On April 22, 2017, St. Michael’s College of Iligan, Inc. (SMCII), through the Mother Ignacia Center for Social Responsibility (MICSR), participated in the Harmonizing Local Development Intervention for the Bajau and the Signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) among key stakeholders. The activity was held at Jacko’s Kusina, Tambo, Iligan City, during Academic Year 2016–2017, in partnership with Friends of Bajau Inc.

The forum gathered representatives from various academic institutions and government agencies, including the MSU–IIT Sociology Department, St. Michael’s College, St. Peter’s College, Iligan Medical Center College, the Department of Education – Alternative Learning System (ALS), the Local Government of Iligan City, and DSWD/CSWD. The activity served as a platform to align institutional initiatives, share best practices, and harmonize interventions addressing the educational, social, health, and livelihood needs of the Bajau community.

Through structured dialogue and collaborative discussions, participants identified complementary roles and responsibilities, ensuring that development efforts are coordinated, inclusive, and sustainable. The signing of the MOA formalized the shared commitment of the stakeholders to work together in implementing community-based programs anchored on respect for culture, human dignity, and social equity.

This initiative reflects SMCII’s mission of faith, excellence, and service, highlighting the institution’s role as a convener and active partner in community development. It underscores the importance of inter-institutional collaboration in addressing complex social issues affecting marginalized groups.