Rosefel Iritz Maghuyop

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.

Spearheaded by the Office of Human Resource Management (OHRM), Mindanao State University at Naawan (MSUN) employees gathered on August 27, 2025, at the MSUN Function House for a consultative meeting on the election of staff representatives and preparations for upcoming university events. During the session, contractual and regular staff elected their representatives for both first and second levels. The following were duly elected: 𝟭𝘀𝘁 𝗟𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 𝗥𝗲𝗽𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗔𝗹𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗲:  𝙈𝙨. 𝙀𝙢𝙚𝙚 𝙋. 𝙀𝙗𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙚  𝙈𝙧. 𝘼𝙡𝙜𝙚𝙧 𝘾𝙖𝙗𝙧𝙚𝙧𝙖 𝟮𝗻𝗱 𝗟𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 𝗥𝗲𝗽𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗔𝗹𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗲:  𝙈𝙧. 𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙧𝙮 𝙆𝙚𝙣𝙣 𝘿𝙚𝙡𝙖 𝙍𝙤𝙨𝙖  𝙈𝙨. 𝙅𝙪𝙡𝙞𝙚𝙩 𝙈𝙖𝙙𝙪𝙡𝙖 Following the elections, OHRM Officer-in-Charge Ms. Delyn M. Bucay facilitated discussions on major university events, including the 64th Founding Anniversary of the MSU System, the 125th Philippine Civil Service Anniversary, and the MSUN Sports and Cultural Fest. The meeting also covered schedules, team assignments, and planned activities, with each team presenting their official names and coordinators in preparation for the festivities.

The Mindanao State University at Naawan, through the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs and Services (OVCSAS), proudly received prestigious awards from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Region X on August 26, 2025, in Cagayan de Oro City. During the Council of Student Affairs and Services Practitioners (CSASP) Region X Conference, MSU at Naawan was recognized as the Best Implementer in Institutional Programs and Services, Student Development Services, and Student Welfare Services, affirming the University’s commitment to student welfare and holistic development. Representing the University in receiving the awards were Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs and Services, Ms. Arleen B. Uy, alongside OVCSAS’ dedicated leaders: Assoc. Prof. Juvy Arjona, Director for the Office of Student Welfare; Assoc. Prof. Sylvia C. Labial, Director for the Office of Student Development; and Assoc. Prof. Rosevel B. Colegado, Director for the Office of Student Institutional Programs and Services. These distinctions stand as a testament to OVCSAS’ unwavering efforts to foster a supportive, nurturing, and empowering environment for students, while continuously raising the bar in delivering quality programs and services.

Proving its unwavering commitment to academic excellence and innovation, Mindanao State University at Naawan (MSUN) garnered multiple distinctions from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) on August 19, 2025, in Cagayan de Oro City. Among the accolades, MSUN ranked 5th among higher education institutions in Region 10 — bolstered by producing two board topnotchers in the October 2024 licensure examinations for Foresters and Fisheries Technologists. The university also received a Special Commendation as a Top Performing School in the Fisheries Technologists Licensure Examination. Further affirming its growing global reputation, MSUN was recognized for placing 226th in the 2025 World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI). The awards were received by MSUN Chancellor Dr. Elnor C. Roa and Vice Chancellor for Research, Innovation, and Global Engagement Dr. Rey Y. Capangpangan, who represented the university at the event. These recognitions reaffirm MSUN’s role as a leading institution in the region—driven by excellence in education, innovation, and global engagement.  As it continues to rise in national and international rankings, MSUN remains steadfast in its mission to produce globally competitive graduates and impactful research for sustainable development. 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗴𝗿𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀, 𝗠𝗦𝗨𝗡!

Mindanao State University at Naawan welcomed its students with a vibrant ASEAN Month celebration today, August 11, 2025. The Monday morning festivities began with a colorful parade around the campus, where MSUN employees proudly donned traditional ASEAN attire while students showcased their college colors. Waving miniature flags of ASEAN member states, the community brought energy and life to the occasion. This celebration not only marked August as ASEAN’s founding month but also served as a warm and spirited welcome to the opening of School Year 2025–2026. In her welcome message delivered by Campus Secretary Asst. Prof. Rhoy F. Castillo, Chancellor Dr. Elnor C. Roa shared:“It is my heartfelt pleasure to welcome each and every one of you to the start of this wonderful new semester here at MSU in Naawan. As your Chancellor, I want you to know that you are not just students but part of a big, caring family — a community dedicated to nurturing your talents, dreams, and ambitions.” Concluding the program, Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Asst. Prof. Gergie A. Ambato reminded everyone to seize the moment and enjoy the activities prepared.  “What is it that you can do today, do it,” said VCAA Asst. Prof. Ambato. As MSUN opens its doors to another year of learning and growth, the university community stands united — embracing the ASEAN spirit of peace, friendship, and shared aspirations.