Mindanao State University – General Santos sent the first set of shovels into the dirt on site at the groundbreaking ceremony for the College of Medicine’s Laboratory and Library Facilities, May 20 at the MSU-CETD Campus. 

The College of Medicine (COM) is the first of its kind in Region XII and is considered an important milestone in the history of the university. Through the College, MSU-General Santos is expected to produce medical practitioners that will cater to the health care needs of medically underserved areas and improve the quality of life in the region given the current health crisis today. 

South Cotabato 1st District Representative Hon. Shirlyn L. Bañas-Nograles graced the event and shared important legislative updates for the College of Medicine. The Congressional Office has consistently supported the creation of the independent College of Medicine, one being the construction of Laboratory and Library facilities with an allocated budget of P20 million and P17 million respectively. Hon. Banas-Nograles also expressed her appreciation to the support of all who made the event possible. 

Engr. Lenon V. Namuag and Engr. Janice A. Mandaw, Project Inspectors, also attended the event duly representing Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) South Cotabato 1st District Engineer Dr. Mintal T. Taha. The Project Inspectors presented the project profile and led the signing of the blueprint for the upcoming construction of the medical facilities. 

The groundbreaking ceremony also featured messages from key university officials, Chancellor Anshari P. Ali represented by Vice Chancellor for Administration and Finance Usman D. Aragasi, Vice Chancellor for Academic and Affairs Mishell D. Lawas, and Chief of Staff Mohamad Alia’an Abdulatifh expressing their support and enthusiasm for the undertakings of the College of Medicine.