Mindanao State University at Naawan

October 2025

Mindanao State University at Naawan Hosts International Student from Germany

Mindanao State University at Naawan recently wrapped up a successful week-long visit from Ms. Maria Angelina Platt of the University of Gießen, Germany, an initiative that significantly boosted the university’s push toward global internationalization. From October 13 to October 17, 2025, Ms. Platt’s presence served as a strategic platform for strengthening academic collaboration, fostering cross-cultural understanding, and exchanging innovative educational practices, fulfilling MSUN’s commitment to enhancing its global visibility. The university specifically aimed to share its best practices in teacher education, which heavily emphasize community engagement and contextualized instruction, while offering Ms. Platt the opportunity to deeply explore Filipino culture through the lens of a local academic environment. The German academic’s itinerary provided a comprehensive look at MSUN’s core functions, beginning with an immersion into the academic heartbeat of the institution. On October 15, Ms. Platt delivered a key talk on educational innovations before engaging in a hands-on Immersion with an Education class within the College of Education and Social Sciences (CESS), allowing her to directly observe local pedagogical styles. This academic focus was further enriched through research tours and knowledge-sharing sessions with the Research on Environment and Nanotechnology Laboratories (REYLabs) and the Center for Microplastics Research and Innovation, as well as participation in an agroforestry fieldwork in Lasang, Initao, Misamis Oriental. A pivotal moment demonstrating the university’s community-centric philosophy was the visit to Lubillan on October 16, where Ms. Platt witnessed the impact of the SAPNAY Project and met with the Higaonon Council of Elders, illustrating how MSUN integrates its academic mission with local development. The entire visit, organized by various offices including the Office of Global Engagement and Partnership, DARES Center, CESS, Office of Gender and Development, and the Institute of Peace and Development in Mindanao, was deemed a major success, achieving its goal of providing mutual learning opportunities. MSUN faculty and students benefited from exposure to Germany’s teacher education frameworks, enriching their global outlook, while Ms. Platt gained invaluable, firsthand experience with unique Filipino best practices in education. University officials believe this productive exchange with the University of Gießen will pave the way for future, more extensive institutional partnerships, ultimately contributing to MSUN’s broader mission of cultivating globally competent graduates and educators.

Mindanao State University at Naawan Hosts International Student from Germany Read More »

MSU at Naawan Joins Call to Action at the 2nd National Small-Scale Fisheries Symposium

Mindanao State University at Naawan proudly joined the call for collective action toward sustainable small-scale fisheries at the 2nd Philippine Small-Scale Fisheries National Symposium (PSSFNS2) held on October 21–23, 2025, at the MSU-Main Campus in Marawi City. With the theme “From Recognition to Action: Advancing Sustainable Small-Scale Fisheries in the Philippines,” the three-day symposium served as a dynamic platform for dialogue, knowledge exchange, and collaboration among key stakeholders across the country. The event was organized in partnership with Too Big To Ignore (TBTI) Philippines, a global research network dedicated to elevating the profile of small-scale fisheries by linking science, policy, and community action. Through this collaboration, the symposium aimed to strengthen evidence-based strategies and foster inclusive governance for small-scale fishers and their communities. The gathering brought together representatives from academe, industry, national and local government units, non-government organizations (NGOs), and coastal communities, underscoring the importance of multi-sector partnerships in sustaining the country’s small-scale fisheries. Participants from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao shared research findings, success stories, and policy directions that support the resilience and well-being of fishing communities. Productive plenary and breakout sessions tackled critical issues such as resource management, fisherfolk welfare, governance, market linkages, and innovations for livelihood enhancement. These sessions demonstrated how collaborative initiatives, anchored in shared science and community experience, can translate recognition into concrete action. MSU at Naawan’s participation highlights its continuing commitment to advancing research, extension, and policy engagement that empower small-scale fishers and coastal communities. As a leading institution at the forefront of science, marine, and fisheries development, MSU Naawan continues to champion inclusive and sustainable growth for the nation’s coastal and aquatic resources.

MSU at Naawan Joins Call to Action at the 2nd National Small-Scale Fisheries Symposium Read More »

MSU at Naawan Conducts Re-Echo of the Basic Research Ethics Training (BRET)

The Research and Extension Ethics Section (REES) of the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research, Innovation, and Global Engagement successfully conducted the Basic Research Ethics Training (BRET) Re-Echo on October 15–16, 2025, at the MSU Naawan Audio-Visual Room. The two-day training was participated in by faculty members representing four colleges of the university and aimed to strengthen ethical awareness and promote integrity in research practices. Serving as speakers were Dr. Wenceslao A. Coronado, Asst. Prof. Jovelyn L. Cabanatan, and Asst. Prof. Voltaire M. Bernal, who re-echoed key insights and lessons from the Basic Research Ethics Training they attended, conducted by the Philippine Health Research Ethics Board (PHREB) in 2024. The training covered essential topics such as Ethics and Research, Defining Research Ethics Principles, Ensuring a Favorable Balance of Benefits and Risks, Informed Consent, Selecting Research Participants Fairly, and Protecting Vulnerability in Research. It also delved into Research Ethics Committees: Governance, Composition, Structure, and Scope of Authority, Current Issues in Research, Qualities of an Appropriate Research Ethics Committee Member, and International and National Guidelines on Research Ethics. Open forums were held after each session, allowing participants to engage in discussions, clarify concepts, and share their own experiences related to ethical issues in research. In her closing remarks, Dr. Ruby C. Gonzales emphasized the importance of continuous capacity building and ethical awareness to ensure that all research activities within the university adhere to national and international standards. Through this initiative, the Research and Extension Ethics Section reaffirms its commitment to promoting a culture of ethical and responsible research within the Mindanao State University at Naawan.

MSU at Naawan Conducts Re-Echo of the Basic Research Ethics Training (BRET) Read More »

CELS & CFMS buildings formally turned over to MSUN through ribbon-cutting ceremonies

Marking another milestone in the university’s commitment to advancing quality education and research excellence, the Mindanao State University at Naawan (MSUN) held the formal turnover and ribbon-cutting ceremonies for the newly completed College of Environment and Life Sciences (CELS) (formerly College of Agriculture, Forestry and Environmental Sciences or CAFES) Building and College of Fisheries and Marine Sciences (formerly School of Marine and Fisheries Technology or SMFT) Building on October 17, 2025. The event highlighted the unveiling of the buildings’ plate markers and the signing of the Certificate of Acceptance and Certificate of Project Completion between MSUN and the joint venture of J.M. Luciano Construction, Inc. and VNP Construction and Design, the contractors behind the construction projects. These activities symbolized the official handover and completion of the university’s latest infrastructure developments. University officials, faculty and staff, students, and representatives from the construction firms gathered for the ceremonies, celebrating the realization of what was once a shared vision and dream — now a concrete testament to collaboration, perseverance, and institutional growth. The two newly completed academic buildings are designed to enhance the university’s instructional and research capacities, providing modern learning environments that support the specialized programs in agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and marine sciences. These facilities are also envisioned to serve as hubs for innovation and community-driven research. With the ceremonial ribbon-cutting and turnover, MSUN takes another confident step toward strengthening its role as a center of excellence in science, technology, and sustainable development in Mindanao.

CELS & CFMS buildings formally turned over to MSUN through ribbon-cutting ceremonies Read More »

Nursing in Action: Empowering Communities Through Learning and Service

The Department of Nursing from the College of Environment and Life Sciences (CELS) of Mindanao State University at Naawan proudly held two impactful activities that embody the essence of community engagement and professional growth. Last September 30, 2025, the Department of Nursing conducted their 1st ever Community Health Nursing Culmination Activity of the Level 2 nursing students and the Extension Training on Basic Life Support (BLS): CPR Review for public health workers. Community Health Nursing Culmination Activity Level 2 nursing students showcased the results of their six-day community exposure, presenting their comprehensive assessments and findings from the different assigned barangays. Through data analysis and field experiences, the students identified prevailing health concerns and proposed targeted interventions addressing the communities’ most pressing health needs.This culminating activity served as an opportunity for the students to apply the principles of community health nursing, health promotion, and disease prevention — demonstrating their competence, compassion, and commitment to community well-being. Extension Activity: Basic Life Support (CPR) Review As part of the Department’s continuing community partnership, the nursing faculty and clinical instructors conducted an Extension Activity on Basic Life Support (CPR Review) for public health nurses, midwives, barangay health workers (BHWs), and barangay nutrition scholars (BNS). The session focused on life-saving techniques such as adult and pediatric CPR and abdominal thrusts, reinforcing the importance of immediate and competent emergency response at the grassroots level. The activity was graced by the presence of Hon. Dennis L. Roa, Mayor of the Municipality of Naawan who delivered the opening remarks and commended the joint efforts of the faculty and community health workers in strengthening public health emergency preparedness. These two events highlight the Department of Nursing’s continuous commitment to its threefold mission — instruction, research, and extension — ensuring that both students and educators actively contribute to the health and resilience of the communities they serve.

Nursing in Action: Empowering Communities Through Learning and Service Read More »

MSUN Faculty-Researcher Recognized as Best Presenter at the 7th ICAGRI 2025 in Indonesia

Faculty-researcher Ms. Rochelle A. Paculba of Mindanao State University at Naawan earned recognition as Best Presenter during the 7th International Conference on Agriculture and Bioindustry (ICAGRI 2025) held on October 8–9, 2025, at Universitas Syiah Kuala (USK), Banda Aceh, Indonesia. Hosted by the Faculty of Agriculture of Universitas Syiah Kuala, ICAGRI 2025 served as a global platform that united leading scholars, researchers, and practitioners under the theme “Advancing Global Agricultural Innovations, Sustainability, and Food Security.” The conference aimed to foster meaningful discussions and collaborations shaping the future of agriculture and bioindustry. Ms. Paculba presented her study titled “Effects of Fermented Water Lettuce (Pistia stratiotes L.) Leaf Meal Supplementation on Carcass Traits and Meat Quality of Broiler Chickens (Gallus gallus domesticus L.),” a research highlighting the potential of alternative feed resources for poultry production. The study investigated the effects of incorporating fermented water lettuce leaf meal on broiler chicken performance, carcass quality, and overall meat attributes—providing insights into sustainable feed innovation and livestock nutrition enhancement. Her recognition as Best Presenter underscores the relevance and scientific rigor of her research, as well as her effective delivery and engagement during the presentation. The findings contribute to the broader pursuit of eco-friendly agricultural practices, aligning with ICAGRI’s advocacy for sustainability, innovation, and food security in the global agricultural landscape. Through participation in prestigious international research gatherings such as ICAGRI 2025, Mindanao State University at Naawan reaffirms its commitment to advancing agricultural science, promoting sustainability, and strengthening global research collaborations. Ms. Paculba’s achievement reflects MSUN’s dedication to producing impactful research that bridges local innovation with international scientific excellence.

MSUN Faculty-Researcher Recognized as Best Presenter at the 7th ICAGRI 2025 in Indonesia Read More »

Inland Aquatic R&D Projects Undergo Three-Day Annual Program Review at MSU at Naawan

The DOST PCAARRD – Inland Aquatic Resources Research Division, led by Dr. Adelaida T. Calpe, successfully conducted a three-day Annual Program Review of Inland Aquatic R&D Projects at Mindanao State University at Naawan. The event, graced by MSUN Chancellor Elnor C. Roa, highlighted the strengthened commitment of implementing agencies in advancing R&D initiatives for the aquatic sector, as emphasized in her welcoming remarks. On Day 1, project leaders from the Mussel and Mangrove Crab Industry Strategic S&T Programs (ISPs) presented their accomplishments, followed by the evaluation of ongoing projects under the Tilapia and Shrimp ISPs on Day 2. The review concluded with six project teams under the “S&T Intervention Towards Conservation and Management of the Endemic Cyprinids of Lake Lanao” program sharing their progress and milestones. Throughout the review, the Technical Review and Evaluation Panel—composed of Dr. Francisco Elegado (UPLB-Biotech), Dr. Rafael Guerrero III (Aquatic Biosystems), and Dr. Christopher Marlowe Caipang (UP Visayas)—provided valuable insights to ensure that all projects are on track with their approved methodologies and deliverables. The activity served as a vital platform for knowledge exchange, reflection, and strategy-setting as DOST-PCAARRD and partner institutions continue to push forward innovations for sustainable inland aquatic resource management.

Inland Aquatic R&D Projects Undergo Three-Day Annual Program Review at MSU at Naawan Read More »

MSUN partners with Philippine Red Cross for Hands-Only CPR Training

The Mindanao State University at Naawan (MSUN) strengthened its commitment to health awareness and emergency preparedness through the “Hands-Only CPR Training” conducted by the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) – Misamis Oriental–Cagayan de Oro Chapter on October 13, 2025. Held in coordination with the Office of the Campus Risk Reduction and Management, the training aimed to enhance the university community’s life-saving capabilities by equipping participants with the knowledge and confidence to respond effectively during medical emergencies. The Philippine Red Cross volunteers introduced participants to the history, humanitarian mission, and core services of the organization, alongside informative discussions on heart attack, cardiac arrest, and the importance of immediate response. The highlight of the activity was the hands-on demonstration and practice of Hands-Only CPR, where participants performed chest compressions and learned the correct rhythm and pressure needed to sustain life until professional help arrives. MSUN employees and students eagerly participated, demonstrating the skills they had learned with diligence and enthusiasm. The atmosphere reflected a shared sense of responsibility — that everyone, regardless of background or role, can be a potential lifesaver in moments that matter most. Furthermore, this initiative exemplifies MSUN’s proactive stance in promoting safety, health literacy, and community resilience, while reinforcing its commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Through partnerships with organizations like the Philippine Red Cross, MSUN continues to nurture a campus community that is not only informed but also ready to act with care and compassion.

MSUN partners with Philippine Red Cross for Hands-Only CPR Training Read More »

Hope and Learning Rise in the Hills with MSUN’s SAPNAY 2025

In the misty uplands of Naawan, where chalk dust drifts with mountain wind and hope hums between the trees, the children of Lubilan Integrated School (LIS) stood proud, not merely as students, but as testaments to resilience. On October 1, 2025, the Mindanao State University at Naawan (MSUN), through its College of Education and Social Sciences (CESS), carried learning beyond the classroom walls and into the heart of the highlands. The occasion: the culmination of SAPNAY 2025 — Strengthening the Academic Performance and Nurturing the Abilities of the Youth — a program that has, since 2022, kindled both literacy and aspiration among the indigenous youth of Misamis Oriental. The SAPNAY initiative has been spearheaded by its program leader, Dr. Arlene A. Castillo. The fourth-year culmination at Lubilan Integrated School gathered nearly a hundred voices including students, parents, teachers, barangay officials, and university extensionists — all bound by a shared vision: that education must reach even the farthest child. Beneath a modest room and a wide blue sky, the day unfolded like a festival of successes. Children’s class performances were presented, parents shared stories, and teachers stood as proud witnesses to transformation. SAPNAY began three years ago as CESS’s flagship literacy intervention program. Its mission is simple yet profound — to bridge the learning divide in Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs) through mentoring in English, Mathematics, and Science. The 2025 cycle focused on Grade 9 students including Higaonon learners which provided contextualized lessons that wove together culture, confidence, and curriculum.  The morning opened with messages of gratitude and inspiration from Dr. Emmylou A. Emperador, Dean of the College of Education and Social Science, Hon. Marcelo Z. Canion, Barangay Lubilan Chairman, and Sir Jake G. Conog, LIS School Head, followed by the presentation of learning outputs by the subject experts: Dr. Arlene A. Castillo (English), Jan Cleo D. Canoy (Mathematics), and Rizza Paz S. Onganiza (Science). Their mentees, once timid, now performed with certainty. It is a proof that literacy, when rooted in empathy, grows into courage. The intermission number from the students also echoed the same theme: that education is not memorized, it is lived, it is performed. The Recognition Ceremony that followed was tender and triumphant. Deserving students walked to the front as their names were called. Their eyes were bright even if their hands were trembling. Their parents were also silently cheering. “SAPNAY gave our children not just lessons, but the confidence to dream big,” a parent said tearfully, as applause rolled through the crowd. The afternoon turned reflective. Focus group discussions and community interviews gathered insights from students, parents, and barangay leaders. The conversations revealed measurable gains such as improved English proficiency, stronger Numeracy, and a better grasp of Science, all with heightened motivation, and yet, laid bare the challenges: limited materials, sporadic attendance during bad weather, and the need for continued collaboration. These voices, earnest and unfiltered, became the data that would shape SAPNAY’s next chapter. In her closing remarks, Dr. Aida D. Perpetua, Director for DARES Center, spoke with conviction: “As reflected in the results of the interventions, the SAPNAY Literacy Program has significantly enhanced the students’ academic performance. I strongly believe that there is a great need to sustain and continue this program.” As the sun dipped behind Naawan’s green ridges, laughter mingled with the sound of cameras clicking and shared meals being passed around. Participants slowly picked up their things, extensionists carefully folded the streamer, teachers turned off the projector, but the spirit of SAPNAY remained—alive in every learner who now dares to dream beyond the hills. For in these mountains, MSUN did more than teach. It proved that learning, when carried with compassion, can climb any heights. Indeed, MSUN is a university for the community.

Hope and Learning Rise in the Hills with MSUN’s SAPNAY 2025 Read More »

Scroll to Top