Aliah P. Cali-Pascan, DPA, JD
The program, hosted by Dr. Aliah P. Cali-Pascan and Dr. Khayronesah Abbas, became a poignant platform for colleagues, friends, and family to express their grief and gratitude for a leader whose sudden passing left a profound void.
Dr. Cali-Pascan opened the program, acknowledging the “sad week and mourning” for the visionary leader who championed the establishment of “ShuaraMSU,” hosted by the Institute for Peace and Development in Mindanao (IPDM) during his administration.
Legal Chief Rahana Ganda shared deeply personal recollections, highlighting President Mapupuno’s impact beyond his official capacity. She revealed a unique bond, stating, “I memorize his number. My husband called him dad.” Ganda also noted that her sister, Bolawan, was the President’s neighbor at MSU, and she herself had been a “tag along” with her elder sister, Baelabi Baicon, during their student activist days. President Mapupuno was himself a student leader, having co-founded the “Makalaya” organization, which actively engaged with the student supreme government to address student needs. Ganda also shared that Baelabi Baicon and President Mapupuno were slated to travel abroad for a Halal program.
Legal Chief Ganda then read a moving tribute from her husband, titled “A Tribute to YOU, whom i call DAD, My Mentor, My Teacher, My Inspiration.” The tribute spoke of President Mapupuno as a second father, a mentor who inspired transformation, and a man who taught that “character matters more than recognition and that purpose matters more than position.” The message concluded with a heartfelt prayer, “Pakasorgaan ka o Allah s.w.t.” (May Allah grant you paradise).
Dr. Abbas followed by reading a sympathy message from the MSU-IPDM Family, emphasizing the community’s submission to Allah’s will and praying for President Mapupuno’s mercy, forgiveness, and a place in Paradise. The message underscored his “tireless dedication, visionary leadership, and unwavering commitment” that transformed lives and institutions, leaving an “indelible mark on education and unity.”
Dir. Linang Macabalang offered insights into President Mapupuno’s leadership as an administrator, further solidifying his image as a dedicated and impactful figure.
Dr. Cali-Pascan shared her personal experience as a student under President Mapupuno in his Constitutional Law class. She remembered him as “very strict but it is for your own good,” emphasizing his desire for his students to excel due to his belief in their potential.
A significant portion of the program was dedicated to the profound message of sympathy from MP Naguib Sinarimbo. His “Recognition and Condolences Speech: Honoring the Life and Legacy of Atty. Hasanul Basari Dimakuta Mapupuno” hailed President Mapupuno as “a beacon of wisdom, service, and unyielding dedication to the people of Mindanao and the Bangsamoro.” MP Sinarimbo detailed President Mapupuno’s diverse roles: a member of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines, the longest-serving Dean of the MSU College of Law, Provincial Prosecutor of Lanao del Sur, and Sultan of Malaig in Balindong.
MP Sinarimbo particularly lauded President Mapupuno’s tenure as the 8th MSU System President, where his “famous 10-Point Agenda was not just a policy—it was a revolution.” Under his leadership, MSU achieved new heights in academics, research, and cultural preservation, solidifying its role as a “bastion of peace-building in Mindanao” and a “cradle of unity in diversity.” Sinarimbo urged everyone to honor President Mapupuno’s memory by continuing his work and upholding his values.
Adding another layer of raw emotion, Dr. Cali-Pascan read a message from her daughter addressed to her “Ama” (father): “Ama… Wala ka na ba talaga? You only just turned 60.” The message expressed profound grief and disbelief, acknowledging his sacrifices for MSU, even at the expense of his health. It painted a heartbreaking picture of a daughter’s final moments with her father, grappling with the reality of his death and vowing to care for her mother. The message concluded with a prayer: “pakasurgaan o Allah swt si Ama. I love you Ama. Wag kang mag-alala, ako nang bahala kay ina.” (May Allah grant Ama paradise. I love you, Ama. Don’t worry, I will take care of Ina.)
Chief Ganda also read a message of sympathy from Secretary Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity. Secretary Galvez’s message highlighted President Mapupuno’s “invaluable contribution to the comprehensive Philippine peace process.” He detailed significant partnerships forged under President Mapupuno’s leadership between MSU and OPAPRU, including the Transformation Program for Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) combatants, their families, and communities. This program has successfully profiled 1,972 MNLF members for socioeconomic assistance, with 97 projects worth PhP 125 million set for delivery. Furthermore, the Study Grant Program has benefited 350 MNLF next of kin with PhP 50,000 financial assistance for the academic year 2024-2025.
Secretary Galvez also recognized President Mapupuno’s role in the scholarship program for Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) combatants’ next of kin, launched in 2024, providing PhP 25,000 per student per semester. Crucially, President Mapupuno guided MSU in its ambition to become the Philippines’ first National Peace University, mainstreaming Peace Education through a diploma course on Women, Peace, and Security (WPS). Secretary Galvez concluded by honoring President Mapupuno as “more than just an academic leader; he was a respected figure who championed the cause of inclusive education, social justice, and peace.”
Dr. Cali-Pascan confirmed that most of the projects mentioned in Secretary Galvez’s message are being implemented by the Institute for Peace and Development in Mindanao. Dr. Abbas further elaborated on the cash assistance provided by OPAPRU to students.
The guests and hosts were members of the PeaceCORE, Peace in Community and Resilience of which Dr. Anisah Mapupuno-Laguindab is also a member who is the sister of the MSU System President.
The “ShuaraMSU” program served as a powerful testament to the enduring impact of Atty. Basari Mapupuno. The heartfelt tributes from various individuals underscored his multifaceted contributions as a leader, mentor, advocate, and family man. His vision for MSU as a beacon of education, peace, and cultural pride will undoubtedly continue to inspire and guide the institution and the wider community for years to come.
