Rosefel Iritz Maghuyop

In celebration of National Women’s Month, the Mindanao State University at Naawan (MSUN) community gathered for its culmination activity on March 25, 2026, at the MSUN Function House, highlighting the theme: “Modern Babaylans W.I.R.E.D. for Greatness: Women Inspiring Resilience, Equity, and Digitalization.” Bringing together employees and students, the activity featured a timely and insightful talk by Dr. Lilibeth P. Coronel on “Addressing the Digital Skills Gap and Digital Safety.” The session underscored the growing importance of equipping individuals with the necessary digital competencies while promoting safe and responsible online engagement. Moreover, the discussion emphasized the need to bridge digital disparities and empower participants to navigate the evolving digital landscape with confidence and awareness. Through this, the University reaffirmed its commitment to fostering inclusive and future-ready communities. Furthermore, the program recognized inspiring members of the MSUN community through the awarding of certificates and tokens to featured employees in the weekly video segments and in the Voices for Juana. This segment highlighted stories of resilience, leadership, and empowerment among women in the University. Ultimately, the culmination activity served not only as a celebration of women’s contributions but also as a platform to strengthen digital literacy, promote gender equity, and inspire collective action toward a more inclusive and empowered society.

Gathering quality assurance leaders and practitioners from higher education institutions nationwide, the 39th Annual National Conference and General Assembly of the Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines (AACCUP) was held on March 24-26, 2026, at the Century Park Hotel, Manila. With the theme “Advancing QA: Research, Science, and Technology for Transformative Education and Sustainable Development,” the conference highlighted the role of quality assurance in driving innovation and sustainability in higher education. Representing Mindanao State University at Naawan (MSUN) were Assoc. Prof. Heidie Amor A. Parcia, Director of the Office of the Quality Assurance and Management System (OQAMS), and Assoc. Prof. Stephen Jhon V. Magoncia, Head of the Program Certification and Accreditation Unit. The event provided a platform for sharing best practices, emerging trends, and strategies in strengthening quality assurance systems, particularly in advancing research, science, and technology. On the sidelines of the conference, OQAMS directors and heads from across the MSU System convened for a short meeting to discuss the alignment of quality assurance initiatives and accreditation efforts. The engagement fostered collaboration among MSU campuses and reinforced a unified approach toward continuous improvement and institutional excellence.

In line with its commitment to environmental sustainability and community engagement, the Office of the Gender and Development (OGAD) of Mindanao State University at Naawan (MSUN), in collaboration with the Grow Talabaan Project and the Local Government of Naawan, conducted a tree planting activity on March 21, 2026, at the Talabaan River Watershed. Moreover, the activity brought together MSUN employees, who actively participated in planting tree seedlings to support the rehabilitation and protection of the watershed.  Through this initiative, the University emphasized the importance of collective action in addressing environmental challenges while promoting inclusive participation in sustainability efforts. Furthermore, the collaboration with local partners highlights MSUN’s continued efforts to strengthen community ties and environmental responsibility.  Ultimately, the tree planting activity not only contributes to the preservation of natural resources but also raises awareness on the importance of safeguarding ecosystems for future generations.

In an effort to cultivate purposeful and self-aware leadership, student leaders from the College of Education and Social Sciences of Mindanao State University at Naawan (MSUN) participated in a leadership workshop titled “Finding Your GPTARs: Gifts, Passions, Talents, Abilities, and Resources for Effective Leadership” on March 25, 2026, held at the IFRD Conference Room. Facilitated by Dr. Blessa Kay F. Caballero, who translated key insights from the Haggai Leaders Experience in Malaysia into a structured and context-responsive framework tailored for student leaders, the workshop emphasized the importance of self-awareness and intentional leadership in effectively managing organizations and fostering meaningful peer engagement. Moreover, participants from various student societies engaged in reflective and interactive activities designed to help them identify their unique GPTARs. Through this process, they were able to develop concrete leadership action plans grounded in their strengths and available resources. Ultimately, the activity reinforced the value of leading with clarity, responsibility, and purpose, equipping student leaders with practical tools to enhance their roles within their respective organizations and contribute more effectively to the university community.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) students of Mindanao State University at Naawan (MSUN) received educational assistance through the Misamis Oriental Provincial Government’s Iskolar ‘Ko Ng Bayan (IKNB) Program on March 24, 2026, at the university’s Training and Student Activity Center. The distribution was led by Governor Juliette T. Uy and Board Member Princess N. Emano, benefiting 79 students from School Year 2024-2025 and 67 students from School Year 2025-2026, along with their parents. The event was also attended by Naawan Vice Mayor Alan Roa, who expressed support for initiatives that help students pursue their academic goals. As part of the visit, MSUN Chancellor Dr. Elnor C. Roa guided the guests on a campus tour, highlighting ongoing infrastructure projects and the university’s digitalization initiatives. Furthermore, the delegation also explored the Department of Nursing’s facilities, including its laboratories, equipment, and classrooms, showcasing MSUN’s efforts to provide a conducive learning environment for future healthcare professionals. Notably, since its inception, the BSN program has been fully supported by the Provincial Government of Misamis Oriental, reflecting a sustained investment in developing competent and compassionate healthcare workers. The activity underscores the continued collaboration between MSUN and the provincial government in promoting accessible education and supporting the academic journey of aspiring nurses.

Mindanao State University at Naawan (MSUN) took part in the Higher Education Summit 2026 organized by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) from March 10 to 12, 2026. With the theme “Achieving Sustainable Futures: Transformative Higher Education for Human Capital, Innovation, and Global Responsibility,” the summit gathered university leaders and stakeholders nationwide to advance the future of higher education in the Philippines. Representing MSUN were Chancellor Dr. Elnor C. Roa and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Assoc. Prof. Gergie A. Ambato. Chancellors and officials from other MSU campuses and presidents of higher education institutions across the country also participated in the summit. A key highlight of the event was the presentation of CHED Chairperson Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis on The ACHIEVE Pathway to 2026 and Beyond, which outlined strategic directions for strengthening higher education. Panel discussions focused on co-creating the ACHIEVE Agenda with multi-stakeholders, alongside networking activities and memorandum of understanding (MOU) signings to strengthen partnerships. The summit also featured a series of workshops and sessions across three days focusing on key areas of higher education development. Day 1 centered on the co-creation of the ACHIEVE Agenda through multi-stakeholder discussions. Day 2 highlighted the integration of higher education with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with workshops on curriculum and student development, research and innovation, campus operations and community engagement, and governance and partnerships. Day 3 concluded with an information-sharing session that promoted regional collaboration and international engagement in education. MSUN’s participation in the summit underscores its commitment to advancing quality education, innovation, and global engagement in alignment with national and international development goals.

In line with the observance of the 1st Quarter Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill and Fire Prevention Month, Mindanao State University at Naawan (MSUN) actively participated in a coordinated earthquake and fire safety drill aimed at strengthening disaster preparedness and response on March 12, 2026. The activity was conducted in partnership with the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) – Naawan Fire Station, led by Fire Officer 3 (FO3) Eros Carl Marx G. Israel and Fire Officer 1 (FO1) Jhon Irving M. Agcopra. The MSUN Campus Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO), led by Director Jay Philmore B. Ansale, also played a vital role alongside its trained responders in ensuring the smooth conduct of the simulation. Students, faculty members, and administrative personnel took part in the simulation exercises, which included earthquake response procedures, evacuation protocols, and fire safety demonstrations. The activity aimed to enhance awareness, readiness, and coordinated action among the university community in the event of emergencies. Through initiatives like these, MSUN continues to reinforce a culture of safety and resilience, ensuring that its stakeholders are well-equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to respond effectively to disasters.