In Memory of Professor Moner M. Bajunaid: A Legacy of Excellence and Dedication

COTABATO CITY (May 30, 2024) — The academic and peacebuilding community mourns the loss of Professor Moner M. Bajunaid, who passed away recently, leaving behind a legacy of excellence, compassion, and unwavering commitment to education and peace. Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un, (To Allah we belong and to him, we will return).

Professor Bajunaid is survived by his beloved wife, Tessie, his son, Ihsan, and his daughter, Maherah.

Born on March 3, 1950, in Cotabato City, “Moner”, as he was affectionately known, dedicated his life to the pursuit of knowledge and the promotion of harmony in society.

Professor Bajunaid’s academic journey was marked by notable achievements. He earned a degree in business administration from the Philippine School of Business Administration in Manila in 1971, followed by a certificate in Islamic and Arabic Studies from Al Azhar University in Cairo in 1975.

He completed a master’s program in economics at Cairo University in 1978 and later obtained a Master of Arts in Islamic Studies from the International Islamic University in Islamabad, Pakistan. His student years were distinguished by his leadership roles, including serving as secretary-general of the ASEAN Students Association and the Solidarity of South East Asian Students in Cairo.

Moner began his professional career with the Presidential Task Force in 1973 as a junior economist and later served as special assistant to the Office of the Commercial Attaché at the Philippine Embassy in Cairo. His passion for education led him to the National Institute for English Language and Professional Studies in Rawalpindi, Pakistan, where he started as a lecturer in Islamic Studies in 1986.

In 1988, he joined Mindanao State University (MSU) in General Santos City as an instructor, rising to assistant vice president for planning and development in April 1990. He served as officer-in-charge of MSU-General Santos City from July 5 to August 1990 and was appointed Chancellor, a position he held until November 1995. From 1997 until 2000, he headed the Technical Committee of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Peace Panel.

Professor Bajunaid’s contributions extended beyond academia. He was deeply involved in various non-government organizations and special projects, serving on the Board of Trustees of the Peace and Equity Foundation (PEF) for two terms (2006-2010) and being elected Vice Chairman of the Board. He co-convened the Citizens’ Peace Council and served as Secretary-General of the National Ulama Conference of the Philippines, promoting peace and dialogue among diverse communities.

He rejoined the government as a Commissioner at the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) from 2010 to 2012.

In the political arena, Moner ran for national office during the May 14, 2001 elections as the lone senatorial candidate of the Partido Demokratiko-Sosyalista ng Pilipinas (PDSP), basing his candidacy on a platform of government programs rather than personality and patronage.

His enduring legacy continues to inspire and guide future generations, leaving an indelible mark on his students, colleagues, and the broader community. As we remember his significant contributions, we honor his memory and dedication to the principles of education and peace. May his soul rest in eternal peace. (BMN/BangsamoroToday)