Saint Mary’s University strengthened its commitment to financial literacy and ethical leadership as it formally signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on November 28, 2025, at the University Board Room.

Present at the ceremony were University President Dr. John Octavious S. Palina, Dean of the School of Graduate Studies Dr. Gertrude G. Danao, and the Heads of the Graduate Programs. Representing the SEC were Ms. Caryl Minnette Ulay, Information Officer I, and Mr. Ramon King Ballesteros, Securities Specialist II.

The initiative was led by the School of Accountancy, Business, and Public Administration (SABPA) under the guidance of Dr. Loreta V. Garlitos, Cluster Department Head. The partnership aims to promote financial literacy, empower communities to identify and avoid fraudulent schemes, and strengthen responsible financial behavior among students and professionals. SMU proudly stands as the first institution in Region 2 to respond to the SEC’s invitation to collaborate on financial literacy programs, reinforcing the university’s dedication to community engagement, ethical awareness, and public service.

The event marks the beginning of a meaningful collaboration that will provide students and stakeholders with relevant, timely, and practical knowledge in
making informed decisions within the modern financial world.