Writer: June Christine Daguhay (SOL Student)
Photographer: Ralph Dale D. Ramirez
Opening new avenues for the advancement of the Clinical Legal Education Program, the JHCSC School of Law formally signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the NAPOLCOM Regional Office IX on December 17, 2025. This significant milestone marks the beginning of a partnership grounded on a shared commitment to the enhancement of legal education, public service, and meaningful community engagement. This collaboration aims to advance excellence, cater to professional growth, and contribute to the development of responsive and ethical public service.
The ceremonial signing formally began with inspiring opening remarks from the Dean of the JHCSC School of Law, Atty. Romylyn O. Regidor, CPA, LLM. Dean Regidor emphasized the value of partnerships with other institutions, particularly with agencies such as the NAPOLCOM Regional Office IX, in bridging academic learning with practical public service. She highlighted the idea that legal education must go beyond the classroom since learning is most meaningful when it is grounded with active community involvement.
Following the opening remarks, Dr. Moises Glenn G. Tanggalin, Ed.D. took the stage and gave an uplifting and informative message on behalf of the President of the JHCSC, Dr. Edgardo H. Rosales, JD, Ed.D. He expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the undertaking of this collaboration and further highlighted its significance considering JHCSC’s conversion into a state university, now known as Zamboanga del Sur State University. Dr. Tanggalin conveyed his optimism for the sustainability of this program and partnership in accordance with the institution’s 4 mandates of instruction, production, research, and extension. He is convinced that this endeavor plays a vital role in expanding higher education and in strengthening programs relative to criminal justice.
The Regional Director of the NAPOLCOM Regional Office IX, Dir. Pablito M. Abad, Jr., likewise delivered his edifying message. He underscored the timeliness and relevance of this partnership, noting that the NAPOLCOM encourages its officials and employees to connect with other agencies and institutions for the promotion and implementation of the NAPOLCOM’s Community and Service-Oriented Policing (CSOP) System and the People Law Enforcement Board (PLEB). This collaborative effort contributes to the improvement of peace, order, and public safety, by promoting a more community-centered approach.
In the closing remarks, the JHCSC Pagadian Campus Director, Dr. Patricia DJ. Bahian reaffirmed the impact of the MOA, underlining that its benefits extend to the society in general.
Also present during the event was Atty. Edmund Rey B. Calo, Attorney V of the NAPOLCOM Regional Office IX, who served as witness to the Memorandum of Agreement Signing Ceremony.
This Memorandum of Agreement lays the groundwork for the pursuit of more passion and purpose-driven initiatives aligned with the goals of legal education. It highlights the competence of JHCSC law students which must transcend beyond the confines of the classroom, in response to the demands of a rapidly changing world.
Soar high, J.H. Cerilles State College!
“Stronger and Bolder JHCSC for Quality Tertiary Education”
