Marking a significant milestone in advancing legal education in the Bangsamoro region, the Mindanao State University Tawi-Tawi College of Technology and Oceanography (MSU TCTO) formally held the groundbreaking ceremony for its College of Law building, soon to be named the Sultan Basari Mapupuno Hall, on April 24, 2026, at the MSU TCTO campus in Sanga-Sanga.
The ceremony gathered university officials, government leaders, partners, stakeholders, faculty members, and students, including Hon. Mamintal “Bombit” Alonto Adiong Jr., Governor of Lanao del Sur; Hon. Yshmael “Mang” I. Sali, Governor of Tawi-Tawi (represented by Atty. Mardheeyya Nuruddin); Mayor Sittie Aisah Nancy Tomawis Adiong; Hon. Gracita R. Jacinto-Ali, MSU Regent; Bangsamoro Attorney General Hon. Bantuas M. Lucman; and Prof. Dr. Apasrah Macumbal-Mapupuno, spouse of the late MSU President.
The naming of the building after the late Atty. Basari Dimakuta Mapupuno, 8th Regular President of Mindanao State University, was formally approved by the MSU Board of Regents under BOR Resolution No. 443, series of 2025. His leadership was instrumental in expanding access to legal education in Tawi-Tawi, particularly through the establishment of the Juris Doctor program at MSU TCTO in August 2023.
Atty. Datu Esma Mikee P. Maruhom, Vice Chancellor for International Affairs and Vice Dean of the College of Law at MSU TCTO, delivered the welcome address and presented the project overview of the Sultan Basari Mapupuno Hall. He outlined the vision and key features of the proposed building, emphasizing its role as a dedicated, purpose-built space for the College of Law.
He further noted that the project responds to the growing needs of law students and reflects the University’s continuing efforts to strengthen legal education in Tawi-Tawi, anchored on the vision and legacy of Atty. Basari Dimakuta Mapupuno.
“More than just a building, it is a home for learning—one that will shape the minds and values of the locally grown lawyers of Tawi-Tawi. For the first time, many of our students will not need to leave their province to pursue a legal education. Here, they will be trained to become advocates not only of the law, but of their communities.”
In her message, Chancellor Prof. Dr. Mary Joyce Z. Guinto-Sali described the groundbreaking as a defining moment for the University and the region, emphasizing that the project reflects a shared commitment to justice, empowerment, and transformative education.
“The naming of this hall after the late Atty. Basari Dimakuta Mapupuno is both fitting and deeply meaningful. Atty. Mapupuno’s legacy is one of visionary leadership and unwavering dedication to accessible education. He believed that the study of law should not be confined to privilege, but extended to every deserving mind. Today, as we bring this vision closer to reality, we honor not only his memory but his enduring mission.”
Messages of support and tribute were delivered by Bangsamoro Attorney General Hon. Bantuas M. Lucman; Tawi-Tawi Governor Hon. Yshmael “Mang” I. Sali, represented by Atty. Mardheeya S. Nuruddin; Lanao del Sur Governor Hon. Mamintal “Bombit” Alonto Adiong Jr.; MSU Regent Hon. Gracita R. Jacinto-Ali; Prof. Dr. Apasrah Macumbal-Mapupuno, spouse of the late University President, and University 's Chief-of-Staff Atty. Alnasul K. Sali.
In their messages, speakers went beyond formal recognition—sharing personal reflections that painted Atty. Basari Dimakuta Mapupuno not only as a leader, but as a mentor, a visionary, and a man deeply committed to service. They recalled his humility, quiet strength, and unwavering belief that education—especially legal education—should reach even the most underserved communities. For those who had worked closely with him, he was remembered as a leader who listened, inspired, and carried both intellect and compassion in equal measure. These shared memories brought a more personal dimension to the ceremony, reminding everyone present that the hall being built is not only a structure, but a continuation of a life’s work dedicated to justice, opportunity, and the empowerment of others.
Inspired by the concept of a hall of justice, the Sultan Basari Mapupuno Hall is envisioned as more than a physical structure. It will serve as a space where justice is studied, contemplated, and pursued with integrity. Its architectural design reflects a fusion of modern and indigenous elements, drawing inspiration from the langgal houses of Tabawan, South Ubian, and incorporating Sug ukkil patterns—symbolizing the harmony between formal law and cultural tradition.
Beyond its design, the facility stands as a commitment to expanding opportunities for aspiring legal professionals in Tawi-Tawi. For many students, it represents the possibility of pursuing legal education within their own province—equipping them to become not only practitioners of law, but advocates for their communities.
As MSU TCTO breaks ground for this landmark project, the University reaffirms its role as a catalyst for inclusive development—nurturing future lawyers and leaders who will uphold justice, serve communities, and contribute to a more equitable society.
The Sultan Basari Mapupuno Hall stands as a lasting symbol of legacy and hope—expanding access to legal education and bringing justice closer to the communities it serves, reflecting MSU TCTO’s mission of Creating Opportunities, Transforming Lives.
