Signed and Sealed: KASAMA ratifies 2025 Constitution and By-Laws

Signaling a renewed commitment to transparent and inclusive leadership, the Mindanao State University–Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT) ratified the amended 2025 Kataas-taasang Sanggunian ng mga Mag-aaral (KASAMA) Constitution and By-Laws (CBL) in a ceremonial signing held on Friday, September at the Office of the Chancellor’s Lounge—the first major update to the student governance charter in 15 years.

In her opening remarks, Asst. Prof. Phyllis Marie Teanco, Director of the Office of Student Development, underscored the significance of the occasion. She acknowledged the challenging process behind the revisions, describing it as a “madugong discussion,” and praised the student leaders for their perseverance.

“Congratulations to the team of Arjie and the rest of KASAMA who really made an effort to have this CBL ratified,” she stated, commending their commitment to updating the constitution for a new generation of students.

Delivering a special message, MSU-IIT Chancellor Prof. Alizedney Ditucalan stressed the importance of ensuring clarity and precision in the new charter.

“We cannot afford to have an ambiguous constitution and by-laws,” he said, adding that he did not want to rush the process to guarantee a well-studied and comprehensive revision.

Chancellor Ditucalan further noted that the CBL should not merely be regarded as a revision milestone but as a strengthened framework for student protection.

“This is not just a document we should be proud of because we were able to revise. What we put forward is a constitutional law that will safeguard the welfare and interest of the students, and that is something that should be highlighted,” he emphasized.

Meanwhile, outgoing KASAMA President Arjie Castillon emphasized in his acceptance message that the revised charter goes beyond structural reform, envisioning a freer and more accountable student leadership—one dedicated to safeguarding student rights and establishing clear grievance mechanisms within the institute.

“This system is for us,” Castillon affirmed.

The event was attended by student leaders from the various college executive councils, whose presence highlighted the spirit of unity and shared responsibility in shaping a more responsive student governance framework.

The ratification of the 2025 KASAMA Constitution and By-Laws stood as a landmark achievement for MSU-IIT, setting a stronger foundation for student governance and ensuring that the voice and welfare of students remain at the heart of leadership.



Written by Bea Faye Eumague
Proofread by Andrea Ross Sedero
Photo by Samuel Adrian Guerra