Hoisting of College Flags: Historic Launch of Sinugdanan marks MSU GenSan’s New Beginning
As part of the celebrations for its Golden Anniversary, a historic event unfolded at Mindanao State University-General Santos City on September 6, 2023. The institution hosted the inaugural “Sinugdanan,” a celebration derived from the Visayan word “sugod,” meaning “to begin,” that signifies the start of a new academic year and, in a broader sense, the commencement of new journeys and opportunities. In a remarkable exploration of the history of the university’s colleges, Chancellor JD Usman D. Aragasi, MPA set the tone for the event with a powerful message: “May this Sinugdanan be a reminder to us of our achievements and commitment we have for our university and serve as a reminder that we are capable of starting something, that we are capable of change, growth, and progress.” Following the opening remarks, the event delved into the “History of the Colleges.” Deans from various colleges took center stage to share their respective institutions’ historical journeys. These enlightening narratives shed light on how each colleges came into existence, providing the audience with a deeper understanding of their origins and evolution. Dr. Mishell D. Lawas, the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs (VCAA), delivered the closing remarks, emphasizing the profound symbolism behind Sinugdanan. “This is not all about showing our flags and history but symbolizing the beginning of the school year, new challenges, opportunities that we have to conquer,” Dr. Lawas remarked. She also highlighted that the emblems on display during the event not only represent the strengths of individual colleges but also serve as powerful symbols of MSU’s unity and collective vision.
MSU-Gensan unveils ASEAN Roster of Flags, celebrates National Peace Consciousness Month
In a momentous event, the University conducted its long-standing tradition of flag-raising ceremony at the start of each month merged with the celebration of the inauguration of the ASEAN Roster of Flags and the celebration of National Peace Consciousness Month on September 6, 2023 . During the flag-raising ceremony, Chancellor JD Usman D. Aragasi, MPA, delivered a message of congratulations. He praised the Office of Student Affairs and Seevices (OSAS) for the successful orientation of freshmen and transferees, highlighting the importance of a smooth transition into university life. Chancellor Aragasi also motivated everyone to level up, “We should level up our thinking, we have to keep up with the development around us” he said. Two separate announcements were then made during the ceremony, addressing both academic and non-academic matters. Dr. Mishell D. Lawas, the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs (VCAA), expressed her heartfelt congratulations to all those present. She also emphasized the importance of academic excellence, “ We have a lot of upcoming activities, we have so much on our plate and hopefully we won’t forget the basics which is to conduct classes to continue quality education” she said. Meanwhile, HRMO Office-In-Charge, Ms. Flordeliza Tampus, delivered a message on behalf of the non-academic staff. She emphasized the staff’s dedication and passion for their work. She also provided two gentle reminders, urging staff to be responsible for their Daily Time Record (DTR) and Faculty Service Record (FSR). Additionally, she stressed the significance of attending the monthly flag-raising ceremonies. Following these significant announcements, the event transitioned into its second phase—the inauguration of the ASEAN Roster of Flags. This initiative, conceptualized by Chancellor Aragasi, aims to demonstrate MSU’s readiness to embrace ASEAN countries within its campus. Prof. Beverly T. Garcia, the Director of Office of International Affairs, one of the driving forces behind the ASEAN Roster of Flags, also shared insights on ASEAN and its history, highlighting MSU’s commitment to the ASEAN community. The highlight of the ceremony was the official inauguration of ASEAN flags, where flags representing the ten ASEAN member countries were presented before the gathered audience. And as MSU continues to evolve and expand its horizons, this event marked a significant milestone in its journey towards becoming a globally competitive university, promoting not only academic excellence but also international understanding and collaboration. A specific portion of the activities was also dedicated to the launching of the National Peace Consciousness Month celebration for September. This is in support of the University’s advocacy in advancing peace and progress in Mindanao and the entire country.
NCWP and PMWC Foster Partnership and Gender Equality Through Dialogue at MSU General Santos
In an important gathering aimed at promoting women’s empowerment and gender equality, the National Commission on Women and Politics (NCWP) and the Philippine Muslim Women’s Council (PMWC) visited Mindanao State University (MSU) General Santos for a consultative dialogue with the academe on August 30, 2023, MSU-General Santos campus Peace park. The event commenced with a warm welcome by Chancellor JD Usman D. Aragasi, MPA, who stressed the university’s commitment to fostering partnerships that promote gender equality. In his opening remarks, Chancellor Aragasi emphasized MSU-General Santos’s dedication to promoting women’s empowerment and its willingness to collaborate with organizations like NCWP and PMWC. Following the welcome address, Honorable Bai Norhata Alonto, President of PMWC, elucidated the program and activities of the consultation. Alonto delved into the historical context of NCWP and its role in advocating for women’s rights. She also emphasized the goal of the organization, which is to empower Muslim women and for their voice to be heard. The organization’s efforts in collaborating with local government units on projects aimed at women’s development was also mentioned. Alonto remarked, “The NCWP should be the representative of women’s organizations, as it’s the only women’s organization recognized by the national government. It was instrumental in creating the Philippine Commission on Women, giving birth to it. And I’m delighted to say that the face of NCWP here in Mindanao is PMWC.” Concluding consultative dialogue, Honorable Exec. Judge Wenida Papandayan, who brought into focus the significance of the consultative dialogue praised the active engagement of MSU-General Santos and expressed optimism regarding ongoing collaborations between academia and women’s organizations. She noted that such partnerships are pivotal in driving positive change towards gender equality and women’s empowerment.
Seminar-Training on Safe Spaces Act and Orientation on CODI Manual: Empowering a Safe and Inclusive MSU Gensan
In a profound effort to create a safe and inclusive environment within the MSU Gensan campus, a seminar-training on the Safe Spaces Act, also known as the Anti-Bastos Law, aimed to educate and empower the academic community on the importance of gender-based sexual harassment prevention and awareness, was held at the RSRC on August 25, 2023. The seminar commenced with a warm welcome and an insightful program overview by Dr. Diane Mae Ulanday-Lozano, Director of the Center for Women Studies. She emphasized the critical need for an act on campus that protects the safety and dignity of all students and employees. The centerpiece of the seminar was the comprehensive discussion of the Safe Spaces Act (RA 11313) by Atty. Hanna-Tunisia F. Usman, University Legal Officer She provided a thorough understanding of the act, commonly referred to as the “Bawal Bastos Law.” She highlighted the scope of the law, which defines gender-based sexual harassment in streets and public spaces. Atty. Usman elaborated on the different areas within the campus where such harassment can occur, stressing the importance of awareness and prevention. She emphasized the significance of learning the Safe Spaces Act and its various sections, as it empowers individuals with knowledge of their rights and obligations. “As citizens, it is essential to understand the boundaries of our actions for harmonious coexistence,” Atty. Usman stated, encouraging everyone to embody MSU’s core values. The seminar provided an interactive and conversational platform to address the various types of gender-based sexual harassment, fostering a deeper understanding of this pervasive issue. “Let’s learn how to be human. Learn how to respect other people,” she added, resonating with the audience and emphasizing the importance of mutual respect and consideration for all members of the academic community. Following the informative sessions, an open forum provided an opportunity for attendees, including the OSAS Director, the Prefect of Discipline from CETD, and medical team representatives, to seek clarifications and pose questions. Faculty members were also actively engaged in the discussion. Moreover, Dr. Ulanday-Lozano discussed an overall synthesis and outlined future initiatives planned by the IPDM (Institute of Peace and Development in Mindanao). She stressed the importance of fully integrating the peace process into the university’s activities. Cultural Affairs Office Director, Dr. Alma Celesthia D. Aguja, was tasked with giving the closing remarks to conclude the enlightening activities of the day. In her speech, she encouraged everyone, “Let’s continue equipping ourselves with knowledge about the Safe Spaces Act.” She also announced the approval of a project that would further disseminate information about the act through seminars involving faculty, staff, and students, thus ensuring a wider understanding and application of the Safe Spaces Act within the institution.
Symposium Unites Experts and Government Agencies for Sustainable Tuna Management Talks
General Santos City – The halls of Greenleaf Hotel came alive on August 23, 2023, as an influential talk “Tuna Research: Sustainable Talk Towards Sustainable Management of Tuna 2023 Onwards”, assembled an assembly of experts, practitioners, and government agencies in a concerted effort to pave the way for responsible and enduring tuna management strategies. The event commenced with a warm welcome from the Vice Chancellor for Research and Extension, Dr. Jaime A. Namocatcat. He expressed his appreciation for the diverse audience, particularly acknowledging the representatives from various government agencies: PSTC (Provincial Science & Technology Center, SARGEN), NEDA, SFFAII, Schools/Academes, DA Region XII, BFAR Region XI & XII, DENR/PAMB, MSU/TUNA Research, DOST, collaborators, and consultants. Reflecting the city’s support for collaborative efforts in sustainable practices, Mayor Lorelie Pacquiao’s Chief Executive Assistant, Ms. Shandy Llido also conveyed her gratitude to Mindanao State University and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) for their support in organizing the symposium. “I’m here to listen and, secondly, to give a warm welcome to all the participants,” she stated. Moreover, Mari Ann Acedera, Division Director (MRRD), extended congratulations to Mindanao State University for their pioneering work. She emphasized the importance of the symposium’s purpose, noting, “Today, we are gathered here to witness, appreciate, and learn the content of the project.” The symposium’s focus shifted to the Vice Chancellor’s enlightening presentation on the background of the comprehensive tuna research program. Project 1, titled “Reproductive Biology Studies of Three Philippine Neritic Species in Mindanao,” was elucidated by Dr. Edna P. Guevarra. This presentation also encompassed Study 1, focusing on “Fishery and Reproductive Dynamics of Three Neritic Tuna Species in Southern Philippines” led by Prof. Grenville A. Castrence, MFM, and Study 2, delving into “Gonadal Characterization and Histological Profiling of Three Neritic Species in Mindanao Philippines” by Dr. Edna P. Guevarra. Project 2, led by Dr. Donna Ria J. Canacan, centered on “Dietary Analysis and Feeding Habits of 6 Philippines Tuna Species Using Metagenomics.” The project’s comprehensive studies were detailed, encompassing metagenomic analysis of various tuna species’ intestinal contents for dietary composition. Project 3, “Otolith Elemental Fingerprinting, Shape Analysis, and Microstructure Analysis of Three Philippines Neritic Tuna Species,” took the spotlight next, explained by Dr. Edna Guevarra. Subsequently, the individual studies under this project were presented by Prof. Ariel Ortiz, Dr. Cleto Nanola Jr., and Dr. Sitti Zayda A. Halun. Furthermore, a comprehensive discussion of Project 4, “Ichthyoplankton Resource Identification Towards Replenishment of Tuna Species in Sarangani Bay Protected Seascape (SBPS) and Adjacent Waters,” led by Prof. Julius V. Mingoc, MSc. This project’s studies were expounded upon by Prof. Mingoc and Dr. Jessie G. Gorospe. Tuna Research: Sustainable Talk concluded the day by collectively deciding on the next steps. It was resolved that the policy aimed at sustainable tuna management would be meticulously crafted and in a demonstration of unity, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) was entrusted with leading this vital effort.
