Atty. Basari Dimakuta Mapupuno, president of the Mindanao State University (MSU) System, passed away at the age of 61 due to cardiac arrest on May 27. He was brought to Amai Pakpak Hospital in Marawi City after the incident, as confirmed by his brother-in-law, Atty. Arassad Macumbal. Appointed as the 8th MSU System president in June 2022 by former President Rodrigo Duterte, Mapupuno was widely respected for his dedication to education, peacebuilding, and public service in Mindanao. He was laid to rest in Wato, Balindong, Lanao del Sur, in accordance with Muslim rites, where he held the title of “Sultan sa Malaeg.” Diagnosed with a kidney ailment last month, Mapupuno’s sudden demise left many in shock. His administration was marked by a visionary 10-point agenda aimed at transforming MSU into a dynamic, inclusive, and forward-looking institution. Key priorities included academic excellence, research, innovation, and promoting MSU as the “National Peace University.” He also focused on internationalization, human resource development, infrastructure, and fiscal responsibility. The MSU community mourned his loss, calling him “a beacon of hope, compassion, and vision.” Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity also expressed condolences, highlighting Mapupuno’s contributions to the Philippine peace process. Mapupuno oversaw the launch of a diploma course on Women, Peace, and Security in 2024 and supported Marawi siege victims through the Marawi Compensation Board. His leadership faced challenges, including a bomb explosion in December 2023, which led to enhanced security measures and psychological support for affected students. Before his presidency, Mapupuno served as the longest-tenured dean of the MSU College of Law and led the Integrated Bar of the Philippines’ Marawi City and Lanao del Sur chapters. Hailing from a lineage of leaders, he was a first cousin of former Congressman Abdullah Dimakuta-Dimaporo. Married to physician Apasrah Macumbal, he had one child. A former student council leader, Mapupuno organized the Federation of Mindanao State University Supreme Student Council and was affiliated with the Alpha Phi Omega and Beta Sigma Lambda fraternities. Colleagues and students remembered him as a generous mentor who championed education and inclusivity. His legacy as a brilliant leader, mentor, and kind soul continues to inspire the MSU community.
