Western Mindanao State University (WMSU), through the Office of the Vice President for Research and Extension and the Department of Extension Services and Community Development (DESCD), held its University Extension Program Culminating Activity on July 21, 2026, at Dr. Juanito Bruno Gymnasium.

The event was attended by Zamboanga City Mayor Hon. Khymer Adan T. Olaso, University President Dr. Ma. Carla A. Ochotorena, university officials, barangay leaders, faculty members, staff, and community partners, including representatives from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the Children in Conflict with the Law (CICL) Center, and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

Anchored on the theme, “La Universidad Para La Comunidad: Deber y Responsabilidad, Servicio y Progreso Sostenible,” the activity celebrated WMSU’s extension accomplishments and recognized the contributions of its partner communities and stakeholders in advancing sustainable development.

Dr. Reynante E. Autida, Director for Research Development and Evaluation Center, delivered the welcome message on behalf of Dr. Teresita A. Narvaez, Vice President for Research and Extension. The message highlighted 81 years of WMSU’s extension services to communities, emphasizing that extension is not an act of charity but a partnership founded on trust, collaboration, and shared responsibility. It also called on stakeholders to continue working together in addressing pressing challenges such as climate change, food security, digital transformation, and social equity.

In her message, Dr. Ma. Carla A. Ochotorena underscored that extension is the highest expression of a university’s social responsibility—where learning becomes service, research becomes solutions, and partnerships create lasting and meaningful change. She likewise reaffirmed WMSU’s commitment to strengthening its extension programs and deepening collaboration with partner communities.

The culmination activity reflected WMSU’s enduring mission of transforming knowledge into meaningful service and sustainable progress, reaffirming the University’s commitment to empowering communities through education, innovation, and strong partnerships. (MKMQuin)