Reaffirming its commitment to a progressive community extension partnership with Barangay San Jose West, Canaman, Camarines Sur, the Research and Extension Office (REO) of Naga College Foundation, Inc. (NCF) formally handed over a rescue boat during a Turnover and Blessing Ceremony held on March 11, 2026, at the NCF Student Pavilion.
Mr. Mario C. Villanueva, NCF President, guaranteed the institution’s steadfast support for the sustainable development of San Jose West through the MELCHOR Program—NCF’s flagship outreach initiative—a mission driven by the Community Extension Services (CES) in synergy with various internal departments and external stakeholders.
Reflecting on the catastrophe of Severe Tropical Storm Kristine in 2024, Hon. Lydia S. Salazar, Barangay Captain, emphasized that this rescue boat will directly address the long-term challenges of San Jose West in emergency response and disaster resilience.
Hon. Salazar recalled the past challenges in rescue operations caused by a lack of resources, specifically noting the daunting seven-kilometer journey through head-high floodwaters from Barangay San Jose West to the municipal center during times of calamity.
In response to a formal request by virtue of a barangay resolution, the rescue boat will serve as a vital community asset while strengthening capacity building in Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) through the comprehensive projects of the MELCHOR Program.