By Sorhaila Latip-Yusoph
On June 10, 2025, the Mindanao State University (MSU) community welcomed a familiar and trusted leader to the Office of the President. Dr. Rasid M. Paca, RME, JD, was designated Officer-in-Charge (OIC) President of the MSU System by the MSU Board of Regents.
For the employees of the Office of the President, the warm reception for “Sir Paca” was more than a formality—it was a celebration of a leader whose 30 years of service to MSU have cemented his reputation as a capable, dedicated, and visionary administrator.
A Legacy of Service and Leadership
Dr. Paca is no stranger to the Office of the President. As MSU’s Executive VicePresident, he has frequently served as OIC whenever the university president was on official travel, making the office his second home. His extensive experience, coupled with a deep commitment to the institution, has earned him the trust and respect of colleagues and students alike. With three decades of service to MSU, Dr. Paca brings not only administrative expertise but also a profound understanding of the university’s mission to foster academic excellence, cultural unity, and societal progress in Mindanao and beyond.
His recent leadership in spearheading MSU Marawi’s Independence Day celebration on June 12, 2025, underscored his vision for the university and the nation. Addressing the MSU community, Dr. Paca emphasized the importance of loyalty to the country, urging everyone to uphold integrity and reject ignorance and corruption. His words resonated deeply, reflecting his commitment to fostering a university culture rooted in ethical leadership and civic responsibility.
An Impressive Academic Journey
Dr. Paca’s leadership is underpinned by an extraordinary academic background that spans multiple disciplines, showcasing his intellectual versatility and dedication to lifelong learning. His educational credentials include:
- Doctor in Public Administration (DPA), Mindanao State University, 2021
- Bachelor of Laws (LLB), Mindanao State University, Marawi City, 2007Ph.D. in Sustainable Development (DiSD), earned units, Mindanao State University, Iligan City, 2004
- Master of Science in Agricultural Engineering (APDP Scholar), University of the Philippines, Los Baños, 2001
- Certificate in Governmental Management, Mindanao State University, 1996
- Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, Mindanao State University, Marawi City, 1989
This diverse academic portfolio reflects Dr. Paca’s ability to bridge technical expertise, legal acumen, and public administration. From engineering to law to sustainable development, his educational journey equips him to tackle the multifaceted challenges of leading a university system as dynamic as MSU. His time as an APDP scholar at UP Los Baños further highlights his commitment to excellence, as does his pursuit of advanced studies in sustainable development—a field critical to the progress of Mindanao.
A Vision for MSU’s Future
As OIC President, Dr. Paca steps into a pivotal role at a time when MSU continues to navigate the complexities of higher education in a region marked by cultural diversity and socio-economic challenges. His extensive experience within the MSU system positions him uniquely to address these challenges while advancing the university’s legacy as a beacon of knowledge and unity.
During the Independence Day celebration, Dr. Paca’s call for a corruption-free and enlightened community set the tone for his leadership. His vision aligns with MSU’s core values of fostering intellectual growth, cultural harmony, and national pride. Colleagues describe him as approachable yet resolute, a leader who listens but acts decisively for the greater good. His long tenure at MSU has given him an intimate understanding of the institution’s strengths and areas for growth, making him a steady hand to guide MSU through this transitional period.
A Leader for the Times
For the employees of the Office of the President, Dr. Paca’s designation as OIC President is a source of pride and optimism. His 30-year journey with MSU—from a mechanical engineering graduate to a seasoned administrator with advanced degrees in law, public administration, and sustainable development—embodies the spirit of perseverance and service that defines the university. As he takes onthis new responsibility, the MSU community looks to him to lead with the same integrity and dedication he has shown throughout his career.
With Dr. Rasid M. Paca at the helm, MSU is poised to continue its mission of shaping minds, uplifting communities, and contributing to a better, more just Philippines. His leadership is not just a continuation of a legacy—it is a promise of progress.