The program began with a special production number by the Sining Kandidilimudan Ensemble, the Gandingan Cultural Dance Troupe, and students from the MSU-Maguindanao Parang Campus, who performed their song “Salamat.” The performance energized the audience and heightened the celebratory spirit.

Following this, the university recognized the Social Work graduates who recently passed the 2024 Social Work Licensure Examination, achieving a rank as the 7th top-best performing social work school in the country. A plaque of recognition was awarded to Chancellor Bai Hejira Nefertiti M. Limbona, who also received the Presidential Lingkod Bayan Award in the Regional Category of the 2024 Search for Outstanding Government Workers, presented by Director II Arnold V. Juloya, Director of the Civil Service Field Office for Maguindanao. In addition, Ms. Genuine Uko-Malim, the Director of the Human Resource Management Office, received the CSC PAGASA Award.

Chancellor Limbona expressed gratitude for President Mapupuno’s support. She highlighted milestones, including the establishment of the Diploma in Women, Peace, and Security, the MSU College of Law, and the recognition of the Parang Campus as an extension campus of the university. She also mentioned the university’s infirmary, which is currently in the second phase of development. “Finally, meron na tayong high-end ambulance outside, which we now proudly possess,” she added. Furthermore, she concluded her message “What we aim for is a better future for all of you. Everything we have overcome—every challenge we have hurdled—is due to the passion, dedication, and love of MSU-Maguindanao’s faculty members and staff. They care deeply about your future and want you to be the best version of yourselves when you leave MSU-Maguindanao. Alhamdulillah for everyone, Alhamdulillah that we have witnessed 51 years of MSU-Maguindanao. It is truly a privilege to celebrate this anniversary.”

MSU System President Mapupuno reaffirmed his commitment to attending and celebrating milestones across the MSU System. He praised MSU-Maguindanao’s growth under the leadership of Chancellor Bai Hejira Nefertiti Limbona, emphasizing her significant role as a young woman leader. He also shared a trivia with the audience about the historical figure Nefertiti, after whom the Chancellor’s second name is taken, underscoring her legacy as a powerful queen and a symbol of feminine strength. “I am confident that MSU-Maguindanao will achieve even greater heights under Chancellor Nefertiti’s leadership. Empowered, resolute, driven, and passionate about her work, she will leave a lasting legacy for future leaders. This is the true measure of leadership—leaving behind a meaningful legacy. The responsibility is immense, but with unity and collective effort, MSU-Maguindanao will stay on the right path. Mabuhay, MSU-Maguindanao! Mabuhay kayong lahat,” President Mapupuno said. He concluded with a touch of humor, referring to the university as “MSU-MagandaNOW.”

In conclusion, Dr. Arceli B. Naraga, Vice Chancellor for Planning and Development, reiterated the university’s milestones in her closing remarks. “Our theme this year, ‘Navigating Boundaries, Embracing Unity,’ has been more than just a motto—it has driven this celebration. Together, we have overcome challenges, crossed boundaries, and strengthened our unity as one institution. As we look ahead, let us continue with the same unity, passion, and determination, always striving for excellence in everything we do.”

#NavigatingBoundariesEmbracingUnity
#51ForEveryone
#WeWinAsOne