The first barangay general assembly of the year of Barangay Pinsao Proper with the theme: “Barangay at Mamamayan, Sama-samang Nagtututlungan sa Pagtaguyod ng Maayos, Maunlad at Mapayapang Pamayanan Tungo sa Isang Bagong Pilipinas” was held on March 27, 2024 at the Pinsao Proper Barangay Hall. The assembly brought together the barangay officials, residents, and community partners for a simple program to showcase upcoming programs and activities of the barangay.

The University of Baguio’s Research Innovation Extension and Community Outreach (RIECO) received an invitation to attend the inaugural general assembly of Barangay Pinsao Proper. The assembly marked an important milestone as Barangay Pinsao Proper was selected as the beneficiary of the UB CARES Program, an initiative where the university partners with a barangay to implement various beneficial programs.
A comprehensive study will be conducted on the barangay, focusing on the findings of a community needs assessment survey. This study will serve as a foundation for future projects and programs addressing the 5 Pillars of the UB CARES program such as literacy, health, livelihood, peace and order, and risk management.

Aligned with the barangay’s development plans, UB CARES offers various programs rooted in the five pillars of the UB CARES framework, as well as the findings from the Needs Assessment Survey. These programs directly contribute to achieving sustainable development goals such as Quality Education (SDG 4), Reduced Inequalities (SDG 10), Gender Equality (SDG 5), Good Health and Well-Being (SDG 3), Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8), Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions (SDG 16), and partnership for the goals (SDG 17), as outlined by the University of Baguio.

Success in this partnership centers on the cooperation of the barangay. Essential steps include disseminating information about UB’s programs and projects among residents, leveraging the support of the Punong Barangay leadership, maintaining open communication channels with UB through the RIECO office, organizing meetings for approved activities, and actively participating in the supervision, facilitation, documentation, and monitoring of projects.

Furthermore, the barangay will play a vital role in sustaining these programs beyond the initial involvement of UB. This involves continued organization and mobilization of residents for approved activities, as well as ongoing supervision, facilitation, documentation, and monitoring.

The collaboration between Barangay Pinsao Proper, and the University of Baguio holds promise for the future development and prosperity of the community. Together, they will work towards creating meaningful and sustainable programs that benefit all stakeholders involved.

Written and photographed by Diane Labay