17/08/2026
๐ก๐๐ ๐ฆ๐จ๐๐๐ง ๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฎ๐ฒ: ๐ก๐๐ ๐ฆ๐จ-๐ฆ๐ฎ๐ป ๐ ๐ถ๐ด๐๐ฒ๐น ๐ช๐ฒ๐น๐ฐ๐ผ๐บ๐ฒ๐ ๐ฎ ๐ก๐ฒ๐ ๐๐ฐ๐ฎ๐ฑ๐ฒ๐บ๐ถ๐ฐ ๐๐ผ๐๐ฟ๐ป๐ฒ๐
A new academic chapter officially began at the North Eastern Mindanao State University (NEMSU)-San Miguel Campus as students, faculty, staff, and guests gathered for NEMSUGAT 2026, the campusโ Class Opening Ceremony, anchored on the theme โDagayday sa Bag-ong Panaw: Step In, Connect, Conquer, and Celebrate.โ
The opening program began with a vibrant cultural presentation by Mr. Daniel L. Tacbas, MAST, and the Kumintang Dance Troupe, setting the tone for a celebration that highlighted the universityโs culture, community, and shared aspirations for the academic year.
USG President Hon. Ivie Mae Duero formally acknowledged the presence of the guests, faculty and staff, students, and freshmen who joined the ceremony.
In his welcome message, Assistant Campus Director Dr. Marlon M. Garriques greeted the NEMSU-San Miguel community and emphasized the importance of coming together as one campus community at the beginning of another academic journey.
Providing context to the celebration, OSWD Head Mr. Raymundo M. Itable, MEd delivered the rationale of the activity, highlighting its purpose of welcoming students and strengthening their sense of belonging within the university.
Adding inspiration to the occasion, OIC Campus Director Dr. Marvie V. Gonzaga encouraged students to approach the new academic year with purpose, resilience, and commitment. Her message underscored the importance of making the most of the opportunities that come with every new beginning.
The ceremony also featured messages from University Researcher V Mr. Arturo G. Garcia, who shared words of encouragement and emphasized the value of education, research, and active participation in university life.
The celebration continued with a Folk Dance Contest, showcasing the studentsโ creativity, cultural appreciation, teamwork, and confidence.
Meanwhile, Dean of the College of Agriculture and Forestry Dr. Douglas Doloriel urged students to remain determined in their studies, reminding them that academic success requires dedication and perseverance.
Recognizing the people behind the campus community, Dr. Garriques led the presentation of faculty members from the College of Teacher Education (CTE) and College of Agriculture and Forestry (CAF). This was followed by the presentation of employees led by Administrative Officer V For. Tetchie E. Rafael.
Dr. Karla Jeane P. Roz-Estrada, OIC Director for Curriculum Development, shared an encouraging message with the NEMSU-San Miguel community.
The ceremony concluded with the presentation of the USG officers and school paper officers, led by OSWD Head Mr. Raymundo M. Itable, MEd, formally introducing the student leaders and campus publication staff who will serve and represent the student body throughout the academic year.
More than a formal welcome, NEMSUGAT 2026 marked the beginning of another journey for the NEMSU-San Miguel community, a journey where students are called to step in with courage, connect with others, conquer challenges, and celebrate every milestone along the way.
As the campus moves forward into another academic year, the spirit of โDagayday sa Bag-ong Panawโ serves as a reminder that every beginning carries the promise of growth, connection, and new possibilities.
Words by Jan Rix Sabiaga
Photos by Jovelyn Medrano, Alliah Alimboyong, Stiffie Faullen Abis