Strengthening institutional collaboration and promoting excellence in public service, Civil Service Commission (CSC) Regional Director for Region XI Atty. Prisco S. Rivera, Jr., accompanied by CSC Provincial Director for Davao del Sur and Davao Occidental Mr. Richard Ortiz, paid a courtesy visit to the Southern Philippines Agri-Business, Marine and Aquatic School of Technology (SPAMAST) on August 20, 2026, at the SPAMAST Audio-Visual Room (AVR), Malita, Davao Occidental.

The courtesy visit provided an avenue for the CSC and SPAMAST to strengthen their partnership and engage in meaningful discussions on public sector governance, human resource management, and the continuing development of government employees in delivering responsive and quality public service.

The program formally commenced with a prayer, followed by the singing of the National Anthem and the Malita Hymn. This was followed by the opening remarks delivered by Atty. Paloma G. Grado, Head of the Human Resource Management Office (HRMO).

A presentation of SPAMAST’s institutional profile and accomplishments through a promotional video followed, showcasing the College’s continuing efforts toward academic excellence, innovation, community engagement, and responsive public service.

In her message, SPAMAST College President Dr. Lynette A. Bontia warmly welcomed the CSC Director Regional Director along with the CSC Provincial Director, and emphasized the importance of collaboration with government agencies in strengthening institutional systems, human resource development, and public service delivery.

For his part, Atty. Prisco S. Rivera, Jr. delivered a message highlighting the importance of professionalism, accountability, integrity, and commitment to public service. Prior to his visit to SPAMAST, Atty. Rivera also met with the Provincial Governor of Davao Occidental, where they discussed opportunities to bring the Civil Service Examination closer to residents of the province and explore the possibility of establishing a CSC sub-office in Davao Occidental. The proposed initiatives aim to make civil service services and examination opportunities more accessible to aspiring government employees and stakeholders in the province. The discussions received positive and supportive feedback from the Provincial Government, signaling its willingness to work with the Commission in making these initiatives possible.

His visit to SPAMAST likewise provided an opportunity for the College’s officials and employees to engage directly with the CSC Regional Director, exchange insights, and discuss matters relevant to government service, human resource management, and the continuing professional development of public servants.

Joining Atty. Rivera during the courtesy visit was Mr. Richard Ortiz, CSC Provincial Director for Davao del Sur and Davao Occidental, whose presence further underscored the CSC’s commitment to strengthening coordination and support for government institutions in the province.

The program also featured the presentation of SPAMAST unit and office heads, followed by an open forum and question-and-answer session, providing an avenue for SPAMAST officials and employees to raise concerns, clarify matters, and exchange insights on public administration and human resource management.

As a symbol of the strengthened relationship between the institutions, a token of appreciation was presented to Atty. Rivera on behalf of SPAMAST, facilitated by the HRMO, Vice President for Administration and Finance, and the College President.

The activity concluded with closing remarks from Dr. Janet R. Octura, Chief Administrative Officer, who emphasized the importance of sustained collaboration, professional development, and institutional partnerships in advancing efficient and people-centered public service.

The courtesy visit likewise contributed to the attainment of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions, through the promotion of accountable, effective, and transparent public institutions; SDG 4: Quality Education, through continuous capacity-building and professional development; and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, through strengthened collaboration between SPAMAST and the Civil Service Commission.

The visit served as a meaningful platform for strengthening the partnership between SPAMAST and CSC Region XI, reaffirming their shared commitment to building a professional, ethical, responsive, and people-centered public service.