The committee, chaired by Representative Jude Acidre, deliberated on House Resolution No. 160, which commends the MSU Board of Regents and MSU-Maguindanao for introducing and pioneering the Diploma in Women, Peace and Security (DWPS) program.

It is worth noting that the commendation was filed by Assistant Majority Leader Rep. Mastura, Representative of Cotabato City and Maguindanao del Norte, with the hope that the House will adopt the resolution.

During the hearing, Rep. Acidre congratulated and thanked MSU-Maguindanao for its efforts in advancing peace education and inclusive leadership. Vice Chairperson Rep. Eulogio R. Rodriguez sponsored the resolution for adoption, with the motion moved by Rep. Ustadz Yusop T. Alano and seconded by Rep. Roman T. Romulo.

Chancellor Limbona submitted the University’s Position Paper, expressing gratitude for the recognition and reaffirming MSU-Maguindanao’s mission to empower communities in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

“MSU-Maguindanao’s DWPS stands as a pioneering model of peace-oriented higher education in the Bangsamoro region. By institutionalizing WPS through this program, the University contributes directly to the fulfillment of UNSCR 1325, the Philippine NAPWPS, and the aspirations of the Bangsamoro Organic Law. The University’s official position is clear: the adoption of House Resolution No. 160 not only honors this milestone but also strengthens WPS education and reinforces the Philippines’ leadership in advancing global peace and security.”

The DWPS, the first of its kind in the Philippines, was created in close collaboration with the Philippine Center for Islam and Democracy (PCID), a major partner of MSU-Maguindanao. Its development was guided by leading experts from the Women Alliance for Security and Leadership, ASEAN Women for Peace Registry, International Civil Action Network, the UK Government, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), brought together through the facilitation of PCID.

Furthermore, recognition through House Resolution No. 160 not only honors this academic milestone but also strengthens its legitimacy, inspires replication in other higher education institutions, and mobilizes broader support from government, civil society, and international partners. MSU-Maguindanao affirms that higher education plays a critical role in bridging global WPS frameworks with local contexts, cultivating leaders who can transform peacebuilding into inclusive and responsive practice.

Chancellor Limbona was joined by DWPS TWG Chairperson Grant Warren Lu, and DWPS faculty members Arceli B. Naraga and Aljanna Macalandong.