Today, October 13, 2025, MSU System President Atty. Paisalin P.D. Tago, CPA delivered a compelling performance report marking his successful first 100 days in office. This report showcases tangible progress across his Nine-Point Agenda. Since officially assuming the presidency on July 4, 2025, following his appointment on June 27, 2025, President Tago’s tenure has been characterized by a commitment to rapid action—a true embodiment of his guiding principle, “Acta non verba” (Actions, not words). His results-oriented leadership has already yielded significant outcomes in enhancing student welfare, academic quality, and global engagement, realized through key infrastructure projects, strategic alliances, and crucial governance reforms.
A core focus of the first 100 days has been enhancing the student experience and academic quality, aligning with the agenda points on Student Welfare and Quality Assurance and Global Competitiveness. In a strong move toward institutionalizing academic excellence and efficiency, the administration organized and facilitated both the SASE Review (System Admission and Scholarship Examination Review) to better prepare aspiring students for entry into the MSU System and the CSC Review (Civil Service Commission Review) for personnel, highlighting a commitment to professional development and strong governance.
Immediate steps were also taken to address comfort and health. This included the provision of essential supplies to MSU-Main Campus dormitories, prioritizing the rest and welfare of students from remote areas. Beyond comfort, the administration prioritized campus health and environment by launching OPLAN Linis and holding a Grand Medical Mission2, ensuring a cleaner campus and providing essential health services to the community. This commitment to well-being was further demonstrated by the provision of new equipment to the University Medical Services and Hospital. Furthermore, the administration successfully launched the inaugural “Walk for LIFE (Lifelong Involvement in Fun and Exercise)” in October 2025, a wellness initiative now held every Friday after the flag retreat, alongside a Sportsfest for the Faculty and Staff, to foster health and camaraderie across the institution.
The President’s commitment to Infrastructure Improvement and Development and Digital Transformation was evident through a series of rapid campus inspections leading to immediate, ongoing, and future projects. Completed projects that immediately enhanced the campus environment include improving Campus Lighting with the installation of high-intensity lighting at the Grandstand, OVAL field, and Covered Walk (Dimaporo Gymnasium to CBAA), the prompt renovation of CHTM comfort rooms, and securing the fencing of the Golf Course, sponsored by the MSU Golf Club, showcasing strong stakeholder engagement.
The administration is also actively pursuing several ongoing initiatives, such as the widespread modernization and repair works across critical facilities—including the comfort rooms at the International Convention Center and Raja Dumduma Hall—the general repair and renovation of the University Library, White House, and the Office of the President, the construction of a 229-meter covered pathway, the installation of trash cans across campus, and the procurement of equipment for the Sambatan Legal Aid Office. Looking ahead, the administration’s future plans include developing state-of-the-art facilities, modernizing student dormitories, and creating a comprehensive “smart campus” system featuring unified digital platforms across the System.
President Tago’s administration has actively pursued strategic alliances to elevate MSU’s status as a National Peace University and enhance its global standing. These efforts directly support the agenda’s emphasis on Peace Education and Quality Assurance and Global Competitiveness. The President has engaged in crucial meetings with high-level diplomats, including the Malaysian Ambassador to the Philippines, H.E. Dato’ Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino Anthony, and the Turkish Ambassador to the Philippines, H.E. Niyazi Evren Akyol, along with Deputy Chief of Mission Okan Erkan, for possible collaborations. Furthermore, the administration has fostered partnerships with international institutions, including Universitas Padjadjaran (UNPAD), Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta (UMY), and Universitas Diponegoro (UNDIP) of Indonesia, as well as local partners like the University of the Philippines, TESDA, and GCash.
To ensure Institutional Alignment and Governance and extend the university’s reach, President Tago has proactively engaged with local government units and campus units. These engagements reinforce the commitment to solidify the System’s support infrastructure and promote a unified MSU System. This proactive approach is vital to aligning MSU’s strategic plans with regional (BARMM) and national development goals.
The first 100 days have established a strong, action-oriented foundation for the full implementation of the Nine-Point Agenda. The administration plans to rehabilitate and preserve cultural and religious heritage, notably the repair and repainting of the King Faisal Mosque and the restoration of the Aga Khan Museum. Furthermore, significant curriculum enhancements are underway, which include institutionalizing relevant courses like Halal 101 and ensuring COPC compliance for all programs. President Tago concluded his report by inspiring the university community to “keep moving forward” for Mindanao and the nation, signaling a proactive, results-oriented leadership poised for significant, lasting transformation. These initiatives were just the initial stepping stones as the University pursues its vision of transforming into an inclusive, world-class institution.
