Community takes part in public hearing for proposed BukSU campuses project

Community feedback was sought as Bukidnon State University (BukSU) held a public hearing on August 8, 2025, to discuss the proposed campuses project which composed of the main campus, Edu Hub, and Techno Hub, held at the Audio-Visual Center (AVC) in BukSU.

“A public hearing is conducted by the EMB designed to cause a dialogue or communication among the project proponent (BukSU), the DENR/EMB and the public to exchange information and views. It provides a forum for the BukSU and DENR/EMB to understand community values and needs and respond to such appropriately,” said Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) casehandler Engr. Nonette G. Atasan of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Office Region X (DENR-X).

BukSU has successfully conducted public participation activities since early 2024, prior to public hearing as mandated through the DENR Administrative Order 2017-15: Information, Education and Communication (IEC), Public Scoping, and Technical Scoping.

The Office of the Vice President for Administration and Finance (OVPAF), led by VPAF Mr. Dante S. Victoria Jr., presented the description of the project sites, their components, the projected timeframe of the project phases, results of the environmental impact assessment (EIA), and the responded issues and concerns from the public scoping.

“BukSU continues to be steadfast in its commitment, one that respects the environment, safeguards our community, and supports our mission to educate, innovate, and lead. Together we can build a BukSU that thrives in harmony, with both people and nature”, Victoria, Jr. remarked.

Engr. Celil May R. Ylagan, BukSU Planning Officer III, presented the potential impacts and mitigating measures for the project.

Malaybalay Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Mr. Christopher Soria expressed his gratitiude to Bukidnon State University for inviting the stakeholders to be part in the discussion of development and progress of BukSU.

“For all of us here present, let us help BukSU achieve the Certificate, as we are essential to contributing to the future,” he added.

The ultimate goal of the public hearing is to secure the social acceptability of the project. (BukSU-Information Unit)