The Ateneo de Naga University (AdNU) and the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) formalize a partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on March 6, 2026 at the Richard Michael R. Fernando, S.J. Conference Hall, Ateneo de Naga University. The agreement marks an important milestone in advancing good governance and regulatory reform through graduate education.
The partnership incorporates special topics on Ease of Doing Business (EODB) into the University’s Master in Public Administration (MPA) and Master in Business Administration (MBA) programs. Through this collaboration, AdNU and ARTA strengthen the role of the academe in promoting efficient, transparent, and accountable public service.
The MOU is signed by ARTA Secretary Ernesto V. Perez, ADNU President Aristotle C. Dy, SJ, ARTA Deputy Director General for Operations Lea-Grace B. Salcedo, and ADNU Dean of the Graduate School Dr. Malu C. Barcillano.
During the program, Secretary Perez highlights ARTA’s ongoing initiatives to strengthen partnerships with academic institutions in promoting the principles of regulatory efficiency and good governance. He also shares similar academic collaborations with Pampanga State University and De La Salle University–Dasmariñas, emphasizing the importance of preparing future leaders who understand and champion ease of doing business reforms.
In her message of support, Hon. Maria Leonor G. Robredo, Mayor of Naga City and a member of the AdNU Board of Trustees, underscores the significance of the partnership in shaping values-driven leadership. She emphasizes that efficiency in governance is not merely a technical process but a means of empowering institutions and communities.
Fr. Dy likewise highlights the importance of respect, responsibility, and commitment in strengthening institutions and building a culture of service. He notes that these values are essential in pursuing reforms that benefit both government and society.
The event also features the rollout of ARTA’s electronic Complaint Management System (eCMS), which includes TALA (Transparency, Accountability, and Law in Action), an AI-powered virtual assistant designed to receive and process complaints 24/7.
Also present during the ceremony are AdNU Vice President for Higher Education Dr. Digna P. Alba, Philippine Ease of Doing Business Foundation, Inc. (EASE PH) President Roberto A. Alvarez Jr., and Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry Southern Luzon Area Vice President Hoover S. Picar, along with AdNU administrators, faculty members, graduate students, and representatives from partner institutions and agencies across the region.
The partnership between AdNU and ARTA signals a shared commitment to developing public administrators and business leaders who uphold integrity, accountability, and professionalism in advancing good governance and sustainable development.
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Prepared by:
Camille Faye R. Badong
Master of Public Administration student, ADNU-Graduate School
Technical Staff, AdNU-Center for Local Governance
