ADDU and Unifrutti Seal Partnerships for Child Nutrition and Scholar Formation
On 29 October 2026, Ateneo de Davao University (ADDU) and Unifrutti signed two Memoranda of Agreement (MOA). The agreements support the nutrition of malnourished children in Bukidnon and the formation of Mindanawon scholars.
Fr. Karel San Juan, SJ, University President, and Dr. Rogel Mari Sese, Director of Research, Innovations, and Creative Works (RICWO), signed on behalf of the University. Unifrutti was represented by Mr. Francis Evan Manayan, Compliance, Risk, and Sustainable Officer; Mr. Marvin Egos, Financial Analyst; and Ms. Excelsis Kismet Mabini, Corporate Secretary.
Nutrition support for children in Bukidnon
The first agreement is between Unifrutti and the Malnutrition Intervention Alternative (MIA) and Duyog – The Gift of Food Initiatives. It aims to improve the nutritional condition of 100 children in Bukidnon who have been identified as malnourished. The children will be supported five times a week for 120 days.
MIA, led by Program Coordinator Ms. Nelia Villarta, works to address malnutrition among children. Duyog, represented by Program Officer Ms. Grace Salvie E. Demol, carries out the University’s food initiatives for communities in need. The partnership also reflects a shared commitment to corporate social responsibility and sustainable community development. It focuses on initiatives that promote health, well-being, and inclusive growth, empowering marginalized communities.
Support for Mindanawon scholars and leadership formation
The second agreement is between Unifrutti and the Mindanawon Initiatives for Cultural Dialogue, directed by Atty. Eufemia Faller. Unifrutti will provide financial assistance for the Mindanawon Scholars Residence program and the Leadership Formation program.
A partnership of mutual learning
In his message, Fr. San Juan stressed that the agreements are not a one-time undertaking. He described them as the start of a continuing relationship in which both parties learn from each other. He echoed a point raised by a Unifrutti representative, and noted that helping marginalized sectors is itself a learning experience.
He said the University looks forward to learning how Unifrutti, as a company, reaches out to communities. He also said it is good to partner in the agricultural development of Mindanao, which he noted is one of the University’s missions as a university and a community.
Fr. San Juan called the partnership a good example of collaboration attuned to the mission of service.
