With the aim of fostering unity and cultural understanding, the Mindanao Indigenous Peoples’ Student Association (MIPSA) commemorated its first anniversary and this year’s Indigenous Peoples’ Month through Panagtipok, an institute-wide gathering on Saturday, October 25, at the IDS-Multipurpose Hall.
Beyond celebrating its anniversary, Panagtipok stood as a space of connection—bringing together indigenous and non-indigenous students to celebrate cultural identity and shared purpose. The event emphasized the importance of inclusivity and dialogue in sustaining the stories and struggles of indigenous communities.
In an opening message, MSU-IIT Historical Society (MIHS) Mayor Kristyl Anne Berioso encouraged participants to embrace unity in diversity.
“May this Panagtipok inspire us to celebrate difference, not as tradition, but as the very thread that binds us together as one people,” she said.
MIPSA President Jhon Dave Manos reflected on the beginnings of Panagtipok, sharing that the event was initially envisioned as a simple gathering for indigenous students, born out of Project Lahutay, an advocacy he first introduced through the Mx. IIT platform.
“Panagtipok started from Project Lahutay—an advocacy that I lobbied for during Mx. IIT. But beyond being a personal cause, it has grown into MIPSA’s flagship advocacy, one that promises to continue providing support programs for indigenous peoples,” Manos added.
An issue mapping activity followed where participants identified challenges faced by indigenous communities, shared positive developments, and proposed recommendations for future initiatives. The activity provided a space for dialogue and reflection, allowing students to express their insights on how MIPSA and the broader university community can better support indigenous peoples.
Joram Arceno, a participant, highlighted the need for stronger collaboration with local government units (LGUs) to address transportation concerns among indigenous students as it deems to be a barrier to education.
“If only we can provide a vehicle for their transportation, it would be good to give them a chance to dream bigger—to only think about school,” Arceno shared, underscoring the importance of accessible mobility in empowering IP learners.
The afternoon sessions took on a more lighthearted atmosphere as participants joined in interactive games, activities, and answered trivia questions about Indigenous Peoples, fostering camaraderie and fun while reinforcing cultural awareness and appreciation.
To close the program, Asst. Prof. Jed Otano reminded everyone of the deep roots and purpose of the MSU System, emphasizing its founding mission to serve Indigenous Peoples.
“We would not be here in the MSU System if not for the Indigenous People communities. If you trace history, the very reason why the MSU System exists is to cater to IP communities. We would not have this prestigious university, the free tuition, and all these privileges if not for them. So, let us be grateful and always remember where we started,” Asst. Prof. Otano emphasized.
More than just a celebration, Panagtipok 2025 ended as a renewed expression of MIPSA’s purpose and commitment. The gathering not only honored the heritage and resilience of Indigenous Peoples but also reignited the community’s shared responsibility to uphold their stories, struggles, and dreams. In unity and gratitude, MIPSA continues to move forward—Para sa Lumadnong Kaayuhan.
Written by Bea Faye Eumague
Proofread by Adam Vincent Perez
Beyond celebrating its anniversary, Panagtipok stood as a space of connection—bringing together indigenous and non-indigenous students to celebrate cultural identity and shared purpose. The event emphasized the importance of inclusivity and dialogue in sustaining the stories and struggles of indigenous communities.
In an opening message, MSU-IIT Historical Society (MIHS) Mayor Kristyl Anne Berioso encouraged participants to embrace unity in diversity.
“May this Panagtipok inspire us to celebrate difference, not as tradition, but as the very thread that binds us together as one people,” she said.
MIPSA President Jhon Dave Manos reflected on the beginnings of Panagtipok, sharing that the event was initially envisioned as a simple gathering for indigenous students, born out of Project Lahutay, an advocacy he first introduced through the Mx. IIT platform.
“Panagtipok started from Project Lahutay—an advocacy that I lobbied for during Mx. IIT. But beyond being a personal cause, it has grown into MIPSA’s flagship advocacy, one that promises to continue providing support programs for indigenous peoples,” Manos added.
An issue mapping activity followed where participants identified challenges faced by indigenous communities, shared positive developments, and proposed recommendations for future initiatives. The activity provided a space for dialogue and reflection, allowing students to express their insights on how MIPSA and the broader university community can better support indigenous peoples.
Joram Arceno, a participant, highlighted the need for stronger collaboration with local government units (LGUs) to address transportation concerns among indigenous students as it deems to be a barrier to education.
“If only we can provide a vehicle for their transportation, it would be good to give them a chance to dream bigger—to only think about school,” Arceno shared, underscoring the importance of accessible mobility in empowering IP learners.
The afternoon sessions took on a more lighthearted atmosphere as participants joined in interactive games, activities, and answered trivia questions about Indigenous Peoples, fostering camaraderie and fun while reinforcing cultural awareness and appreciation.
To close the program, Asst. Prof. Jed Otano reminded everyone of the deep roots and purpose of the MSU System, emphasizing its founding mission to serve Indigenous Peoples.
“We would not be here in the MSU System if not for the Indigenous People communities. If you trace history, the very reason why the MSU System exists is to cater to IP communities. We would not have this prestigious university, the free tuition, and all these privileges if not for them. So, let us be grateful and always remember where we started,” Asst. Prof. Otano emphasized.
More than just a celebration, Panagtipok 2025 ended as a renewed expression of MIPSA’s purpose and commitment. The gathering not only honored the heritage and resilience of Indigenous Peoples but also reignited the community’s shared responsibility to uphold their stories, struggles, and dreams. In unity and gratitude, MIPSA continues to move forward—Para sa Lumadnong Kaayuhan.
Written by Bea Faye Eumague
Proofread by Adam Vincent Perez
Photos by Janine Patrice Estrada and Vaughn Lebenswelt Banate
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