ABOUT THE COVER Sapa Mindanaw means Mindanao‘s Promise, roughly translated from the Maranao and Tausug language. The hand symbolizes the oath that the university‘s student leaders made to achieve a better, peaceful and progressive Mindanao. The cover shows the home of Mindanao State University, the bountiful islands of Mindanao, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi. Rising competencies for competitiveness among the member campuses is symbolized by the rising and developing structures. The dominant color blue stands for the call for peace, with education provided by the Mindanao State University as the prime beacon of hope.
EDITOR’S NOTE It is indeed commendable that the student leaders of the different MSU campuses have put together their efforts to come up with and revive this publication. The FEMSUSSCO has done a great job of monitoring each of all the MSU campuses by linking them as one. The same reason that this publication is revived – to remind us how strong we are when we unite. The idea of uniting all the Mindanao State University units instead of identifying and dividing themselves as to what campus they belong to is the very strength of us. With a very diverse Board of Regents, dynamic Chancellors, energetic FEMSUSSCO, and the sense of taking the hand of the other, no one is stopping our journey to a world-class university. With this publication issue, we proudly offer you the heights we've reached.
Mardella D. Matba Editor-in-Chief
Assalamu alaykum warakhmatulahi wabarakatuh!
This is indeed a fortuitous year for the student leaders of the Mindanao State University. As representatives of the second biggest bloc of student councils in the country, the federation leaders have shown their willingness to cooperate and unite for the call of change and development brought about by the changing academic perspectives and student governance within the university. As such, I am proud to lead the federation whose council members are very supportive, attested by the campuses‘ complete attendance in the federation assemblies and summits despite the geographical landscape of the Mindanao State University campuses. This year, student leaders of different religion and ethnicity were able to share experiences and held consultations on different student government functions that can be re-echoed and emulated by other student organizations. As the university is venturing to world-class status, the leadership of the student governments shall be intensified to heed the call for globalization and I am thankful to the different Campus Chancellors and the system officials in their never-ending support. Being the lead server of the prime clientele of the university, I am offering my deepest gratitude to all the student leaders whose support has strengthened the federation. We shall continue to work for genuine student leadership and participation as we venture to another level of being globally-competitive student leaders, working hand in hand with university officials in ensuring the upholding of student rights and welfare. Wassalam!
Greetings of Peace and Solidarity! The manifestation of our sincerity to address various concerns of our constituents was comparable to trekking. The sweat we shed is our commitment in dispensing just course of actions to the hapless ones. With these, my sincere commendation because of our combined efforts! Now as we take another journey, we must embrace the principle of oneness that we have established. This will serve as a potent tool in overcoming barricades that hinder our way towards development. As we serve our country may the gift of wisdom set us on eagerness to solve daunting challenges. Take the lead MSUans, as we took the great learning and experiences!
The Supreme Student Council (SSC) of MSUGSC, as the highest governing student organization in the University, envisioned to have a novelty in its activities and programs for the welfare of the students. With its various committees headed by the Councilors, it helped to realize the objectives of the administration as it lives by the Latin maxim salus populi est suprema lex. The Project and Physical Developments Committee has realized the cementing of 16-meter pavement at the front of the OSA (Office of Student Affairs) building with simple drainage systems. It also holds the first Freshmen Day in MSU General Santos. The Budget and Finance Committee through its PPP (Pang-enrol sa Pamantasan Program) has helped 24 deserving students to continue their academic endeavor. The committee also initiated the Pagarbo Night, an event that showcases the diversity of talents in MSU General Santos. The Academic Matters Committee recognized the ten highest Dean‘s listers of the seven colleges and has awarded the seven outstanding university students and the first recipient of the SSC Gawad Karangalan Award. The Student’s Rights and Welfare Committee spearheaded the creation and dissemination of STRAW Bill, which has given the students a background knowledge about their standpoint in the institution. It also initiated the university-wide Cleanup Walk, which was participated by over a hundred CWTS, LTS, and ROTC students. The Ways and Means Committee has financially helped the activities of the council through its income-generating project and sponsorship efforts. The committee also arranged an insurance company, Oriental Assurance Company, which helped 11 students through its services. The Public Relations Committee helped break students‘ apathy through its efforts of conven-
ing all seven colleges during the 1 st and 2nd SSC General Assembly, with the highest attendance observed as compared to past assemblies. It also hosted the year‘s Students‘ Night, which was dubbed as best in the history because of its unprecedented surprises. It also made the official logo for the MSU General Santos‘ Transport Group. The Sports, Literary, and Cultural Affairs Committee initiated new events during the Intramurals such as the Sayaw SA Casadya Street Dancing Competition, College Booth Exhibit, Nationalistic Contemporary Dance, and Miss MSU 2014, which was graced by internationally renowned individuals. The Internal and External Affairs Committee made the closing ceremony of the Intramurals vibrant and lively through its Mass Demonstration Competition, which was participated by the seven colleges. The committee also initiated the Queen of MSU 2015, which helped in alleviating prejudice in the LGBT community, and Freshmen Night 2014. The Administrative Affairs Committee took charge of the council‘s responsibilities in FEMSUSSCO including the agenda preparation for the Executive Summit held at MSU-Sulu. It also submitted a proposal to the administration and transport group for the conversion of motorcycles to tricycles inside the campus. Most importantly, the SSC crafted its very first Solid Waste Management Program (SWMP), which governs all existing student organizations in achieving the cleaner environment through abiding the 3R Principle (Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle). A component of this program is the culmination of the institution‘s Environment Day (EnviUday), which happened on the 18th of February 2015 with a theme ―Action for a Greener Cause: Uplifting Ecoethics in MSU-GSC Community,‖ mandatory installment of garbage bins at the kiosks of its organizations –civic, religious, and Greek, and massive information dissemination about the SWMP plan of the council.
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Many people see the leader as the person on top—the one with the perks, the privileges, and the praise. (And) that‘s a myth. The truth is, leaders are at the bottom of the pyramid. It‘s the leader who bears responsibility for the group, not vice versa. It‘s the leader who must make hard decisions—deciding quickly and carefully who goes and who remains. It‘s the leader who must ensure that the needs of the group are met; and it‘s the leader who is responsible for making the work or ministry environment either happy or horrible. The leader must go to the extra mile if the organization is going farther down the road. On the other hand, it‘s not always easy being at the controls, especially when the road seems so long, the terrain is rugged and these ―backseat drivers‖ keep insisting that they can do better. Thus, the leader is the servant of all, not the greatest of all. Aspiring leaders acknowledge that the achievement of others offer a key to unlocking their own excellence. They associate with great men and women not as an act of worship but rather to learn the cause of their success. Every leader should be a mentor. But more important, every leader should have a mentor. Call it success by association—the people who strive for personal excellence will find a way to rub shoulders with the great people around them.
The Supreme Student Council of Mindanao State University-Maguindanao this year has experienced such trials which challenged their capacities to rule the entire campus. Nevertheless, those were just trials which were passed by their strong dedication and devotion to their positions and so with the corresponding responsibilities attached. Hence, as what SSC means to the school, they are the people who advocate such initiatives and ideas on how to respond to the demands and needs of the students. The best examples of the said demands or needs of the students of MSU-Maguindanao which were responded to by the SSC Officers this year are the following: need of water supply in the dormitories both for girls and boys; and the basketball players‘ major concern to have at least complete facility during their play. Henceforth, to mend the first concern— the need of water supply in the dormitories— the SSC Officers initiated a project which benefits the occupants of the girls and boys dormitory. This said project is called, ―Jetmatic Pump Project.‖ This provided one of the basic amenities of the dormitory occupants both for girls and boys. It consisted of two (2) Jetmatic
pumps for the said dormitories. It was built last September 27-28, 2014; and was officially turned over to the dormitory occupants last September 30, 2014, with the presence of their elected officers and dorm managers. On the other hand, to respond to the other concern of the students especially the basketball players, another project was proposed and was done by the SSC—the basketball scoring board. This project answered the major concern of the basketball players of the school. This scoring board was built on December 27, 2014, with the active participation of all SSC Officers of MSU-Maguindanao. It is placed in front of the basketball court of the campus. Therefore, these projects implemented and done by the SSC of MSU-Maguindanao are just manifestations that the heart of leadership is living upon them; and that the responsibilities of being the students‘ leaders are all set in their minds—that‘s why these simple yet unique projects were done, for the students to feel that MSU-Maguindanao‘s Supreme Student Council cares.
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Greetings in the name of God the Almighty! One of the eminent facets of college life is one's pragmatic exposure to extracurricular activities for holistic development. By leaving an array of good inscriptions, others are being inspired to strive for success. Indeed, learning takes place greatest outside the four corners of the room. To respond in the calling of empowerment, among the gears to efficient exponent in governance are integrity, professionalism and accountability observed at all times. Hence without malice, it is good that stereotypes against black politics are being gently eradicated and thus resume its fairest attribute as an art since we are in an academe. In that case, we shall become a paradigm of candid and responsible regime to boosting out the common men in the bureaucracy. Bequeathal of duties connotes confidence in leaving the portals of administration in all aspects. Boon or bane, the essence of leadership will at all times persist wherever your ego is. Hence, default and distress are just a part of the tough reality of a genuine leader and it is normal. While the system's catchphrase is "towards a world-class university,‖ for this reason, why not conquer also the prestige of a world-class asset to our alma mater and then build capacity? Let's show the world our unique and best identity of being an MSUan. Godspeed!
Crafting of our new Supreme Student Council Constitution and By-Laws (SSC CBL) is the top triumph that the student populace of the Mindanao State University Tawi-Tawi College of Technology and Oceanography has achieved this academic year. It has been at last approved during the Second Semester General Assembly on February 15, 2015 after a series of consultations, postings and plenary sessions. If ratified on a referendum until the first week of March, this will be a long-lasting bequest the student leaders of the academic year 2014-2015 can leave for the next generation. From the grass roots level of existing student policies of our campus, it is a relief on the part of the student leaders to make their own laws, reflective of their desires and is for the good and the general welfare of the students. The idea started with the nullification of the previous CBL as ruled so by a Constitutional Tribunal duly created by our Director for Student Affairs which is chiefly composed of faculty members deemed experts in law . Realizing this important matter under the ad interim government of the current council, the President by virtue of his power, has issued a memorandum creating the Students‘ Legislative Assembly composed of SSC officers except the President, college organization presidents of different departments, and even
the Editor-in-Chief of the KAWASA. This is to ensure that each sector or college is well represented. This CBL shall be for the general welfare and interest of the students. This shall be a CBL for all. One that allows everyone to serve in the council regardless of his or her academic status. A CBL that protects students‘ eminent rights with a strong sense of democracy and a council of fiscal autonomy. It is hoped that what we started will be continued by the future student leaders. And since student regency will nearly come from MSU-TCTO, this could be a good help for any aspiring SSC President in preparation for his/ her term with highly motivated and capable officers in the council in performing his duty well and in giving enough time for the agenda of the MSU-TCTO students. Though it is not that easy if we look into the history of our CBL, it is realized somehow on the part of the Students‘ Legislative Assembly and to the previous student leaders the struggle to come up with this commendable work. The previous councils had taught us to be independent on our own and made us realize to craft a new CBL. It is anticipated that before the semester ends, this would be legitimately ratified by the yes‘s of more than fifty percent (50%) plus one of our total population.
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Good day leaders! According to John C. Maxwell, a leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way. As we go on to our journey as leaders, we continually face challenges and how we view them defines us. Either we see these challenges as obstacles or as stepping stones. Whatever kind of challenges that will come into our lives as leaders, we should always see these challenges as stepping stones. We should consider it as an opportunity that will help us to step on so that we can achieve more, develop further and ultimately actualize more of our goals. We should always remember that our decision will always determine our destiny. Whatever challenges or chances that we encounter in our lives, our choices will help us change for the betterment not only to ourselves but also to school or even society as well. As the future leaders of our country, we need to create a vision whereby our name becomes synonymous with excellence, innovation, honor, integrity, and outstanding quality and service. If we keep our vision simple yet goal focused, then we will have turned defining our vision into a stepping-stone, one which we will use to reach even greater heights. I hope that this burning passion that we have for leadership does not only end here. We should continue to become an inspiration to all the youth not only in the MSU System but also to all the corners of the world so that together, we can make a big difference. Always put in your minds that life is all about choices. How we choose to respond to those challenges is indicative of leadership potential and development whether on a corporate level or an individual level. Thank you and Mabuhay ang FEMSUSSCO!
The Kataas-taasang Sanggunian ng mga Mag-aaral (KASAMA), the official student council of Mindanao State University- Iligan Institute of Technology (MSUIIT), has successfully served the student body for the academic year 2014-2015. Headed by President and Student Regent Datu Esma Mikee Pantaran Maruhom, the KASAMA officers have executed an incredible job in providing transparent and genuine service to the MSU-IITians.
Tulong Eskwela: A Scholarship Program 46th FEMSUSSCO General Assembly & Executive Summit
Annual Institute Palakasan Anti-Sexual
Harassment Health Forums
&
Reproductive
Alay sa Graduates Despite of the challenges and uncertainties, KASAMA has achieved building a community that advocated primarily for student welfare as the chief stakeholder of the institution. The council has created a student government that is truly for the students and by the students through various activities organized to empower the MSU-IITians. Among these worthy activities and programs are as follows:
Student Insurance Policy Bidding KASAMA Strategic Planning & Summit Enrollment Assistance Programs Freshmen Orientation General Assembly and Acquaintance Party (GAAP)
Charter Week Student Celebration
Pamaskong Handog Org Fair 2K15 National Commission on Culture and Arts (NCCA) Forum
3rd MSU-IIT Students Choice Award (MISCA) Iligan City Tertiary Schools Athletic Association (ICTSAA) Meet
KASAMA Days & Student Officers’ Night Sang-linggong Kantahan Insurance Claims KASAMA Medical Assistance Program IIT Hoodie Student Welfare Identification System (SWIS) KASAMA Handbook Landag
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SHALOM! To represent the student populace of MSU-MSAT comes with great honor and privilege. Being elected as the SSC President of MSU-MSAT is the most challenging role yet a colorful journey to be remembered. Balancing your time for your studies and working in your SSC responsibilities is not an easy task but despite the consequences, I manage to overcome it because I have God who provides, supportive Campus Head, concerned SSC Advisers, active SSC Officers and very supportive family and friends. To my FEMSUSSCO family, I am very grateful that I have met brilliant, unique and empowered student leaders. To our ever active and very approachable Student Regent Datu Esma Mikee P. Maruhom, thank you for your influence and contribution and I would not forget your bountiful deeds! One speaker in a leadership training said that, ―a good leader should think that serving other people is an opportunity and not an obligation.‖ This is one of my basis of becoming an effective student leader. Our journey as elected SSC officers for the academic year 2014-2015 is a colorful one and the central goal of this colorful year of supremacy is the empowerment of students. This superb journey is worth to be reminisced! God bless and more power!
A council can only be considered as actively existing when projects and activities were done and has left a legacy when it ends. This year‘s Supreme Student Council organized and hosted activities which were actively supported and enjoyed by the student body. Some of which are, the Acquaintance Party, Intramural Meet, Outreach Program, Valentine‘s Day Activities. However, the council was still active in supporting the implementation of the Solid Waste Management purchasing several sets of trash bins, sanitary materials and constructed a Globe-like Mechanical Plastic Bottle Storage (expected to be completed by the third week of March).
The Plastic Bottle Storage is a tangible project that serves as an Income Generating Project and at the same time helps in the beautification of the campus. This is considered as the major project of the council. Since the garbage problem is common in the campus, the officers themselves helped one another just to attain the project with betterment purposes as to suppress the said problem. The Council does its best to support the campuswide cleanliness and beautification. In connection to this matter, the council is immensely happy while foreseeing its possible positive outcomes.
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Dear student leaders: It is with zeal and verve that we choose to serve our fellow students without even thinking what we will get in return. We exemplary lead not because we need to, but because it is innate to us leaders. As a member of the executive board, I am very proud together with my fellow student leaders from other campuses for being a catalyst and an instrument for the realization of the appeals of the students in the system. As the President of MSU - Buug for two consecutive years, I owe to FEMSUSSCO the materialization of the need of my constituents and my legacy to the next generation of officers in my campus. To name a few of its biggest contributions are the ratification of the Constitution and By-Laws that made our student council a strong one, the approval of the creation of our varsity which caters our athletes, and the revival of our student publication. I am confident, however, that the steps taken by my administration shall continue to serve as a stepping stone for my ideals and vision to have a full bloom student entity for MSU—Buug in the very near future. Being an MSUan, we are distinct and unique from the rest. Mabuhay MSU! Mabuhay FEMSUSSCO!
―Leadership is the capacity to translate vision into reality.‖ -Warren Bennis The council has made history in the life of Mindanao State University Buug Campus, as tangi-
Second, Ghendaw, the official student publication of MSU - Buug, is now actively operating and will soon release its comeback issue after the last publication issue released last 2008;
ble results of the once promised platforms and pro-
Third, the financial transparency and sta-
jects were materialized. For several years, other
bility of the council brought completion of projects
organizations had existed like shadows and not the
one after the other such as the information billboard
front-line leaders as they were expected to be.
near the area of St. John, two hundred fifty (250)
But for the two consecutive administra-
chairs and steel cabinets for student use and a
tions, the council made a leap to change their im-
computer set for the student council. An ongoing
age. The following were the pride and greatest
mission and vision marker project is still to be com-
achievements of the A.Y. 2014-2015 administration:
pleted, and;
First, the council had made a bold move
Lastly, the council has successfully lobbied
on students‘ issues and concerns and crafted the
for the creation of a university varsity with our lawn
Constitution and By-Laws that will serve as the
tennis team winning on its first national competition.
framework of ideals and aspirations of the Supreme
All this happened in just a year. A legacy
Student Council. The body convened on January
made by the current administration. Leaving a chal-
16, 2014 and the document was ratified on January
lenge to the next administration, a challenge, not
22, 2014;
just to sit and heat up their chairs but to translate the vision into reality.
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Greetings of peace! Congratulations for we had come a long way in representing and heeding the voices of our primary clientele, the students of the MSU system. The Federation has continue to improve in our generation of leaders. Proof of this are the written inputs that we could pass to the succeeding batch of officers; the integration and aggregation of journalists to our family, the Sapa Mindanaw; and the well represented campuses during the general assemblies and executive summits. During the 49th General Assembly and Executive Summit, we had claimed that this federation‘s officers are the most ‗prolific‘ in terms of attendance in the general assemblies. It is also safe to say that we‘re the most bonded and most enthusiastic so far. Yet, the FEMSUSSCO gatherings were not just for fun. For those who do not know how and what we did in our assemblies, let them know that during those times, we did not only learn the different situations in the different campuses, but we did give collective advices on how to efficiently and effectively solve each problem. We were also inspired as we learned on a firsthand basis how our fellow leaders implemented activities and programs for the improvement of their constituents. FEMSUSSCO also helped us develop holistically. We learned how to adjust and adapt to our multi-cultured family as we stay in one roof. Indeed, we sure will miss one another as this year‘s federation term ends. As we end our term as student leaders, let us continue to aspire for the betterment of every student in the system. Let us be ambassadors of peace and virtue. Let us be living proofs that multicultured Mindanaoans, with different religions and dialects can live not just harmoniously in an area but can also unite to pursue one collective goal, which in our case, the goal of FEMSUSSCO. Hoping for the continuous improvement and prosper of the Federation of Mindanao State University Supreme Students Councils. Surely, God would bless us all!
Palakasan 2014 was scheduled August 23September 1. It was one of the longest and most joyous ever celebration of the Palakasan. The SSC organized the sports, cultural and arts activities with the help of the campus administration, faculty and staff.
wherein they will be assigned to clean their college‘s assigned areas. To further answer the nature‘s call, all graduating students are required to plant at least two trees for the ―Grow a Tree Project.‖ Unlike any other tree planting activities, graduating students are advised to plant the tree at least a month before their graduation and are required to water and make sure the trees do grow.
One of the added events in the Palakasan was the Park Beautification Contest. Each college was assigned to an area where they must make a mini-student lounge and park. They must maintain the cleanliness all throughThough the officers do not get a hold out the school year for there will be surprise vis- of their own money, and the procurement of its from the judges. This activity aims to let the such takes so much time and effort, we manstudents practice the 5S and 3Rs. aged to implement projects that do not require a slice of the budget. Indeed, leadership is not just Another remarkable change in the about expenditures, it‘s about taking initiatives SSC this year was the halting of collection of the and making things happen efficiently. monetary fines. Instead of letting the students pay for not attending SSC activities, the fines are therefore converted to community service
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In behalf of the president of Mindanao State University, Lanao Norte Agricultural College, Supreme Student Council Organization, it is my honor as a student leader to lead a single institution together with my companion, the SSC officers.
Being a leader is not an easy task for students like us. To accomplish several tasks is such a wonderful achievement we could give and contribute towards the institution for MSU-LNAC where we took an oath to render our services. To lead is not to ask in return. We the leaders decided to take the position that we are currently handling for the reason of willingness to serve because of our concern towards the institution. As one of the leaders, I will heartily serve the campus where I am currently studying.
In line with this, let me extend my grateful message for all the student leaders like me for having leaders like you in your respective campuses. God bless and more power.
ORLY’S BAND The Orly‘s band was given by the school OIC Professor Orlando A. Fernandez with assistance from the SSC fee to produce bet-
Festival, a short movie, music video and bulletin board contest where the students showed their hidden talents in acting and drama.
ter learners not only in the field of academics
BULLETIN BOARDS
but also in the forte of playing any musical
The Bulletin Boards were purposively cho-
instruments that will develop or mold their
sen as our main project to give information,
skills.
as one of the needs of the students of MSU
FEB FILM FESTIVAL The SSC officers organized an event in the month of February, which is the Feb Film
– LNAC to become aware of the activities that we are implementing and to post pictures as a proof of accomplishing something.
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Assalamu Alaykum! My warmest congratulations to the editorial board of Sapa Mindanaw and the Executive Board of the Federation of Mindanao State University Supreme Student Councils for the finest execution of the Sapa Mindanaw headed by Ms. Mardella D. Matba and supervised by Hon. Datu Esma Mikee P. Maruhom, In Sha Allah, this publication will mark the beginning of the unified voice of the student populace. It is in my great pleasure and honor to be part of this federation year, as we altogether mark the essence of having a unified student government and student publication. In Sha Allah (In God‘s will), the Sapa Mindanaw will represent the voice of all MSUans. Therefore, the great hold of responsibility to showcase the truth whatever it takes, to be vigilant and fearing not in the fight for what is right. ―Press freedom is everything: very attractive but controversial‖ the message I want for the staffers and editorial board to bear in mind. As we hand in hand move towards making a difference in MSU System, I strongly vow to support the Federation‘s productivity and its publication‘s quest for the truth and contribution in shaping MSU. Finally, yours truly has been part of the finest execution of Sapa Mindanaw and FEMSUSSCO, be reminded that the kind of leadership we have today is the leadership that Mindanaons and Filipinos need tomorrow. Long Live FEMSUSSCO, Long Live Sapa Mindanaw, Long Live MSUans. More power and God bless!
In behalf of MSU—LNCAT Students Supreme Government, I am truly glad and honored to present to you the accomplished tasks we have done as this year‘s Student Supreme Government officers. I would like to thank our almighty God for being always there to guide us and help us in everything that we do and to every path that we take. I would like also to thank the entire campus for giving us the opportunity and their trust to prove to them that we can do better in improving and managing our school campus. These are the finished products of our persistence as an SSG officers and I know that this isn‘t end here for there are so many more things that we can still give and offer to our fellow students and for the betterment of our school. The first project we accomplished was providing roofed pavements and pathways inside the campus to give comfort to our fellow students in going to their classes especially when the it is too hot or when it is raining. The second accomplished task was the renovation and general cleaning of our school toilet after suffering for almost a year not being able to use it due to its condition. For so many complaints from among the students and staffs, we have decided to renovate, repaint, and clean our campus toilet and we are now comfortably using it. Aside from the money consumed for projects, we, the Student Supreme Government also played an important role in assisting, guiding, managing, and participating in every school activities such as enrollment process, Sports Fest, Buwan ng Wika, School Community Services, etcetera. I am hoping that these valuable deeds and responsibility will be continued by the succeeding generations by the time we graduated, and continue to improve our school‘s performance, beauty and stability, so that we can live in peace and in harmony. ―A good leader is a good listener and also a good follower.‖ Thank you!
Eighty seven student leaders from different MSU campuses gathered during the 46th General Assembly and Executive Summit of the FEMSUSSCO (Federation of Mindanao State University Supreme Student Councils) on August 9-12, 2014 at Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology, A. Bonifacio Avenue, Tibanga, Iligan City with MSU General Santos having the highest delegation. The event was hosted by the MSU-IIT KASAMA (Kataastaasang Sanggunian ng mga Mag-aaral) headed by its President, Hon. Datu Esma Mikee P. Maruhom. All of the MSU campuses were present during the assembly, except the MSU-LNCAT. The General Assembly proper was presided by the outgoing MSU System Student Regent, Hon. Datu Hamad Abas of MSU Maguindanao. Included in the meeting was the election of the new set of Federation officers for the academic year 2014-2015. KASAMA Presi-
dent, Hon. Maruhom, was elected as the President; MSU General Santos SSC President, Hon. Vanjo B. Salinda, as Vice President; MSU at Naawan SSC President, Hon. Devorrah Shane L. Bagares, as Treasurer; MSU Maigo SSC President, Hon. Marjune Carballo, as Auditor. Lynrose Jane D. Genon of MSU-IIT was appointed as the Federation‘s Secretary-General. The Executive Summit, which happened on the 10th of August 2014 at the Board Room of the Office of the Chancellor, gathered the executives of various campuses to discuss matters regarding the problems faced by the student councils in their respective institutions. On the other hand, the KASAMA officers have prepared teambuilding activities to acquaint the student leaders who were not part of the summit. The KASAMA has prepared a traditional Maranao activity, Pagana A‘Mranao, for the federation attendees
on the night of August 10. Student leaders dressed in Maranao-inspired couture was entertained with Mindanao tribe dances performed by MSU-IIT‘s Kalimulan Cultural Dance Troupe. The group also witnessed the MSU-IIT‘s pride in theater acting, IPAG, which played Steven Patrick Fernandez‘ SUHI at MSU-IIT Mini Theater. The last day was spent touring the prominent landmarks of Iligan City. The group visited the strong cascading waters of Maria Cristina Falls at Brgy. Fuentes, which provides most of the electricity in mainland Mindanao. The group‘s next stop was the MacaraegMacapagal Ancestral House, where the former President Gloria MacapagalArroyo spent most of her childhood days. The day was concluded with a luncheon meeting of the student leaders together with the MSU-IIT Chancellor, Dr. Sukarno D. Tanggol.
(from left) Shown in the photo is President Jay Mark P. Balbosa of MSU – Buug, Vice Pres Khiemark Luzal B. Abas of MSU-Naawan, President Vanjo B. Salinda of MSU – GSC, MSU System Student Regent and KASAMA President Datu Esma Mikee P. Maruhom of MSU-IIT, President Aljemedin S. Jaudines of MSU –TCTO and President Datuali Rahim Macacana of MSU- Maguindanao during the celebration of the 3rd Mindanao State University System Athletic Association held at MSU – GenSan Campus, General Santos City last December 16 to 20, 2014 with the theme ―Lakas, Tibay: Sulong Dugong MSUans‖ attended by the different campuses of MSU. The said event convened all of the SSC Executive Officers.
Two staffs of Sapa Mindanaw, Kier Mitchel E. Pitogo (Associate Editor) and Floyd Lawrence Escalante (Layout Artist), together with the President of the FEMSUSSCO (Federation of Mindanao State University Supreme Student Councils), Datu Esma Mikee P. Maruhom, have visited the island province of Tawi-Tawi on February 21-24, 2015 for a special purpose regarding the completion of the Federation‘s publication and an important executive discussion with MSUTCTO‘s student council. Mardella D. Matba, the EIC of KAWASA (official student publication of MSU-TCTO) and the Sapa Mindanaw as well, arranged the itinerary of the group. Together, they have toured the historic island municipality of Simunul and hiked up to the peak of Bud Bongao. Their visit was concluded with a farewell dinner sponsored by the chancellor of Mindanao State University Tawi-Tawi College of Technology and Oceanography, Atty. Lorenzo R. Reyes.
MSU System Student Regent, Datu Esma Mikee P. Maruhom, has visited the 41st MSU Naawan Anniversary Foundation 2014 on the 4 th of December 2014 at MSU Naawan Function House with the theme ―MSU Naawan at 41: Visionary and Dynamic Governance amidst Global Challenges.” His visit was warmly welcomed by the university‘s Supreme Student Council headed by Hon. Devorrah Shane L. Bagares.
The President of FEMSUSSCO and incoming Student Regent, Datu Esma Mikee P. Maruhom, graced the 41st Foundation Anniversary of the Mindanao State University Maguindanao on the 10th of October 2014 with the theme ―Soaring high towards academic excellence for peace and development.” With him is the Congresswoman of the First District of Maguindanao and Cotabato, Hon. Bai Sandra Sinsuat A. Sema.
The Federation of Mindanao State
University
Councils
Supreme
(FEMSUSSCO)
Student
conducted
eral Santos headed by Vanjo B. Salin-
held at around 8:30-11:30am and con-
da, and MSU- TCTO headed by
tinued in the afternoon at 2:00pm to
Aljemedin Jaudines.
6:00pm as they discussed the rising
the Executive Committee Summit on
The first day of the event was
issues in the different campuses and
November 28-30, 2014 at Mindanao
spent getting to know each other. They
the future plans of the FEMSUSSCO
State University- Sulu (MSU- Sulu)
had a courtesy call with the MSU- Sulu
for the MSU student populace. One of
hosted by MSU-Sulu‘s Supreme Stu-
Chancellor, Dr. Adjarail B. Hapas, in
the main agendum was the revival of
dent Council headed by Nickmar Asjali,
the morning. They toured around the
the
President.
MSU-Sulu campus, and had a pizza
Sapa Mindanaw.
FEMSUSSCO
publication,
the
The summit is the semestral
party in the evening in order to widen
The last day was spent for a
activity of the student leaders from
the range of interaction and socializa-
tour to Maimbung, Sulu and a dialogue
different campuses of the MSU system
tion to one another spearheaded by the
with the Student Regent with other
which aims to discuss the issues and
Student Regent. Academic calendar
MSU –Sulu organizations.
trends in their respective campuses.
shift was one of the issues that they
The said event was attended
had brainstormed.
It was indeed a legacy for the MSU – Sulu SSC officers in bringing
by three of the prestigious campuses in
The second day of the event
the brave and passionate student lead-
the MSU system namely: MSU- IIT
started with the Dagan-Bitad Exercise
ers to see the hospitality and rich cul-
headed by Hon. Datu Esma Mikee
at 5:00-7:00 from MSU –Sulu campus
ture of the Tausug and Sulu settlers.
Maruhom,
to Sulu‘s airport to energize the partici-
Student
Regent,
FEMSUSSCO President, MSU- Gen-
pants.
The Executive Summit was
For the first time in FEMSUSSCO, all of the MSU campuses were gathered in the 47th General Assembly and Executive Summit in Mindanao State University at Naawan on January 24-28, 2015. Almost a hundred student leaders were gathered at MSU at Naawan Function House with MSU Maguindanao having the highest number of attendees. Spearheaded by the MSU at Naawan Supreme Student Council officers, the assembly meeting discussed institutional problems of the different MSU Campuses. The event also convened the publication writers of various campuses for the rebirth of Sapa Mindanaw, the official publication of the FEMSUSSCO, with Mardella D. Matba of MSU-TCTO elected as the Editor-in-Chief. One of the highlights of the event was the dinner sponsored by MSU at Naawan Chancellor, Dr. Proserpina G. Roxas, who had given an inspirational message to the young student leaders. The group was entertained by the university‘s official dance troupe Indak Kalaunan and chorale group Koro
Kaayad Kaligaon. The General Assembly proper approved agenda to be lobbied to the next MSU Board of Regents meeting, dated 18th of March 2015. The FEMSUSSCO President and MSU System Student Regent, Hon. Datu Esma Mikee P. Maruhom, gave his words of goodbye and appreciation to the members of this academic year‘s FEMSUSSCO. In addition, he awarded each campus‘ student council Presidents for their dedication in service to the students in their respective campuses. The assembly meeting has ended in MSU at Naawan. The group then headed to MSU-IIT to have a campus visit before reaching the next part of itinerary, the Tinago Falls. Tinago falls is a 30-minute ride from the city proper. The group bathed in its cold waters and was amazed to witness a waterfall unique only in Iligan. After the tiring yet fulfilling adventure in the falls, the group headed to the main campus of MSU System, the MSU Marawi.
MSU Marawi headed by Hon. Amerhassan Mala accommodated the members of the Federation in a night of stay in the campus. The group toured around the campus, especially in the renowned golf course and the Aga Khan Museum. They were able to meet some of the executives of the MSU System including the Executive Vice President Dr. Emmanuel M. Lagare and Univeristy Secretary, Dr. Mary Joyce Z. Guinto-Sali. The MSU System President, Dr. Macapado Muslim, also welcomed the group in his home inside the campus.
The last campus the group visited was the MSU LNCAT (Mindanao State Univeristy Lanao National College of Arts and Trade) at Marawi City, Lanao del Norte. They were accommodated by the MSU LNCAT‘s student council President, Hon. Jamel Calbe Ampuan. This is the first attendance of MSU LNCAT‘s Supreme Student Council in the FEMSUSSCO General Assembly and Executive Summit after 4 years. The assembly has also the largest number of attendees in the history of The Student Government of FEMSUSSCO.