By Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs
Al-Barka, Basilan | April 5, 2025 – In a remarkable convergence of hope, history, and higher education, the Mindanao State University (MSU) – Marawi Campus, led by Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Alma Elape Berowa, together with the dedicated members of the MSU-Al Barka Extension Campus Technical Working Group (TWG), officially conducted an ocular inspection of the newly constructed three-story academic building. This marks a historic step toward the realization of the proposed MSU extension campus in the province of Basilan.
Accompanying VP Berowa on this milestone visit were the TWG members and academic leaders: Dr. Ivy Sarah Mae Berowa-Arimao, Dean Dr. Abdulcader M. Ayo, Dean Dr. Mobarak D. Hadji Amin, Dean Dr. Minerva-Saminah M. Naga, Dean Dr. Hendely A. Adlawan, Dean Mudzna M. Asakil, and Prof. Charlou A. Bautista. Their presence signaled not only academic readiness but also institutional unity behind the project.
This pivotal activity was made possible through the full support and endorsement of MSU System President Atty. Basari D. Mapupuno, affirming the university’s commitment to bringing quality and accessible education to the underserved communities of Basilan, in fulfillment of MSU’s foundational mandate in the MINSUPALA region (Mindanao, Sulu, and Palawan).
The event also highlighted the turnover and inauguration of the newly constructed building, led by MP Dan S. Asnawie, Member of Parliament and the proponent of the project. Present during the inauguration were key dignitaries and leaders from across government, the revolutionary movement, academia, and civil society, including a representative of Hon. Jaydeefar J. Lajid, Municipal Mayor of Al-Barka; Bai Norhata Alonto, PMWC President and Former SSS Commissioner; Dr. Salem Lingasa, Chair, Bangsamoro Commission for the Preservation of Cultural Heritage; Chairman Anwar Alamada, MILF AHJAG; a representative of Secretary Carlito G. Galvez Jr., OPAPRU; Dr. Myra Mangkabung, Schools Division Superintendent, Lamitan; Hj. Ibno A. Saddalan, Assistant Superintendent, Basilan, and MILF Information Officer; Dr. Arlyn Jawad-Jumao-as, Save the Children of War Mindanao; Aleem Faiz Alauuddin and Aleem Abdulmuhmin Mujahid, former BTA members; local officials; and community leaders.
MP Asnawie delivered an emotional speech, expressing the long-standing dream of the Mujaheedin and the Yakan community to see their children access quality education in their homeland—without fear, distance, or exclusion.
“This is more than a building—it’s a symbol of redemption, of peace, and of a promise fulfilled,” said the MSU VPAA. “This is MSU catching up with its mission in Mindanao, Sulu, and Palawan.”
Once approved, the campus will initially offer BEEd, Islamic Studies, and a Diploma in Agricultural Technology, aligning with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) including Quality Education (SDG 4), Peace and Justice (SDG 16), and Reduced Inequality (SDG 10).
This moment marks a turning point for Basilan, transforming a once-conflict-stricken area into a center of learning, cultural pride, and progress.
“To the people of Basilan—this is your campus. This is your future.”
In the spirit of social justice, equity, fairness, and inclusion, we strongly advocate for the approval of this proposal by the MSU Board of Regents.
