North Eastern Mindanao State University warmly welcomed Dr. Aldrin A. Darilag, the Commissioner and Chairperson-designate for the NEMSU Board of Regents, in a special meet-and-greet session on May 3, 2024.

The event focused on discussing efforts to achieve the transformation of State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) towards becoming Healthy Learning Institutions, aimed at promoting dialogue and relationship-building between NEMSU officials, faculty, and students.

Dr. Darilag’s arrival was met with enthusiasm as he was warmly received by University officials and members of the NEMSU community. The academic convergence, held in the university’s boardroom, provided an opportunity for Dr. Darilag to share his vision for improving higher education quality in NEMSU and fostering a healthier learning environment conducive to student growth and success.

The event was marked by engaging discussions and a spirit of collaboration between the university and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), underscoring current pressing concerns experienced by the university. The lack of classrooms and qualified faculty, considering the growing student population, was a prevalent concern raised by Dr. Ariston Ronquillo, the Campus Director of NEMSU-Tagbina. In response, Dr. Darilag emphasized the importance of following the university’s absorptive capacity as one of the parameters of RA 10931, also known as the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act. Following this note, he also stressed the implementation of the institution’s Admission and Retention Policy as a basis for qualification for undergraduate students.

Regarding pressing student issues, Student Regent Dannalyn Labad represented the minorities when she asked the commissioner about his stance on the issue of cross-dressing among students. Dr. Darilag responded that students and even university personnel may be allowed to wear the prescribed uniform according to their sexual orientation, following the provisions of RA 11313, also known as the Safe Spaces Act. The commissioner’s remarks were supported by CHEDRO 13 Supervising Education Program Specialist, Mr. Ever Joy G. Rabadan, who advised incorporating certain provisions regarding cross-dressing in the Student Handbook, while having RA 11313 as its legal basis. Hon. Labad responded with delight that they are currently participating in the review of the said manual, which will be presented at the upcoming 2nd quarter regular board meeting.

The event was also attended by 1st District Representative of Surigao del Sur Hon. Romeo S. Momo, Sr., who was the principal author of House Bill No. 8825, Establishing a Medical School in the North Eastern Mindanao State University. University Key Officials, Members of the Board of Regents, Campus Directors, CHED Supervising Education Program Specialists, Faculty, and Student Leaders from across NEMSU campuses also graced the occasion.