Bukidnon State University Observes 101st Founding Anniversary and 18th Year as a University

Bukidnon State University (BukSU) observed its 101st founding year and the 18th anniversary of its elevation to university status on June 10, 2025, with a mix of ceremonial, cultural, and environmental initiatives across its main campus.

The activities opened with a traditional Pamuhat ritual, followed by the formal launch of a campus-wide Plastic-Free campaign and a series of community-centered events. The university also held classic Filipino games and videoke sessions, involving students, faculty, and staff in shared activities.

Pamuhat Ritual

A Pamuhat ritual was conducted at the Bukidnon Studies Center to begin the day’s activities. This indigenous ceremony is practiced by Bukidnon communities to give thanks, seek guidance, and ask permission from spiritual guardians.

Tribal elder Bae Pasita Guaynon Cabusao led the ceremony, which she described as comparable to a holy mass in her community. She explained that the ritual includes Panhawan (cleansing), Panlisi (removing misfortune), Panuntay (reconnecting with ancestral paths), and Pasalamat (thanksgiving). The BSC, through its head, Loreta Sol L. Dinlayan, organized the ritual in collaboration with university personnel and students.

Official launching of a Plastic-Free BukSU campaign

Coinciding with the anniversary, the university launched its Plastic-Free University Campaign.

Data from the Office of the Chief Administrative Officer for Administration Services – Environmental Health and Safety Services (CAO-Admin EHSS) showed that the main campus generated 104,541 kilograms of waste in 2024, of which 21,115 kilograms were non-biodegradable. A substantial portion of this was plastic.

The university aims to reduce single-use plastic on campus by introducing a policy that enforces reusable containers, limits non-biodegradable materials, and encourages more sustainable behavior.

CAO-Admin EHSS said the policy is intended to develop environmental responsibility within the academic community as part of a shift toward more eco-conscious operations.

“We expect the policy to significantly reduce plastic waste on campus promote sustainable habits among the BukSU community and influence our partner communities to adopt greener practices ultimately this move supports our long-term goal of becoming a model green university that leads in environmental stewardship and innovation,” said University President Dr. Joy M. Mirasol.

Pinoy classic games and videoke sessions

Following the formal events, BukSU opened a series of community games and performances. Traditional Filipino games were played in outdoor areas, drawing participation from students, faculty, and staff. Videoke sessions were held at the University Auditorium.

Organizers said the inclusion of these games was intended to provide a venue for intergenerational connection and cultural continuity, offering a space for informal gathering across university sectors.

In her university address, Mirasol described the institution’s timeline from its origins as a teacher training school to its current university standing. She addressed students, faculty, staff, alumni, and university partners, stating that the community’s contributions are now part of the ongoing institutional narrative.

“Eighteen years ago, we became a university. That was more than a title. It was a promise to continue evolving, serve better, and lead purposefully,” said Mirasol. “We draw strength from our shared past and recommit to the core values that define us: excellence, professionalism, integrity, commitment, and culture sensitivity.”

She told the community that their efforts—whether through service, achievements, or challenges—are now part of the university’s record and called on all sectors to move forward with shared responsibility and purpose.

“Every effort, every act of kindness, every achievement, and even every struggle becomes a line in the bigger story we are all writing together. So, let us celebrate with pride and purpose. Let us move forward together, continuing BukSU’s legacy of Being strong, hopeful, and united,” Mirasol added.