MSU-GenSan Supports DSWD “Tara, Basa” Program Through Pre-Deployment of Tutors and Youth Development Workers
On May 14, 2025, Mindanao State University – General Santos City reaffirmed its strong commitment to community development and literacy advocacy by taking part in the Pre-Deployment Program of Tutors and Youth Development Workers for the DSWD Tara, Basa Program. This important event marks another milestone in MSU-GenSan’s partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in advancing education and youth empowerment across the SOCSARGEN region. Held in collaboration with DSWD Region XII, the pre-deployment program gathered student volunteers, youth development workers, faculty, and partner agency representatives to formally prepare and orient participants before they begin their service in various communities and municipalities. Chancellor Shidik Zed T. Abantas emphasized the significance of this collaboration, highlighting MSU-GenSan’s mission of transformative education that extends beyond classroom walls. Through this initiative, students from the College of Education will serve as tutors to children in need of literacy support, directly addressing gaps in foundational learning and contributing to the nation’s broader goal of inclusive education. The Tara, Basa Program aims to improve reading proficiency and promote a culture of learning among disadvantaged children, particularly those in underserved and remote communities. By deploying trained tutors and youth development workers, the program provides targeted, community-based interventions that nurture academic growth and foster positive youth development. During the pre-deployment program, participating students were given essential briefings on their roles, responsibilities, and best practices for engaging with learners in the field. Sessions focused on teaching strategies, community engagement, child protection, and cultural sensitivity, ensuring that MSU-GenSan’s tutors are well-prepared to make a meaningful impact in their assigned areas. Chancellor Abantas expressed gratitude to DSWD XII for its partnership and trust in MSU-GenSan as an implementing partner. He also commended the dedication and service spirit of the student volunteers. “Our College of Education students embody the university’s vision of service, leadership, and excellence,” he shared. “Their willingness to serve in communities across the region shows our collective commitment to uplifting lives through education.” MSU-GenSan’s involvement in the Tara, Basa Program reflects its unwavering dedication to nation-building and aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education and SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities. By empowering students to be active partners in development work, the university not only enhances their learning experience but also strengthens its role as a catalyst for positive change in Mindanao. As these future educators prepare to share their knowledge and compassion in the field, MSU-GenSan stands proudly behind them, confident that their service will help create brighter, more equitable educational opportunities for the children of the SOCSARGEN region.
MSU-General Santos Chancellor Shares Exciting Update on Near-Completion of ICT Complex and Smart Classroom Projects
Mindanao State University – General Santos City continues its commitment to modernizing campus facilities and delivering high-quality education with the near-completion of its Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Complex. Chancellor Shidik Zed T. Abantas shared an update following his site inspections on May 6, 2025. He announced that the ICT Complex retrofitting is almost 100% finished, with e-classrooms and smart classrooms expected to become operational within the month. The university’s new data center is also in preparation for operation, as all electric supply transformers have already been delivered by the supplier. “I’m excited to inaugurate this complex soon,” Chancellor Abantas said, highlighting the university’s priority of advancing learning environments for students and faculty. He also inspected other key projects on campus, including the University Canteen and Virtual Learning Studios, which are both in their final stages of preparation. The university expects these facilities to be fully functional by August 2025. In addition to these developments, MSU-General Santos will begin retrofitting and renovating a total of 50 classrooms into smart classrooms this summer. Another 15 laboratories will also undergo retrofitting to support modern teaching and research needs. Chancellor Abantas emphasized his administration’s dedication to providing better, technology-enabled learning spaces that enhance teaching, student engagement, and academic excellence. “My administration is working 24/7 to bring better learning environments to our students and faculty,” he said. These significant infrastructure improvements reinforce MSU-General Santos’ vision of being a leading institution equipped with modern, accessible, and future-ready facilities that support quality education and innovation.
MSU-General Santos Welcomes Balik Scientist Dr. Benildo De los Reyes and Signs MOA with DOST PCAARRD to Advance Research and Innovation
Mindanao State University – General Santos City proudly strengthens its research and innovation initiatives with the visit of Balik Scientist Dr. Benildo De los Reyes, a distinguished Professor of Genetics from Texas Tech University. On May 8, 2025, the university marked this important collaboration by officially signing a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST PCAARRD). Dr. De los Reyes joins MSU-Gensan as part of the Balik Scientist Program, bringing with him a wealth of expertise in genetics, agricultural sciences, and academic research leadership. His mission is to help the university craft a comprehensive research and innovation agenda that targets key clusters critical to regional and national development, including fisheries and aquatic sciences, agriculture, and biodiversity. Beyond strategic planning, Dr. De los Reyes is also working closely with faculty to identify priority research areas, guiding them in designing high-quality proposals that enhance their chances of securing research funding from local and international agencies. Chancellor Shidik Zed T. Abantas emphasized that this partnership represents MSU-Gensan’s commitment to building a culture of research excellence that supports sustainable development, community empowerment, and scientific advancement in Mindanao and the Philippines. This collaboration with DOST PCAARRD and Dr. De los Reyes exemplifies MSU-Gensan’s role as a leading institution in driving innovation, capacity-building, and knowledge-sharing for the benefit of students, faculty, and society.
MSU-General Santos Strengthens Partnership with Joint Taskforce GenSan for Disaster Risk Reduction and Security Initiatives
Mindanao State University–General Santos City reaffirms its dedication to fostering meaningful, strategic partnerships that serve the broader community and advance the region’s development goals. On April 25, 2025, Chancellor Shidik Zed T. Abantas formally welcomed representatives of the Joint Taskforce GenSan during a courtesy visit to his office. The visit underscores the university’s commitment to collaborative engagement on pressing local and regional issues. The courtesy meeting marked an important milestone in strengthening the ongoing partnership between MSU-Gensan and the Joint Taskforce GenSan. Participants discussed the critical need for sustained cooperation to address complex challenges faced by the SOCSARGEN region, including disaster risk reduction management, public safety, and security enhancement. Key discussions focused on building joint initiatives and programs that leverage the strengths of both institutions to improve preparedness, enhance security protocols, and mitigate risks in times of crisis. Such initiatives aim to protect not only the university community but also surrounding neighborhoods and municipalities that rely on MSU-Gensan as a hub of learning, innovation, and public service. During the meeting, Chancellor Abantas highlighted the essential role of partnerships in developing comprehensive, community-centered solutions. He expressed deep appreciation for the continued trust and collaboration extended by the Joint Taskforce GenSan, noting that effective disaster preparedness and security measures require strong alliances, shared knowledge, and coordinated action. “The safety and well-being of our students, faculty, and neighbors are of utmost importance,” Chancellor Abantas said. “By working hand in hand with our partners, we can create safer, more resilient communities equipped to face emergencies and ensure continuity of education and development even in times of crisis.” Beyond disaster and security planning, the partnership is also expected to facilitate training workshops, simulation exercises, and capacity-building activities for students, faculty, staff, and local responders. These programs will help equip stakeholders with vital skills in emergency response, crisis management, and community mobilization. This collaboration also aligns seamlessly with MSU-Gensan’s mission as an engaged, socially responsive university dedicated to holistic education and public service. By actively partnering with institutions like the Joint Taskforce GenSan, the university demonstrates its commitment to peace, security, and sustainable development, ensuring that its educational impact resonates well beyond the classroom. In reinforcing these partnerships, MSU-General Santos continues to champion a vision of a safe, prepared, and united community—one where education, security, and development go hand in hand to improve lives and build a more resilient future for all.
MSU-General Santos Ranks 2nd Among Top Performing Schools in April 2025 Registered Electrical Engineers Licensure Exam
Mindanao State University – General Santos City proudly celebrates another milestone in academic excellence as it secures the Top 2 spot among top performing schools in the April 2025 Registered Electrical Engineers Licensure Examination (REELE). Achieving an impressive 92.16% passing rate, MSU-GenSan once again demonstrates its unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality engineering education that meets rigorous national standards and equips graduates to excel in their chosen fields. This outstanding performance reaffirms the university’s role as a leading institution in engineering education not only in Region XII but across the country. University officials highlighted that this achievement reflects the collective effort of students, faculty, and staff who work tirelessly to uphold MSU-GenSan’s tradition of academic excellence. The College of Engineering, in particular, has remained steadfast in its mission to provide industry-relevant, innovative, and comprehensive training that prepares students to address real-world challenges in the field of electrical engineering. Chancellor Shidik Zed T. Abantas extended his heartfelt congratulations to the newly licensed Electrical Engineers, recognizing their hard work, perseverance, and dedication. He also expressed his gratitude to the College of Engineering faculty and staff, along with the university’s service colleges, for their vital contributions to this success. “These accomplishments are a testament to the excellence of our academic programs and the shared commitment of our community to produce professionals who will lead and serve with integrity and competence,” Chancellor Abantas noted. MSU-GenSan’s consistent strong performance in professional licensure examinations underscores its mission to develop graduates who are not only technically proficient but also socially responsible and prepared to contribute meaningfully to national development. The university remains dedicated to fostering an academic environment that prioritizes quality, innovation, and inclusivity, ensuring its graduates are ready to lead in their respective industries. As MSU-GenSan celebrates this remarkable achievement, it reaffirms its commitment to maintaining the highest standards of engineering education and supporting students in their journey to become future leaders, innovators, and nation-builders. Congratulations to all the newly licensed Electrical Engineers, the College of Engineering, and the entire MSU-GenSan community for this exceptional accomplishment!
ABE EXPO 2025: Showcasing Engineering Innovations for Sustainable Agroecosystems and Food Security
Mindanao State University – General Santos, through its Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering (ABE), successfully staged the highly anticipated ABE EXPO 2025 on April 28–29 at Veranza Mall. With the theme “AB Engineering Research and Innovations for Sustainable Agroecosystems and Food Security,” the two-day event showcased the cutting-edge research, entrepreneurial spirit, and commitment to sustainability of ABE students, faculty, and partner institutions. In his welcome remarks, Engr. Rener B. Tandugon, ABE Department Chairperson, highlighted the essential role of academic institutions in delivering research-based, practical solutions for sustainable agriculture and food security. Messages of support were delivered by university leaders who emphasized the expo’s role in shaping future innovators: Dr. Mishell D. Lawas, Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, described the event as “a platform where young minds transform ideas into impactful solutions for society.” Dr. Christine Dawn G. Obemio, Vice Chancellor for Research and Extension and Director for Innovation and Research, and Dr. Donna Ria Josue-Canacan, Dean of the College of Agriculture, both underscored the value of student-led research in advancing agricultural development. Day 1 Highlights The first day featured the ABE134 Food Innovation Exposition, feasibility study presentations, and sponsor acknowledgments. Engr. Ronan D. Caligdong praised industry partnerships for their role in fostering student development and innovation. Feasibility Study Competition Winners: Champion: Miracle Bites – A Miracle Fruit-Supplemented Gummy 1st Runner-Up: ReBrewBites’ Kapecaroons – Upcycling Coffee Grounds 2nd Runner-Up: Kamote Peel Siomai by Peeling Good Special Citation for Presentation: Arnold Clear Caijo, Ryzzah Angela Castillo, Christine Mae Avenido, Christine Daños, Eliu Aguilar, Al-Faisal Pagabangan, Rhea Fuyonan, Cindy Mae Belinario, Angelie Lebosada Food Processing Competition Winners: Champion: Peeling Good – Kamote Peel Siomai 1st Runner-Up: ChichaPeel – Cucumber Peel Chips 2nd Runner-Up: Rebite – Fruit Peels Snack Bar Day 2 Highlights Day 2 opened with preliminary activities followed by the Research and Innovation Forum, with keynote talks by Dr. Ryan Banal, Director of the Department of Innovation, and Dr. Keno Jay M. Balogbog, Director of the Department of Extension. Both speakers stressed the need for adaptive, forward-thinking approaches to agricultural research. In the afternoon, students competed in the Technopreneurship Pitching Competition, delivering innovative entrepreneurial solutions to real-world agricultural challenges. AgroTechnopreneurship Competition Awards: Best Pitching: SustainaGrow Best Agrotech: EcoBrix Most Outstanding Innovation: EcoSprout Structure Miniature Competition Winners: Champion Livestock Production: Moolabao Champion Grain & Non-Grains Production: RTMY Inc The event concluded with an awarding ceremony, marking yet another milestone in MSU-Gensan’s commitment to academic excellence, research relevance, sustainability, and community impact.
MSU-General Santos Welcomes Regional Project Monitoring Committee for College of Medicine Building Site Visit
Mindanao State University – General Santos City reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and collaboration as it hosted the Regional Project Monitoring Committee (RPMC) XII for an official site visit on April 23, 2025. Chancellor Shidik Zed T. Abantas welcomed the delegation led by NEDA XII Regional Director Phlorita A. Ridao to present the status of the ongoing construction of the university’s College of Medicine building. The meeting highlighted the university’s progress in delivering a modern, state-of-the-art facility dedicated to training future doctors and advancing healthcare education in the region. After a detailed presentation on the implementation updates and timelines, Chancellor Abantas personally led the committee on a facility tour of the construction site. The tour showcased various parts of the building and their planned uses, including the recently completed auditorium designed to support academic activities and professional development events. Chancellor Abantas emphasized MSU-General Santos’ dedication to building a world-class medical education facility that aligns with the university’s vision of producing competent, service-oriented healthcare professionals who will serve the needs of communities across Mindanao and beyond. He also expressed gratitude to the Regional Project Monitoring Committee for their continued support and oversight, underscoring the value of strong partnerships with national agencies in ensuring high-quality infrastructure delivery. The visit reflects MSU-General Santos’ commitment to accountability, collaboration, and the continuous improvement of its educational facilities to better serve students, faculty, and the wider community.
Installation of Big Fans in the Gymnasium
The ongoing repairs and improvements to our University Gymnasium are now nearing completion. The majority of the planned works have been successfully finished, ensuring that the gym is safer, more comfortable, and more functional for all students and visitors. This year, the university has installed two high-volume, low-speed (HVLS) fans—giant fans designed to significantly improve ventilation within the facility. These fans will help maintain better airflow, making activities in the gym more convenient and safer for everyone, particularly during large events and physical education classes. In addition, the university will be replacing the existing basketball boards with new, modern, portable units to enhance the quality of sports training and games held in the venue. These upgrades reflect the administration’s commitment to providing students with facilities that support their holistic development, health, and well-being. The Gymnasium will also serve as the venue for a special occasion this month: it will host several dignitaries for the upcoming University President’s Investiture Ceremony. The improvements ensure that the space will be a fitting, welcoming, and functional setting for this important institutional event. These ongoing investments in our university infrastructure underscore our dedication to building a campus environment that meets the evolving needs of our students and the entire academic community.
MSU-General Santos Receives Multiple EQUATE Awards from CHED for Excellence in Teacher Education
Mindanao State University – General Santos City and its College of Education continue to build on their strong reputation for academic excellence and leadership in teacher education, having been awarded the “Excellence in Quality Assurance in Teacher Education” (EQUATE) Awards by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED). On April 2, 2025, MSU-General Santos proudly announced that it received three EQUATE Awards: one each for excellence at the Elementary and Secondary education levels, and a third award recognizing outstanding quality assurance and achievement in both levels. This remarkable distinction underscores the university’s steadfast commitment to providing exceptional pre-service teacher education that meets—and exceeds—national standards. The EQUATE Awards celebrate teacher education institutions that consistently demonstrate rigorous quality assurance processes, program accreditation, and outstanding performance in the Board Licensure Examination for Professional Teachers (BLEPT). For MSU-General Santos, this recognition affirms the College of Education’s enduring dedication to shaping highly qualified, ethical, and compassionate educators who are prepared to lead classrooms and transform communities. Among 1,533 higher education institutions across the Philippines, MSU-General Santos is proud to stand among the 120 recognized universities nationwide and remains the only state university in Region XII to achieve this prestigious honor. This milestone is a testament to the collaborative work of faculty, staff, students, administrators, and partners who share a vision of educational excellence and service to the region. University officials emphasized that these awards reflect the success of strategic efforts to maintain program accreditation, strengthen curriculum and pedagogy, support student achievement in licensure examinations, and continuously improve teacher training aligned with CHED’s minimum standards. In congratulating the entire MSU-General Santos and College of Education community, university leadership highlighted the importance of this achievement not only as institutional recognition but as a commitment to the country’s development goals. By producing highly competent teachers, MSU-General Santos contributes directly to SDG 4: Quality Education and SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, addressing the need for equitable, accessible, and high-quality education for all learners. As the university celebrates this well-deserved honor, it also reaffirms its mission to inspire and develop the next generation of educators who will help build a brighter, more inclusive, and better-educated nation. Congratulations to the entire MSU-General Santos and College of Education community!
MSU-GenSan Receives CHED’s Excellence in Quality Assurance in Teacher Education (EQUATE) Award
Mindanao State University – General Santos City is proud to announce that it has been named a recipient of the Commission on Higher Education’s (CHED) Excellence in Quality Assurance in Teacher Education (EQUATE) Award. This prestigious national recognition celebrates MSU-GenSan’s unwavering commitment to maintaining and advancing the highest standards in pre-service teacher education. Chancellor Shidik Zed T. Abantas shared the good news with the university community on March 29, 2025, expressing gratitude and pride in the achievement. The award citation highlights the university’s consistent upholding of the highest standards in ensuring the quality of pre-service teacher education programs, meeting and exceeding CHED minimum standards, achieving program accreditation, and demonstrating excellent performance in the Board of Licensure Examination for Professional Teachers (BLEPT). “This award is a recognition of your institution’s consistent upholding of the highest standard in ensuring the quality of pre-service teacher education programs, following the CHED minimum standards, program accreditation, and excellent performance in the BLEPT,” the official citation reads. The EQUATE Award is designed to recognize teacher education institutions that serve as models of academic rigor, innovation, and quality assurance in the Philippines. By maintaining accredited programs and delivering exceptional licensure exam results, MSU-GenSan’s College of Education has demonstrated its leadership and its mission to produce highly competent, ethical, and committed educators who are prepared to meet the evolving needs of society. Chancellor Abantas commended the College of Education faculty, staff, students, and leadership for their collective efforts that led to this milestone. “This recognition is the fruit of our shared dedication to quality, continuous improvement, and service. It validates the hard work of our teachers-in-training, the guidance of our committed faculty, and the university’s vision to produce educators who can transform communities,” he said. The award also aligns with MSU-GenSan’s strategic goals to strengthen academic excellence, promote quality assurance systems, and support national development through education. It underscores the university’s role in addressing the need for highly qualified teachers who can uplift learning outcomes across the region and the country. As MSU-GenSan celebrates this achievement, it also renews its commitment to sustaining and enhancing its teacher education programs. The university aims to continue partnering with government agencies, accrediting bodies, and local communities to ensure that its graduates are well-equipped to inspire, lead, and serve as agents of positive change.
