Mindanao State University General Santos, headed by Chancellor Atty. Shidik T. Abantas, was elected as the Chairperson of the Regional Development Council XII – Sub-Committee on Culture and Arts last April 16, 2026 at DEPDev 12 Regional Office, Koronadal City.

Dr. Norman Ralph Isla, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs and Services, represented MSU GenSan Chancellor in the reorganizational meeting and election of chairperson and co-chairperson.

Among the 23 committee members composed of LGUs, SUC/LUCs, and Private Sector Representatives, MSU General Santos was nominated to be the Chair together with NCIP XII, LGU Cotabato Province, MALAHSCI, and DTI. Dr. Isla cited in his speech that “SUCs like MSU General Santos are in a strategic position to promote and advance culture and arts in the region and the nation because they are force multipliers – institutions that can maximize this noble cause.”

At the end, MSU GenSan garnered a total of 11 votes and was elected Chairperson. MSU GenSan thru Vice Chancellor Isla then presided the rest of the meeting wherein 5 resolutions and 3 instructions were approved.

MSU GenSan will be officially designated as RSCA Chairperson wherein Atty. Shidik T. Abantas will take his oath on June 2, 2026 during the RSDC meeting.

The university remains the arts and cultural hub in the region wherein advocacies for cultural heritage, performing arts, theater, literature and emerging art forms thrive.