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-Gensan, MNLF, and OPAPRU Partner to Boost Agricultural Livelihoods in Sarangani Through ₱5-Million Farm Equipment Turnover
Noong Mayo 16, 2025, bumisita ang delegasyon mula sa Mindanao State University – General Santos City sa bayan ng Maasim, Sarangani upang saksihan ang pormal na turn-over ng mga kagamitang pangsaka na nagkakahalaga ng ₱3.5 milyon. Ang aktibidad ay bahagi ng OPAPRU–MNLF–MSU Transformation Program na layong suportahan ang mga magsasaka sa MNLF communities at itaguyod ang kapayapaan at kaunlaran sa rehiyon. Mainit na sinalubong ang grupo ng MSU-GenSan ng kagalang-galang na MP Datu Utto Salem D. Cutan, Secretary General ng MNLF at kasalukuyang miyembro ng Bangsamoro Parliament. Ang seremonya ng pamamahagi ay nagbigay ng tatlong corn shellers, tatlong mobile threshers, at dalawang mobile rice millers bilang dagdag na suporta sa kabuhayan ng mga benepisyaryong magsasaka. Bilang bahagi rin ng mas malawak na programang tulong, nauna nang naipamahagi ang mga fertilizers, grafted trees at mga punla na may kabuuang halagang ₱1.5 milyon. Layon ng mga inisyatibong ito na mapalakas ang produktibidad ng mga magsasaka, mapabuti ang kanilang kita, at magbigay ng matatag na pundasyon para sa pangmatagalang kapayapaan sa pamamagitan ng inclusive at sustainable development. Lubos ang pasasalamat ng MSU-GenSan sa suporta at koordinasyon ng IPDM team sa pangunguna ni Dr. Mayong G. Aguja bilang Project Leader, kasama ang MSU-GenSan TWG team. Ang aktibidad na ito ay malinaw na patunay sa pangako ng MSU-GenSan na tumulong sa pag-unlad ng mga komunidad ng MNLF at itaguyod ang mga layunin ng Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), partikular ang pagtataguyod ng no poverty, zero hunger, at peace, justice and strong institutions.
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.
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.
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.
