The Birth of Dasig, the Spirit Animal of Every BukSUan

Bukidnon State University finally has a spirit animal that would represent its identity across campuses and embody the character and aspirations of the BukSU community.

Inspired by the raptor banog, the spirit animal, called Dasig, was unveiled on February 20, 2026 during the 3rd President’s Day. In branding, a spirit animal is a symbolic figure that represents the personality, values, aspirations and emotional identity of an organization.

“‘Dasig’, meaning brave in Cebuano, embodies the strength, resilience, and indomitable spirit of BukSU. As the Banog, Dasig reflects the courage to pursue excellence, overcome challenges, and rise above limits,” Joanne Vivien B. Necosia, BukSU Presidential Management Staff Head, said.

The word banog is a general Visayan term used to refer to birds of prey such as hawks and eagles, according to Dasig’s lead graphic designer, Ace Ivar Dumaquita. Across many communities in Mindanao and the Visayas, the banog is associated with keen sight, alertness and command of the skies.

“Its sharp vision and swift flight symbolize foresight, adaptability, and leadership, inspiring students to soar in academic, athletic, and cultural pursuits while safeguarding BukSU’s culture and community,” Necosia added.

For the team behind the mascot’s creation, translating symbolism into a life-sized presence required careful calibration.

“The challenge was giving the BukSU banog the right personality. On paper, it symbolizes vision and excellence, but once it becomes life-size, students won’t read meanings; they’ll react to how it feels,” said Dr. Joanna Ruth S. Paloma, branding technical working group member and Information Unit’s Management Staff Head.

Design refinements centered on balancing authority and approachability.

“If the beak was too sharp, it looked intimidating. If too soft, it looked childish. Big wings looked majestic, but blocked movement. So, we kept adjusting until it felt proud, friendly, and school-spirited at the same time,” Paloma said.

The unveiling also drew a response from younger members of the community. Iza Geraldine Jover, a K-2 student, described her reaction upon seeing the spirit animal.

“I was surprised, happy, and wished to play the mascot with friends,” she said.

With Dasig now part of university life, the banog-inspired figure is expected to appear in academic gatherings, athletic events and institutional celebrations, serving as a unifying presence across the community and every BukSUan. (BukSU – Information Unit)