Guimaras State University (GSU) cut a striking figure on May 22, 2025, as it joined the pulsing crowds of the Manggahan Festival 2025 parade — a hallmark of the province’s annual celebration, grounded in grit, roots, and a love for land and culture.

Not simply a walk down sun-drenched roads, the university’s presence — with key officials including University President Dr. Lilian Diana B. Parreño, vice presidents, deans, unit heads, staff, and faculty members — was a show of institutional pulse: proud, present, and in lockstep with the province it calls home.

Manggahan, beyond the mangoes and merriment, is Guimaras declaring its identity to the region and beyond. This year’s run, honoring the 33rd Provincehood Anniversary, stitched together LGUs, regional agencies, civil society groups, and schools into one long ribbon of rhythm and resolve.

While brass bands played and festival banners rode the wind, the university stood not just as a spectator, but as a force in the province’s evolving story — with its students and scholars stepping in cadence with the community they serve.

GSU doesn’t just belong in Guimaras — it belongs to it.