Brief History of the University
The Mountain Province State University (MPSU), formerly known as Mountain Province State Polytechnic College (MPSPC), traces its roots to the Mountain Province Community College (MPCC). MPCC was established through Mountain Province Provincial Board Resolution No. 158, signed on April 10, 1969, laying the foundation for higher education in the province.
The resolution authorized the provincial government of Mountain Province to establish the Mountain Province Community College (MPCC), allocate funds for its initial operations, and form an ad-interim Board of Trustees. The Board was chaired by Governor Alfredo G. Lamen, with Vice-Governor Jaime K. Gomez serving as Vice Chairman. Other members included Superintendent of Schools Raymundo de Leon, Provincial Secretary Timothy Chaokas, Atty. Guillermo Bandonil, Mr. Alfredo G. Pacyaya, and Mr. Alfredo Belingon. After constituting the Board, some of its members were appointed to serve as the first administrative officials of the College. Vice Governor Jaime K. Gomez was designated as Honorary President, Mr. Timothy Chaokas as Executive Director and Registrar, and Mr. Alexander Sumedca and Mr. Alfredo Belingon as part-time administrative and supervisory assistants. Their leadership played a crucial role in establishing the foundation for MPCC’s early development and operations.
On May 14, 1969, the national government, through the Secretary of the Department of Education, formally recognized the establishment of Mountain Province Community College (MPCC). Following this recognition, the MPCC administration was directed to commence its initial course offerings in July 1969, marking the official start of the College’s academic operations.
The governance of the Mountain Province Community College (MPCC) was entrusted to a Board of Directors, led by the Provincial Governor. The first Chairman of the Board was Governor Jaime K. Gomez, under whose leadership the Board not only formulated policies but also took on the critical responsibility of securing financial support for the institution. Given the limited resources available, the College primarily relied on student fees to cover its operating expenses. However, these funds were insufficient to fully sustain the institution’s growing needs, posing financial challenges in its early years.
This financial challenge motivated key individuals to advocate for the conversion of Mountain Province Community College (MPCC) into a state college to ensure better funding and sustainability. As early as 1975, Regional Director Telesforo Boquiren and Assistant Regional Director Bernardo M. Reyes took the initiative by submitting proposals to Secretary Juan Manuel of the Ministry of Education and Culture. However, despite their efforts, the proposals did not yield positive results at the time.
In 1978, during the first election for the Batasang Pambansa, Hon. Victor S. Dominguez was elected as one of the assemblymen representing Region I. Recognizing the need for greater institutional support, he sought to file a bill for the conversion of Mountain Province Community College (MPCC) into a state college. However, his efforts were hindered by a moratorium imposed by the national government, which restricted the establishment of additional state colleges across the country at that time.
It was only after the reorganization of the Congress of the Philippines in 1987 that efforts to convert Mountain Province Community College (MPCC) into a state college gained momentum. Following his re-election, Hon. Victor S. Dominguez promptly filed House Bill No. 00180, but it did not prosper that year. Undeterred, he continued his advocacy, and on May 28, 1991, he introduced another bill entitled:
“An Act Converting the Mountain Province Community College to be known as the Mountain Province State Polytechnic College, Integrating therewith the Tadian School of Arts and Trades in the Municipality of Tadian; the Bacarri Agricultural High School in the Municipality of Paracelis; and the Eastern Bontoc National Agricultural School in the Municipality of Barlig, all in Mountain Province, and Appropriating Funds thereof.”
The bill underwent legislative processes, receiving its First Reading on June 3, 1991, Second Reading approval on August 15, 1991, and Third Reading approval on September 4, 1991. On January 17, 1992, it was officially enacted by the President of the Republic of the Philippines as Republic Act No. 7182, marking a significant milestone in the institution’s transformation into the Mountain Province State Polytechnic College (MPSPC).
The enactment of Republic Act No. 7182 marked the realization of a long-cherished dream—the establishment of a state college in Mountain Province. This achievement was the result of the relentless dedication and perseverance of the pioneers who took on the arduous task of nurturing and transforming the institution. Their unwavering commitment laid the foundation for what would become a beacon of higher education in the region.
Building on the legacy of their predecessors, succeeding administrators, stakeholders, employees, and students continued to strengthen and advance the institution. Their collective efforts paved the way for further development, culminating in the early stages of applying for university status in 2009.
As part of this initiative, House Bill No. 6392, titled “An Act Elevating MPSPC into a University of Montañosa,” was filed by Hon. Manuel S. Agyao, who was serving as the Caretaker-Congressman for Mountain Province following the untimely demise of Hon. Victor S. Dominguez. The bill gained traction and was approved and passed through the Committee on Higher and Technical Education, marking a significant step toward the institution’s eventual elevation to university status.
In 2010, the proposed legislation underwent revisions and was renamed House Bill 7141, which explicitly stated the act of converting Mountain Province State Polytechnic College (MPSPC) into a university to be known as the Mountain Province State University (MPSU). This marked a crucial step in the institution’s journey toward achieving full university status.
In 2012, the push for university status was revived by Hon. Maximo B. Dalog and Hon. Edgardo M. Angara, who filed House Bill 4449, titled “An Act Converting MPSPC into a State University.” This bill sought to formally elevate Mountain Province State Polytechnic College (MPSPC) to a state university.
On May 24, 2013, His Excellency, President Benigno Simeon Aquino III signed the bill into law, marking another milestone in the institution’s history. However, the law included a provision stating that the conversion into a university would only take effect upon certification by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), confirming that the institution had substantially complied with the operational requirements for university status.
Following the enactment of Republic Act No. 7182, the Board of Trustees elected D. Marcelino T. Delson as the first College President, serving from 1992 to 2004. His leadership was followed by NEDA-CAR Director Juan B. Ngalob, who was appointed as Officer-in-Charge (OIC) President from August 2004 to March 2005.
In April 2005, Dr. Nieves A. Dacyon was elected as College President, a position she held until November 30, 2012. Upon the conclusion of her term, the Governing Board designated Dr. Geraldine L. Madjaco as OIC College President from December 1, 2012, to March 18, 2013.
Dr. Eufemia C. Lamen was then elected as College President, assuming office on March 19, 2013. However, her tenure was tragically cut short due to her untimely passing in a car accident on December 1, 2013, after only eight months in office. To fill the leadership vacancy, the Board of Trustees appointed Dr. Josephine M. Ngodcho, then Vice President for Academic Affairs, as OIC College President, effective December 6, 2013.
On July 25, 2014, Dr. Rexton F. Chakas was elected as College President by the Board of Trustees, officially assuming leadership of the institution. He served in this capacity until July 25, 2022.
During his administration, Dr. Chakas spearheaded significant investments in infrastructure development, focusing on the improvement of teaching and learning facilities to enhance the overall academic environment. His leadership also prioritized the advancement of accreditation programs, government recognitions, and ISO certification for administrative and support services. Moreover, his tenure played a pivotal role in strengthening the College’s bid for university status, laying the groundwork for its eventual transition into a state university.
The incumbent President, Dr. Edgar G. Cue, assumed office as College President on September 23, 2022. One of his primary goals has been the conversion of the College into a university, a vision that has driven his administration’s initiatives and strategic efforts.
Under his leadership, the institution has placed quality and excellence at the forefront, with a strong emphasis on instruction, research, extension, and resource generation. His administration continues to build upon past achievements, ensuring that the institution meets the highest standards in higher education and institutional development.
At present, the College operates across multiple geographical locations, ensuring broader accessibility to quality education. Its campuses include the Bontoc Campus and the Tadian Campus, with an extension campus in Paracelis, which serves as an extension class of the Tadian Campus, primarily catering to the College of Agriculture. Additionally, the institution manages the Victor S. Dominguez Research and Extension Development Center, located in Ba-ang, Bauko, Mountain Province, reinforcing its commitment to research, extension, and community development.
For the past thirty (30) years since its establishment as a State College in 1992, Mountain Province State Polytechnic College (MPSPC) has remained steadfast in its commitment to providing quality education. Throughout its journey, the institution has undergone various phases of development, continuously evolving to meet academic, institutional, and societal demands.
MPSPC remains dedicated to innovation and progress, ensuring that it proactively responds to the changing needs of the times and the expectations of its stakeholders. At present, the institution faces several key challenges, including:
- Program compliance and accreditation, ensuring that academic offerings meet national and international standards.
- Compliance with international quality management standards, further enhancing institutional credibility and efficiency.
- Infrastructure and facilities development, addressing the growing need for modernized and well-equipped learning environments.
Dr. Edgar G. Cue’s administration worked tirelessly and with unwavering dedication to achieve the long-awaited conversion of the College into a University. Through strategic initiatives, relentless perseverance, and a steadfast commitment to institutional growth, his leadership played a pivotal role in realizing this milestone.
In 2024, his administration’s efforts came to fruition, marking a historic moment as the College officially transitioned into a university. Such transition also made him the first University President of MPSU, and the last College President. This achievement stands as a testament to the collective determination of the institution’s leaders, faculty, staff, and stakeholders, who all shared the vision of advancing higher education in the region.
The transition of Mountain Province State Polytechnic College (MPSPC) to Mountain Province State University (MPSU) marks a historic milestone in the educational landscape of the region. This momentous transformation was officially approved by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) on August 27, 2024, following the enactment of Republic Act No. 12016, which was signed into law by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on August 1, 2024.
The successful conversion was the result of rigorous evaluations conducted by CHED’s Composite Team, which thoroughly assessed key institutional criteria such as student enrollment, academic program offerings, faculty qualifications, research initiatives, learning resources, and community outreach programs. This milestone reflects the institution’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence, institutional development, and service to the community, ensuring that MPSU continues to thrive as a leading higher education institution in the region.
“Milestone Evolution: MPSPC’s Path to University Status”
The Mountain Province State Polytechnic College (MPSPC) is the leading state institution of higher learning in Mountain Province. Its transformation from a community college to a state college has had a significant impact on the region, strengthening its role as a major contributor to economic progress and local business growth. It is a significant milestone in the history of higher education in the region. The chronology of events leading to this change is a testament to the collective efforts of visionary leaders, educators, and community stakeholders who aspired for a brighter academic future. It reflects a journey of growth, resilience, and dedication to providing quality education that meets the evolving needs of students and the community.
THE PRESIDENTS
Dr. Marcelino T. Delson took office as the first College President, serving from 1992 until July 2004 with the enactment of RA 7182.
He was succeeded by NEDA-CAR Director Juan B. Ngalob, who served as OIC-President from August 2004 to March 2005.
In April 2005, Dr. Nieves A. Dacyon assumed the presidency following her election in February 2005 and appointment on 31 March 2005.
From December 2012 to 18 March 2013, Dr. Geraldine L. Madjaco served as OIC-President.
From 19 March 2013 – 2 December 2013, Dr. Euphemia C. Lam-en was appointed College President.
Dr. Josephine Ngodcho then took over as OIC-President, serving until 25 July 2014.
Dr. Rexton F. Chakas was College President from 26 July 2014 – 25 July 2022. He later assumed the role of OIC-President from 26 July 2022 to 22 September 2022.
From 18 August 2022 – 22 September 2022, CHED-CAR Regional Director Demetrio P. Anduyan, Jr. also served as OIC-President.
On 23 September 2022, Dr. Edgar G. Cue took his oath as College President. His administration focused on achieving university status, advancing infrastructure development, and securing accreditation for all programs, with a vision of transforming the institution into an internationally recognized university that upholds cultural continuity, nurtures innovation, and fosters sustainable development. The journey toward achieving university status began in 2009, involving extensive, challenging processes and a steadfast commitment to meeting all requirements. After years of commitment and diligent effort, the long-awaited recognition was finally granted.
On August 27, 2024, the institution was officially granted its University Status by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) through CHED En Banc Resolution No. 501 – 2024.
Chronology of Events
VMGT
University Logo
University Hymn
VISION
An internationally recognized university for cultural continuity and innovations that transforms lives.
MISSION
MPSU shall pursue responsive instruction and innovation to produce resilient citizens who contribute to sustainable development.
GOALS
- Attain quality and excellence in instruction, innovation, research, extension, and resource generation for sustainable development.
- Advance and promote comprehensive global engagement and strategic collaborations.
- Foster a vibrant, inclusive and diverse academic environment for cultural dynamism and continuity.
- Enhance efficiency and cost-effectiveness of management in the delivery of quality service
- Sustain harmony within the College and with stakeholders
THRUSTS: TRANSFORM
T – Transformational curriculum and instruction
R – Relevant production and sustainable resources generation programs.
A – Accessible and equitable learning resources and student services and development.
N – Noteworthy partnerships and extension services
S – Sustainable Development Goals integrated into programs, projects, and activities.
F – Functional leadership.
O – Organizational strengthening toward efficient delivery of services.
R – Responsive local and global linkages.
M – Modern research-based solutions and responsive, innovative Technologies.
Core Values: PRIME
Professionalism
Resiliency
Inclusivity
Moral Integrity
Excellence
The logo is the symbol of the University. It is circular in shape and a universal emblem that stands for the unity, inclusiveness, and completeness of the MPSU community (administration and faculty, parents, students, alumni, and/or stakeholders). Its enclosing nature projects protection, safety, and security. In a global context, it symbolizes the University’s international reach and global outlook. It conveys the wholesome idea that the elements within the circle are part of a unified whole.
Between the outer and middle circles is the inscribed name of the institution, “MOUNTAIN PROVINCE STATE UNIVERSITY” and “1969” representing the year it was founded.
The GONG which is the inner circle of the logo holds a significant cultural and symbolic meaning. It represents the rich cultural heritage and traditions of the indigenous peoples of the region, for whom the gong is a central element in rituals, celebrations, and communal gatherings. It highlights the institution’s respect for and connection to the local culture, its dedication to fostering a sense of belonging among students and faculty, and its role in the cultural and educational development of the region. The gong embodies a call to action and collective effort, resonating with the university’s mission to inspire and lead its community toward shared goals and achievements.
Within the inner circle are the following elements:
THE TORCH: The torch is a powerful symbol that embodies the University’s pursuit of knowledge and enlightenment. It serves as a beacon of inspiration, lighting the path toward intellectual growth, personal development, and success. It symbolizes the University’s leadership and guidance to inspire and propel its community toward greater achievements.
The SHAFT, the handle of the torch, signifies the University’s role in fostering global awareness and embracing innovative progress. It further represents the University’s steadfast commitment to upholding and spreading knowledge, wisdom, and enlightenment. It underscores the University’s role as a bearer of education and truth, illuminating the students’ path and guiding them toward academic and personal growth and global engagement fostering groundbreaking advancements. By holding the globe, it emphasizes the importance of understanding and engaging with global perspectives, highlighting the University’s dedication to preparing students for an interconnected world and guiding them toward becoming globally aware, and innovative leaders.
The FLAME represents the University’s igniting hope that lights and guides the pathways and every endeavor that pushes MPSU beyond the border context of excellence. It further signifies aspiration and ambition, encouraging students to strive for higher goals and reach their fullest potential.
Overall, the torch is a multifaceted emblem that encapsulates the University’s dedication to education, transformation, and global impact.
Inside the flame is the GLOBE which stands for globalization and internationalization, representing the institution’s commitment to fostering a global perspective and engaging with the international community. It embodies the idea that education and knowledge transcend national boundaries, promoting cultural exchange, diversity, and collaboration across regions and countries. It highlights the institution’s dedication to cultivating citizens who are well-equipped to address global challenges and contribute to the international community. Within the GLOBE are the NEURAL PATHWAYS that represent INNOVATION. These symbolize the University’s strong stance and commitment to advancing technology and cutting-edge research. These chips represent the forefront of technological progress, highlighting the University’s role in fostering an environment where new ideas and technologies are developed. The inclusion of technological chips in the logo underscores the institution’s focus on science, engineering, and technology, and its efforts to drive innovation that can lead to significant advancements in various fields. Overall, technological chips in a university logo stand for the spirit of innovation, progress, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in the technological realm.
The GLOBE and NEURAL PATHWAYS are on fire. These show that the University is exuding vibrancy and power in terms of internationalization and globalization whose strong light and heat further illuminate throughout the University and beyond its fold.
The “PAKHEY” signifies the University’s deep connection to agriculture, culture, and community; and its commitment to intellectual development and supporting a strong, united community. Its presence reflects the values of resilience, sustainability, and local identity, highlighting the University’s dedication to both tradition and innovation fostering the integrity, distinction, and legacy of MPSU in the local, regional, national, and international arena.
The TEN MOUNTAINS stand for the TEN MUNICIPALITIES of the MOUNTAIN PROVINCE that comprise the immediate service areas of the University. Additionally, it represents the rich culture and characteristics of the people which MPSU is continuously preserving. Moreover, they signify the University’s commitment to providing a strong and stable foundation for education, much like how mountains provide solid grounding. They further signify lofty goals and the pursuit of excellence, echoing the University’s mission to inspire students to reach their highest potential. The rugged and enduring nature of the mountains also embodies resilience and perseverance, qualities that the University aims to instill in its students. This symbolism underscores the University’s dedication to fostering an environment where individuals are encouraged to overcome challenges and achieve greatness, much like scaling the heights of a mountain.
The FIVE PINE TREES distributed in the FIVE MOUNTAINS signify all the campuses of MPSU. The CENTER PINE TREE stands for the main campus, which is in Bontoc, and the other FOUR PINE TREES stand for its FOUR (4) campuses as stipulated in RA 10583 – the Tadian Campus, Bauko Campus, Paracelis Campus, and the Barlig Campus.
The RICE TERRACES symbolize the rich cultural heritage and agricultural tradition of the province. They stand for the University’s deep connection to its local roots and the significance of preserving and honoring indigenous knowledge and practices. These are testament to the ingenuity, hard work, and resilience of the communities that have cultivated them for generations, reflecting the University’s commitment to sustainability and community engagement. This powerful imagery underscores the University’s dedication to integrating traditional wisdom with modern education, fostering a sense of pride and identity among students, and promoting sustainable development. By featuring these in the logo, the University highlights its role in nurturing a new generation of leaders grounded in their cultural heritage and equipped to contribute to the global community.
The University’s colors are GREEN, YELLOW, and MAROON.
GREEN represents freshness and life, growth, vitality, and abundance. It also reflects the institution’s dedication to sustainable practices and environmental stewardship, emphasizing the importance of conserving natural resources for future generations. Additionally, green embodies the rich natural landscape of the Mountain Province, highlighting the University’s deep-rooted connection to its geographical and cultural setting. This color choice reinforces the University’s mission to cultivate a holistic educational experience that integrates ecological awareness, cultural heritage, and innovative learning.
YELLOW signifies and emphasizes the University’s commitment and role in fostering an environment of growth, innovation, and inclusive education while celebrating the cultural identity and resilience of the Cordilleras. It reflects the University’s aim of creating a positive and inspiring educational environment where students are encouraged to explore, innovate, and achieve their full potential. Additionally, it signifies hope and progress, embodying the University’s vision for a brighter future through education. By incorporating this vibrant color into the logo, the University emphasizes its role in guiding students toward academic excellence and personal development, while promoting a sense of optimism and forward-looking perspective.
MAROON, also the color of the woven fabric, symbolizes a deep reverence for cultural heritage and tradition. Such woven fabric and its maroon color stand for bravery, strength, and resilience, reflecting the indomitable spirit of the Indigenous people of the University and the province. It also conveys a sense of dignity, solemnity, and pride, aligning with the University’s mission to foster a strong sense of identity and community among its students and faculty, thereby highlighting the institution’s dedication to academic excellence, cultural respect, and the empowerment of its community. The woven fabric and the maroon color, with its rich and warm hues, serve as a powerful reminder of the university’s roots, values, and mission to blend traditional wisdom with modern educational practices.
MPSU Hymn
Lyrics by: Edgar G. Cue & Michelle Doss
Music: Edgar G. Cue & Michelle Doss
Verse 1
Nestled in the mountains’ embrace,
Our University stands, beacon of grace.
Guiding light, through peaks and valleys wide,
We sing our praise, with hearts full of pride.
Verse 2
With gratitude, to God, we lift our plight.
He’s our source of wisdom and might.
In His grace, we find our strength and peace.
And with devotion our hearts release.
Chorus
Hail to thee, Mountain Province State U Guiding us with a vision anew
In harmony and song, we stand as one,
United in our quest, beneath the sun.
With every step, our legacy unfolds,
Mountain Province State U, our hearts forever hold.
Verse 3
Loyalty and honor, we hold dear,
In service to others, we persevere.
To serve our community and land,
Proud to be part of this noble land.
Verse 4
Knowledge and wisdom we seek to find.
In your halls, our hearts and minds aligned
With minds eager to learn and grow,
Guided by wisdom from long ago.
Chorus
Hail to thee, Mountain Province State U Guiding us with a vision anew
In harmony and song, we stand as one,
United in our quest, beneath the sun.
With every step, our legacy unfolds, Mountain Province State U, our hearts forever hold.