The Office of Information, Press and Publication (OIPP) of Mindanao State University (MSU)-Main Campus has played a crucial role in systematizing and strengthening the press and publication programs of the institution. Since its establishment in 1970 through the BOR Resolution No. 557, Series of 1970, OIPP has been responsible for preparing university publications, coordinating press and public relations programs, and serving as the focal point for information gathering, processing, and dissemination.
Throughout its history, OIPP has been led by dedicated and visionary directors who have made significant contributions to the office’s growth and development. From its early experimental stage to the present day, each director has brought unique perspectives and initiatives to enhance the capabilities of OIPP. The first director appointed was Muripaga T. Mangondato who served the office for more than four years until Kosain D. Maranda took over in 1976. When Maranda left to pursue his doctoral degree, Roger D. Saldea served as Officer-in-Charge from 1979 to 1981. In 1984, Masid A. Imam became the Acting Director until 1991, followed by Dr. Sukarno D. Tanggol as Acting Director. During Tanggol’s tenure, OIPP conducted the first Spelling Bee Contest for Grade 1 pupils in Marawi City on September 28, 1996. The objective of this contest was to provide educational exposure and competition for Muslim children. The second Spelling Bee took place on July 30, 1997. On August 26, 1998, OIPP organized the first oratorical contest for Muslim high school students titled “Rido Death Because Of Armed Conflict, Armed Conflict Because Of Death” at MSU Academic Complex. This event was one of the programs of the office to enhance the public speaking skills of the students and raise awareness about cultural issues.
In 1999, Elin Anisha C. Guro was appointed as the third director of OIPP, making her the youngest and first woman to hold the position. Under her leadership, OIPP organized numerous groundbreaking programs and activities that showcased the talents, cultural diversity, and intellectual capacity of the MSU community. These events did not only provided a platform for self-expression but also raised awareness of important cultural and societal issues. Among these were the Effect of Maratabat on the Meranaw: An Oratorical Contest, For the Meranaw, By a Meranaw: A Poetry Concert, First All-Muslim Inter-College Bout: The Historical Debate, Two-Day Bookbinding Seminar, Alay sa Mindanao: A Poetry Concert for the Evacuees, First Poetry Workshop for MSU Faculty and Staff, Olaleng O Masa: A Peaceful Conversation with Leaders, Poetry Concert for a Cause, Trainers’ Training for Moro Women, Moro Women In Our Own Voices, International Solidarity with Moro Women’s Aspirations for Peace, the first Lake Lanao cruise, and the first Grand Eid’ul Fitr, Eid’ul Adha, and Amon Jaded celebrations.
During periods when Director Guro was abroad pursuing her doctoral degree, several individuals served as Acting Director and contributed to the development of OIPP’s information, production, and publication capabilities. Notable individuals in these roles included Ben J. Kadil, Prof. Henry C. Daut, Macaumbao U. Baunto, Garardo A. Gavine, Prof. George S. Gunay, and Prof. Richard S. Celeste. These acting directors introduced modernization processes and digital media strategies that contributed to the growth of the office.
Aliah P. Cali-Pascan, the fourth director of OIPP who was appointed on August 20, 2019, adapted to current media and information trends by initiating the development of the OIPP website though it was not formally launched. Additionally, OIPP acquired new furniture and equipment to enhance daily operations. She also produced the publication of MSU’s Sustainable Development Goal format programs. When she returned as the Presidential Management Staff Director, Saidamen O. Limgas served as Acting Director. Limgas eventually guided the office through equipment build-up and the University’s ICT modernization. In January 2023, Director Limgas was appointed as the University Liaison Officer to the Congress, and Dr. Sorhaila L. Latip-Yusoph assumed the role of OIPP Director.
Under the leadership of Dr. Latip-Yusoph, OIPP has continued to thrive and evolve. She implemented various programs aimed at strengthening the functions of the office, improving information dissemination, and promoting effective communication within the MSU community. One notable initiative she introduced is the creation of OneMSU Talk Show, a social media platform that provides regular updates about the policies, programs, achievements, and initiatives of different MSU units and constituents. This platform has become a valuable tool for keeping the MSU community informed and engaged. She has also conducted various trainings on multimedia and mass communication among MSU units, resulting in the formation of OneMSU Information Link. This collaborative effort has enhanced communication channels and facilitated the exchange of information among different sectors of the university.
Currently, OIPP has been instrumental in disseminating information, promoting academic excellence, and providing platforms for self-expression within the MSU community. Throughout its history, the office continues to strive to become a leading unit in conveying the plans, programs, activities, and advocacies of Mindanao State University.
