Rosefel Iritz Maghuyop

Mindanao State University at Naawan (MSUN) reached another significant milestone on November 20, 2025, with the launching and ribbon cutting of the Shared Service Facility (SSF) Cacao Processing Center for Western Misamis Oriental – an initiative that positions the university as a key driver in strengthening the region’s cacao industry and supporting local farmers and Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs).  Led by Project Leader Asst. Prof. Christian Fel Batoctoy of the College of Environment and Life Sciences (CELS), the project reflects MSUN’s expanding role as a hub for innovation, agriculture-based enterprise development, and community-centered progress. MSUN Chancellor Dr. Elnor C. Roa opened the ceremony with a message that underscored the value of synergy in public service.  “This is a good example that when government agencies, the local government units, the provincial government unit, and the various department agencies in the government with the academe collaborating, participating to a common goal, 𝘮𝘢𝘩𝘪𝘮𝘰 𝘨𝘺𝘶𝘥 𝘢𝘯𝘨 𝘥𝘢𝘬𝘰 𝘯𝘢 𝘬𝘢𝘭𝘢𝘮𝘣𝘶𝘢𝘯 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘢 𝘴𝘢 community [great progress for the community can truly be achieved] – and this is a very good example,” she said.  Dr. Roa further emphasized MSUN’s commitment to transforming the facility into a center of research and innovation. “Because it is placed in a university, 𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘬𝘢𝘮𝘰𝘵 𝘱𝘶𝘥 𝘮𝘪 𝘯𝘢 𝘮𝘢𝘩𝘪𝘮𝘰 𝘴𝘪𝘺𝘢𝘯𝘨 research hub – 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘢𝘩𝘪𝘮𝘰 𝘵𝘢 𝘶𝘨 research, 𝘢𝘳𝘰𝘯 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘢𝘱𝘢𝘢𝘺𝘰 𝘱𝘢 𝘴𝘢 quality 𝘯𝘨𝘢 𝘢𝘵𝘰𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘢𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘥𝘶𝘤𝘦 out of this shared facility [we will also strive to make it a research hub – where we can conduct studies that will further improve the quality of what we produce through this shared facility].” 𝘼 𝙁𝙖𝙘𝙞𝙡𝙞𝙩𝙮 𝘾𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙐𝙥𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙩 𝙁𝙖𝙧𝙢𝙚𝙧𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙄𝙣𝙙𝙪𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙮 The cacao processing facility, established under the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) Shared Service Facility Program, is a response to a request from Deputy Speaker Cong. Yevgeny Vincente “Bambi” Emano to support and uplift the cacao industry in Misamis Oriental. DTI-10 OIC Provincial Director Ms. Jesusa M. Abear highlighted the strategic value of the project, noting that it aims to address long-standing challenges faced by cacao farmers in terms of processing and product value.  “Why are we doing this? Because we believe in the potential of our farmers and the cacao industry in Misamis Oriental. This project was conceived to address a critical need among cacao farmers in Misamis Oriental… By bridging this gap, we aim to strengthen the cacao industry and position Misamis Oriental as the cacao capital of Region 10,” she emphasized. Western Misamis Oriental comprises 10 municipalities engaged in cacao farming, with 433 hectares cultivated by 499 farmers. Naawan alone contributes 121 hectares and 36,317 kilograms of the area’s total annual production of 126,921 kilograms of dried fermented cacao beans. Despite this abundance, many farmers are limited to selling raw beans at lower margins. The new SSF facility addresses this challenge by providing access to toll processing services that enable the production of higher-value products such as cacao butter and cocoa powder – commodities with significantly greater market potential. 𝘼 𝙎𝙩𝙖𝙩𝙚-𝙤𝙛-𝙩𝙝𝙚-𝘼𝙧𝙩 𝙃𝙪𝙗 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝘼𝙧𝙚𝙖 𝘿𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙡𝙤𝙥𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩 Located within the MSUN campus, the cacao processing facility is equipped with Php 1.73 million worth of industry-grade machinery, forming part of the project’s total cost of Php 3.9 million. It will operate as a toll processing center, allowing farmers and MSMEs to pay processing fees while retaining control over the marketing and distribution of their finished products.  Its placement at MSUN ensures that the center will not only provide processing services but also serve as a platform for research, product innovation, and technical capacity-building for farmers, students, and micro-entrepreneurs. 𝙎𝙪𝙥𝙥𝙤𝙧𝙩 𝙁𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝘼𝙜𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙞𝙚𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙇𝙤𝙘𝙖𝙡 𝙇𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙨 The ceremony was graced by key national and regional partners who expressed unwavering support for the initiative. Messages were delivered by DTI-10’s Ruel B. Paclipan through Asst. Regional Director Ms. Almer R. Masillones; Mindanao Development Authority Northern Mindanao Area Head Ms. Lordelie Enjambre; and Department of Agriculture–Region 10 Regional Executive Director Mr. Jose Apollo Y. Pacamalan, represented by Mr. Dryan Anthony Illana. Naawan Mayor Hon. Dennis L. Roa also conveyed the municipality’s full support for the project. Deputy Speaker Cong. Emano, represented by Board Member Hon. Nancy S. Madjos, reaffirmed the national government’s commitment to agricultural and MSME development in the province. The launching event likewise gathered DTI-10 Technical Working Committee Chairman Mr. Ruben A. Vegafria, Senior Trades and Industry Development Specialist Ms. Judy Aclan-Tangkihay; Northern Mindanao Food Innovation Center Manager Ms. Phoebe Galeon; former MSUN College of Agriculture and Forestry Dean Dr. Renato Boniao and former DTI-10 Director Linda Boniao; and MSUN’s executive officials including Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Asst. Prof. Gergie A. Ambato, Vice Chancellor for Administration and Finance Ms. Rhoda D. Perpetua, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs and Services Ms. Arleen B. Uy, Vice Chancellor for Strategic Planning and Initiatives Assoc. Prof. Frederick Cabactulan, DARES Director Dr. Aida D. Perpetua, CELS Dean Dr. Nonillon M. Aspe, CELS faculty and staff, the CDRRM team, security personnel, and other MSUN personnel. Farmers, MSME owners and managers, municipal agriculturists, and representatives from various government agencies also participated in the event, signifying the strong multi-stakeholder support behind the facility. 𝘼 𝙎𝙝𝙖𝙧𝙚𝙙 𝙑𝙞𝙨𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙋𝙧𝙤𝙜𝙧𝙚𝙨𝙨 The inauguration of the SSF Cacao Processing Facility marks a significant leap forward for Western Misamis Oriental’s cacao industry. It is a testament to what collective effort – anchored on trust, shared vision, and inclusive development – can achieve.  With MSUN serving as the home of this state-of-the-art facility, the university not only strengthens its role as an academic institution but also emerges as a catalyst for enterprise growth, agricultural resilience, and rural innovation. As this facility begins its operations, it is set to empower farmers, uplift local communities, and contribute to a more robust cacao value chain – paving the way for Misamis Oriental to become a leading player in the region’s agricultural economy.

Reaffirming its commitment to disaster preparedness and the safety of its academic community, Mindanao State University at Naawan successfully conducted its 4th Quarter Campus-Wide Earthquake Drill on November 7, 2025. The activity was organized by the Campus Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) and actively participated in by university officials, faculty members, staff, and students from various colleges and offices. At exactly 2:00 p.m., the alarm for the “Duck, Cover, and Hold” procedure was sounded, prompting everyone to take immediate cover and move to their designated evacuation areas. Emergency marshals and response teams were deployed across campus to assist participants and ensure that safety measures were properly observed. According to the CDRRMO, this 4th quarter drill aimed to assess the campus community’s readiness and responsiveness during seismic emergencies and to strengthen coordination among different units in times of disaster. The activity also aligns with the university’s proactive stance in promoting a culture of safety, preparedness, and resilience, in line with national DRRM directives. Through this quarterly drill, MSU at Naawan continues to champion disaster awareness and risk reduction, ensuring that every member of the community is equipped to act promptly and safely in the face of natural hazards.

While the SINAG 2025 oral and poster presentations were in full swing across the campus, officials from Mindanao State University at Naawan (MSUN), together with the Department of Health (DOH), conducted an ocular site visit for the University Infirmary Hospital on October 28, 2025. Joining the visit were DOH Health Facilities Enhancement Program Undersecretary Dr. Gregorio T. Murillo, Jr. and DOH Center for Health Development–Northern Mindanao Dir. Sulpicio Henry M. Legaspi, Jr., MD, MPH, FPSMS, CESO IV, alongside MSUN Chancellor Dr. Elnor C. Roa, Vice Chancellors Asst. Prof. Gergie A. Ambato, Assoc. Prof. Frederick B. Cabactulan, and Ms. Rhoda D. Perpetua, together with university engineers, architect, and project contractors. Funded by the Department of Health, this soon-to-rise facility marks a significant step toward strengthening campus healthcare services and advancing MSUN’s commitment to student and community well-being. Once completed, the infirmary hospital will serve as a vital hub for accessible and quality health care – not only for students, faculty, and staff, but also for surrounding communities – enhancing MSUN’s capacity to respond to emergencies, support public health initiatives, and promote a safer, healthier academic environment for all.

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.

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.

A total of 1,079 aspiring students took the Mindanao State University – System Admission and Scholarship Examination (MSU-SASE) on October 5, 2025, at Mindanao State University at Naawan (MSUN).  The campus became a hub of anticipation and determination as examinees from various provinces in Mindanao gathered early to take part in the highly awaited university-wide entrance examination. According to data released by MSU-General Santos, the MSU System recorded a total of 61,183 applicants across all testing centers—a testament to the growing confidence of students and families in the quality of education offered by the MSU network of campuses. Furthermore, the SASE serves as a crucial gateway for incoming first year students aspiring to study within the MSU System.  More than just an entrance test, it provides qualified students with access to academic and scholarship opportunities across Mindanao and beyond, reflecting the university’s mission to make higher education inclusive, equitable, and transformative for all.

“If teenage pregnancy brings you peace, then go for it. But if it does not, wait for the right time,” stressed Asst. Prof. Gergie A. Ambato, Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs of Mindanao State University at Naawan (MSUN), as she addressed over 700 Civic Welfare Training Service (CWTS) students during a Peace Education Seminar held on September 27, 2025, at the Training and Student Activity Center. The event was spearheaded by the Office of Gender and Development (OGAD) and the Institute of Peace Development in Mindanao (IPDM) in partnership with the MSUN National Service Training Program–CWTS, focusing on the pressing issue of teenage pregnancy and its impact on individuals and society. Campus Infirmary nurse Ms. AC Arlene Augusto opened the discussions by highlighting the health complications associated with adolescent pregnancy. She underscored how early pregnancies can pose serious medical risks that affect both young mothers and their children. This was followed by Asst. Prof. Brigida Q. Alas, who shared her personal journey and experiences, inspiring students to carefully consider the long-term consequences of their actions and decisions. Assoc. Prof. Desheree Judena Preciado, GAD Director and IPDM Coordinator, capped the lecture series by discussing teenage pregnancy as a barrier to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). She emphasized its ripple effects—how it disrupts education, limits opportunities, and perpetuates cycles of poverty and inequality. Moreover, the seminar concluded with an open forum, where students actively asked questions, shared insights, and reflected on how peace education intersects with personal choices and social responsibility. Various CWTS facilitators also took part in guiding the discussions. In his closing remarks, NSTP Coordinator Asst. Prof. Noli Vergel Kirit wrapped up the discussions, stating: “This seminar has shown us that peace education is not only about resolving conflict, but also about promoting equality and opportunity for all. By empowering the youth, supporting young mothers, and addressing the root causes of adolescent pregnancy, we are building a more peaceful, just, and sustainable society.” This seminar forms part of OGAD and IPDM’s continuing campaign for peace education and social awareness, reinforcing MSUN’s commitment to empowering the youth and nurturing a culture of responsibility and resilience.

Mindanao State University at Naawan (MSUN) took another significant step toward quality assurance and institutional excellence as it underwent the ISO 9001:2015 Stage 1 Audit on September 18, 2025.  Leading the process was Mr. Erwin Quinto, Executive Auditor of TÜV SÜD PSB Philippines Inc., who served as the esteemed external auditor. In her welcome remarks, MSUN Chancellor Dr. Elnor C. Roa emphasized that the audit signifies the University’s strong commitment to building a culture of quality and continuous improvement that aligns with international standards. Specifically, the audit scope covered the provision of higher education, instruction, research, extension and administrative services for College of Fisheries and Marine Science, College of Environment and Life Sciences, College of Education and Social Sciences and College of Business and Information Technology. Moreover, the Stage 1 Audit focused on assessing MSUN’s readiness for full certification, with particular attention to documentation, processes, and compliance with the requirements of the ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System (QMS). While the external auditor identified areas for improvement, none of them were critical; thus, MSUN was given the green light to proceed with the Stage 2 Audit. This advancement brings the institution closer to securing its ISO 9001:2015 certification—an affirmation of its dedication to excellence in education, research, extension, and service.

History was made at Mindanao State University at Naawan (MSUN) as 68 pioneering students of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) donned their caps, received their badges, and lit their candles during the College of Environment and Life Sciences – Department of Nursing’s 1st Capping and Badging Investiture and Candle Lighting Ceremony held on September 10, 2025. The solemn rite marked the students’ formal entry into the nursing profession, highlighting their commitment to the core values of compassion, service, integrity, and excellence. “You will be witnessing a momentous event of the students as they will start their exciting journey as student nurses. The cap, the badge, and candle you will be receiving today are not merely symbols –  they are emblems of your commitment to walk the path, lead by compassion, and guided by excellence,” emphasized College of Health Sciences (CHS) at MSU-Marawi Dean Dr. Athena Jalaliyah B. Derico-Lawi, RN, MN, MAN, DSCN, who served as inspirational speaker. She further went on with the essence of the cap, badge, and candle: “The cap rests not only on your head, but upon your values. It reminds you that knowledge must be worn with humility. The badge you will receive is not just an ornament – it is a promise to uphold integrity, to serve with dignity, and to protect life with undeviated resolve. The candle you will light today –  it is the light to hope. It is the plane that will guide you to long nights, through difficult choices, and through moments when your strength is being tested.” Also gracing the ceremony as keynote speaker was Dr. Nur-Hannipha B. Derico, RN, RM, MAN, former CHS Dean of MSU-Marawi, who echoed the significance of the event’s theme: “Illuminating the Path: A Journey of Compassion and Excellence”, noting that it perfectly captures the essence of nursing. In her congratulatory message, MSUN Chancellor Dr. Elnor C. Roa commended the pioneering BSN students: “Congratulations to all of you – our first batch of Bachelor of Science in Nursing. May your future be bright and may you always remember that you are capable of making a difference in the lives of many,” stressed Dr. Roa. The BSN program at MSUN, made possible through a partnership with the Province of Misamis Oriental, continues to open doors for aspiring nurses while responding to the pressing need for healthcare professionals in the region and beyond.

The competitive spirit of Mindanao State University at Naawan (MSUN) employees filled the campus air as the University celebrated the 64th MSU Founding Anniversary, the 125th Philippine Civil Service Anniversary, and the opening of the MSUN Employees Sports and Cultural Fest 2025 on September 1, 2025, at the campus grounds. These annual events enabled employees to celebrate inclusivity, camaraderie, and excellence as various activities unfolded throughout the day. “As we open our annual Sportsfest today, I am reminded that sports are more than just games; they are a testament to unity, perseverance, and the strength of community,” emphasized MSUN Chancellor Dr. Elnor C. Roa on her message, delivered by Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Asst. Prof. Gergie A. Ambato.  With teamwork and determination, teams Megabyte, Optimal Oracle, Vanguards, and Exabyte Elites rose to the challenge, ready to showcase not only their skills but also their spirit of solidarity and sportsmanship. Team floats paraded around town, each with a muse and escort embodying the pride and identity of their group. Banners were raised, cheers resounded, and the atmosphere was filled with energy and anticipation.  Moreover, Chairperson of Employee Wellness Committee Assoc. Prof. Juvy Arjona, launched the Wellness Program, a monthly initiative designed to provide avenues for reflection, recharge, and personal growth. The Panika, MSUN Merchandise Hub, also opened its doors, offering students, employees, and visitors a one-stop shop for university pride and identity. In the afternoon, the festivities continued with Laro ng Lahi and the Quiz Bowl, testing each team’s strength, wit, and collaboration – further proving that MSUN’s community thrives not only in work but also in unity and shared joy. As the day drew to a close, one truth shone brightly: at MSU at Naawan, every beat, every stride, and every voice came together in harmony. Beyond the games and the festivities, what endures is the spirit of inclusivity and the unyielding bond of a community moving forward – stronger, prouder, and united.