Institute for Peace and Development in Mindanao of MSU-Maguindanao

18/08/2026

𝑪𝑨𝑳𝑳𝑰𝑵𝑮 𝑨𝑳𝑳 𝑺𝑻𝑼𝑫𝑬𝑵𝑻 𝑨𝑹𝑻𝑰𝑺𝑻𝑺!

In celebration of 𝗠𝗦𝗨 𝗣𝗲𝗮𝗰𝗲 𝗗𝗮𝘆 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲, the Institute for Peace and Development in Mindanao (IPDM) invites student artists to participate in Hues of Harmony: A Painting Competition.

Showcase your creativity and express your vision of peace, unity, and harmony through art. One (1) bona fide student representative from each participating college/department of MSU-Maguindanao will take part in this creative celebration.

🏆 Cash prizes await the Top Three (3) winners, with consolation prizes for the remaining participants.

📅 August 28, 2026
⏰ 8:00 AM
📍MSU-Maguindanao Gymnasium

For the complete competition mechanics and guidelines, scan the QR code provided in the official announcement.

Let your creativity speak for peace, and let every brushstroke bring us closer to harmony.

06/07/2026

𝑺𝒕𝒓𝒆𝒏𝒈𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒀𝒐𝒖𝒕𝒉 𝑫𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒍𝒐𝒑𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑷𝒆𝒂𝒄𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑺𝒆𝒄𝒖𝒓𝒊𝒕𝒚 𝑨𝒄𝒂𝒅𝒆𝒎𝒊𝒄 𝑷𝒓𝒐𝒈𝒓𝒂𝒎 𝒕𝒉𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉 𝑴𝒖𝒍𝒕𝒊-𝑺𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒐𝒓𝒂𝒍 𝑫𝒊𝒂𝒍𝒐𝒈𝒖𝒆

Mindanao State University - Maguindanao, in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Philippines, the Bangsamoro Youth Commission (BYC), and key development stakeholders, successfully conducted a Consultation Workshop on the Proposed Youth Development and Youth, Peace and Security Academic Program on June 30, 2026, at the Institute of Management, MSU-Maguindanao.

The consultation brought together academic leaders, youth representatives, policymakers, and development partners in a meaningful multi-sectoral dialogue aimed at strengthening the design and direction of a future academic program that responds to the evolving needs of young people, particularly in the areas of peacebuilding, youth empowerment, and sustainable development.

Dr. Judith de Guzman, UNDP-Philippines Program Analyst, presented the rationale of the consultation workshop, emphasizing the critical importance of establishing a structured youth development program as a sustained response to the continuing training and capacity-building needs of the youth sector. Her message highlighted the urgency of creating intentional academic pathways that nurture capable, empowered, and socially responsible young leaders.

This was followed by a presentation from Dr. Ramjie Y. Odin, Vice Chancellor for Student Services and Development and Chair of the Technical Working Group for the program development, who presented the proposed academic framework for Youth Development Work. His discussion emphasized the need for responsive, inclusive, and future-oriented academic programs anchored on youth realities and development priorities.

The consultation further featured a presentation on the Bangsamoro Action Plan on Youth, Peace and Security (BAP-YPS) 2023–2028, delivered by BYC Youth Development Officer IV, Ms. Settie Ivy C. Ampatuan. The presentation highlighted the Bangsamoro region’s continued commitment to empowering young people as active peacebuilders and partners in community transformation.

A collaborative workshop then engaged participants in meaningful discussions on emerging risks and opportunities in youth development, key needs to be addressed through the proposed academic program, potential partners and stakeholders, and the integration of the BAP-YPS framework into academic pathways. Through this participatory process, stakeholders were able to share insights, identify priority areas, and contribute valuable recommendations toward the refinement of the proposed program.

The activity concluded with the presentation of workshop outputs, an open forum, and a synthesis of insights that will serve as important inputs in strengthening the academic program’s relevance, direction, and long-term impact.

This initiative is strongly championed by MSU-Maguindanao Chancellor Bai Hejirah Nefertiti M. Limbona, who advocates for the importance of providing a dedicated avenue for the continuing formation and training of Bangsamoro youth, recognizing them as future leaders and vital drivers of development in the region. Anchored on this vision, the initiative reflects the shared commitment of MSU-Maguindanao, UNDP Philippines, the Bangsamoro Youth Commission, and partner institutions to advance inclusive, responsive, and peace-oriented education for the youth sector. More than an academic undertaking, it stands as a collective effort to build sustainable pathways that empower young people as catalysts for peace, development, and transformation in the Bangsamoro region and beyond.

24/06/2026

𝐈𝐏𝐃𝐌 𝐄𝐱𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐃𝐢𝐫. 𝐀𝐥𝐯𝐢𝐧 𝐋𝐨𝐢𝐬 𝐄. 𝐏𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐇𝐢𝐬 𝐃𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐬 𝐈𝐏𝐃𝐌 𝐃𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫

The Institute for Peace and Development in Mindanao (IPDM) of Mindanao State University–Maguindanao extends its heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to Asst. Prof. Alvin Lois E. Pembarat for his dedicated service, transformative leadership, and unwavering commitment to the vision and mission of the Institute.

Dir. Pembarat’s journey with IPDM reflects years of meaningful engagement and steadfast service to peace education and community empowerment. Before assuming the role of Director, he served the Institute in various capacities—as Peace Action Coordinator, Adviser of the University Peace Club, and Assistant Director—where he continuously contributed to strengthening the University’s peace initiatives and nurturing student and community peace advocates. His years of service in different capacities demonstrate his deep commitment to advancing IPDM’s mandate and institutionalizing peacebuilding across the University.

One of the notable contributions during his leadership was his active involvement as the project leader in the implementation and strengthening of the MNLF Educational Assistance Program (MNLF EAP), an initiative that provided educational opportunities and support to members of the MNLF community. Through this program, beneficiaries were empowered to pursue their academic goals, develop their capacities, and contribute to the continuing peace and development efforts in the Bangsamoro region.

His service is a testament to the power of dedicated leadership and the importance of sustained commitment in peacebuilding. The legacy he leaves behind will continue to inspire IPDM’s pursuit of developing peace champions and advancing inclusive and transformative peace initiatives.

As he enters another chapter of his professional journey, the Institute proudly congratulates Asst. Prof. Alvin Lois E. Pembarat on his new designation as the Director of the Office of Student Development and Engagement (OSDE) under the newly established Office of the Vice Chancellor for Student Services and Development, by virtue of Special Order No. 188, Series of 2026.

IPDM is grateful for his years of service, leadership, and dedication. The Institute wishes him continued success as he takes on this new responsibility in strengthening student development, leadership formation, and engagement in the University.

Thank you, Dir. Alvin Lois E. Pembarat, for your invaluable service to IPDM. Your commitment to peace and development will always remain part of the Institute’s continuing story.

24/06/2026

𝐈𝐏𝐃𝐌 𝐖𝐞𝐥𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐬 𝐃𝐫. 𝐒𝐚𝐢𝐦𝐚 𝐒. 𝐌𝐚𝐮𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐚 𝐚𝐬 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐃𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐮𝐭𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐏𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐢𝐧 𝐌𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐨

The Institute for Peace and Development in Mindanao (IPDM) of Mindanao State University–Maguindanao warmly welcomes Dr. Saima S. Maulana as its new Director by virtue of Special Order No. 199, Series of 2026, issued by the University.

Dr. Maulana assumes the leadership of IPDM in concurrent capacity as the Director for Peace Engagement and Community Empowerment, bringing with her a strong commitment to advancing peace education, community participation, and transformative engagements in the Bangsamoro region and beyond.

A dedicated advocate of peacebuilding and inclusive development, Dr. Maulana has continuously contributed to the University’s initiatives in strengthening spaces for dialogue, research, and community empowerment. Her leadership further reinforces IPDM’s commitment to nurturing peacebuilders through meaningful academic and community-based platforms.

Aside from her new designation, Dr. Maulana currently serves as the Coordinator of the Diploma in Women, Peace and Security (DWPS)—a pioneering academic program that promotes the recognition of women’s vital roles in conflict prevention, peace processes, governance, and sustainable development. Through the DWPS, the University continues to create pathways for practitioners, leaders, and advocates to deepen their understanding and practice of Women, Peace and Security principles.

With her leadership, IPDM looks forward to advancing its programs in peace education, research, and extension, while strengthening partnerships with stakeholders who share the vision of a more inclusive, just, and peaceful society.

As the Institute continues its journey toward becoming a stronger hub for peace and development, we welcome this new chapter under the leadership of Dr. Saima S. Maulana.

Congratulations and welcome, Dr. Saima S. Maulana! May your leadership inspire greater collaboration, innovation, and meaningful peace engagements.

08/05/2026

𝐆𝐎𝐎𝐃 𝐍𝐄𝐖𝐒

BARMM Interim Chief Minister Abdulraof A. Macacua has signed 𝗘𝘅𝗲𝗰𝘂𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗢𝗿𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗡𝗼. 𝟬𝟬𝟬𝟰, 𝘀𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲 on April 27, 2026, adopting the integration of 𝗪𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻, 𝗣𝗲𝗮𝗰𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗦𝗲𝗰𝘂𝗿𝗶𝘁𝘆 (𝗪𝗣𝗦) 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗺𝘀, 𝗔𝗰𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗷𝗲𝗰𝘁𝘀 (𝗣𝗔𝗣𝘀) 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗚𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗗𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗽𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 (𝗚𝗔𝗗) 𝗳𝗿𝗮𝗺𝗲𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸.

The Executive Order institutionalizes the inclusion of WPS initiatives in the Gender and Development Plans and Budgets (GPB) and GAD Accomplishment Reports (GAD AR), ensuring that peacebuilding, conflict sensitivity, protection, participation, and inclusive governance are integrated into planning, budgeting, implementation, and policymaking processes.

This marks a significant step toward the localization and realization of the United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1325 on Women, Peace and Security, while further strengthening the implementation of the Bangsamoro Regional Action Plan on WPS (BRAP-WPS).

05/05/2026

𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐖𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧, 𝐏𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐌𝐒𝐔–𝐌𝐚𝐠𝐮𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐨 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐀𝐫𝐦𝐞𝐝 𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐜𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬 𝐄𝐧𝐠𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭

Mindanao State University – Maguindanao continues to advance its commitment to inclusive peacebuilding through a strategic engagement with the Armed Forces of the Philippines Gender and Development (GAD) Office. The meeting focused on deepening collaboration to further institutionalize the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) agenda within the security sector—highlighting the importance of bridging academic knowledge and frontline peace and security practice.

Representing the AFP GAD Office were CAPT Venus G. Gualdaquever, Chief of the AFP GAD Office; MAJ Sherhannah Paiso-Bahjin, a military professor; and Mr. Michael V. Manaois, Civilian Human Resource representative. The dialogue opened meaningful opportunities for collaboration, particularly in strengthening gender-responsive and peace-oriented approaches within military institutions.

Read more: https://msumaguindanao.edu.ph/news/strengthening-women-peace-and-security-in-the-security-sector-through-msu-maguindanao-and-armed-forces-of-the-philippines-engagement/

29/04/2026

𝑭𝑷𝑬 101 𝑺𝒆𝒔𝒔𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒐𝒏 𝑪𝒍𝒊𝒎𝒂𝒕𝒆 𝑱𝒖𝒔𝒕𝒊𝒄𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑷𝒆𝒂𝒄𝒆 𝑩𝒖𝒊𝒍𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈

On April 17,2026 the Institute of Peace and Development in Mindanao (IPDM) in collaboration with the College of Forestry and Environmental Studies conducted a comprehensive discussion entitled "Climate Justice and Peace Building" that was led by Ma'am Adelene L. Lababo and Sir Jason Jon Joshua B. Paraguya. The discussion tackled the significance of climate change and environmental laws.

Protecting the environment is not only a responsibility, but also a legal and moral obligation in building sustainable peace. Moreover, the session highlighted that environmental issues are also issues of fairness, equality and human dignity . The discussion was ended with lessons that Climate justice and peace building are closely related ways to addressing environmental sustainability and social inequality in the context of climate change.

✍🏻 Armiya K. Guianib

23/04/2026

𝗔 𝗟𝗲𝗴𝗮𝗰𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗣𝗲𝗮𝗰𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗻𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽

Shukran, Former Sec. Carlito G. Galvez Jr., for your unwavering support to MSU–Maguindanao and its communities.

Through your leadership, meaningful initiatives in livelihood, education, and peacebuilding were realized. More than programs, your work brought real opportunities, renewed hope, and lasting impact to communities striving to rebuild.

Your legacy lives on. 𝘔𝘢𝘳𝘢𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘴𝘢𝘭𝘢𝘮𝘢𝘵 𝘱𝘰 𝘴𝘢 𝘪𝘯𝘺𝘰𝘯𝘨 𝘴𝘦𝘳𝘣𝘪𝘴𝘺𝘰, Sec. Galvez.

23/04/2026

𝗦𝗵𝘂𝗸𝗿𝗮𝗻, 𝗙𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗲𝗿 𝗦𝗲𝗰. 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗹𝗶𝘁𝗼 𝗚. 𝗚𝗮𝗹𝘃𝗲𝘇 𝗝𝗿., 𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗲𝗿 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗔𝗱𝘃𝗶𝘀𝗲𝗿 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗣𝗲𝗮𝗰𝗲, 𝗥𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗰𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆, for your continued commitment to MSU–Maguindanao since 2023 in implementing initiatives, including the Scaling Climate-Smart Agri-Aqua Enterprises for Inclusive Livelihood in Camp Omar, Camp Badre, and Camp Abubakar, as well as the development of Science and Technology-Based and Climate-Smart Mixed Farming Systems for crop, fish, and livestock production in Camp Omar and Camp Badre. These efforts also advanced the MNLF Educational Assistance Program with Peace Formation Sessions, the MNLF Camp Transformation Project, and the MSU–Maguindanao DWPS MOU with OPAPRU, strengthening inclusive livelihoods, education, and community development.

MSU–Maguindanao, led by Chancellor Bai Hejira Nefertiti M. Limbona, together with its community, expresses its gratitude for these contributions.

More than the programs and partnerships, these initiatives have created real opportunities for communities striving to rebuild and move forward. They have helped families access better livelihoods, supported learners in continuing their education, and strengthened confidence among beneficiaries.

These efforts will continue to be felt in the lives of many, as communities grow stronger, more resilient, and more hopeful for the years ahead.

𝗦𝗵𝘂𝗸𝗿𝗮𝗻, 𝗙𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗲𝗿 𝗦𝗲𝗰. 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗹𝗶𝘁𝗼 𝗚. 𝗚𝗮𝗹𝘃𝗲𝘇 𝗝𝗿., 𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗲𝗿 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗔𝗱𝘃𝗶𝘀𝗲𝗿 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗣𝗲𝗮𝗰𝗲, 𝗥𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗰𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆, for your continued commitment to MSU–Maguindanao since 2023 in implementing initiatives, including the ongoing Scaling Climate-Smart Agri-Aqua Enterprises for Inclusive Livelihood in Camp Omar, Camp Badre, and Camp Abubakar, as well as the development of Science and Technology-Based and Climate-Smart Mixed Farming Systems for crop, fish, and livestock production in Camp Omar and Camp Badre. These efforts also advanced the MNLF Educational Assistance Program with Peace Formation Sessions, the MNLF Camp Transformation Project, and the MSU–Maguindanao DWPS MOU with OPAPRU, strengthening inclusive livelihoods, education, and community development.

MSU–Maguindanao, led by Chancellor Bai Hejira Nefertiti M. Limbona, together with its community, expresses its gratitude for these contributions.

More than the programs and partnerships, these initiatives have created real opportunities for communities striving to rebuild and move forward. They have helped families access better livelihoods, supported learners in continuing their education, and strengthened confidence among beneficiaries.

These efforts will continue to be felt in the lives of many, as communities grow stronger, more resilient, and more hopeful for the years ahead.

OPAPRU

23/04/2026

𝐀 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐏𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬

A heartfelt congratulations to 𝐌𝐞𝐥 𝐒𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐧 𝐒𝐚𝐫𝐦𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐨 on your appointment as the 𝐧𝐞𝐰 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐀𝐝𝐯𝐢𝐬𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐧 𝐏𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐞, 𝐑𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲.

At a time when our nation continues to navigate complex challenges, your leadership, integrity, and commitment to public service bring renewed hope for genuine peace and inclusive dialogue. May your stewardship pave the way for stronger partnerships, meaningful reconciliation, and lasting unity across diverse communities.

We look forward to the positive impact of your work in advancing peacebuilding efforts and fostering a more just and harmonious Philippines.

𝑴𝒂𝒃𝒖𝒉𝒂𝒚 𝒌𝒂, and may your journey in this role be guided by wisdom, courage, and compassion.