ADVOCATING SUPPORT
JRMSU Inks the Establishment of an OWWA Help Desk

To manifest its commitment to advancing the welfare of OFW dependents, the Jose Rizal Memorial State University (JRMSU) renewed its partnership with the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) through Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) ceremonially signed by University President Dr. Maria Rio Abdon Naguit and OWWA Regional Director Mr. Joselito J. Sultan on December 17, 2024 at the Office of the University President.

The sealing of this new program signifies mutual cooperation with the intention to improve the welfare and wellness of OFW dependents enrolled at JRMSU by establishing the OFW Help Desk across the JRMSU campuses. The OFW Dependents Help Desk will serve as the first point of contact for OFW dependents— offering information, guidance, and services— intended to provide support in overcoming challenges and completing their academic pursuits.

Dr. Naguit expressed her excitement for a productive and seamless partnership with OWWA as she gave recognition to the University’s identical objective and advocacy with OWWA “on the interest and welfare of the dependents of the overseas contract workers that is why we have this partnership. […] This initiative is vital and very important in the context of JRMSU. We know that there are a considerable number of OFW dependents”. Moreover, Dr. Naguit expressed the timely need for an OFW Help Desk, and further encouraged the Vice President for External Affairs, Linkages and Resource Generation, Dr. Joseph Salvel Campiseno, to provide an accessible online avenue for OFW Dependents.

Mr. Rosalito J. Sultan shared his insights on this collaboration stating that, “the number one reason why women go abroad is for the education of children and it’s sad to note not all of them makahuman.”

Dr. Carina Romarate, Director for External Affairs, Linkages and Resource Generation empathized as she expressed, “I understand the urgent need of our scholars and dependents of OFW […] specially those families who have been facing various challenges and I agree with the intention of OWWA to extend support to these modern heroes […] they need a collaborative effort from the University and other sectors of the community. […] we are willing for the advancements of our students in JRMSU.”

The ceremonial signing was attended by the University key officials, including Vice President for External Affairs, Linkages, and Resource Generation Dr. Joseph Salvel Campiseño; Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Jay D. Telen; Vice President for Research, Development and Extension Dr. Rizza B. Bagalanon; Vice President for Finance Atty. Nizza P. Lesterio- Absin; Dapitan Campus Administrator Dr. Patrick G. Galleto; Katipunan Campus Director Dr. Leonardo J. Zamoras; Siocon Campus Director Dr. Chona F. Torrefranca; Tampilisan Campus Director Dr. Merlyn N. Luza; Director for External Affairs, Linkages and Resource Generation Dr. Carina A. Romarate; Director for Extension Prof. Bobmil C. Flores; and Main Campus Unit Head for External Affairs and Resource Generation Prof. Lemuel R. Campiseño.

This initiative highlights JRMSU’s dedication to supporting OFW dependents and ensuring their well-being as they pursue their education.

#PadayonJRMSU
#MOUSigning
#OWWA