Central Mindanao University Academic Paradise of the South
Central Mindanao University (CMU) has broken ground on a new initiative to protect its land and resources. The “Bayanihan Alang sa CMU” Fence Project officially launched on August 18, 2025, with a groundbreaking ceremony attended by university officials, alumni, faculty, and staff.
The initiative aims to address the university’s longstanding land concerns by constructing a perimeter fence as a proactive yet non-confrontational measure to secure its property, especially the recently reclaimed 155-hectare property.
The Fence Project is a collaborative effort of the Central Mindanao University Alumni Association, Inc. (CMUAAI), Office of Alumni Relations and Linkages (OARL), CMU Faculty Association, Inc. (CMUFAI), CMU Employees Association, Inc. (CMUEAI), Supreme Student Council (SSC), Office of Resource Generation and Management (ORGM), Office of University Planning and Development (OUPD), Office of General Services (OGS), and the CMU Administration. Each group pledged to contribute through fundraising, mobilization of expertise, and community linkages.
CMU Alumni Association Inc. (CMUAAI) President Dr. Louella M. Cabahug emphasized that the fence project is a testament to the dedication and generosity of alumni and stakeholders who united to protect the university’s land, previously encroached upon but now recovered through a court decision and legal demolition.
“This project is a payback to our Alma Mater, driven by the spirit of giving back and ensuring the integrity of our university’s boundaries. We’re grateful for the funds contributed by our generous alumni and stakeholders that make this project possible. We encourage all alumni to join in this effort, to protect our university’s land through this fence project,” Dr. Cabahug added.
In an interview, University President Dr. Rolito G. Eballe also underscored the importance of the initiative as part of stakeholders’ commitment to safeguard the university’s landholdings. He further pointed out that preserving what has been legally bestowed on CMU is essential for the institution to continue fulfilling its academic mandate.
Meanwhile, Prof. Chenie B. Labnotin, Director of the Office of Alumni Relations and Linkages (OARL), shared that the event was a strong reminder of what the CMU community can achieve when united.
“I was inspired by the event’s altruistic spirit. It was heartwarming to see CMU Alumni come together, showcasing the generosity and love for our Alma Mater. This experience was a powerful reminder of the difference we can make when we work together,” she shared.
As of the groundbreaking ceremony, the project has already generated funds: ₱50,000 from CMUFAI, ₱50,000 from CMUEAI, and ₱80,000 from CMUAAI. The alumni contribution includes ₱30,000 from the CMU New Zealand Alumni Chapter, ₱30,000 from the CMU Bohol Alumni Chapter, and P20,000 Alpha Omega Honor Fraternity and Sorority (ORIOLES). Notably, two spans of the fence have already been completed using the initial resources raised. [ Iyren Dalipe Neri ]
