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SIRMATA Relevance. Excellence. Growth.

The offilcial publication of college students of Mariano Marcos State University Vol. XXXVII No. 1 December-January

MMSU INKS DEAL TO BECOME US SCHOOL’S MICRO CAMPUS

To deliver quality global education to Filipinos, the Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) and the University of Arizona (UA) signed an agreement to launch the first micro-campus in the Philippines this year. The partnership was sealed through a global direct agreement between MMSU President Shirley C. Agrupis and UA Global Operations Chief Executive Officer Brent White represented by Hillary Vance, Senior Director of the Southeast Asia UA Global, through a virtual program on February 8. MMSU is UA’s first Filipino partner university in its world campus network along with top global universities implementing the UA American Degree Pathway (ADP) and Global Campus Experience (GCE) programs. With the ADP program, first year MMSU students are given the opportunity to earn up to two years of direct undergraduate credits from UA through a combination of in-person and online courses through microcampus. Various academic programs will be offered to the students to meet the University’s degree requirements. Their program will also allow students to transfer to other US Universities. Meanwhile, GCE program offers over 60 degree-programs which

will be delivered purely online in English by UA professors through the micro-campus’ facilities and services. Vance recognized the importance

of international partnerships as such, as one of the keys to joint peace and prosperity in a globalized era. “We hope that our partnership

can be part of MMSU’s mission in becoming a premier Philippine University by 2028, in advancing their academic excellence, research and global engagements,

CTE writer tops SEAMEO 55th Anniversary Essay Writing Contest Jamico Cris Jingco

ngelica Isabelle E. Moreno, a third year Bachelor of Secondary Education Major in English student from the College of Teacher Education (CTE), was named winner for her essay, “Strength in Numbers,” in the Tertiary category of the Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization (SEAMEO) 55th Anniversary Essay Writing Contest at the virtual awarding ceremony held by the SEAMEO Secretariat on November 26, 2020. Moreno received a certificate of recognition and a cash prize of USD 200. In celebration of its 55th Anniversary, which focused on

the theme, “Stronger Together for Quality, Accessible, and Responsive Education,” SEAMEO organized student competitions such as song writing contest, photography contest, and essay writing contest to highlight the wits and creativity of students amid the challenges brought by the pandemic in education. In her winning piece, Moreno expressed that the 21st century demands flexibility in work, especially from teachers, and in the perspective of a student aspiring to be one, the learnings from the comparative report, synthesis, initiatives, and webinars produced by SEAMEO are great contributions to cater such demands.

An excerpt of her essay stated, “The transformations and better mindset can greatly influence the building of foundations of a community where individuals stand strong together to achieve quality, accessible, and responsive education.” When asked about her inspiration in writing the essay, “I wrote the essay mainly because I see it as a learning opportunity and a challenge. My to-do list seemed to overwhelm me before, so I considered joining the essay contest in hopes of having it as an outlet for my emotions,” Moreno replied. “I would have had a regretful story if I did not join the competition at all,” Moreno

02 news 5 MMSU studes finish KU-EOL Program

MMSU OPENS DOORS OF HOPE TO TYPHOON VICTIMS OF REGION 2

SIRMATA

Rizza Swerte Urbina

MSU, through the efforts of students and faculty members, opened doors of hope to the victims of typhoons that devastated Cagayan and Isabela the previous weeks.

Heal As One Drive initiative of the After a week of Faculty Association, Inc. (FAI); continuous sorting and organizing Rizza Swerte Urbina and P100,000 from the donation of in-kind donations, truckloads drive initiated by the Association of relief packs were successfully ive students from MMSU of Non-Teaching Administrative handed over to the representatives completed the Kansai Personnel (ANTAP). of the Provincial Government University Engaged/Exchange MMSU President Dr. of Cagayan, to the officials of Online Learning (KU-EOL) Shirley C. Agrupis spearheaded the Local Government Unit of Program for the fall semester the team that delivered the relief administered from October 1 to Aparri, and to an MMSU studentpacks accompanied by Dr. Marlina led private organization named December 14, 2020. Lino, Faculty Association, Inc. Natarnaw nga Agtutubo last Niel Alden B. Ramirez (FAI) President; Dr. Jan Rich November 21, 2020. (BSEd-Eng III-CTE), finished Guira, Student Development The MMSU community the courses Critical Thinking for Chief; Prof. Milagros Barruga, delivered 1,200 relief packs from Social and Global Issues, and Institutional Student Programs various donation drive initiatives: Japan in International Affairs; and Services Chief; Dr. Geraldine USC’s EASEtallions initiative Michael Christophe Agustin Pascual, Student Welfare Chief; which raised P50,000 from (BSEd-Eng II-CTE), finished Prof. Rommel Dascil, College MMSU officials, faculty members the course, Critical Thinking for of Arts and Sciences Educators’ and students plus P45,000 from Social and Global Issues; Angelica Society (CASES) President; Prof. the organization itself; P112,00 Isabelle E. Moreno (BSEd-Eng Ryan Dean Sucgang, College from the Bangon Cagayan We III-CTE) finished the course, Research Methods for Social Sciences; Jamico Cris Jingco (AB Comm III-CAS) finished the course, Information and Communication Technologies; and Andrea Nicole Cabanlit (ABEL IV-CAS) finished the course, Rizza Swerte Urbina Contemporary Gender Studies. MSU College of Business, Economics, and Accountancy These five MMSU (CBEA) graduates emerged victorious in the Certified students were among the 100 Human Resource Associate (CHRA) assessment examination, participants from 17 partner obtaining a 100% passing rate with one graduate making it to the universities in 11 countries who roster of top passers. seized the said free international experience. The University’s six spot, my heart was jumping Besting their courses, examinees, all first takers, with joy because I am not only Ramirez and Moreno received hurdled the CHRA exam representing myself but my Alma certificates of excellence in their administered by the Human Mater and now my workplace.” classes for their outstanding Resource Educators’ Association Yapo added that she academic achievement. of the Philippines Inc. (HREAP) will assure quality efforts in The online program on March 8, 2019 at Negros instilling in-depth knowledge to is bolstered by the Institute for Oriental State University, the students of MMSU who will Innovative Global Education Dumaguete City and January 23, be prepping for future CHRA (IIGE) through the Collaborative 2021 via online. examinations. She also vows to Online International Learning Krismary Sharmaine be of contribution to an engaged (COIL) project developed by KU, D. Yapo, a CBEA instructor, workforce in the University Japan. landed 9th place with a rating through various HR programs. Through the use of of 89.63%. Other passers were “We should never IIGE's educational method, Janela Ruth Claudine S. Andres, distort our determination by students who joined the KUAlyza Jeanelle A. Baltazar, harboring doubts about our EOL program experienced online Vanessa Flores Calube, Joe ability to reach our goals. collaborative learning with Shantel B. Pagdilao and Shaira Whenever we do this, we students from different cultures. Vae B. Quitang. weaken the force, which will Moreover, KU provides These passers from propel us to reach our goal,” the international opportunities MMSU were among the 82 instructor mused emphasizing for university students whose successful examinees for batch the importance of yielding big educational experiences have 8. The overall passing rate was dreams and in reaching them. been impacted by the pandemic. 94.25%. “Ambition is the leader of all At the same time, the institution In an interview, Yapo great achievements. It is the considers this new phase as narrated she was very surprised fore-runner which directs us” she the entrance to the next stage when she learned that she said. of international education in copped the ninth place. “I felt HREAP is a Japan, and plans to further under heaps of pressure before professional membership expand existing focus on online the result came out. But when organization of human resource international education. I saw my name on the 9th educators in the country which

of Health Sciences (CHS) OIC Dean; Mr. Philip Joshua Aliga, University Student Council (USC) Executive Chairperson; and other staff of the Office of Student Affairs and Services (OSAS).

MMSU posts 100% in CHRA exam, produces topnotcher

centers on the promotion of the development of human resource program in higher educational institutions in the Philippines, industry – academe partnership, research publication, and learning and development.

SIRMATA

EcoSoc launches farmer-friendly campaign Adrianne Lorenzo Corpuz

he students of the Bachelor of Science in Economics (BS Econ) of the College of Business Economics, and Accountancy (CBEA), through the Economics Society (EcoSoc), launched “Paskwa dagiti Mannalon: Merch-Selling for a Cause” to give noche buena package for the farmers of Barangay Surgui, Paoay, Ilocos Norte. The farmer-friendly initiative raised more than Php 10,000 and covered 22 families of the said barangay. The packages were delivered to the beneficiaries on the 24th of December. EcoSoc elaborated that the overlooked situation of the farmers aggravated by the pandemic pushed them to instate the charitable campaign. Furthermore, the program aims to support the farmers and empower them as one of the frontliners for securing affordable and nutritious food for consumers during these trying times. Meanwhile, the SK Chairman of Brgy. Surgui explained that there are only few financial opportunities for the farmers, which prompted some of them to venture into other sources of income aside from farming. Moreover, he said that the initiative of the students brought the farmers a feeling of relief and support. The items sold were stickers and t-shirts that were made available online through their Facebook page. EcoSoc also mentioned that there are more projects of the same kind in their roster of activities.

CAS-SC, BEST IN THE UNIVERSITY

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Shaina Dwine Pablo

oasting an exemplary record of leadership and service to the college and university, the College of Arts and Sciences Student Council (CAS-SC) has been awarded as the Best College Student action that they wish toStudents’ pursue. Day 2021. Council Hall of Famer in the University during the Meanwhile, Jason Albert Pascual, the current CAS-SC In an interview with president, said that working as a Sirmata, Ma. Victoria Gabuat, team and filling up each other’s former CAS-SC President of weaknesses keeps them going the academic year 2019-2020, forward in leading and serving overwhelmingly expressed their fellow wizards. The onendless gratitude for having been going crisis, which led some chosen as the receiver of the activities of the college to be prestigious award. In her reply held virtually, fervently pushed speech, she recounted the student them to continue the said legacy. council’s efforts in giving the Furthermore, the organization best standard of service to CAS sees this as an opportunity to and to the university. Likewise, learn new approaches in engaging she expressed delight to all the and executing their activities in a people who have been part and way that is uniquely suiting to the contributed in the said milestone. demands of our time. “Consistency plus commitment,” the former SC president firmly articulated unveiling the CAS-SC’s secret to be hailed as the best. In addition, she inspired the current officers of CAS-SC reminding that they can be 'more' and even 'better' if they would allow themselves to welcome collective ideas, and to think different than usual. She as well reminded them to always uphold the quality of excellence in every

MUP 2020 Rabiya Mateo inspires PT students

Rizza Swerte Urbina

iss Universe Philippines 2020 Rabiya Mateo shared the importance of resiliency and selfappreciation with the MMSU Physical Therapy (PT) students to help them settle in the new normal.

The Ilongga beauty queen, who is also a Physical Therapist Registered in the Philippines (PTRP) served as the special guest speaker in the PTKAN 2021 with the theme, “PT Embracing the New Normal,” yesterday, February 19 via Zoom and Facebook Live. Mateo sympathized with the students and showed understanding of how strenuous the demands of online classes are. At the same time, she encouraged them to engage more and emphasized that online learning is better than not learning at all. “As an ambassador for education, I hope that you realize that this is your opportunity to learn a lot of things, not just anatomy [and] physiology, but this is [also] the best way for you to test your character, and where you stand to the most difficult times,”

she articulated. Mateo noted that to succeed in life, one must always choose to go up, to aspire for progress, to be more, and to develop as a person. “You need to practice self-love, you need to toughen up yourself, you need to conquer life with the right weapon and when I say weapon, what kind of weapon [do] we need? It is the knowledge, the experience that leads us to be that person of strength, and that person who is capable of creating a difference,” she said. Mateo also stressed the need to correct misconceptions about PT as a course and as a profession. “We really need to break the stigma that a physical therapist is just a masahista. We are more than that. Our course is never easy. It is one of the hardest

courses here in our country [and] even abroad. So, we have to help one another, educate one another,” she said. PTKAN is an annual event of the College of Health Sciences (CHS) - Department of Physical Therapy in collaboration with the Physical Therapy Students' Organization (PTSO).

04 news PLE makes MMSU history

Jamico Cris R. Jingco

chieving excellence, the first batch of College of Medicine (CoM) graduates posted a 100% passing rate against the 75.21% national passing rate in the November 2020 Physician Licensure Examination (PLE) regulated by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) on November 10-11 and 15-16. Seven out of seven graduates of MMSU (CoM), all first-time takers, passed the examination. They were among the 3, 538 passers out of 4, 704 examinees throughout the country. The seven MMSU CoM pioneers dubbed as ‘Magic 7’ who are now new licensed physicians are Alyssa Mae B. Agustin, Everlyn Joy B. Caluya, Miguel Patrick I. Cerezo, Kendrick Kevin C. Macalma, Jun Carlos R. Maruquin, Gene Paolo Janzi C. Sapla, and Niki Angeli I. Tabaniag. The PRC conducted the board exam in the cities of Manila, Baguio, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Legazpi, Lucena, Tacloban, Tuguegarao and Zamboanga.

2 ECON STUDES RECEIVE NAT’L AWARD

SIRMATA

Jamico Cris R. Jingco

wo students from the College of Business, Economics, and Accountancy were awarded as Top Outstanding Economics Student by the Junior Philippine Economics Society (JPES), a national confederation of undergraduate Economics organizations from different colleges and universities in the Philippines and junior arm of the Philippine Economic Society (PES), during the JPES Night through Zoom and Facebook Live, January 30. After a week of organized a fund-raising campaign Prof. Orlino J. Manadac, continuoKristel Lyn T. Saldivar, for the victims hit by typhoon economics department chair, incumbent president of the Ulysses in Cagayan, and initiated stated that the success of their Economics Society (EcoSoc), the ‘Paskwa dagiti Mannalon: students brings pride to the and Kenneth P. Pobre, former Merch-selling for a Cause’ for program, “Iso ti kanayonmi nga president of EcoSoc, both third the farmers of Barangay Surgui, ipang-pangas met kadagitoy other year BS Economics students, Paoay. students idtoy collegemi kasi no shined for their commendable Saldivar recounted diak mariro ket isuda met pay efforts in leadership and that she was surprised when laeng ti nakadanon ti kasdiay nga commitment to the organization she learned about her selection, award.” amid the onset of the COVID-19 which led her to send an email He also emphasized pandemic. to the award-giving organization that their students’ achievements Through the EcoSoc and clarifying if she was really the boost the program to attract more the Department of Economics, person mentioned in the selection enrollees, “No ag-recruit kami Pobre led the ‘Project Load: letter. ti BS in Economics program ket Pag-aaral mo, sagot mo! Load “It is a privilege and daydiay ti ibagbagami aglalo ket mo, sagot ko!’, which benefited an honor, kasi JPES na iyon eh, daytoy Economics program mi ket economics students and some a nationwide organization,” she manmano ti takers.” from other organizations; Saldivar said.

OSAS distributes financial assistance to Oplan SAPPUYOT beneficiaries

Ian Paul Villanueva

his University through the Office of Student Affairs and Services (OSAS) distributed financial assistance to the beneficiaries of the Sharing Amenities and Provisions to Address Problems of University Tertiary dubbed as Oplan SAPPUYOT last November 4, 2020. A total of 81 students comprise the first batch of beneficiaries: 29 from the College of Business, Economics, and Accountancy (CBEA); 14 from the College of Agriculture, Food, and Sustainable Development (CAFSD); 13 from the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS); 10 from the College of Industrial Technology (CIT); seven from the College of Engineering (COE); six from the College of Teacher Education (CTE); and two from the College of Health Sciences (CHS). However, only 64 of them were able to attend the distribution of financial assistance amounting to 2, 500 pesos plus a mobile sim card for each beneficiary. OSAS Director Dr. Elizabeth Marfel F. Gagni said that the students should know how to correctly handle the cash as a support for online learning. “When I distributed the money, I instructed them not to use the money for online games and shopping,” Gagni said. First-year BSED Filipino student Kathleen Garcia, one of the

beneficiaries, expressed her gratitude for being chosen as one of the recipients, because it will help her a lot with her online classes. “Sobrang thankful po ako sa kanila [MMSU-OSAS] dahil isa ako sa mga nabiyayaan,” she said. Oplan SAPPUYOT aims to help and ease students of their financial difficulties in having their online classes. Students who belong to low-income families and those who are graduating are the priority beneficiaries. It was initially funded out of generous contributions from university personnel and is to be sustained by future donations.

USC leads Project BUKEL Randy Caliva Jr.

Empowering students to lead. To keep the fire of service and passion in leadership, the University Student Council (USC) in cooperation with the Office of Students Affairs and Services, organized the Project BUKEL (Brave, Understanding, Knowledge, and Emerging Leaders): Students’ Edition at the MMSU Hostel Function Hall, February 18-19. The two-day leadership seminar focused on the topics: student activities in the new normal; sustainable mental health activities for students; gender sensitivity; organization and publication in student development; excellent leadership in the new normal; MMSU brand standards; resolution and business letter writing; and financial statement and accomplishment report preparation. “Originally, Project BUKEL was a program by the OSAS for capacity building of MMSU, but they (OSAS) want it for a students’ edition, that is why we (USC) conducted this kind of leadership seminar for the college student leaders of the university” said Aliga. The seminar was participated by 34 student leaders from the different colleges of university, and also joined

SIRMATA

AACCUP RATES 5 MMSU PROGRAMS ONLINE

Ian Paul Villanueva

ccreditors from the Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines (AACCUP) virtually assessed five undergraduate programs of the university for Level III accreditation status on February 15-19.

Three of these programs are from the College of Engineering (COE): BS in Chemical Engineering, BS in Computer Engineering, and BS in Electronics and Communications Engineering. Two are from the College of Aquatic Sciences and Applied Technology (CASAT): BS in Fisheries and BS in Marine Biology. The team of accreditors was led by Dr. Francis N. Baleta and Dr. Cecilio L. Manarpaac, the overall coordinators for Batac and Currimao campuses, respectively. Other members of the team included Engr. Juanita P. Pinote and Dr. Ma. Carla Y. Abaquita for BS Chemical Engineering; Dr. Remia L. Doctora and Dr. Diane B. Remot for BS in Computer Engineering; Dr. Manuel Luis R. Alvarez and Dr. Christine C. Vegafria for BS in Electronics and Communications Engineering; Dr. Baleta and Dr. Noel A. Armada for BS in Fisheries; Dr. Lema P. Buenvinida and Dr. Manarpaac for BS in Marine Biology. Prof. Maria Nina Grace C. Pastorfide and Prof. Neria E. Gomez were the library accreditors for Batac and Currimao campuses, respectively. Dr. Margarita G. Hilario, chief of Program & Institutional Accreditation, under the Quality Assurance Directorate, explained that the accreditation enables the

e-sanity

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he Office of the Student Affairs and Services, Guidance Counseling has this program called e-counseling which is accessible online. There is an available feature on the Official website of MMSU for the e-counseling wherein students, teachers, employees or even guests can visit this feature to avail the service and are also provided with help hotlines. According to the official record of the guidance office there are already students who have availed the service. The guidance office noticed that most of the problems that students are enduring now is the mental stress brought about by the repositioning of our traditional class setting online, which led some students to experience the insufficiency, especially the tools that are necessary to join online classes. Another thing to take note of is that some students who have excelled during the face-to-face classes, no longer have the same vigor, due to the sudden shift they gradually became inactive and this is a concern that had been addressed by the professors by recommending these students to the guidance counselors of the colleges.

institution to upgrade its academic program portfolio. The evaluation process helps identify areas needing improvements as well as the program’s best practices to retain. “The valued inputs from accreditors, through their objective judgment—as manifested on strengths, weaknesses, areas needing improvement and best practices—are key drivers of change by innovating strategies to respond, if not, sustain the initiatives and best practices of the university in areas that are crucial to the performance of the institution.” The results of the said assessment are still anticipated. AACCUP is an accrediting agency that assesses the performance of State Universities and Colleges (SUC) nationwide. It provides an independent evaluation of educational activities of an institution, in whole (institutional accreditation) or in part (program accreditation). For its program evaluation, It looks into ten performance indicators: the university’s Mission, Goals, and Objectives; Faculty; Curriculum and Instruction; Support to Students; Research; Extension and Community Involvement; Library; Physical Plant and Facilities;

Laboratories; and, Administration. Accreditation status is a key indicator of institutional performance as well as budget allocation. The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) use it as a benchmark for their SUC leveling and Program Expenditure Classification (PRExC), respectively. It is also a factor in the selection of Centers of Excellence (COEs) and Centers of Development (CODs). Accreditation from an external body like AACCUP is extremely vital for MMSU, especially in fulfilling its ACHIEVE agenda. Aside from the prestige that it lends to the university and the programs it offers, the evaluation process itself also brings about significant improvements in the quality of the programs being assessed.

However, this strategy is about to get spoiled, I myself wasn’t even aware of it, but maybe through this writing, I can shine light to this program, and give it the attention it deserves to realize it very essence, to help. We are all victims of this quandary. We are all lost, yet, we were also guaranteed that together we will get through this. As one MMSU family we will surmount our cries, and to pull this off we must set our rationality straight. Our rationality can be the only possession we have now to keep ourselves in making progress. The brain development of the students right now is critical, and the anxiety of being isolated from home only adds to the confusion of what is happening and most specially their fear of what will happen next. This is why we must admit that mental health should not just be a buzzword, but should be on the top of our priorities, because the refurbishment of buildings, clearly, will not bring the same effects of a refurbished learning and help approach to effectively bridge the eminent gaps in education, and in mental health.

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SIRMATA

SIRMATA Editorial Staff 2020-2021

Jamico Cris R. Jinco Editor-in-chief Edsel Harry R. Turda Althea Dela Cruz Associate Editors Christelle Alynna S. Agustin Angel Alyssa Pascua Christine Louise Semana Managing Editors Grazielle Reina S. Laran Larni Jullen V. Balantac Circulations Managers

BEFORE WE MOVE FORWARD T

he University has always been outspoken about its ambitious vision, which to be fair, has greatly boosted its race to be in parity not only with metro schools, but also international. However, with the unprecedented turn of events last year, we were subjected to a horrendously disorienting experience, which neither of us, not even the university, could handle immaculately. Well, that is a given, when prompted with something unfamiliar, we can never really handle it with grace, thus, we cling to whatever is exhaustive at our disposal. At the time, the university felt that the best thing to do was to continue its mandate to provide quality education – agreed, we should continue to grow along with the unpredictable foe that robbed us of our chance to experience learning at its best. However, looking back at what has transpired during the onset of lockdowns, we were given vague hopes on when we can safely return to the university. And with no compass but the confidence of overcoming the challenges of the new normal, we entered our new classrooms, albeit virtually. Surely, when we first stepped into these new classrooms, it

felt weird, discombobulating – a little sacrifice for the greater good. Is it? During the experimental run of online classes, many glitches arose, one after the other. And so, the proverbial #AcademicFreezeNow gained ground online. But that is a matter of discussion for some other time, because we are here, now, taking classes – trying to move forward. So, let us dwell on the status quo, where are we now? “ACHIEVE-ing in the next normal,” this was the central theme of the recently concluded 43rd foundation anniversary of the university. Hopeful, right? Sounds like we are finally shedding the incompetence that burdened us when we first started the online shift. But before this escalates and gets misinterpreted, we want to clarify that we are not trying to render the actions of the university injudicious, rather we want to jointly make sense of our current situation and give it the weight it deserves. At present, the same worries of the students are still up in the air, and to tell you frankly, it has become even more distressing. If you have read our last issue, we opened a dialogue on the quandary of the

university’s flight, particularly on the cancellation of classes due to the staging of many events. Now, the same problem goes on, but not for the same reason. Students peck on a halfbaked quality education due to problems that ascended in the process of adapting to the new normal, which has not yet been addressed in a manner that would wholly benefit students and the institution alike. Now, we call the university to revisit its existing approaches, and take note if the professors are actually doing their part. Not just sending syllabi, readings, presentations, or scheduling classes at their behest. The same goes for the students, before you raise qualms, see to it that your opinions are informed, and not just an airy whizz from your partial bubble. After all, we are all victims of the same circumstances. Bear in mind that professors and students are essential, they can be considered as feet of the university, responsible for it to move forward. We should not shroud the things we lack with hopeful catchphrases or recognitions, instead we should thrust reinforcements where it is needed. We should not bear pride on papers alone, because true pride of the university emanates from its students, from their satisfaction, and meeting of their needs. Because WE CAN NEVER MOVE FORWARD WITH THE OTHER FOOT LAGGING BEHIND.

Rizza Swerte S. Urbina News Editor Jesusa Mae Somaoang Features Editor Princess Alyzza A. Calamayan Literary Editor Adrianne Lorenzo Corpuz Sports Editor Isagani Enrico Manatad Visuals Editor Anthony Joseph V. Duyao Layout Artist Ian Paul R. Villanueva Shaina Dwine M. Pablo Kathrina Jane M. Bitanga Graziel Mae G. Ramat Kyle Nojen O. Andres Jet Ischyrion C. Villaluz Princess Alyzza A. Calamayan Warren Raciles Maria Anna Jessica Rosqueta Neil Villaruel Clarence Aceret Writers Abigail Agas Edmar Delos Santos Neil Bryant Baliao Photojournalists REALIN, Christian R. Realin Aira Nadine Q. Pascua Nikolai S. Reyes Illustrators/Graphics Artists GIANAN, Randy C. Gianan Mark Aizan D. Agtang James Carlo R. Lucas Jedd Bryant G. Buado Ronel Jay D. Asuncion Correspondents Ma Deleilah Adriatico Technical Adviser

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SIRMATA

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TEDIOUS

Hay naku! Ang daming binibigay na requirements! Parang mangigisay na ‘tong laptop ko… (Rebooting)

ng ganda naman ng timing, kung kailan ang daming requirements, ngayon pa magkakaproblema ‘tong laptop. Kung bakit ba kasi hindi maubos-ubos ang mga pinapagawa. Laptop ko nga nagoover heat, utak at katawan pa kaya? Kung pwede rin sanang ireboot ang sarili para naman makapagpahinga kahit kaunti… ginawa ko na. “Mariano Marcos State University, a premiere school by 2028”, ang sarap isipin. Ngunit sa ambisyong makamit iyan, kawawa ang mag-aaral. Huwag ka nang magtaka kung bakit, ramdam mo naman ang gusto kong sabihin. Oo, tama, upang makamtan iyan kailangang magkaroon ng maraming accomplishment at record ang mga guro bilang isang katunayan na produktibo at may kalidad ang edukasyong ibinibigay ng unibersidad. Hindi maikukubling natatangi pa rin ang MMSU kung kalidad lang din naman ng edukasyon ang pinag-uusapan ngunit tila nakalimutang isipin ang kapakanan ng mga magaaral habang nagagayak sa mithiing makamit ang pagiging “premiere university”. Noong una, naiintindihan ko pa ang dahilan na iyan ngunit habang tumatagal, napapaisip ako kung kasabay ng pagkamit ng unibersidad ng titulong iyan

SAPAT NGUNIT KINULANG Edsel Harry R. Turda Associate Editor

ay mairaraos din kaya ng mga mag-aaral ang nangangatog nilang mga katawan at papasabog nang mga utak. O baka naman, bago pa man makamtan ang ambisyong iyan ay sumuko na ang mga mag-aaral sa kadahilanang masiyado nang mataas ang pamantayan ng unibersidad. Isipin mo, sa walong subject sa isang kurso, sabay-sabay silang magbibigay ng requirements at hindi maikukubling may mga gurong walang ginawa kundi magbigay ng requirements kahit hindi pa naman nagtuturo, hindi ba’t ang bigat? Iyong iba nga parang masaya pa na nakikitang nahihirapan na ang mga magaaral. “Kayatyo ta nayunan tayo pay ta requirementsyo? Ibagayo lang, I can give you harder than that,” nakakaproud po ba kapag sinasabi niyo iyan? Ang mga mag-aaral ay pumasok sa unibersidad upang matuto at hindi para gumawa ng gumawa ng requirements na palaging sinasabing “self-learning”. Baka sabihin na naman pong, “Idi dakami ti agbasbasa, nakarkaro pay a,” isa lang po ang sasabihin ko, alam niyo na ngang mali ba’t niyo pa uulitin? Sa panahon ngayon, ang hirap pumikit ng sampung segundo dahil kapag naging labing isa baka mapag-iiwanan ka. Sa dami ba naman ng pinapagawa para kang preso na nakaposas sa harap ng iyong cellphone o di kaya’y laptop. Bawal ang tutulog-tulog, dapat mag-ala convenient store ka, 24 hours gising. Mahirap na, baka may magsend ng requirements sa gitna ng gabi o madaling araw. Hindi ko maintindihan kung bakit nagiging dahilan na ang pagkamit

ng titulong “premiere university” upang bigyang katwiran ang dami ng requirements at oras kung kailan ito ibibigay. Sa pagkakaalam ko, para maturuan mo nang mabuti ang isang magaaral kailangang bigyan mo ito ng oras upang magpahinga at idigest ang mga natutunan, ngunit bakit nag-iba ang ihip ng hangin? Kaya siguro madaming mas piniling huminto muna sa pag-aaral dahil nawawala na ang ideyang ang paaralan ay ang pangalawang tahanan. Nagiging dahilan na ito ng pagkakaroon ng depresyon. Aminin natin, noon, bilang lang sa daliri ang mga mag-aaral na sumusuko sa hirap ng pag-aaral ngunit ngayon kasing bilis na ng pagkurap ng mata ang pagdami nito. Ang isang laptop kapag masiyadong ginagamit, bumabagal ito. Ang kaibahan nga lang may reboot option ito. Ang tao, wala, kapag napagod, nanghihina’t nagkakasakit. Ang hirap ‘di ba? Kumpara sa nakasanayang

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Ngayon, parang mas importante ang madaming requirements kahit kinukulang na sa natututunan.”

pag-aaral noon na sapat lang ang requirements ngunit hitik ang kaalaman na itinuturo. Ngayon, parang mas importante ang madaming requirements kahit kinukulang na sa natututunan. Aminin man natin o hindi, marami sa atin ang gumagawa na lang ng requirements para makaabot sa deadline at ang masaklap ay naging routine na ng katawan na gumawa ng requirements kasi kailangang pumasa. Minsan nga nawawalan na ng gana kung kaya’t magcracramming nalang kapag trenta minutos nalang ang natitira bago mag-deadline. Lahat tayo hinahangad na makamtan ng unibersidad ang bisyon nito ngunit sana sa pagkamit nito walang mapagiiwanan. Kailangang bigyang tanaw ang mga mag-aaral na may sari-sariling pinanghahawakang pangarap. Maging gabay at kaakbay sa landas na kanilang tinatahak. Kung hindi sila natuto dahil puro requirements na ang ginagawa, baka naman kailangang bawasan na ang requirements at pagtuunan ng pansin ang pagtuturo. Ilang hakbang nalang ay makakamtan na ang titulong inaasam ng unibersidad kung kaya’t sana sa mga natitirang oras ay maging bukas ang mga puso’t isipan sa kasulukuyang nangyayari. Huwag magbulag-bulagan, idilat ang mga mata upang makita ang mga sumasaklolong mga mag-aaral sa pagkakalunod sa mga pinapagawa. (Rebooting) ...kailangan ko nang magpahinga. Hindi na kaya ng katawan ko.

08 opinion

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TEDIOUS

SIRMATA

ACADEMIC LIARS Althea S. De la Cruz Associate Editor

DISCLAIMER: I am no saint; I am one of the sinners. Here, still, I believe that the vast majority of students are honest. But I also know that under pressure, we are capable of many things.

bviously, things are never as they seem because (spoiler alert) we all know what happened. As a campus journalist and a student in the university, I believe the quality education that was promised to us have taken its vantage virtually. But plagiarism and cheating penetrated mVLE, one thing not up for debate. The nature of online learning makes cheating far easier for those inclined to it. I’m not arguing that it happens more in online classes, but cases of academic dishonesty were prevalent since the university provisionally forsaken its traditional system of education. So, what did it? Enter, Ctrl C + Ctrl V Talk about having the world at your fingertips! The Internet didn’t instigate the idea of stealing others’ works. It’s just more convenient now. Deny it or not, we are enjoying the liberty of online classes despite how much whining we give off. The new method of learning delivery raised concerns regarding plagiarized outputs and specific dishonest behaviors which most students may not perceive as cheating, such as receiving answers to quizzes from someone who has already taken it. Cheaters are often not less wise than other students; they just procrastinate a lot. And rather than ask the professors for a deadline extension, which may even work, we bite off the lure of Ctrl C + Ctrl V and condense our learning ability to limited

capacity. Which leads to… The Essential Liars Ah yes, contradictory things can both be correct sometimes. Online classes can be both good and bad for mental health. Copy and paste are logically helpful despite the fact that it degrades the excellence we try to strive inside the university. Instructors require sublime final papers and didn’t teach effectively. In the process of these, there are unrecognized factors inherent in the practice of academic negligence of students, professors included. Threshold of Excellence MMSU takes pride of its excellency. The university envisions the development of its people, facilities and technological advancement, and the “quality education” a premier university by 2028 should be granting to its students… or this needs reassessment. Because of this honor of being an MMSU student, its hard to live by to its excellency, there is an unspoken pressure to embody honesty, dignity, and clear definition of character especially during this online mechanism. How confident are we as students in this finest university? This academic inadequacy is a matter of culture we need to overcome. Let’s be honest, online learning is insufficient to qualify for the bar of higher education, but we must address the loopholes among the students’ capabilities of learning, the professors teaching mechanics, and the administration’s lack to recognize

these. Like I said, I still believe that the vast majority of students are profoundly honest. I’m sure you are. And it’s your reputation, as a student in this university, that we need to uplift by aggressively going after the exceptions. The university, in return, should pay more heed to its promise for the quality of education we deserve.

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Ngayon, parang mas importante ang madaming requirements kahit kinukulang na sa natututunan.”

opinion 09

SIRMATA

MA’AM/SIR PRESENT! Christine Louise Semana Managing Editor

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TYPOGRAPHY

CLASS ATTENDANCE. Isa sa mga pinaka-importanteng aspeto ng pagiging estudyante. Madalas ito pa ang kinatatakutan nila kaysa makakuha ng tres o sabihin na nating mas mababa pa. Kasi naman, sa paaralan mo lang mapagtatanto na mahalaga pala ang iyong presensiya.

Pero ngayon ang tanong, present ka nga ba talaga sa klase mo? Ibahin natin, present ka nga ba talaga sa online class mo? O baka naman...alam niyo na yon, kayo pa. Nang iprineso tayo ng COVID-19 sa mga kani-kaniya nating bilangguan este tahanan, ang naging madalas nating takbuhan, kapitan, sandalan, silungan...sa halos lahat ay ang teknolohiya. Aminin man natin o hindi naging kargo na tayo ng teknolohiya lalo na sa edukasyon. Kahit ano pa man siguro ang mangyari hindi papatinag ang halaga ng edukasyon. Marami mang komusyon, argumento at debate, marami mang nalito, naging ignorante, na-TMI, umayaw at pumabor, karunungan at kaalaman pa rin hanggang sa huli. Kaya naman heto ang mga Marciano ngayon na nabibilang na lamang ang silid–Google Meet, Zoom, MVLE atbp. Hindi ba hanep? Kahit kaunti na lang ang classroom, kasyang-kasya na ang libo-libong estudyante. Hindi kagaya nang dati, kailangan pang paunahan o reserbahan ng silid. At dahil nga ‘education all the way’, hindi lang paraan ng pagtuturo at pagkatuto ang nagbago kundi pati na rin ang ritwal at gawi ng mga estudyante at guro. Kung dati dapat fresh ang datingan pagpasok ng paaralan, ngayon ay kahit nagmumuta pa lang

matapang pa rin na papasok sa klase basta ba naka-off ang camera. May pa-alarm alarm pang nalalaman noon, walang silbi na yan ngayon. Mahuli man sa pagjoin ng klase hindi na bale basta ba i-admit ni ma’am/sir. Walang ganyang kalakaran noon. Kapag nahuli, pakapalan ng mukhang pumasok sa silid. At kung noon bawal ang kumakain sa loob ng silid, ngayon eat all you can at eat whenever you can. Eto pa, kapag recitation, kung noon iwas tingin sa guro, ngayon isang pindutan na lang sa leave the meeting. Bukod sa mga iyan, ito ang matindi, kapag may pagsusulit, wala na ring review review dahil umeffort naman sa pagsusulat at paggawa ng kodigo o di kaya kani-kaniyang teknik yan. May mga estudyanteng dalawahan ang gamit na gadget at para makasigurado may kodigo pa. Tapos sikreto lang natin, may alam din silang mirakulo para mapadali ang exam lalo na kapag objective ang pagsusulit. Pero hindi naman maikakaila na may mga estudyante pa rin namang talagang matapat at may paninindigan. Sila ang dapat nating tularan. Bagamat nagawan naman ng paraan ang pagpapatuloy ng edukasyon, hindi naiwasan ang maraming reklamo, daing at hinaing. Sabi nila hindi raw epektibo, ika nila mas magastos, utal nila magulo at pahayag nila nakakaperwisyo. Galing na rin mismo sa mga ilang estudyante ang mga hinaing na ito. Wala namang makapagsasabi na tama o mali ang mga nagawang desisyon.

Ang sa akin lang, bilang isa rin na estudyante sa kolehiyo gawin natin ang kailangan nating gawin. Alam ko marami sa atin ang sinasabing wala naman tayong natututunan pero sana huwag natin itong gawing dahilan para hindi na tayo magseryoso sa pagaaral. Hindi lang naman tayo ang napeperwisyo dahil minsan tayo rin ang nakakaperwisyo. Aminin man natin o hindi, madalas wala tayong motibasyon gumising para magkalse sa harap ng makabagong salamin. Marami ang nagjojoin lang sa klase para masabing may attendance pero kadalasan naman wala lang silang pakialam sa nagsasalitang guro. Iba ang tunguhin ng atensyon nila. Marahil pupunta yan sa Facebook, Twitter, Instagram o YouTube. Baka nga naglalaro pa yan ng ML, PUBG at kung ano-ano pa. Kaya kapag nagtanong ang guro, walang sumasagot. May mga

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Hindi ko alam ang takbo ng buhay natin sa likod ng camera.”

mangilan-ngilan lang siguro. Kapag nagbigay ang guro ng mga babasahin, marami ang hindi na nag-aaksayang buksan ito o di kaya kahit idownload man lang. Ang mga nasend na lectures ay nilangaw na lang. Sa madaling salita, maraming estudyante ang wala lang pakialam. Hindi ko alam ang takbo ng buhay natin sa likod ng camera. Mulat naman ako na may mga estudyante na talagang nahihirapan o may talagang rason sa pagliban sa klase. Pero sa tingin ko, imposible pa rin na wala na talaga tayong natututunan kahit katiting man lang dahil lamang teknolohiya na ang nagmamaniobra sa buhay natin. Responsibilidad nating mga estudyante ang mag-aral at iyon ang pinakasigurado sa lahat. Kung estudyante ka at hindi mo responsibilidad ang mag-aral, hindi ka siguro estudyante. Isipin mo na talaga ngayon kung magaaral ka pa o hindi. Lahat naman tayo pare-parehas na dinaranas ang bagsik ng sitwasyon. Siguro ngayon magtitiis muna tayo at magtitimpi kung ano ang nailaan. Minsan naman iturn on mo ang mic at camera mo. Siguro dahil hindi mo ito ginagawa, wala ka talagang natututunan. Kasi sa umpisa pa lang, hindi ka naman talaga present. Ang totoo, absent ka at iyon ang dahilan ng hindi mo pagkatuto. Tatanungin ko ulit, present ka ba talaga sa online class mo? Kung talaga ngang present ka, dapat may natutunan ka kahit papaano.

MMSU Virtual Learning Environme ANNOUNCEMENTS

Course overview Taking online classes now makes me feel less at ease because I am more aware now about the difficulties along the way. I can say I have fully adapt to it but I won't say I am settling for it. Online classes are indeed much more convenient in these times but there is much more lessons or experiences we could have gain if we have done classes personally.

As we all know that the only way to administer classes is through online means. Well, for me, based on my experience, this way of learning is not that totally effective. Everything we do in here it all under online method. Thinking on its possibilities, this may cause unexpected outcomes in the near future because there is no application of Hands-on Approach especially those who really in need. More on objective type of learning wherein we always depend on the written instructions and to what is being instructed, sometimes unclear instructions may occur, no follow-up.

Like mahirap talaga siya. I mean hirap makasabay talaga sa lessons kasi may times pa na yung mismong instructor yung slow ang internet connection kaya walang maintindihan, tapos yun nga sa Org na nga lang namin may mga nahihirapan dahil wala silang pang-load kaya minsan di na nakakajoin ng klase.

Honestly speaking the current situation in my online class is not easy because there are teachers who are not considerate enough for the situation of the students, they just give loads of requirements, post the deadline and worst some of them hindi kinoconsider yung mga late na nasusubmit. They say friendly learning but I cannot see where is the friendly in that part, well it is easy to claim that it’s a friendly learning but they cannot materialize it.

The pandemic we are experiencing right now limits our action and access to many things, and it includes going to school. But through the advancement of technology, we can still learn at home. Although it is hard to cope up with the situation, I experience problems especially in my internet connectivity. But this provides realization to me the importance of education, amidst the pandemic, I continue to learn at home. Time management is important and I believe nothing is impossible if the student is really willing to learn.

Kadetuy nga time kasla nakapag-adjust nakun and mas naging productive nak sa tingin ko kasi mas naging flexible jay panang-manage kot time. Then naparealize na kinyak nga ti learning haan lang nga mangyaryari within the school lang kundi anytime ken anywhere tattan. Para sa akin mas dominant yung optimistic view ko sa online class, na-habit ko narin kasi plus para sa akin effective naman siya.

I can’t deny the fact that my condition i online class is unpleasant now. As I stu are things that kept bothering me such stress, anxiety, fear, and fatigue. In my s there are various challenges that would make me wonder and question myself especially to my skills and capabilities i able to do it. But amidst these things th happening to me right now, I’m still get good. I was still able to reach the deadl pass all the requirements, complete all grades, and learn a lot. Despite the sad caused by my current situation, I was s to smile, stand up and continue my stu

It was really uncomfortable at first, becau were all adjusting to this kind of set-up. A an irregular student, I was anxious all the because I don’t belong to a section wher schedules are in sync, (I have a block, pe subjects ko lang sila kasama) therefore I find my designated classes from differen and year levels. I had to message a lot of and professors just to be added to their g chats or be officially enrolled in a class in mVLE. We were stressed, frustrated and Fortunately, I met some new friends, and updated about the tasks to be done. Now in the second semester, still with the sam I don’t know if I or we the students will ev used to this.

Online learning is very technology-de as a result, a lot of students’ learning capabilities go unnoticed.

SIRMATA

ent

Timeline

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pendent,

Sa kasalukuyang sitwasyon natin ngayon masasabi kong unti-unti na natin nayayakap ang realidad na ating kinabibilangan. Marami na ang mga pag-unlad gawa ng teknolohiya, kaya mas madali na itong maisagawa ngunit meron paring pagkakataon na nangangapa ang mga estudyante, katulad ko. Marami parin ang mga financially challenged dahil sa katotohanang ang online class ay nangangailangan ng pera para sa pantustos ng load at iba pang pangangailangan, marami din ang mga disturbances sa ating paligid kaya mas pinipili na lamang nilang tumigil o kaya naman pinipili na lang ng iba na mag boarding sa kadahilanang walang magandang signal at upang may kaagapay silang mga kaklase na mas malapit sa kanila at panghuli ang realidad na ito ay nagdudulot ng pag-unlad sa kasalukuyan at hinaharap dahil ito ay isang paraan ng paghahanda sa bagong pag-usbong ng teknolohiya.

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Online users 117 online users (last 5minutes)

12 opinion

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AVALANCHE

n retrospect, we ordered set of years for studying until the pandemic came and disrupted the course menu. It’s probably fair to say that we have won the primary battles that underscored the fragility of our education systems; we shut off the cries for #AcademicFreezeNow, we redesigned learning settings then proceeded to what we can afford with the digital shift. Yet, it’s a battle with unforeseen stages. We are left sitting and questioning the worth of our survival in the first stage then ask, “but what’s next?”. It’s high time to admit that we have a bigger challenge than digital divide, and that is to locate where we really are at the pursuit of excellence as what the university has been upholding for years. We have settled on a table as we accept this fate yet we were served with a bland meal where learning opportunities are tainted with inequity and the idea of being prepared for the future is broken— something that ignites more fear than hope for students. Survey results conducted by the university do not give justification to the actual ripple effect of the new normal to students. Truth is, surviving the semester turns out to be costly: synchronous classes and video lectures do not always guarantee effective learning process, giving outputs without prior discussions or clear instructions became a practice, self-learning is an established culture due to limited sessions with professors, inadequacy in skill development and application to fulfill the degree’s requirement is a huge

SIRMATA

IN-DEMAND ITEM Christelle Alynna S. Agustin Managing Editor

concern and the growing pressure in complying triggers students’ decision to quit school. Not to mention how everything can be physically and mentally draining. This is like a luxury not everyone can afford and it’s definitely not the image of excellence we try to manifest. I can’t help but to mention here American Sociologist George Ritzer’s theory of McDonalization which suggests that modern societies operate the same way as the fast-food chain McDonald’s on how fast things can be done in respect to speed, rationality and efficiency. Its principle of efficiency is mirrored on the convenient factor of dropping intricate readings and hard skill video lectures for self-analysis. On the other hand, calculability indicates quantity rather than quality; with little teacher-student interaction, we tend to assess the quality of the students’ progress by measuring the number with passing remarks. In a situation where 28 out of 40 passed an exam, the reality that more than half of the class passed, however, cannot cover the fact that 12 students did not make it. We cannot deny that there’s still a problem even if majority surfaced success. We are hoping that #NoStudentLeftBehind is profoundly considered. We have to remember that this university aims to produce competent individuals not through instant ways; after all, even the university allotted a long period of time for its vision. Although, there’s no doubt that professors are exerting their best efforts, hard work and expertise despite sharing the same struggle with us and they deserve high

respect on that; it’s just that, now is not the time for linear learning. Everyone should adopt holistic flow of interaction and responses rather than just merely instructing. We should not always depend on the strength of student’s resiliency and independence because believe me, everyone needs the drive to keep going— the direction that will fuel enthusiasm for excellence so they can minimize their uncertainty to the future. Another truth is, the fear does not generally originate from grades, it’s the fear brought by the anxiousness of not growing and learning. Surely, we wouldn’t want a situation five years from now where we’ll look back and regret how we failed to view this pandemic as an opportunity to create unique forms of excellence. George Ritzer took the “over 99 billion served” sign in McDonalds drive thru as an illustration of the notion that quantity equates to quality: large amount sold means high quality products. However, we, students,

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Ngayon, parang mas importante ang madaming requirements kahit kinukulang na sa natututunan.”

are not customers at a fast-food chain. We wouldn’t want to have massive number of graduates but only few are confident leaving the university premises to face the vast reality of the world. We dined in as customers who preferred to order the best-selling item the university can offer— nurturing through excellence. This is the next stage we’re supposed to anticipate and the pursuit for excellence is the kind of an in-demand item we need for survival.

opinion 13

SIRMATA

MA’AM/SIR PRESENT! Grazielle Reina S. Laran Circulations Manager

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CHAINED FREEDOM

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Hindi ko alam ang takbo ng buhay natin sa likod ng camera.”

10 feature

SIRMATA

feature 11

Literary

18 sports

LOCKDOWN? MMSU SAYS IT’S A CHANCE FOR ESPORTS

SIRMATA

Adrianne Lorenzo Corpuz

ince the peremptory lockdown, strict protocols rippled negative effects to the everyday lives of people, including the discontinuation of the sports scene. The indefinite halt of the athletic industry forced numerous universities to cope with the thirst of students for competition. Organizations under MMSU explore multiple ways in cracking the passive condition of the stallions via enlisting possibilities that can accumulate the expanding activities demand of the that arestudents. annually The partnership, enables stallions celebrated. Institutions bannering deeper foundation of esports Among the considered to clash with other collegiate College of Teacher Education fundamentals to students and to resolutions is, esports. teams in several tournaments (CTE), College of Engineering the university. Esports, short for electronic like National Interschools (COE) and Laboratory High Youth Esports Program sports, is the digital manifestation Cyber League (NICL) and School (LHS), with addition of Establishing connections with of games played by professional in an exclusive chapter-wide the other colleges that previously validated organizations adds fuel players. It contains the same held its own competitions earlier, to the already flying esports rocket series dubbed “YEP Tambayan high-level requirements for Chapters’ Event.” These exciting freshly accommodated the esports of the university. Partnership agility, intelligence, knowledge, opportunities pushes Stallions scene through adding Mobile between MMSU and Philippine composure and team chemistry to strive for momentous feats Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) on Collegiate Champions League as per typical sports. While the in several games while proudly their roster of activities. (PCCL) through Youth Esports contest lacks in physicality, donning the colors of green and The situation of Esports Program (YEP) was clinched last esports competency makes up to gold. scenario for MMSU during October, and with its formation, its gap of physical altercation with According to Pascual, the future previous months also prove thorough plans, informative par excellence mental state and of this partnership aims for the that its meteoric rise is real, and projects and high-yielding vision stark focus during matches. recognition of the shared vision effective. The University Student are now set for completion. This Rise of esports in MMSU between the University and YEP. Council directed a universityinitiative amplifies the current MMSU approached this One of the enlisted objectives wide MLBB contest as one of nature of esports in MMSU, opportunity to quench the the activities for Students’ Day, through promoting campaigns that is, to create a community inside drought. The lockdown prompted the university encapsulated with and the competition was deemed spread educative thoughts about stallions to cope with the missing enthusiastic gamers and esports as a crowd-puller for the said e-sports related issues, such as adversities of nail-biting games managers while concurrently event. Prior to this competition, game journalism, match casting and disquieting chants from developing the relationships with delegated colleges were required and tournament management. the crowd. Using practical and groups outside MMSU, which will to consign representatives. This Representing MMSU in the ingenious ways of coping with propel the systemizing of esports prerequisite initiated them to alliance is College of Arts and the new normal of sports, several activities in the prominent events perform preliminary tournaments Sciences - Student Council, led events planned by organizations under the university, such as to narrow down the players, the by its president, Jason Pascual. under MMSU introduced esports Unigames. process of which embedded a as an alternative to traditional

THE GREEN-AND-GOLD GOLD TORPEDO Mark Aizan Agtang

Of all those who strive to become great in sports, some fail to realize their dreams, and some are just completely exemplary. In the green fields of MMSU, one student earned his position to be at the upper echelon. He’s one of the only few athletes that took home gold medals all throughout his varsity journey as a stallion, a notable feat that strengthens the bid of the university for dominance in the whole region. Sam Cadiente, from Bacarra , Ilocos Norte and a Physical Education instructor of the university, worked his status as a prominent swimmer since 2008. His history details him as a member of IRAA, and an awardee of the most medaled player when he was elementary, and served as the team captain through his stint in high school. Cadiente, was a stallion that handled promising achievements in Swimming Men. SCUAA – I holds swimming competitions that consists of 21 events, and each participant is only allowed to grace the pool for 7 events. Since he started his journey in 2014 as a representative of MMSU in

SCUAA, Cadiente never got out of the water without him grasping a gold medal from these events. “Kung saan ka man talaga nagsimula, finish it,” Cadiente exclaimed when asked about his mindset towards the game. He further expounded that an athlete’s mentality is a weighing factor when participating in sports. Cadiente sticks to his mantra of being mentally sharp is as important as having that physically trained body, “…if your mindset is not geared for winning, then you’re not geared for sports,” he stated.

Treading the water like a torpedo, the freshman Cadiente, dominated all of his 7 events; 50 m backstroke ,100 m backstroke, 200 m backstroke, 200m individual medley, 400m individual medley, 4x50 medley relay, 4x100 medley relay. His supremacy was never altered for the next three years, as he still reigned with the same list of events, with the exception of 400m medley, which he switched with 200m butterfly during his sophomore year until his senior year. In year 2018, he graduated unbeaten.

Now mentoring at the university, which he once represented, Cadiente teaches the swimmers with his valiant knowledge and experience. He proclaimed during his most recent interview with Sirmata that he and his fellow mentors are preparing for a comprehensive training plan that will elevate the skills of the current padders for the upcoming competitions.

SIRMATA

NO HEADLINE

MMSU aims for a ‘Sports City’

Paul Angelo Juan

ebruary 26 - Professor Arsenio Gallego, director of Center for Human Movement Studies (CHuMS), shared some details about the university president’s MMSU Sports City vision, which includes a gymnatorium, a grandstand, and a refurbished oval. Construction of the Sports City is divided into stages, and the first stage started last year with the renovation of the university pool and the on-going construction of the gymnatorium (combination of a gymnasium and an auditorium). The gymnatorium, with a seating capacity of 5,000, is expected to be finished by 2024. The second stage will be the construction of a grandstand, which will begin next year. The succeeding stage is expected to commence in 2024, which the oval is expected to be revamped with rubberized tracks. The said vision is centralized on building more state-of-the-art sports facilities that will enable student athletes of the university to train and utilize their skills more efficiently. Aside from this, Gallego stressed that these soonto-be realized establishments will also serve as morale boosters for the stallions. Part of the vision for the Sports City is the construction of footbridges that will connect the facilities for a more systematized experience of the students and student athletes. According to Gallego, the planning of this vision became possible thanks to the countless achievements that the university garnered throughout its 17 years of sports supremacy in the region. “None of these would happen without our remarkable achievements in cultural and sport events,” he claimed.

sports 19

Paul Angelo Juan

ver since the pandemic, MMSU’s sports community have become rather stagnant. Due to the lockdowns and other IATF restrictions, sports activities, alongside face-to-face classes, are indefinitely halted. This means that no students are allowed to enter the university’s vicinity – and our athletes are in no way exempted from this rule. As a result, majority, if not, all of our student athletes are currently incapable of receiving the training and guidance that they normally would be able to access when ‘in’ the university. They are left with no choice but to do what they can at the corners of their homes. Our athletes are left with no choice but to follow the new normal in sports. The question now, however, is whether or not the university is with them as they struggle their way through this new normal. As an attempt to help no one-on-one coaching. Well, online setting. As for ways on our student athletes maintain their CHuMS did say that the coaches which we can effectively conduct statures during this pandemic, are ‘monitoring’ our athletes, but the trainings of our athletes MMSU, through the Center rather than actual ‘monitoring’, online, there are a lot. Take for for Human Movement Studies it appears that our coaches are instance, Indiana University. IU (CHuMS), created a program doing nothing but a bunch of makes use of their own Virtual called Play Safe Fearless. The casual routine checks with our Learning Environment (VLE) to said program, in summation, athletes via SMS. And this, itself, upload recorded training sessions, is a guideline for our student isn’t even done regularly. Aside guidelines and even suggested athletes in the university to from this, they don’t even have diets for their athletes to follow. follow during their home-based a concrete time table prepared. Additionally, they also conduct training. Contents of this guideline “Actually, we don’t have a time regular virtual sessions where the includes a list of things that table, basta tinetext lang namin coaches would meet with their our student athletes can do to sila. Minemessage lang namin athletes synchronously and do train in their respective sports sila. Nagrereply naman sila… some physical training as a team. individually. In addition to this, na they are doing the activities. Similar methods are also being it also has a categorization that Pinipicture pa nila sarili nila. adopted by other universities like states which sports activities are Selfie ganon. ” Mr. Gallego Savannah State University and low, medium, or high in risks. confessed. Clearly, these things University of the Philippines. And The program is great and all but say something about how little it would do much good, especially it lacks something crucial. It our coaches are involved with for its athletes, if MMSU does the lacks the utmost involvement of the home-based training of our same. our coaches, which is what our athletes. At the same time, they MMSU is known athletes need the most in this new point out things in the program around the region for its sports way of training. that needs to be modified. supremacy. She bears the crown What’s the use of having We already have a plan, and rules the entire region in a guideline if at the end of the a framework and a guideline for terms of sports development. day, our athletes won’t even be our athletes’ home-based training. On that note, wouldn’t it be too monitored by their own coaches? The only thing that we lack embarrassing if any of the other During an interview with Mr. now are devoted coaches who’ll SUCs find out that MMSU is Gallego, the director of ChuMS, it closely monitor the progress of struggling to give its own athletes was revealed that the closest form our athletes. Our athletes don’t the attention that they deserve of interaction our athletes had so need coaches who only checks up during this pandemic? Wouldn’t it far with their coaches during this on them through text messages. be too embarrassing for MMSU, pandemic is through instantaneous What they need are coaches the number one in the region, to messaging. Besides that, nothing who are able to coach them as lag behind in the new normal of – no monitoring of progress and efficiently as possible even in the sports?

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VOL. XXXVII NO. 1 | THE OFFILCIAL PUBLICATION OF COLLEGE STUDENTS OF MARIANO MARCOS STATE UNIVERSITY | DECEMBER-JANUARY