CHED Commissioner and chair of the BSU Board of Regents, Marita R. Canapi graced the 39th Charter Anniversary Celebration of Benguet State University as the keynote speaker to the anniversary program held at the BSU Gymnasium on January 15, 2025.
Canapi emphasized that the celebration commemorates the university’s accomplishments over the past 39 years. She noted that it is also a time to express gratitude for the blessings the university has received from various sources, including national and local government units, provincial and municipal offices, officials, and line agencies that supported the university during its transition to a state university.
She recognized that the university helped in the improvement of the Benguet community where many students have completed their studies and gained new opportunities specially when the Free Higher Education Act was implemented. Canapi highlighted the university’s achievements over the years and stated that this celebration reaffirms BSU’s commitment to providing quality education and services to its community members.
Canapi also lauded BSU’s consistent demonstration of commitment, competence, and resilience, reflecting its core values. She pointed out that despite the challenges faced during the global pandemic and various setbacks, BSU continued to pursue world-class education that promotes sustainable development and effectively delivered services, even in difficult times.
“We expect the students, faculty, local government, and partners to remember that you are the heart of the institution. Continue to break barriers, expand horizons, and inspire change for BSU. Because BSU is not just a center of academic excellence, it is also a catalyst for societal transformation,” Canapi added.
After her speech, Canapi was donned with a Devit- the traditional attire of Benguet women, to welcome her on her first visit to BSU.
The Charter Anniversary program was also attended by equally important guests from the BSU Board of Regents, Benguet Local Government Units, National Line Agencies, and State Colleges and Universities.
In a message, La Trinidad Mayor Romeo K. Salda represented by Councilor Judde Bryan Lubos Lee, acknowledged the university’s commitment to growth and excellence in cultivating competitive students and individuals with strong values. He urged BSU to continue advancing knowledge, research, technology, and environmental stewardship for a sustainable tomorrow.
Benguet Governor Melchor D. Diclas congratulated the university and announced the provincial scholarship program which sponsors one student from each Barangay every year. He also mentioned the “study now, pay later” plan for the Doctor of Medicine degree which will support one scholar per municipality. Gov. Diclas looked forward to the opening of BSU’s College of Medicine and reaffirmed the Provincial Government’s commitment to supporting the university.
Former members of the BSU Board of Regents including Hon. Lorenzo S. Acosta III, Hon. Felipe Salaing Comila, and Hon. Susan A. Sumbeling were also recognized during the program.
The new BSU VP for Academic Affairs, Janet P. Pablo highlighted that the celebration is an opportunity to appreciate the university’s partners and those who have contributed to its improvement. Meanwhile, VP for Research and Extension Roscinto Ian C. Lumbres appreciated the contribution of the Board of Regents to the development of the university. He emphasized that BSU is built on integrity and although its constituents have their differences, they still work, face challenges and celebrate together. He also thanked BSU President Kenneth A. Laruan for providing a clear direction so that BSU can achieve the Charter Anniversary theme.
The BSU Charter Anniversary is celebrated every year to commemorate its elevation from Mountain State Agricultural College (MSAC) to BSU on January 12, 1986. This year’s celebration was themed “Advancing knowledge, research, technology, and environmental stewardship for a sustainable tomorrow.”