In a significant step towards molding future professionals, the Southern Philippines Agri-Business and Marine and Aquatic School of Technology (SPAMAST) held a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing ceremony and pre-deployment orientation for BS Criminology interns on October 4, 2024. The event, which took place at the SPAMAST Auditorium in Malita, Davao Occidental, brought together the institution and its partner agencies to strengthen collaborations aimed at honing the next generation of law enforcement professionals.
The event opened with an inspiring message from Dr. Marlyn B. Llameg, who reminded the interns of the values and conduct expected of them as they embark on their internships. She emphasized the importance of embodying positive traits such as integrity, courtesy, and industriousness. Dr. Llameg encouraged the interns to approach their on-the-job training with enthusiasm, and to be prepared to handle any difficulties they might face in the workplace.
Following the opening remarks, Ms. Tarra Dawn introduced the various Host Training Establishments (HTEs) that will be overseeing the interns. She highlighted the critical role these agencies play in providing constructive feedback and assessing the interns’ performance throughout their training period.
The College President, Dr. Lyntte A. Bontia, then delivered a keynote message expressing her gratitude to the partner agencies for their invaluable support to the Criminology Program. She underscored the importance of these partnerships in producing competent, capable, and dignified graduates who will contribute to the province’s law enforcement manpower. Dr. Bontia proudly cited the excellent results of SPAMAST’s Criminology licensure exams and emphasized that the program is at par with other institutions offering the same degree. She recognized the contribution of partner agencies to the program’s success and celebrated the awarding of the Certificate of Program Compliance (COPC) to the BS Criminology Program as a significant achievement.
Dr. Bontia also emphasized that the signing of the MOA symbolized a collective commitment to producing quality graduates, thanking everyone for their dedication and support in shaping the future of SPAMAST’s criminology students.
An intermission number followed, with intern Angela Prieto performing a heartfelt rendition of “The Climb,” which resonated with the aspirations and journey of the interns as they prepare for the next phase of their academic experience.
The highlight of the event was the ceremonial signing of the MOA between SPAMAST and the Host Training Establishments, formalizing the partnership aimed at ensuring the quality training and development of the interns.
In closing, the Dean and Program Head of the BS Criminology Program, Dr. Jonel Mark Sarno, issued a challenge to the current batch of interns, known as Batch SINAG-TALAS. He encouraged them to build on the outstanding success of their predecessors and strive for even greater heights. “You have what it takes to perform even better than your seniors. Please embrace this challenge with eagerness and determination,” Dr. Sarno remarked.
