Champions of Nature & Knowledge: MSU-IIT’s Wildlife Quizbowl Inspires Young Minds

COURTESY: The Mindanao State University–Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT)

In the heart of Iligan City, where the hum of academia meets the lush heartbeat of nature, **The Mindanao State University–Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT)** once again transformed into a vibrant hub of environmental awareness and academic excellence. On **October 22, 2025**, the **3rd Iligan City–Lanao del Norte Provincial Wildlife Quizbowl** came to life at the **University Gymnasium**, uniting **22 schools** across the province for a day of curiosity, camaraderie, and celebration of Philippine biodiversity.  

The event, spearheaded by the **Department of Biological Sciences** in collaboration with the **Philippines Biodiversity Conservation Foundation, Inc. (PBCFI)**, **MSU-IIT’s WE CARE Extension Program Office**, the **Rotary Club Metro Iligan**, and the **Haynayan Society**, served as more than just a competition. It stood as a testament to the shared mission of shaping environmentally literate youth who will become tomorrow’s stewards of the land.  

The Battle of Bright Minds and Brave Hearts

From the first round to the nail-biting finale, the atmosphere was electric. The quizbowl challenged participants with questions on **biology, ecology, Philippine wildlife, environmental laws, and biogeography**—each query a bridge toward deeper understanding of the planet’s treasures.  

In a showcase of determination, **MSU–Sultan Naga Dimaporo** emerged as the overall champion with **54 points**, outpacing the **Philippine Science High School – Northern Mindanao Campus** (43 points) and **Iligan City National High School** (39 points). But beyond the scoreboard, every participant walked away with a heightened appreciation for environmental conservation.  

A Debut Worth Remembering: Santiago National High School’s Journey

Among the crowd’s favorites was **Santiago National High School**, joining the competition for the first time and landing an impressive **6th place**. Represented by the resilient duo **Jerry III C. Omping** and **Alyxyl Phette Dayondon**, both Grade 11 HUMSS students and members of *The Eureka Science Society*, the team exhibited perseverance that went far beyond the quizbowl arena.  

Their coach, **Sir Febeto Lumosad Potutan Jr.**, reflected on their journey with both pride and humor. Preparing from scratch, they eagerly researched similar wildlife quiz bowls from other provinces to sharpen their skills. While bouts of “changed-right-to-wrong” answers and spelling mishaps brought laughter, the experience ignited an even stronger determination to come back stronger next year.  

More Than a Quiz—A Movement

As the final applause faded, organizers from **MSU-IIT** and their partners expressed joy at the event’s success. This annual gathering is not merely a friendly contest—it is a growing movement that nurtures minds, fosters teamwork, and deepens the collective commitment to protecting the environment.  

With every year, the **Provincial Wildlife Quizbowl** expands its reach, bridging classrooms with conservation advocacy. If its growth continues, it promises to inspire a generation that will not only master scientific facts but also put them into action to safeguard the earth.  

In events like these, knowledge is not the end goal—it’s the seed. Planted in young minds, it will grow into a forest of hope for the planet.  

Kara David Lights Up MSU-IIT Graduation: A Celebration of New Beginnings!

COURTESY: Mindanao State University - Iligan Institute of Technology 

IMAGE CREDITS: Mindanao State University - Iligan Institute of Technology 

Hey there, future trailblazers! So, picture this: a gym packed with 2,163 eager graduates, all buzzing with excitement and maybe a tiny bit of anxiety. That was the scene at the MSU-IIT Second Semester Graduation of the 55th Commencement on June 27, 2025. And guess who graced the stage as the guest speaker? None other than the multi-awarded broadcast journalist, Kara David! Now, if you’re wondering what wisdom she dropped that day, grab your coffee and settle in because we’re diving into it!

Life Lessons with a Dash of Humor

Kara kicked off her speech with a few lighthearted jokes and some Gen-Z references, instantly creating a cozy vibe. But let’s be real; she didn’t just come to crack jokes. With her presentation titled “Ang Pagtatapos ay Isang Pagsisimula,” she delivered some seriously impactful life lessons. You know how everyone says graduation is the end? Well, she flipped that narrative, reminding us that it’s really just the beginning of many new adventures.

Her first lesson hit home: it’s all about giving to others. She passionately said, “Kung gusto mong humaba ang buhay ng iyong talento, ang buhay ng iyong kaalaman, matuto kang magturo sa mga tao.” Translation? If you want your talents and knowledge to live on, teach others! It’s such a beautiful thought, right? David emphasized that our lives should be about more than just ourselves; it’s about sharing what we have with others. It’s a powerful reminder that our impact can live on through those we help.

Dreams, Community, and the Light in the Dark

Moving on to her second lesson, Kara tackled the topic of dreams. She stated, “Makapangyarihan po ang ating mga pangarap,” which means our dreams are powerful enough to change our lives and communities. How inspiring is that? She urged graduates to hold on to their dreams tightly and never let go. Education, according to her, is a transformative force that can create waves of change in society. And honestly, who wouldn’t want to be part of something that profound?

But wait, there’s more! Her final lesson revolved around the importance of community. “Ang mabigat ay gumagaan, kapag marami ang pumapasan,” she said, sharing wisdom gleaned from the Mangyan people of Mindoro. Her experiences in storytelling from some of the most challenging areas of the Philippines have taught her that even in the darkest corners, there’s always a glimmer of hope. It’s a beautiful, hopeful message that encourages everyone to come together and support each other. 

Kara wrapped up her speech with a heartfelt reminder: Graduates, it’s vital to devote some of your time to serving the community. After all, when we share the load, it becomes lighter for everyone involved. As she put it, “Hindi po ito pagtatapos kung hindi simula.” Graduation isn’t an end; it’s a fresh start.

So, as you step into this new chapter, remember Kara’s words. Embrace the challenges ahead, share your gifts, chase your dreams, and uplift those around you. Here’s to new beginnings!