BOAC, Marinduque — Marinduque State University (MarSU) unveiled its university icon, “Manunubong,” at the administration building on December 19 during its year-end general assembly.
The event marked a key moment for the campus community as officials formally presented the icon and shared updates on the university’s direction.
Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Leodegario M. Jalos Jr. opened the assembly with welcoming remarks. Sculptor Cameron Castrillo followed with a presentation on the design philosophy and symbolic elements of the commissioned work, which was named after the “tubong,” the traditional hat for which Marinduque is known.
He explained the creative process behind the new landmark.
University President Prof. Dr. Diosdado P. Zulueta delivered a message ahead of the formal unveiling of the icon, which served as the centerpiece of the ceremony. He then presented the State of the University Address, reviewing MarSU’s performance, recent achievements, and priorities moving forward.
The assembly also recognized retiring personnel during the “Salamat-Mabuhay” segment, honoring their years of service. The university likewise acknowledged external partners and sponsors who supported the STRASUC Olympics 2025.
The formal program ended with Christmas celebrations held by individual units, colleges, and departments across the campus.
The icon project traces back to September 12, when a groundbreaking ceremony was held in the presence of provincial officials and dignitaries. Earlier, in July 2024, the university approved the plan to base its monument and official icon on the tubong, also known as putong.
This was followed by a cultural mapping and heritage inventory conducted between June and July 2025 to determine the design of the lone state university’s icon and statue.
