MSU-Gensan and LGU-General Santos Sign Landmark Agreement to Establish Coastal and Marine Conservation and Research Center
Mindanao State University – General Santos, under the leadership of Chancellor Shidik Zed T. Abantas, proudly announces the formal signing of a Memorandum of Agreement with the Local Government Unit of General Santos City led by Mayor Lorelie G. Pacquiao and the Sarangani Bay Protected Seascape – Protected Area Management Board for the Establishment, Operation, and Management of the Gensan Coastal and Marine Conservation and Research Center. The agreement, finalized on May 16, 2025, marks a significant milestone in MSU-Gensan’s steadfast commitment to environmental stewardship, research excellence, and community partnership. The center will serve as a hub for scientific research, conservation initiatives, education, and community engagement aimed at protecting, conserving, and sustaining the coastal and marine environments of General Santos and Sarangani Bay. Chancellor Abantas expressed his enthusiasm for this collaborative effort, stating:“This agreement is more than just a document; it is a shared promise to future generations that we will take bold, deliberate steps to protect our marine and coastal resources. It underscores our responsibility as a university to advance science-based solutions while empowering local communities.” Mayor Lorelie G. Pacquiao also emphasized the LGU’s strong support for sustainable development and marine conservation, recognizing the critical importance of safeguarding Sarangani Bay, a vital natural resource for food security, tourism, and local livelihoods. The new Gensan Coastal and Marine Conservation and Research Center will conduct cutting-edge research on marine biodiversity, coastal ecosystems, and sustainable fisheries. It will implement conservation and habitat restoration projects, promote environmental education and public awareness campaigns, support local communities in developing sustainable livelihoods that align with conservation goals, and strengthen local, national, and international partnerships for marine conservation. This initiative aligns with MSU-Gensan’s strategic vision of delivering meaningful research and extension services that address real-world challenges, while also reinforcing the Philippines’ commitments under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 14: Life Below Water. With this partnership, MSU-Gensan affirms its role as an academic institution dedicated to building a sustainable and resilient future for Mindanao and beyond.
MSU-General Santos Advances Internationalization through Participation in CHED-led Erasmus+ and FSTP Mindanao Caravan
Mindanao State University–General Santos, under the leadership of Chancellor Atty. Shidik T. Abantas, MDM, LLM, continues to advance its commitment to internationalization by actively engaging in strategic national initiatives. Representing the university, Dr. Anderson V. Villa, Director of the Office of International Affairs, joined the Erasmus+ and FSTP Caravan – Mindanao Leg held on June 11–12, 2025, at Park Inn by Radisson in Davao City. Organized by the Commission on Higher Education Regional Office XI in collaboration with the CHED International Affairs Service (IAS), the two-day caravan convened over 100 internationalization focal persons from Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) across Regions IX, X, XI, XII, and Caraga. The event served as a vital platform to promote global academic mobility, strengthen institutional partnerships, and advance access to international scholarship and training opportunities through the Erasmus+ Program and the Foreign Scholarship and Training Program (FSTP). The first day focused on the Erasmus+ Program, the European Union’s flagship initiative for student and faculty exchanges, joint degree development, and institutional capacity-building. Participants received comprehensive orientations about the program’s components, opportunities for collaborative research, and practical strategies for launching successful exchange initiatives. A highlight of the day was the inspiring testimony of Mr. Janreve Odango from CHED Region XII, who shared his transformative journey as an Erasmus Mundus scholar in Latvia, offering valuable guidance for institutional representatives and future scholars. Participants also heard firsthand accounts from other Filipino scholars and program alumni currently engaged in Erasmus+ initiatives, who emphasized the program’s impact on cross-cultural understanding, academic enrichment, and professional growth. These stories underscored the crucial role of international partnerships in strengthening the global competitiveness of Philippine HEIs. On the second day, the seminar expanded its scope to introduce a broad array of foreign scholarship and training opportunities offered through bilateral government agreements and embassy-affiliated programs. Delegates from Korea, Japan, Hungary, Taiwan, the United States, and Israel presented diverse grant opportunities designed for Filipino students, faculty, and researchers. Scholars who benefited from these programs shared how international education broadened their professional horizons, fostered innovation within their institutions, and contributed to national development goals. MSU-Gensan’s active participation in the caravan demonstrates its strategic commitment to internationalization as a cornerstone of institutional development. By engaging in initiatives such as Erasmus+ and FSTP, the university aims to broaden academic networks, foster collaborative research, and expand access to global learning opportunities. These efforts empower students, faculty, and staff to cultivate global competencies and lead meaningful international engagements that strengthen MSU-Gensan’s position as a resilient, inclusive, and globally competitive institution. Moreover, the university’s involvement in these programs supports the realization of United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—especially SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). By promoting lifelong learning, enhancing employment readiness, and building equitable, cross-border partnerships, MSU-Gensan continues to demonstrate its commitment to sustainable development and global academic excellence.
MSU-General Santos Chancellor Administers Oath to Promoted and Tenured Faculty
Mindanao State University – General Santos City proudly celebrated the academic achievements and professional advancement of its faculty as Chancellor Shidik Zed T. Abantas formally administered the oath of office to the university’s newly promoted and tenured faculty members on June 3, 2025. The ceremony served as a meaningful recognition of the dedication, excellence, and service that these faculty members have demonstrated throughout their careers at MSU-General Santos. It also reinforced the university’s commitment to fostering faculty development, promoting academic excellence, and supporting the professional growth of educators who serve as the backbone of the institution. Chancellor Abantas expressed his heartfelt congratulations to the newly promoted and tenured faculty, acknowledging their valuable contributions to MSU-General Santos’ mission of delivering quality education, innovative research, and meaningful community engagement. “I am very happy to have administered the oath of our newly promoted and tenured faculty members. Congratulations and may you all continue to serve MSU and the people,” Chancellor Abantas said. University officials noted that faculty promotions and tenure are earned through rigorous evaluation processes that recognize excellence in teaching, research, and service. These milestones not only celebrate individual achievements but also strengthen MSU-General Santos’ reputation as a center of learning that invests in its people. This commitment aligns with the university’s strategic goals to build a strong, motivated, and highly qualified faculty workforce dedicated to producing graduates who are prepared to lead, innovate, and make a positive impact in their communities and beyond. As MSU-General Santos continues to uphold its tradition of excellence, it also reaffirms its dedication to supporting its faculty members in their professional journeys, empowering them to deliver transformative education and serve the people with integrity, competence, and passion. Congratulations once again to all our newly promoted and tenured faculty members!
MSU-General Santos Launches IDEA Admission Policy to Champion Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity, and Access
Mindanao State University – General Santos City has reaffirmed its commitment to transformative and equitable education with the launch of its IDEA Admission Policy, which stands for Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity, and Access. Approved under BOR Resolution No. 3-R-01, s. 2025, the IDEA Admission Policy aligns with the university’s strategic direction of serving as an institution for all—especially the underserved, underprivileged, and marginalized sectors of society. The Office of Admissions announced that while test performance remains an important component of the admission process, the revised policy now incorporates inclusive criteria that consider diverse life backgrounds, demonstrated skills, and individual talents. This approach ensures that deserving students from all walks of life have opportunities to pursue higher education at MSU-General Santos. The new admission policy also opens multiple pathways for enrollment, giving priority to underprivileged yet capable students while upholding the university’s mission of providing quality education that transforms lives. University leadership emphasized that this policy reflects MSU-Gensan’s role as a people’s university, committed to inclusivity, social justice, and nation-building through accessible education. As MSU-General Santos implements the IDEA Admission Policy, it signals a renewed pledge to foster an academic community where everyone, regardless of background, can thrive, excel, and contribute meaningfully to society. For incoming freshmen and their families, the Office of Admissions encourages careful review of the revised Admission Criteria and Process, now designed to recognize the unique strengths and potential of every applicant.
A clearer vision for all: MSU-Gensan and Borough Lasik Center forge partnership for eye care
In a significant move to advance student wellness and promote accessible, high-quality health services, Mindanao State University – General Santos officially signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with Borough Lasik Center on May 16, 2025, at the MSU-Gensan Campus. The partnership aims to deliver affordable, comprehensive eye care services to the university community—including students, faculty, and staff—underscoring MSU-Gensan’s commitment to holistic development and well-being. The event began with welcome remarks from Ms. Sheila Marie E. Madriaga, RN, OIC for Medical Services at the Student Health Center. She stressed the university’s mission to prioritize health beyond academics, stating: “Today’s MOA signing is more than just a formal event—it is a reflection of our promise to care for the well-being of our community. We welcome this collaboration with Borough Lasik Center.” Ms. Gracie Mae Olorosisimo, RN, of the Student Health Center, introduced the esteemed guests, paving the way for a message from Ms. Anne Sino Cruz, Marketing Head of Borough Lasik Center. Cruz expressed the center’s desire to support MSU-Gensan’s holistic vision for its students: “With this partnership, we’re not just offering services; we’re offering care, especially to students that would help them in their learning.” Chancellor Shidik T. Abantas, MDM, LLM delivered a message of support, reaffirming MSU-Gensan’s commitment to partnerships that enrich student life and academic excellence. He emphasized that wellness and education must go hand in hand, stating: “At MSU-Gensan, our vision of fostering excellence extends far beyond the four walls of our classrooms. This collaboration with Borough Lasik Center is a forward-looking step that ensures our constituents have access to crucial health services.” Dr. Norman Ralph B. Isla, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs, closed the program with a heartfelt message that underscored the importance of eye care in today’s digital age, reminding attendees of the challenges posed by increased screen time and academic demands in a post-pandemic world. This meaningful partnership is set to roll out vision care programs, free consultations, and discounted services for MSU-Gensan beneficiaries. By ensuring access to eye health services, the university is actively supporting its community in achieving academic goals and promoting lifelong wellness, reflecting its mission to deliver student-centered, holistic, and inclusive education.
