MIPSA Makes History as First-ever IP Advocate Org in MSU-IIT

In a groundbreaking ceremony, the MSU-IIT Indigenous Peoples Advocate (MIPSA) was officially launched as a duly recognized student organization of Mindanao State University - Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT), dedicated to advancing Indigenous Peoples (IP) inclusion and representation.


In line with the IP Month celebration, it became the 29th member of the Council of Organizations (COO) following the program held on Wednesday, October 9, at the Institute Mini-Theatre.


Inviting fellow champions of IP rights and empowerment, student organizations and publications pledged their support in a solidarity signing led by MIPSA, marking a growing consensus of students rallying for the same cause within the university.


MIPSA Adviser Jed Otano recounted the nascent narratives that propelled the fruition of a simple aspiration into what is now a platform of passionate advocates.


From the hopeful sentiment of a student, discussions on indigenous students’ lived experiences, and early proponents from the community having the same vision, Otano expressed how it solidified the convergence that the organization finds itself today.


MIPSA President John Dave Maños, a Talaandig and a Political Science student from the College of Arts and Social Sciences (CASS), took center stage to outline the organization’s core goals and future direction alongside early disclosure of projects that would aid the entry of Indigenous students to MSU-IIT by offering free System Admission and Scholarship Examination (SASE) review through their partner schools.


Harley Christine Feb Calamian, a History major from CASS and a Subanen member of MIPSA, welcomed this momentous highlight of the organization that opened doors of opportunities for IP students and volunteers to take up the cudgels for the IP community.


“I've encountered my fair share of experiences regarding atrocities, specifically, political disparities that marginalized the benefits and the rights of the Lumads. In line with this, it is important to discuss this kind of matter to a greater podium to understand that the IP community is not just a community consisting of people but a community consisting of culture, traditions, language, and heritage that will help in enlightening the mainstream media. Advocating about the existence of IPs/ICCs as well as the Republic Act 8371 or the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act of 1997 will help the community to understand our side and our voices,” she shared.


Meanwhile, April Velono, an English Language major from CASS and a Subanen member of MIPSA, urged fellow students to consider joining the organization.


“For the students who already have a gist of knowledge about IPs in their HIS003, getting involved in these efforts not only fosters empathy and new knowledge but also brings about a meaningful impact like this newly established organization. Together, we can establish a nurturing community that amplifies the voices and rights of IPs,” declared Velono, emphasizing positive change in their endeavor.


The event was also graced by key university officials, namely Prof. Rohane Derogongan, the Vice Chancellor for Student Services, who delivered her welcoming remarks, and Prof. Phyllis Marie Teanco, Director of the Office of the Student Development Services (OSDS). The event was also facilitated by COO Adviser Elmar Albios, the master of the ceremony.


Following MIPSA’s launching program, the Literature, Language, and Culture Society (LILACS) and Kataas-taasang Sanggunian ng mga Mag-aaral (KASAMA), had a collaborative venture and ribbon-cutting activity with the organization through IPasundayag: Local Traditional Businesses and Narrative Expo slated to run until October 11, Friday.


The expo featured IP-made crafts from the Rogongon Higaunon Community and the Iliganon City Higaonon Council and Farmer’s Association. They are also joined by Espasyo Creative Hub, a space for Mindanao and Iligan-based artisans who sell IP products.

About the Author

John Vincent Balustre

John Vincent Balustre is the current Editor-in-Chief of CASSayuran. During his early tenure in the publication as a freshman and a sophomore, he has served simultaneously as an Associate Editor and a News Writer. He was the former Editor-in-Chief of The Capitol, Misamis Occidental National High School's English Student Publication. For years, his field of interest in writing has revolved around politics, community engagement, and entertainment.