefits that the renewable energy project could bring to its communities. Mayor Aran emphasized the importance of the initiative in supporting the municipality’s continuing development and creating opportunities for a more sustainable and resilient energy future. Representing SAMELCO I, Engr. Jose Balomaga likewise reaffirmed the cooperative’s commitment to the project. He assured the partner institutions of SAMELCO I’s full support for the successful implementation of the initiative. Engr. Balomaga emphasized SAMELCO I’s readiness to work closely with SSU and the LGU of Matuguinao, expressing optimism that the collective efforts of the three institutions will help bring the project to fruition. Closing the event, Dr. Felisa Gomba shared her personal experiences and reflections on Matuguinao’s transformation over the years. Recalling the municipality’s past, she highlighted the significant developments it has achieved and described Matuguinao as a truly progressive local government unit. Dr. Gomba also discussed the project’s plans and future directions, emphasizing its potential long-term impact on the municipality and its people. Among the envisioned initiatives are the development of roadmaps, trainings, and seminars in Matuguinao to help support the project’s sustainability and strengthen local capacity. She underscored the importance of sustained collaboration among SSU, the LGU of Matuguinao, and SAMELCO I in achieving the project’s goals and ensuring its continued growth and development.
The MOA signing represents more than a formal agreement—it marks a shared commitment to powering Matuguinao toward a more sustainable, resilient, and energy-secure future through renewable energy and strengthened institutional collaboration.