SIRMATA VOL. XXXIX NO. 4 (Foundation Anniversary Special Issue)

Cover by Heaven Barruga and Abijah Barruga

MMSU TURNS 45, GEARS UP TO ACHIEVE MORE FOR THE FUTURE

by Addison Pascua

Highlighting its long list of achievements and milestones in the past years, the Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) celebrated a month-long festivity for its 45th founding anniversary celebration which commenced on January 6, 2023.

Anchored with the theme, “ACHIEVE-ing more for the future,” the university formally kicked off its celebration with a Thanksgiving Service held at Teatro Ilocandia on Jan. 6, joined by thousands of faculty members, stakeholders, and students.

After the thanksgiving service, the opening of the annual Garden Show and Trade Fair took place at the College of Law grounds, featuring research-based products and technologies and quality products of various exhibi-

tors from Ilocos Norte.

“As we position MMSU to achieve more in the future, let us continue working and innovating so that we can see a significant increase in the number and diversity of achievements next year,” University President Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis said during the start of the celebration.

After the kick-off events on Jan. 6, the celebration continued with various activities and programs that spanned the whole month of January. This included the following: Tree planting, Unveiling of Brag Wall, Launching of Indigeneous Food Research Consortium, Anniversary Convocation, Stakeholders’ Forum, Technology Showcase and Farmer’s Forum, Alumni Day, Teatro Normal Production of “Ang Lagusan”, Launching of

Futures Thinking/ Digital Systems, MMSU Upen House Professional Journey Across Cultures, Academic Journey Across Cultures Retirees Day, PRAISE Awards, Watwat 5.0, Students’ Day Parambak iti Away, and Launching of the Philippine Television Network (PTV) Ilocos Norte Transmitter.

As part of this year’s founding anniversary celebration, the University Student Council (USC) also spearheaded various contested activities which were conducted face-to-face and at different colleges.

Among the different student activities conducted this year are the following: Master Chef- MMSU Edition, Vocal Quartet Competition, Students’ Products Showcase, Dish-gardening and Flower Arrangement Competition, King and Queen Fisher, Debate Cup,

Blood Letting Activity, E-Sports Tournament (ML, PUBG, Valorant), Techno-lympics, Fun Run, Zumba, Aero-dance Competition Project Pitching Competition, and Dance Parade and Light Show Competition.

Moreover, a bloodletting activity was also organized by the College of Health Sciences (CHS) and the College of Medicine (COM), in partnership with the Mariano Marcos Memorial Hospital and Medical Center (MMMH&MC) on January 23.

Adding more color to this year’s celebration, a series of performances and talent exhibitions also took place at the Garden Show and Trade Fair from January 16 to 27 wherein students from the different colleges and laboratory high schools showcased a variety of performances.

TRADE FAIR KICKOFF. MMSU President Shirley C. Agrupis and keynote speaker Mr. Jeremy M. Balisacan opened the annual trade fair through a ribbon-cutting ceremony, infront of the College of Law (COL) grounds, on January 6, 2023.

PHOTO BY CRISDENIELE CLEMENTE

MMSU vocalists showcase singing talent in Vocal Quartet competition

by Addison Pascua

Fueled with their harmonious overtones and melodic voices, students from Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) sang their hearts out as they exhibited their singing prowess during the Vocal Quartet competition held at the College of Teacher Education (CTE) Outdoor Stage on January 17.

Composed of four members each, a total of 10 groups from the eight colleges and two laboratory high schools serenaded the crowd and judges with their own renditions of their respective song choices.

The competing teams were adjudged based on the following criteria: Musicality and Voice Quality (30%), Harmony (30%), Stage Presence (30%), and Costume (10%). The winners, however, will be announced on January 30 during the Students’ Day celebration.

In his message, Office of Student Affairs and Services (OSAS) Director, Dr. Jan Rich Guira expressed his gratitude to CTE Student Council for hosting the said competition and vowed to continue imposing inclusiveness, especially in the conduct of different student activities.

“We promised that our programs at OSAS will be more inclu-

the majority of the contestants will be coming to Batac. But since the sponsor is CTE for this activity, I told them the activities will be conducted at their college. And CTE and CIT (College of Industrial Technology) never failed to amaze us,” he bared.

Meanwhile, CTE Dean Dr. Aris Cajigal said such a competition is a great avenue for students to exhibit their skills and talents for the common good.

“Indeed, this event is a manifestation that our mandate as a university is not only to develop the skills and competencies of our students to become productive professionals in the future but also to give them a platform to develop their talents and skills in the arts such as music,” Cajigal underscored.

“Also, this event is a display of an important platform by which our students harness their artistic skills and talents in singing so that we harness their youthful energies and make them into something that is useful rather than being influenced by bad associations, by fake news, and by bad publicity,” he added.

The Vocal Quartet competition is one of many activities prepared in celebration of the month-long 45th founding anniversary of

STUDENT PRODUCTS SHOWCASED IN UNIVERSITY-WIDE BAZAAR

by Graziel Ramat

With the aim to give the Stallions the chance to launch their innovations and increase their market visibility and customers, Student Councils (SCs) from the different colleges of Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) displayed their products during the Students’ Product Showcase on January 18.

Spearheaded by the College of Business, Economics, and Accountancy (CBEA) SC, the event was in celebration of the festivities for the 45th foundation anniversary of MMSU.

The Laboratory High Schools of Laoag and Batac, as well as the College of Health Sciences (CHS) and College of Engineering (COE), showcased their mouthwatering and aromatic food products which mainly consisted of sweets and pastries. On the other hand,

the College of Teacher Education (CTE), College of Aquatic Sciences and Applied Technology (CASAT), and College of Agriculture, Food, and Sustainable Development (CAFSD) displayed their students’ artworks and merchandise composed of tote bags, shirts, mugs, bookmarks, and notepads with different designs.

Meanwhile, the College of Art Sciences (CAS) and the College of Business, Economics, and Accountancy (CBEA) opted to promote the small clothing and cosmetic business of their students. Generated from their respective researchers, the College of Industrial Technology (CIT) showcased their handcrafted sandals and bags made from water hyacinths and banana stem fiber yarns. They also showcased their different research innovations like the Smart Locker Pilot Scale, Integrated Electronic

...continue to page5

Two students perform during the Vocal Quartet Competition at the College of Teacher Education as part of the month-long foundation anniversary of MMSU, January 17.

PHOTO BY CASMIR REMYELL CADIENTE

FUN EXHIBITS. Stallion attempted the buzz wire game in a students’ products showcase event, at the University Student Center, on January 18, 2023

PHOTO BY CRISDENIELE CLEMENTE

ON-POINT ARGUMENTS. CHS student argues with strong points and delivers with eloquence in the Debate Cup hosted by the Graduate School at the MMSU Student Center on January 21, 2023.

MMSU studes flaunt their wit in the nerve-wracking debate cup competition

by Ivy Jane Guanzon

Students from the Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) showcased their intellectual prowess during the Debate Cup competition dubbed as Speak Up held at the university’s Student Center on January 21.

The competition which was organized by the Graduate School attracted teams from various colleges to participate in stimulating debates on a wide range of current issues.

The tournament employed the Asian Parliamentary debate format and each participating college was allowed to field two teams composed of three members each. The dispute also established three rounds: elimination, semi-finals and finals round and match-ups were determined through drawing of lots.

The debate was evaluated based on three categories: Manner - their style of debating and voice intonation, Matter - the relevance of the case they presented and merit of arguments and exam-

ples and Method - the structure of individual and team speech structure and responsiveness to the dynamics of the debate.

The topics presented included national and global issues to challenge participants’ critical thinking skills and to encourage them to express themselves clearly and persuasively. Each debate match was judged by a panel of judges.

The elimination round was intense as teams presented well-researched arguments on the given motions: (1) This house supports the girl boss concept, (2) This house regrets the Miss Universe and (3) This house supports that Maria Clara is the ideal Filipina.

The semi-finals round was held right after the elimination proper, and competing teams are then given again motions to consider: (1) This house supports the rise of social media influencers from the healthcare industry (e.g. Dr. K, Doctor Mike, etc.), (2) This house regrets the romanticization of mental illness in media and Literature and (3) This house

would stop making adaptations (remake) of hit series. The teams had to argue either for or against the motions given, with the judges evaluating them based on their arguments, research and delivery. The match was fierce as everyone gave their best shot to secure a spot in the finals round.

Agrupis launches ACHIEVE 2.0 Strategic Plan

by Ivy Jane Guanzon

The Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) has achieved another milestone in its development as the university President, Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis successfully unveiled “ACHIEVE 2.0: Transforming to a Premier Philippine University by 2028,” during the Stakeholder’s Forum, attended by students, employees, Local Government Units (LGUs), and private partners, held at the Teatro Ilocandia, yesterday, January 20.

The plan, which was presented during the forum, sets out a series of goals and objectives that will enable the school to continue its trajectory of excellence in teaching, research and community service.

In her speech, Agrupis

PHOTO BY JOHN LLOYD BALANTAC

MMSU students battle in Technolympics competition

by Ivy Jane Guanzon

Endowed with their proficiency in general knowledge together with engineering and technological

vocabularies, students from across colleges in Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) competed to win in

the Technolympics: Amazing Race MMSU Edition held at the College of Engineering (COE), January 25.

Each participating college was represented by a team composed of five members. The race proper had ten stations wherein each competing team were required to complete. The participants were given specific time to finish the given task in each station. Also, each station was managed by COE Student Council and officers of the different academic organizations of the college.

The given set of tasks on each station were based on the aspects of technology and engineering and was accomplished by using the different terminologies, clues and puzzles designed for nonengineering participants.

The designated stations for the competing teams to finish are the following: ‘BOLTes Five’, ‘ECEmbling’, ‘Turn Me On’, ‘Stack’emBolt’, ‘Light mee UP!’, ‘mArBiE Maze’, ‘MechPuzzle ChEllenge: FInd the PICHEs (pieces)’ and ‘CRIME ME UP!’.

The MMSU Technolympics competition was among the many prepared activities for the University’s 45th Foundation Anniversary.

MMSU partners with Huawei, Sutherland Global for certification courses

Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) has officially announced its partnership for future certification courses with Huawei and Sutherland Global at the Center for Flexible Learning on January 25.

During the opening program for the first-ever Digital Transformation Exhibit and Forum, university president Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis signed a Memorandum of Understanding and Memorandum of Agreement with Huawei, represented by Mr. Andrei Manuel, the company's talent ecosystem manager and with Sutherland, represented by Mr. Vijay Nagar, lead for talent acquisition.

Meanwhile, the partnership with Sutherland Global will provide the university with exceptional engineering experiences, that

will help MMSU achieve non-linear growth. The partnership also al lows graduates to be employed in Sutherland after helping them get equipped inside the university.

initiative is in line with the univer sity's goal of strengthening and expanding its collaboration with the private sector.

tatives stated their words of com mitment to these newly-formed partnerships.

would like to state that we are committed to supporting nation building and achieving great heights for the Philippines through education. We support the nation-building initiatives of this administration and this universi ty," Manuel said in his speech.

...from page 3

Automotive Oil Changer; and Ergonomic Laptop Station, space-saving furniture.

According to Laoag City Laboratory High School student entrepreneur Faye Jacinto, aside from increasing their knowledge and experiences on how business works, this could also boost their sales as it exposes their products to more potential customers.

“Doing booths like these will increase more of our sales, [and] will expand more our knowledge and business experience since mas maraming exposure,” Jacinto said.

Aside from showcasing their products, the booths will also be judged by the following criteria: Product Basic Required Elements and Income (Product/Business Name, Logo, Product Information, Design features and components, Total income), Appearance and Presentation (Area neatness and cleanliness, Creativity and Originality, Efficient use of Resources), Promotional Materials and Activities (Flyers and Brochures, Sample product/ giveaway), and Customer Service (Staff presence and accessibility, Staff are neat and recognizable, Staff enthusiasm and friendliness).

Members of the Judges include Prof. Ma. Deleilah Adriatico, Chief of Student Development, Mr. Erick Jay Dela Cruz, Director of Procurement; and Ms. Lenie Bayangos, Chief of Business.

MMSU students gather and race through various thrilling stations in the Technolympics: Amazing Race MMSU Edition at the College of Engineering on January 25, 2023.

PHOTO BY JOHN LLOYD BALANTAC

Stallions showcase skills in ‘Garden Show and Talent Exhibition’

by Addison Pascua

As part of the 45th Foundation Anniversary of Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU), students from the different colleges and laboratory high schools showed off their talents during the Talent Exhibition conducted at the Garden Show and Trade Fair from January 16 to 27, 2023.

With an aim of showcasing the diverse talents of the MMSU community, the event was participated by the ten colleges of the university including the two laboratory schools, each with a different show schedule.

The said talent show com-

menced with performances coming from the Laboratory High School - Batac on Jan. 16, followed by the Laboratory Schools of Laoag campus on Jan. 17; the College of Engineering (COE) on Jan. 18; the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) on Jan. 19; the College of Aquatic Sciences and Applied Technology (CASAT) on Jan. 20; the Graduate School on Jan 21; the College of Medicine (COM) on Jan. 22; the College of Agriculture, Food and Sustainable Development (CAFSD) on Jan. 23; the College of Business, Economics, and Accountancy (CBEA) on Jan. 24; the College of Health Sciences

(CHS) on Jan. 25; the College of Teacher Education (CTE) on Jan. 26; and the College of Industrial Technology (CIT) on Jan. 27.

The talent show served as a platform for students to showcase their hidden gifts as they displayed a variety of performances and talent exhibitions which include singing, dancing, acting, playing musical instruments, and telling jokes, among others.

The event is one of the many activities put up by the University Student Council (USC) in celebration of the institution’s founding anniversary.

MMSU conducts Academic Journey Across Cultures, studes narrate international studying experience

The Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) successfully conducted its ‘Academic Journey Across Cultures’

program as part of its 45th foundation anniversary, which gave selected students who had experienced studying, competing and enrolling on short online courses the platform to narrate their one of a kind experience to the country

...continue to page 9

MMSU recognizes exemplary personnel in 2023 PRAISE awards

by Addison Pascua

Outstanding personnel and employees of Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) received recognition for their invaluable contributions to the university during this year’s Program on Awards and Incentives for Service Excellence (PRAISE) Awards held at Teatro Ilocandia, January 27.

In a formal ceremony, exemplary employees, groups, and partners who devoted their time, expertise, and sacrifices to attaining the university’s established goals for 2022, took center stage as they were acknowledged for their outstanding accomplishments and achievements that made MMSU known both locally and globally.

In her inspirational message, University President Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis expressed her gratitude to all the employees who committed their lives to serve the institution in order to achieve a standard of excellence and competence.

“We dream of becoming a premier university by 2028, we set that in 2017. And through the years, we have continuously set high our bars of excellence. Thank you to everybody’s support and sacrifices. We cannot be a premier entity without people who are driven and fully committed to achieve,” University President Dr. Shirley Agrupis said in her inspirational message.

“I am very sure that each of the awardees made sacrifices like everybody does in order to perform their respective tasks beyond par. Their achievement is ours to celebrate today,” Agrupis added.

Moreover, Agrupis also encouraged everyone to continue establishing excellence as a brand as the university gears up to achieve more in the future.

“As we celebrate the 45th birthday of our beloved Mariano Marcos state university, the best

...continue to page 8

RHYTHMICALLY IN THE MOMENT. A guitarist from the College of Engineering (COE) brings life to the stage and hypes the audience in the Garden Show and Talent Exhibition held at the College of Law (COL) grounds on January 18

PHOTO BY JOHN LLOYD BALANTAC, LUJEAN GUIEB & CASMIR CADIENTE

SHARING NARRATIVES. A CTE student shares their experience in joining an international business case competition during the Academic Journey Across Cultures (AJAC) at Teatro Ilocandia, January 26

PHOTO BY LUJEAN GUIEB

CTE, Teatro Normal showcase theater play

With their emotive and evocative acting skills, Mariano Marcos State University’s Teatro Normal successfully presented their theater play ‘Ang Lagusan,’ showcasing the talents and acting prowess of the students from the College of Teacher Education (CTE) as part of the 45th Foundation Anniversary of the university, held at the Teatro Ilocandia, January 24.

Directed by Dr. James Ventura III, the play tells the story of seven

by Ivy Jane Guanzon

individuals who were trapped in purgatory and waiting for their final verdict on whether they should continue to live or should they go to hell or heaven.

Moreover, the audience was taken on a journey through the different life stories of the characters, from being a victim of poverty to a high-profile person abusing the power he has. Also, the production explores the themes, of poverty, abuse of power, and the impact of negligence and support of a family in a very thought-provoking way.

“I believe this is not only in the beginning, this is not the end but the beginning of more theatrical productions of the Mariano Marcos State University,” said Dr. Ventura during his talk before the play started.

The said theater play was a reimagined story of the winning performance of MMSU in the Philippine Association of State Colleges and Universities (PASUC) Region 1 Culture and Arts Festival which was held at Pangasinan State University last year.

ACHIEVE

laid the groundwork of MMSU strategic plan for 2023-2028 following the university’s 7-point agenda, in line with the Sustainable Development Goals, the Philippine Development Plan, the Regional Development Plan, and the President’s 8-point Socio-economic Agenda.

Strengthening both internal and external connections to maintain internationalization and other collaborative programs, projects, and activities is the university’s primary aid to achieving the premier university status by 2028.

To further the academe, the university anticipates to open a Master in Healthcare Management in partnership with Mariano Marcos Memorial Hospital and Medical Center (MMMH&MC) as an avenue for the advancement of healthcare workers in the province. Additionally, the recently launched Agri 101 of the institution’s agri-fishery program geared toward ensuring local food security through training and education will extend its services beyond the campus.

Within the campus walls, the institutionalization of safety and security operations, disaster preparedness and response initiatives, gender sensitivity and cultural diversity interventions, and the utilization of agri-waste for income generation are some changes looking to benefit the student body.

Meanwhile, the development of a digital platform unifying research and knowledge management is the university’s stride to improve the availability of information and connectivity to its students and external links, as well as promote collaborative work.

With the addition of suggestions and consideration of concerns presented during the forum, the university’s strategic plan is expected to be finalized by early March this year.

Teatro Normal from College of Teacher Education performs its original theater play ‘Ang Lagusan’ at the Teatro Ilocandia on January 24, 2023

PHOTO BY CASMIR REMYELL CADIENTE

2.0 ...from page 6

MMSU kicks off farmers’ forum, tech showcase through modern farming innovation

by Quian Galut

To share ideas and explore new ways to improve the efficiency and sustainability of modern farming, the Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) hosted an innovative partnership between the Farmers’ Forum and Technology Showcase at the Teatro Ilocandia, January 20.

With the theme “Advancing Innovation and Technopreneurship in the Ilocos Region”, the program attracted a wide range of attendees from across the region that has brought together farmers, agricultural experts, technology developers, and students.

Farmers and agricultural experts shared their knowledge and experiences, while technology developers showcased the latest tools, and products.

The technology showcase featured a wide range of techniques for transforming, growing, and managing different agricultural products as well as fisheries businesses.

Guest speakers were also

PRAISE awards

...from page 6

gift that we can offer is always our good work and excellent work if we may that speaks of love for God and country, deep concern and compassion, and for our people, and high hopes for our future beyond what we imagine,” she asserted.

The different awards that were bestowed during the program were the following: Timpuyog Award, Presidential Achieve Award, Career, and

present on the first day of the said event, Sec. Renato U. Solidum Jr. of the Department of Science

and Technology (DOST); Engr. Dennis I. Tactac, OIC - Regional Technical Director for Operations,

MMSU launches Indigenous Food Research Consortium, signs MOA

DA Regional Field Office-I; Mr. Jesus E. Alegre, Jr., Head, Ilocos Norte Lending Center Land Bank of the Philippines; and Hon. Cecilia Araneta Marcos, Vice Governor, Province of Ilocos Norte.

The Farmers’ Forum also provided a platform for farmers to share their experiences and challenges and they discussed the difficulties and opportunities of adopting new technologies, and how to make the most of them to improve their productivity and profitability.

The Technology Showcase and Farmers’ Forum, which is held during the 45th Founding Anniversary of the university, provides a platform for farmers, agricultural experts, and technology developers to come together and share ideas, knowledge, and insights to improve the future of agriculture.

Visitors may have the opportunity to see these technologies or products in action which were presented by 14 technology exhibitors from the Ilocos Region and talk to the developers and experts working on them on January 20-25.

Self-Development Award, loyalty awards, special awards, and outstanding employees.

Held annually, the PRAISE Awards or also known as, “Pammadayaw,” is one of the major events in celebration of the university’s 45th Founding Anniversary which aims to recognize employees for their invaluable service and commitment to the university.

by Ivy Jane Guanzon

The Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) has taken a significant step towards preserving and promoting traditional indigenous crops of the region through launching Indigenous Food Research Consortium, a collaborative effort between the university, local farmers, university and industry

partners to research and promote the use of traditional crops in modern food technologies held at the Teatro Ilocandia, January 19.

MMSU served as the lead institution for the Consortium and will focus on research and development of traditional indigenous foods, as well as the promotion of these foods to a wider range of audience. This will include work on seed conservation and preservation, traditional food processing techniques, and the development of new value-added products.

...continue to page 9

Visitors explore the different displays during the Farmer’s Forum and Technology Showcase at the Teatro Ilocandia, January 20

PHOTO BY CRIS JEREMIAH ANTONIO

MMSU studes pitch sustainable project innovations

Students from various laboratories and colleges of Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) presented a project during the pitching competition in line with the United Nations’ (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), at the Teatro Ilocandia on January 30.

The event was organized to promote a culture of entrepreneurship, creativity, and sustainability among the student body and was participated by seven teams, consisting of six (6) members with each one for the team leader, four members, one technical assistant, and one official coach.

The competition featured a diverse range of projects that focused on four essential components: empathise, define, ideate, and prototype.

Some of the projects that were presented were a mobile app for managing agricultural resources sustainably, a sustainable housing design, a device for monitoring water quality and preserving it, I Seek Mobile, Green Minded Garbage Bin (G.M.G.B). Stallions Store, etc.

The panel, composed of industry experts, faculty members, and sustainability experts, evaluated the presentations based on project feasibility, originality, impact, and sustainability.

The said competition consists of four rounds and each team will present one project per level: The elimination round will focus on the impact ranking; Quarter Finals focusing UI Green Metrics World University Ranking Projects; Semi-finals focus on the World University with Real Impact; while the focus on the finals was QS Stars Ranking System - Advanced Criteria.

Indigenous Food

...from page 8

The launch of the Consortium was marked by a ceremonial signing ceremony wherein a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), the project entitled Advancing Ilocos Indigenous Food Product, Food Systems through Academic-Industry Collaborative Research Innovation Toward Nutrition and Food Securities under the Leading the Advancement of Knowledge in Agriculture and Sciences (LAKAS) program was signed by the representatives of partner industries, universities and organizations.

Among the signees in the said MOA were the following, Commission on Higher Education (CHED)

Chairperson Hon. J. Prospero E. De Vera III, MMSU President, Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis,

Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University (DMMMSU)

President Dr. Jaime I. Manuel Jr., Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College (ISPSC) President Dr. GIlbert R. Arce, the Founder of the BAURTEK Corporation Dr. Richard Nixon Gomez and the Professor for Food Engineering and Bioprocess Technology in Asian Institute of Technology in Thailand Dr. Anil K. Anal with the presence of the Ilocos Norte Vice Governor Cecilia Araneta Marcos and Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Renato Solidum Jr.

She also highlighted in her speech that the goal of the program is to contribute in the reduction of malnutrition rate, help promote food security by

harnessing the full potential of probiotics from the rich indigenous food products unique in the Ilocos Region through Academia-Industry collaboration and modernized degree programs in the field of Food Science, Pharmacy, and Food Technology.

The launch of the consortium is a part of MMSU’s commitment to support the local communities and to promote the sustainable development of the region. The university plans to continue working with its partners to promote the traditional indigenous foods of the Ilocos region and to improve livelihoods of local communities.

MMSU’s launching of the IFRC and signing the MOA agreement is a step in the right direction towards preserving food heritage and supporting sustainable development in the region.

PITCHING IDEAS. Five College of Engineering (COE) students present their proposals during the Project Pitching Competition at Teatro Ilocandia, January 30

PHOTO BY CRISDENIELE CLEMENTE

by Quian Galut

CEREMONIAL SIGNING. MMSU President Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis and CHED Commissioner Prof. Prospero De Vera III signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) for the Indigenous Food Research Consortium on January 19 at Teatro Ilocandia.

PHOTO BY LUJEAN GUIEB

MMSU studes clash in olympicstyle fishing competition

by Ivy Guanzon

Equipped with their proficient fishing strategies, students from across colleges in Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) competed to win in the olympic-style fishing competition dubbed as the Olymfish held at the College of Aquatic Sciences and Applied Technology (CASAT), January 20.

Participating colleges consisted of three participants and they were provided with the materials they needed in the activity by the organizers. The duration of the competition was one hour and 30 minutes and was divided into three rounds.

Each member of the group was given 30 minutes to show their fishing prowess and each round was conducted in different ponds. The scoring system was based on the number of fish caught regardless of the size and the winning team shall be determined by the total number of fish caught.

Two individual special awards will also be given to participants who caught the biggest fish and the fastest catcher among the participants.

The fishes caught by the participants were taken for free as a token for them for bravely competing in the activity.

The MMSU Olymfish competition was among the many activities of the University’s celebration of its 45th Foundation Anniversary. Results of the competition will be announced on January 30.

MMSU studes battle in sizzling cook-off clash

Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) students went head-to-head as they competed in the Masterchef-inspired cooking competition held at the College of Industrial Technology (CIT) grounds yesterday, January 17.

Composed of four members each, the said contest was joined by 10 competing teams from the eight colleges and Laboratory High School Laoag and Batac.

by Ryand Ugalde

Tasked to prepare an Ilokano-inspired food recipes using Ilokano ingredients, the participants were given a total of two hours and 30 minutes to prepare a first-placeworthy dish.

The contestants' outputs will be judged based on the following: Originality and Creativity, Visual Appeal, Taste and Aroma, Technique Used, Hygiene and Sanitation, and Service Presentation.

Members of the selection

CHS, COM spearhead bloodletting activity

by Ivy Guanzon

Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) College of Health Sciences (CHS) and College of Medicine (COM) organized a bloodletting activity in partnership with Mariano Marcos Memorial Hospital and Medical Center (MMMH&MC) through their National Voluntary Blood Services Program (NVBSP) program at the university’s Student Center, January 23.

With over 100 donors, a total of 100 bags of blood (450 ml each) were collected, which will be used to help patients in need of blood trans-

fusions, including those undergoing surgery, cancer treatments, and other medical procedures.

According to the CHS Student Council President Christian Jade Namnama, the blood donation drive is timely as the stocks in the blood bank is critical.

“We are all aware naman na how crucial blood donation drive is and as mentioned kanina, it can help a lot of people especially dagidiay masakit and masapol na masalinan dara. Ken kas kunada tattay it does not only benefit the recipient of the blood but also the donor itself, and

committee include Dr. Marlowe A. Aquino, MMSU Director for Planning, Angel Lao from Laoag City Tourism, and Norman Dela Cruz, the head Chef of the University Cafeteria.

The MMSU Masterchef Edition is part of the University's celebration of its 45th foundation anniversary. It aims to showcase the talents of the students and to exhibit the richness of the Ilokano culture in terms of food.

really it can help a lot,” he further added.

"We are all aware how crucial blood donation drive is, and as mentioned earlier, it can help a lot of people especially those who need blood transfusion. And just like what they said, it does not only benefit the recipient of the blood but also the donor itself"

The organizers ensured that the activity ran smoothly with several stations set up for registration, screening, and donation were carried out carefully and professionally by the medical students and the attending physicians.

The blood donation drive is part of the university’s 45th foundation anniversary student-led activities.

SERVING APPETIZING RECIPES. CAS student describes the Ilocano dish with a twist recipe they prepared in the Masterchef MMSU Edition spearheaded by the College of Industrial Technology on January 17, 2023

PHOTO BY EDREAN JAMIL GO

PHOTO BY LUJEAN GUIEB

MMSU holds Students’ Day Celebration, recognizes outstanding organizations and student achievers

by Ivy Guanzon

In line with its 45th Foundation Anniversary, Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) successfully conducted its annual Students’ Day Celebration which was well-attended by students and faculties across colleges, held at the Teatro Ilocandia, January 30.

The highlight of the event was the awarding ceremony for the best student body organization, academic organization, interest club, exemplary awards and student achievers in the past academic year from the different colleges in the university.

The awarded organizations were recognized for their contributions and active involvement in the different programs of the MMSU community. Meanwhile, exemplary awards were also given to the different organizations and associations of the different colleges for demonstrating remarkable achievements for their college and for the university.

The set of awardees for best student organization, academic organization, interest club and exemplary awards are as follows:

ELEMENTARY LEVEL

Student Body Organization

General Laboratory Elementary

School - Laoag (Best Student Body Organization)

Academic Organization

Araling Panlipunan Club (Best Academic Organization)

Kapisanang Inang Wika Club (2nd Best Academic Organization)

Edukasyong Pantahanan at Pangkabuhayan (3rd Best Academic Organization)

Interest Club

Girl Scout of the PhilippinesMMSU LES Chapter (Best Interest Club)

Boy Scout of the PhilippinesMMSU LES Chapter (2nd Best Interest Club)

MMSU’s ABC (3rd Best Interest Club)

HIGH SCHOOL LEVEL

Student Body Organization

Student Body Government - Batac (Best Student Body Organization)

Academic Organization

Young Explorer’s Club (Best Academic Organization)

Arts and Expressions Club (2nd Best Academic Organization)

Social Science Club (3rd Best Academic Organization) Interest Club

Girl Scout of the Philippines (Best Interest Club)

COLLEGE LEVEL Student Council

College of Health Sciences Student Council (Best Student Council) College of Engineering Student Council (2nd Best Student Council)

College of Teacher Education

Student Council (3rd Best Student Council)

Academic Organization

Association of Tourism Management (Best Academic Organization)

Junior People Management Associ-

ation of the Philippines (2nd Best Academic Organization)

Physical Therapy Student Organization (3rd Best Academic Organization) Interest Club

Taldiap Society (Best Interest Club)

Timpuyog Dagiti Mannurat nga

Ilokano (2nd Best Interest Club)

CTE Golden Z (3rd Best Interest Club)

EXEMPLARY AWARDS

“Kamay Mo Abot Ko” program by the Future Agriculturists’ Society of the College of Food and Sustainable Development (CAFSD)

Casaranay Outreach Program by the College of Arts and Sciences

Student Council (CAS-SC)

Ecotalk and Coastal Clean-up Drive by the Marine Biology Students Society of the College of Aquatic Sciences and Applied Technology (CASAT)

Food Service Attendants by the Junior Association of Hospitality Practitioners of the College of Business Economics and Accountancy (CBEA)

Weekly DIssemination of Drug Information by the Junior Philippine Pharmacists Association (JPPHA)

PSI Chapter of the College of Health Sciences (CHS)

Philippine Society of Mechanical Engineers MMSU Chapter of the College of Engineering (COE)

TECEA Fiesta 2022: Showcasing Lifelong Technical Skills Towards Holistic and Sustainable Engagement by the Technology of Careers

and Enterprise Association of the College of Teacher Education (CTE)

G-Series by the Graduate School Student Council

Sagut ti Kailian: Fundraising Activity and Outreach Program by the Medical Students Association of the College of Medicine (COM)

The student achievers, on the other hand, were acknowledged for their academic excellence and representing the university and brought laurels from various contested activities in the national and international level.

The MMSU administration, led by the university president, Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis congratulated all the awardees and encouraged them to continue their efforts in making the university a better place for learning and growth.

“This is really a good picture showcase of inclusivity in the different colleges. This year’s 45th foundation anniversary marks another milestone in the quest to become a premier university by 2028,” the president further emphasized.

The Students’ Day Celebration was a success and a fitting celebration of the university’s 45th years of excellence in providing quality education to the students.

The event was a testament to the university’s commitment to fostering a culture of excellence and promoting holistic development to the whole studentry.

MMSU students, faculty, and university officials gather for this year’s Students’ Day at the Teatro Ilocandia, January 30

MMSU studes participate in dance parade, light show competition

by Ivy Jane Guanzon

To add color and festivity to its annual Students’ Day celebration, students from across colleges of Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) competed together in the Dance Parade and Light Show competition, held at the university oval, on January 30.

The dance parade featured performances from different colleges, showcasing the talent and creativity of the university’s students. The parade began at the College of Engineering (COE) and ended at the university oval; the series of dance performances from each participating college was led by the College of Business Economics and Accountancy (CBEA), followed by the College of Aquatic Sciences and Applied Technology (CASAT), along with the College of Food and Sustainable Development (CAFSD), followed by the Laboratory High School (LHS), College of Health Sciences (CHS), College of Teacher Education (CTE), College of Industrial Technology (CIT), College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) and the College of Engineering (COE).

Meanwhile, the light show which was held in the evening was a visual spectacle that featured synchronized lights and music. The show was accompanied by a

mesmerizing display of lights and special effects.

In the end, COE emerged as victorious as they showcased spectacular effects of lights accompanied by a smooth choreography of their dance performance. Completing the set of winners

are CAS and CAFSD, which were hailed first and second runner-up, respectively.

The said competition is the culmination of student-related events of the 45th Foundation Anniversary of MMSU.

CAFSD SC holds dish-gardening, flower arrangement competition

by Quian Galut

To showcase the creative skills of the students, the College of Agriculture, Food and Sustainable Development Student Council (CAFSD SC) organized a dish-gardening and flower arrangement competition at the CAFSD Grounds on January 19 during the 45th Foundation Anniversary of the university.

Before the competition officially started, the Student Affairs and Services Coordinator of CAFSD, Mr. Christian Butch Balbas gave his opening remarks to emphasize the essence of the competition.

“In a competition, there are always winners and there will be losers. Technically, some will win and some will lose but let us put in mind that every time we lose, there’s always room for improvement,” he pointed out to the participants.

Meanwhile, Dr. Jan Rich Guira, OSAS Director gave his inspirational message to all the individuals at the venue specifically to the participants of the said event to pursue more of their talents.

“We are not only focused on your academics but also focusing on your holistic development. You might be a graduate of different courses if you can do flower arrangements, dish gardening, etc. of your talents. You’ll embody an entrepreneurial spirit that the university also needs in order for us to become one of the premier universities of the Philippines,” he said.

Dish-gardening contestants had to construct a miniature garden in a dish out of a variety of plants and other materials; the entries were assessed on creativity, visual impact, proper handling of tools and equipment, balance, and proportion.

While participants in the flower arrangement category had to make a stunning and unique arrangement out of a variety of flowers and other materials, and their work was judged on its originality, ingenuity, balance, proportions of the arrangement, and overall aesthetic appeal of their entries.

FIERY BOLD. A student from CTE performs a fire show, while the team of CHS showcases their light show at the University Oval, January 30.

PHOTO BY DANNAH ECLARIN & JOHN LLOYD BALANTAC

SAVING LIVES. Three students donate their blood during the bloodletting activity hosted by the College of Health Sciences (CHS) and College of Medicine (COM) at the Student Center on January 23.

PHOTO BY DANAH ECLARIN

GRATEFUL LEADER. University Student Council (USC) Executive Chairperson

John Lloyd Suguitan expresses his gratitude to the people who made this year’s student-related activities possible during the light show competition at the University Oval on January 30.

MMSU honors outstanding colleges and students, awards major competition winners

by Ivy Jane Guanzon

Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) marked its 45th Foundation Anniversary with a grandiose celebration that showcased and exhibited the talents and skills of students from across colleges.

Anchored with the theme, “ACHIEVE-ing more for the future,” the university highlighted the importance of dedication, passion and hardwork in everyone’s endeavor to achieve desired goals and outcomes.

The celebration was filled with various competitions including Master Chef MMSU Edition, Vocal Quartet, Student Product Showcase, Flower Arrangement and Dish Gardening, Olymfish Competition, Debate Cup Competition, Mobile Legends Bangbang Tournament, Technolympics, Talent Exhibition at the Garden Show and Trade Fair, Project Pitching and Dance Parade and Light Show Competition which was attended and completed to by various students from the different colleges in the university.

The list of awardees on the different competitions are as follows:

MASTER CHEF MMSU EDITION

1st Place - College of Industrial Technology (CIT)

2nd Place - Laboratory High School (LHS) Batac

3rd Place - College of Business Economics and Accountancy (CBEA)

VOCAL QUARTET

1st Place - College of Health Sciences (CHS)

2nd Place - College of Teacher Education (CTE)

3rd Place - CIT

STUDENT PRODUCT SHOWCASE

1st Place - LHS Laoag

2nd Place - CIT

3rd Place - CHS

FLOWER ARRANGEMENT AND DISH GARDENING

1st Place - CBEA

2nd Place - CIT

3rd Place - College of Arts and Sciences (CAS)

OLYMFISH COMPETITION

1st Place - CBEA

2nd Place - College of Engineering (COE)

3rd Place - CIT Special Award

Fastest catcher and is able to caught a fish in a span of three seconds is from College of Aquatic Sciences and Applied Technology (CASAT)

Biggest caught fish is from LHS Laoag

DEBATE CUP COMPETITION

1st Place - CTE Team B

2nd Place CHS Best Speakers

1st Place - Percival Bustamante from CTE

2nd Place - Stephanie Agutos from CHS

3rd Place - Stephanie Jem Bercarse from CTE

4th Place - Jason Patrick Delos Santos from CHS

5th Place - Christian Jay Valdez from CTE

MOBILE LEGENDS BANGBANG

TOURNAMENT

1st Place - CBEA

2nd Place - CAS

TECHNOLYMPICS

1st Place - LHS Batac

2nd Place - LHS Laoag

3rd Place - CAS

TALENT EXHIBITION AT THE GARDEN SHOW AND TRADE FAIR

1st Place - LHS Laoag

2nd Place - CHS

3rd Place - College of Food and Sustainable Development (CAFSD)

4th Place - CIT

5th Place - CTE

Special Exemplary Performance is awarded to the Graduate School

Individual Performers

CTE Fire Dancer

CAFSD Painter

COM Baby Girl

LHS Laoag Speech Choir

PROJECT PITCHING COMPETITION

1st Place - COE

2nd Place - LHS Batac

3rd Place - CBEA

DANCE PARADE AND LIGHT SHOW

COMPETITION

1st Place - COE

2nd Place - CAS

3rd Place CAFSD

The founding anniversary of MMSU was a huge success, showing and exhibiting the different talents and skills of its students in various fields.

The awarding of the said winners on the different competitions was being held during the Students’ Day Celebration of the university held at the university’s oval, January 30.

PHOTO BY DANNAH ECLARIN

RELEVANCE. EXCELLENCE. GROWTH. MMSU 44TH FOUNDATION

IRMATA

The official publication of Mariano Marcos State University college students

EDITORIAL BOARD AND STAFF A.Y. 2022-2023

NEIL BRYANT BALIAO Editor-in-chief | EDMAR DELOS SANTOS Associate Editor (Print) | DANA MERYLL GAPAS Associate Editor (Online) | RYAND ANGELO UGALDE Managing Editor (External) | ANTHONY

JOSEPH DUYAO Managing Editor (Internal) | IAN PAUL VILLANUEVA Managing Editor (Internal) | JESSA MARIZ CORPUZ, PAUL ANGELO JUAN Circulations Managers | IVY JANE GUANZON,ADDISON PASCUA, ALLIAH

DIMPLE QUITEVIS, QUIAN VENCEL GALUT News Writers | GRAZIEL MAE RAMAT, SHERYL UMALI, KYLE NOJEN ANDRES, JOYCE SHEENA PAJO Feature Writers | AIRRENE RACILES, HYUNGSON MAESTRADO, RODGE CARL VEA, JAYSON SABONG Literary Writers | MARC LOUIE PASION, BENEDICT JAY COLLADO, FEDERICK ABAD Sports Writers | AIRA NADINE PASCUA, BRENT NIKOLAI AGANUS, CARMELA JASMIN RAMIRO, ABIJAH MCGUILLER BARRUGA Visuals | DAVID ACACIO, CHRISTIAN HEAVEN BARRUGA Editorial Cartoonists | CRISDENIELE CLEMENTE, JOHN LLOYD BALANTAC, DANNAH ERIKA ECLARIN Photojournalists | JZYRYL RYCHNYL CARREON, CHRIS JEREMIAH ANTONIO

Layout Artists | CASMIR REMYELL CADIENTE, JOHN BRYAN DELA CRUZ Technical Directors | MOYRAH SHAINA COLOBONG, ANGEL CHRISTIN PED,JIRAH FAILANO, LUJEAN GUIEB, LUCKY CHARM PALTING Digital Reporters | BRYAN ELI SADORRA, BRYAN REALGO Advisers

GET ONLINE UPDATES

SIRMATA

sirmata@mmsu.edu.ph

@SirmataOfficial

Brgy. 16 Quiling Sur, City of Batac, Ilocos Norte, Student Center RM. 106

READ US ONLINE

it was a little over five years ago in 2017 when then newly inducted university President Shirley C. Agrupis first introduced her vision—MMSU as a premiere Philippine university by 2028. Today, half a decade later and halfway through the set deadline, it is high time to do some evaluation: Are we on track to hitting the 2028 target?

Evidently, Agrupis has done many things right these past five years. And it shows. Fittingly outlined and patterned after the seven-point agenda ACHIEVE, the president laid out the university’s recent achievements in her latest State of the University Address (SOUA) held last January 19.

Most noteworthy are the university’s recognitions in the international scene. Last April 2022, MMSU ranked 401st600th worldwide in the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact rankings for its contributions to the United Nation’s sustainable development goals. The university was also recognized by the UI Greenmetric World University rankings for its efforts in environmental sustainability, claiming the 365th spot. All this is on top of the many partnerships it has inked with international partners over time. In her speech during the Students’ Day Celebration on January 30, Agrupis declared, “We have found our mark in the international map of international Higher Education Institutions (HEIs).”

This academic year, MMSU also saw a 9.13% increase in enrolment across all year levels, ultimately changing its classification to a “medium university,” according to CHED guidelines. This is due in large part to the expanding array of program offerings. Consistent with the goal of academic relevance, the university this academic year opened the College of Veterinary Medicine, and a new undergraduate program in the form of the Bachelor of Science in Psychology in

Onto 2028 editorial

the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) as a response to the growing demand for professionals in the province and the country by extension. The student population now stands at about 16,000.

Needless to say, the university is in the best shape it has ever been since its founding in 1978, and no doubt, President Agrupis alongside the whole administration have proven themselves capable and excellent at captaining the MMSU ship. But the work is not done yet as we are only halfway through the journey.

If the end goal is to be near compeers with the country’s top universities, our leaders better not be tired of playing catch-up, especially in the next five years. May the present and future administrations never do away with the good attitude it has maintained toward development. That is, the anticipatory mindset that it emblematically demonstrated when it launched MMSU Virtual Learning Environment (mVLE) years before the pandemic. It also needs to keep its primary stakeholders–the students–always its core consideration in decision-making. Time has proven how, in prioritizing student welfare, the university was strengthened and made more resilient amid the challenges of the times.

As it stands, the momentum points to the successful attainment of the vision right on time. If all goes well and the university keeps its pace, we should expect a premiere Philippine university by 2028.

.edmar delos santos

frustrated writer

ACHIEVE-ING MORE: GO SINGLE-USE PLASTIC FREE!

Last December 2022, Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) entered another world ranking, but now in the field of listing the best institutions with the best efforts in environment and sustainability. The university ranked fifth in the Philippines and 356th in the world in the 2022 UI Greenmetric World University Rankings (UIGWIR). Determined by six criteria, MMSU gets a good placement in setting and infrastructure, energy and climate change, waste, water, transportation, and education and research. Before this, the university also ranked second in

the country and 401st-600th in the world in the Times Higher Education (THE) World Impact Rankings and top 101-200 in the World Universities with Real Impact (WURI). With this, the university claims itself as an environmentally sustainable institution. But, are we really gearing toward becoming a green campus and environmentally sustainable university?

One of the manifestations of these rankings is the offering of undergraduate degree programs at MMSU in the environment: agriculture, forestry, food technology, environmental science, marine biology, fisheries, and biology. Moreover, graduate school offerings in renewable

energy engineering, agricultural engineering, soil and water resources engineering, and biological sciences. The university also houses some of the research centers in the country: the Natural Resources Conversion and Management Center, the National Bioenergy Research and Innovation Center (NBERIC), and the Regional Research Training Center for Climate Change Studies. Thus, MMSU invests in research that would give solutions to environmental issues. When it comes to setting and infrastructure, MMSU has numerous laboratories and research centers, such as NBERIC for the production of Nipahol. In addition, the university established the first-ever Coastal Engineering and Management Research and Development Center (COASTER), which aims to develop coastal engineering research and management of coastal disasters and risks. This shows how MMSU invests not only in environmentalrelated studies but as well as erected infrastructures to house environmental scientists and innovators in the region.

Talking about waste, I observed that single-use plastics are still prevalent and seen anywhere inside the campus. As a model university for the environment, it is high time for the institution to ease plastic pollution. According to the 2021 World Bank report, the Philippines was listed as the third-largest producer of plastics all over the world. Thus, MMSU should gear towards becoming a single-use plastic-free university

so that we could participate in the reduction of waste. With more than 16,000 students, faculty, and administrators, a large number of plastics, such as bottled water, spoons, and fork, are being used and thrown in the trash bins every day.

As a member of the university publication, I could see how the cafeteria gives bottled water instead rather than providing dispensers whenever we request food and drinks during press works and coverage of university-wide events. I know, we are not the only organization that requests these. Moreso, on a normal day in the university, water dispensers in some college canteens are nowhere to be seen. Imagine how many plastics would be reduced if people bring tumblers or bottles to refill water from dispenser stations.

I know it is hard to ban plastics as it is vital in our everyday endeavor and necessities. But, as a true ecofriendly university, it is important as well to promote and advocate the reduction of plastic waste in MMSU, so that we are more than excelling in research and innovation. It is hard to achieve this matter, but one step to attaining this is for the University Student Council (USC) or the administration to pen a policy banning single-use plastics or reducing plastic waste in the university.

This column does not aim to invalidate the efforts of the university in positioning itself in the said global rankings but gives another challenge in “ACHIEVEing” more for the future.

I know it is hard to ban plastics as it is vital in our everyday endeavor and necessities. But, as a true eco-friendly university, it is important as well to promote and advocate the reduction of plastic waste in MMSU, so that we are more than excelling in research and innovation.

“

“To reform our institutions, to transition.” This is because stability of society is of paramount importance. However, that said, we also carry an onus to move with as much speed as is both pragmatic and judicious. Academic excellence of students has been the goal of most higher education institutions; and it is due to the assumption that those who excel in their academic endeavors will soon become competent professionals, contributing to the advancement of their respective industries and of the societies they belong to. Therefore, state colleges and universities in particular exert all efforts in instilling their students of its significance, thus, challenging them to strive even more.

Indeed, Mariano Marcos State University continues to hold high the green and gold as evidenced by its various achievements in recent years. In line with its 45th founding anniversary, President Shirley Agrupis proudly presented the accolades and accomplishments of the university as guided by its seven-point agenda, ACHIEVE, in her State of the University Address (SOUA).

As a center for academic excellence, MMSU achieves more as it strives to serve its students with quality education. With this, the university is recognized on the international stage by the prestigious times higher education ranking. MMSU was ranked 401st - 600th in the world and second among Philippine Higher

MMSU: Embarking on Greater Heights

By Joyce Sheena Alyssa Pajo & Sheryl Anne Umali

Education Institutions (HEIs), the highest rank ever for a state university in the country.

Moreover, the university proves its commitment to contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nation through its high rankings in various SDGs, especially in SDGs 17, 7, and 5. These factors place MMSU 356th in the world in the UI GreenMetric university ranking, as well as in the top 101-100 global innovative universities in the world universities with real impact ranking, 4th in the fourth industrial revolution, 49th in crisis management, and 36th in industrial application.

If MMSU solidified its position in the global arena, how much more in the national? The university sustained its recognition for being a center of excellence and development in teacher education, agriculture, biology, forestry, and information technology, to name a few. MMSU successfully attained the SUC level 4 and level 3 institutional accreditations.

Furthermore, ‘MMSU’ became a resounding name whenever board or licensure exam results are out because the university stands out as a top-performing school and a producer of topnotchers. With 11 to 50 takers, the university is a top-performing school on the BAR exam, and second, for the November 2022 nurse licensure examination with an overall rating of 99.47%. MMSU is also at its fifth perfect 100% passing rate streak for the physician licensure examination.

Students are assured of receiving quality education as the university subjects its campuses in

institutional accreditations and its programs for high-level accreditation. It also aims to cater to more students in the province by opening the College of Veterinary Medicine last year and offering the BS Psychology program this year. Student welfare is prioritized as MMSU boosted its student services through various training, leadership and scholarship programs. The university wants to expand the horizons of its students, thus collaborating with other national and international institutions for mobility and student exchange programs

MMSU achieves more in its research involvement and innovation culture! Not only has the university published articles 146% higher this year than in 2017, but also grew dramatically in citations from 57 in 2017 to 299 this year. This year MMSU's GAA Budget rose by 130% which reflects the trust of the National Government in its stewardship of resources. The income-generating projects are slowly recovering from the covid pandemic while IGP Net Income is 207% higher than last year. It is still significantly lower than the pre-pandemic times.

The university is also known for its faculty involvement in research and innovation. In fact, MMSU is a home for faculty and full-time researchers and innovators such as Professor Zaldy Fernandez who invented the multi-fuel dryer which won first place in the utility model category of the Department of Science and Technology national invention contest and exhibits. Other researchers of the university also garnered awards in

various national and international level research competitions and conferences.

MMSU's achievements and enhanced reputation have made the university more attractive to international institutions, enabling individuals to expand their network. In 2022, MMSU formalized 22 new linkages and partnerships: 16 in Asia, 3 in North America, and 3 in Europe.

Current international situation poses several challenges to governments around the world. Governments and the societies are discovering the need to understand each other are becoming more indispensable than ever. This is to enable and sustain their nations and business interests in a rapidly globalizing and ever more challenging world. While being responsible for academic success, prioritizing work to achieve goals can be valuable to students with the aid of a success-driven mindset. Responsibility and action along with ethics help set the path for proper results and set standards for succeeding academic achievements.

As a center for academic excellence, MMSU achieves more as it strives to serve its students with quality education.

SOUA 2022: PRESIDENT RECALLS MENTS

Mariano Marcos State University President Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis discussed the University’s achievements in the year 2022 as she delivered her 6th State of the University Address (SOUA) at the Teatro Ilocandia yesterday, January 19.

President Agrupis further elaborated the university’s milestones, awards, and recognitions in line with the University’s 7-point agenda.

HIGHLIGHTS:

Academic Excellence

The University ranked 401st-600th in the Times Higher Education (THE) impact rankings for its contribution in the United Nations’ (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). This is the highest rank given among all state universities in the country.

MMSU’s effort in environmental sustainability was also recognized as the 365th university in the world in the UI Greenmetric World University Rankings.

The President also gave emphasis to the university’s achievements in terms of its excellence in institutional passing rates for bar and board exams.

“We achieve more in the licensure examination. Top performing school in the BAR examination for law schools with 11 – 50 takers. Second top performing school in the November 2022 nurse licensure examination with an overall rating of 99.47% and achieved a perfect 100% passing rate in the physician licensure examination for the fifth time since we produced our pioneer graduates here in Mariano Marcos State University and unprecedented feat among state universities and colleges.” said Agrupis

“We produced two exemplary performers in the board examinations. Two topnotchers in the nurse licensure exam, two topnotchers in the chemical technician exam, one in the electronic technician licensure examination and three in the certified human resource associate examination, to sustain our improved performance in the board exams, we have beefed up our support strategies. Last year, we started operating the University Review Center to keep our students close to home as they prepare for board exams.” the President added.

Creative, Relevant, and Innovative Research Programs

In the last three years, the General Appropriation Act (GAA) funding in research increased by 5%—totalling an average of 62.5 million pesos.

Agrupis also shared the increase in publications despite the struggles brought over the past years.

“While publications remain a challenge, also my fellow presidents notice we published 46 articles in 2022 146% higher than in 2017 while the number of citations grew from 57 in 2017 to 299 in 2022.” she said.

Amid the continuing price increase of local produce in the country, the president was hopeful to lower the cost of onions

in the next year as the university develops innovative tactics to increase its production in the market.

“We develop management strategies to lessen the use of inorganic inputs in shallot or multiplier onion production and identify planting windows for increased shield of shallot, hopefully next year we will be lowering the price of onion in the market.” Agrupis stated.

High-Impact and transformative extension & outreach programs

Social responsibility in terms of the university’s extension and outreach programs were also given enough priority as it continues to help communities and individuals in the locale. A massive increase was seen with a 50% leap in the number of programs implemented and the number of training skyrocketed to 84% as compared to the numbers in 2021.

Financial responsibility was also seen as a priority last year as MMSU in collaboration with Landbank of the Philippines trained 3000 farmers on financial literacy.

Improved Revenue

PRESIDENT AGRUPIS MENTS IN THE LAST YEAR

by Ryand Ugalde

Generation and Resource Management

The People’s Television Network will soon be seen along MMSU as the university is ready to sign a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on the establishment of the network inside the university.

“We strengthen the use of various media platforms aside from partnerships with Radyo Pilipinas Laoag, with our partnership with [People’s] Television net-

work… Ilocos Norte relay station will be inaugurated on MMSU grounds on January 31.We are ready to sign a MOA on the establishment of a PTV station herein MMSU. Well the opportunity to serve in its own reward, we have been recognized for our extension programs.” Agrupis emphasized.

The GAA budget also rose by 130%. Agrupis said that this massive increase reflects the trust of the National Government in MMSU's stewardship of resources. She thanked the lawmakers and the Office of the President for entrusting such a big amount to the university. She vowed to pay it forward by exceeding targets through her projects.

Expanded External Linkages & Partnerships

In the past year, the university also experienced abundance in terms of partnerships both national and international with 22 international partners— 16 being in Asia, 3 in North America, and 3 in Europe. 22 forged partnerships were also formed in 2022.

Meanwhile, an increase in Faculty Mobility jumped to 83.5% for inbound exchanges and a 281% addition in students in outbound exchanges.

Student exchange programs were also made possible by the 5th agenda. The university implemented short courses and programs in partnership with the universities in Japan, Indonesia, and Thailand— Focusing on in-demand knowledge and skills like sustainability, multiculturalism, global citizenship, and 21st-century skills, and hosted international conferences on Teacher Education, Sustainable Development, and Health.

Vibrant and Engaging, Culturally-Focused University Campus

With its quick ability to adapt in the 4th industrial revolution, the university has installed high flex rooms and smart technology laboratories for computational modeling simulation extended reality and internet of things supported by upgraded internet connectivity in the campus, and the addition of access points.

The MMSU village was also given a spotlight in this year’s SOUA as it aims to make the university more sustainable and environmentally friendly.

“The MMSU of the future is a green and sustainable campus that we build together through our yearly tree-planting and other activities. We shall redevelop the biodiversity park as part of an overall plan to make MMSU an eco-tourism destination.” the president emphasized.

Furthermore, the redevelopment of the MMSU Sports and Cultural Complex; Knowledge, Innovation, and Science and Technology Park and the installation of Solar Panels in the National Bioenergy Research and Innovation Center (NBERIC) Building was also discussed in her speech.

Effective and Efficient Management

With the university’s constant pursuit to deliver excellence in public service, It garnered a 4.29 satisfaction rate in the 2022 Client Satisfaction Survey. It also made its mark in International standards with an overall score of 32.5 out of 35 in The World Bank’s Digital Readiness Report, surpassing the average rating for higher education institutions in the Philippines equaling to 27.8.

The president ended her speech by thanking all the university partners, stakeholders, students, faculty and staff which made it possible for the university to achieve all recognitions this year. With this year’s theme, MMSU at 45: Achieving more for the future, she vowed to make the university reach greater heights for the next years to come.

Pagkatapos ng apat na taon, ang Dance Parade and Light Show Competition ay muling nagbabalik bilang isang pagtatanghal sa Students’ Day ng Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU). Huling tinanghal ang kompetisyon noong ika-41 na anibersaryo ng pagkakatatag ng MMSU noong 2019. Sa taong ito, sa huling araw ng buong buwang anibersaryo, maligayang sinalihang muli ito ng iba’t-ibang kolehiyo ng MMSU kung saan ipinamalas ang kani-kanilang galing sa pagsayaw gamit ang mga pailaw. Sa bawat yapak, sa bawat kumpas… Sa bawat ngiting kanilang iginagawad….

‘Di mahulugan ng karayom ang MMSU Oval dahil sa pananabik ng bawat isa. Mula sa harap ng Administration Building, unang naganap ang Dance Parade kung saan ang bawat kolehiyo ay mabibigyang puntos base

Ang Mailaw na

sa kanilang mga props at kostyum (30%), at ang kanilang performance (10%).

Sa Light Show Competition naman, ang kriteria ay binubuo ng choreography (30%), performance (20%), at light show appeal (20%).

Unang nagtanghal ang College of Business, Economics and Accountancy (CBEA) na sinundan ng College of Aquatic Sciences and Applied Technology. Pangatlo ang College of Agriculture, Food and Sustainable Development kung saan ang kanilang tema ay tungkol sa pagsasaka–at pinarada talaga nila ang kanilang kuliglig na kinaaliwan ng lahat.

Pang-apat na nagtanghal ang Laboratory High School–Laoag City. Ang kanilang tema ay ang Frozen na pelikula, kung saan maliban sa kanilang musika na instrumental ng Let It Go, ang kanilang props ay binubuo ng asul na mga pailaw at mga niyebe.

Makulay. Maligaya. Nakakasilaw.

Huling Araw

Mae Ramat

Makulay. Maligaya. Nakakasilaw.

Sumunod ang College of Health Science (CHS), at oo, wala silang mga duty at hindi rin pang-ospital ang kanilang tema! At dahil wala silang mga duty, masasabing ang kanilang pagtatanghal ay puno ng enerhiya.

Dala-dala ang kanilang napailawang props na education torch, sumunod na nagpakitang gilas ang College of Teacher Education (CTE). Hindi rin nagpatalo ang College of Industrial Technology (CIT) at ang College of Arts and Sciences–na pinanindigan ang kanilang pagiging makasining sa kanilang pagtatanghal.

Huli, ang College of Engineering (COE) na nagbigay ng isang mala-musical play na pagtatanghal. Ramdam ang emosyon sa kanilang koreograpiya, bagamat isang malaking dahilan kung bakit sila ang naging kampeon sa kabuuang kompetisyon.

Pangalawa sa puwesto ang College of Arts and Sciences (CAS), at pangatlo ang College of Agriculture, Food

and Sustainable Development (CAFSD).

Sa kabuuan, ang pagtatanghal ng bawat kolehiyo ay kamangha-mangha. Bagamat sinusuportahan ng karamihan ang kani-kanilang kolehiyo, hindi maipagkakailang marami rin ang sumakabilang bakod sa paghuhurado!

Ang nasabing kompetisyon ay isa sa mga patunay na ang pagkakaisa ay nabubuhay sa mga Stallions. Mula sa bawat opisyal ng iba’t-ibang College Student Councils hanggang sa koordinasyon ng University Student Council at iba pang opisina at departamento sa loob ng unibersidad, ang selebrasyon ng ika-45 na anibersaryo ng pagkakatatag ng MMSU ay naging matagumpay–mula sa unang araw hanggang sa kahuli-hulian!

designed by abijah barruga

EVE!LOUDER!PROUDER!

By Jayson Sabong

The remnants of the wind kiss melt at the grand entrance of the warm songs.

A coffee wafts along the cold breeze, held between hands marred with the bravery of the future. The rhythm brings a sense of comfort of a bleak past and inconsolable present

As the sunlight kissed their face in joyous delight, a wistful smile makes way for a tearful laugh.

In the kaleidoscope of lights, instruments, music, and wine, The circle of friends is camaraderie in splendor,

appreciation, promotes power, fills one’s vault.

By the calls of food along the pavement is the silhouette of a friendship,

The ecstatic feeling of being homed electrified every of my senses

Hovering on the edge of stage, they hummed a vibrant tune

It was clear-it was me, I was there as, I jumped with rapturous delight; it was a happy tear

The shared microphone portrays music, a spectrum of life humdrum and realities, Jumped to the air: Music is the language of vehemence

STALLION from a Letter

By Rodge Carl Vea

Dear Sir, How have you been?

It’s me your dear stallion, now running with the wind

I’m glad to say that I am robust and healthy Freely roaming the green pastures you’ve shown me

As I walk in this vast wilderness, I remember the days When I was still a foal, credulous in my ways It was you who taught me with sublime kindness How to stand and walk towards the path to greatness

To lands afar I have meandered and reached In them I’ve discovered other beings with prestige Yet I’ve also met my brothers, stallions of great stance Retaining the lead thanks to your guiding hand

I too have accomplished things of great stature

Displaying the gifts in me you saw and nurtured And when I’m asked where I’m from, this is what I told “I am raised and bred by the land of green and gold”

Darkness sometimes engulfs the road

But bravely I march with pride and hope For I remember your glory as I stare at the stars Reminded that you’re with us wherever we are

With all my heart I thank you, for your never ending love I promise that I shall always keep your legacy above I’m an esteemed stallion by blood, this my creed and my brand

“To reap success and give the best for you and our fatherland”

I, A Stallion

Very truly yours,

“The ‘E’ in Esports stands for ‘Easy.’”

EDITORIAL

The Mobile Legends: Bang Bang M4 World Championship has just concluded, and people have slowly accepted Esports as an official sport. With a Filipino team winning again for three straight years, it further inspired a lot of aspiring amateur players to take the next step and join the local professional scene in hopes of hoisting the coveted trophy yet again. While it is fulfilling to represent the Philippines, there’s a lot of factors that goes into competing for a professional team. Esports is not as easy as they make it out to be.

Many have doubted the capabilities of an esports player, mostly because their training regimen is much “simpler” in comparison to other sports. Since they are not undergoing intense physical training, they think it allows them to criticize these players for participating in a game that only uses their hands and mind. It is true that esports players are lacking in terms of preparing their physical attributes, but people are quite forgetting that sports have evolved to a point

where an athlete also uses his mental capabilities to find weaknesses to exploit against his opponents.

For games such as ‘ML’, Valorant, Call of Duty: Mobile and others, it exemplifies the use of strategies in order to utilize advantages against other teams. These strategies are often orchestrated by coaches who are knowledgeable about the game, resulting in developing their most effective tactic available or simply ‘META’. Their ‘META’ is then practiced by their players, and this endeavor will take countless hours, sometimes even denying them sleep privileges. This is the reason why professional leagues only conduct two seasons in a physical year: to allow teams to practice and make sure that their peak form is shown during the actual games.

In addition to their preparation, players must also be mindful of their academic standing. Most esports athletes that play in the professional scene,

especially Mobile Legends, are around the ages of 16-20, with an exception of few players such as Blacklist International star Jonmar ‘OhMyV33nus’ Villaluna, who is 28. It is hard to dismiss the difficulty of balancing professional and academic responsibilities. Teams will not hesitate to release or bench a player when they are underperforming, giving them pressure to train while also staying mentally focused with their studies. These factors

Towards Triumph: Breaking Gender Boundaries in the Land of Dawn

Skills have no gender—deal with that.

The inclusion of electronic sports, especially the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) in the list of contested activities in the different competitive tournaments speaks a lot about how the world of sports has been evolving and has been recognizing the change that the society is offering.

It’s a social change that

creates an impact since it breaks boundaries—that sports are not just limited to physical battles, but it can also be brought to the virtual world, like the Land of Dawn—it’s a new era. But there’s always two sides of a coin.

Despite the heated-up brawls that adds up to the competitive air, the progress that this shows also has loopholes that opens different appealing

and intriguing questions: does it necessarily have to have gender boundaries that’s patterned to the traditional approach of different sporting events, like how Basketball is still inclusive in both genders since it has men and women divisions being offered? Or is this unnecessary since in the status quo, the mainstream Mobile Legend tournaments, gender boundaries are not recognized

combined will make people look at esports differently.

For a long time, people have been belittling esports and its conglomerate of players. With computer and mobile games accessible to all people, they are under impression that Esports competitions are easy, while in fact, it takes a lot of self-discipline and mental awareness to contend in the most glamorous events in the esports world. Thus, the same respect shall be given to these players the same way they respect the athletes of the traditional sports.

anymore, like how the MLBB World Championships opens this to all genders?

But at the end of the day, it all boils down to the question: in a game where it’s dominated by men in numbers, does having a woman—and those who identify themselves as that—in the team, affect the overall competence of the team?

I think, gender boundaries should not impede the team’s success. If a team is better off with a woman with it, then be it, if the team is dominated by either men

Continue page 15

DRUK | Benedict Jay Collado

Towards Triumph...

or women, then there’s no issue with it. If the core player is a member of the LGBTQIA+ Community, as long as they sufficiently fulfill their role in the team, then so be it. The point is, being in a team does not necessarily have to deal with your gender, it concerns your skill and level of mastery. At the end of the day, skills have no gender.

The two different sides talks about this issue is whether MLBB competitions should follow gender-based approach like how major events (e.g. Basketball, Volleyball, Athletics, etc.) use, or the skills-based approach which major MLBB competitions use—but the latter is a lot more inclusive because it breaks misogyny. Let’s take a look at the different aspects in the status quo that affects this specific issue in sports.

On development of the team; their chances of winning. In skills-based, anyone can compete depending on their skill level, depending on their mastery, depending on their effectiveness in their own roles. On the contrary, if gender-based, there is another requirement for you to consider, your gender and this will affect the competency of the team if it needed to be just men, or just women, to be in that team, because if they only need someone to ‘fill-in’ the role, then the team’s competency is affected, and winning will less likely on their favor.

Whereas the skills-based approach can cater to the best players that a team asks for in order to compete and win, because they are not limiting it to narrower requirements.

Meanwhile, an idea that

might oppose this is that the majority of the sporting events are following the traditional gender boundaries, like how Volleyball has Men and Women divisions, how Basketball has Men and Women divisions, like how Chess, Taekwondo, Arnis, Badminton, and Archery have Men and Women divisions, and since the MLBB event is under this, then it should follow this gender boundary.

However, the purpose of this division is that men and women have inherent differences in physical strength, but MLBB is a game of technique and group dynamics, which will concern skills, which will relate to the argument discussed above about skills-based approach. In the status quo, in events like the MLBB World Championships where gender is not a prerequisite in joining and actually

winning, is an evident part of the improvement of electronic sports and how it creates its distinction in the society.

Meaning that this improvement should be recognized since it is the one that’s happening in the status quo. This will also allow misogynistic acts to be mitigated, like how MLBB Women division won’t only take an exhibition match, and women will be given equal opportunity in winning the championship title, after all, MLBB is not a physical game, it needs skills and techniques, and skills have no gender.

In a game where men dominate the number of players worldwide, like the Mobile Legends, the number does not equate to the level of skill, and in creating a powerful team, gender is not the basis, it’s how a player plays.

MMSU eSports cup hails CBEA as champions

After a two-day intense battle, the Mobile Lgends Bang Bang (MLBB) tournament has come to an end.

College of Business, Economics and Accountancy (CBEA) Alonzo was hailed victorious after dominating the tournament, defeating the College of Art and Sciences (CAS) Whitelist on the final round at the Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) Student Center last January 25.

Driven with unstopabble defense and offense mechanisms, Alonzo paved their way from the elimination to the final round, securing every spot to accomplish their mission.

Alonzo showed no mercy to the Whitelist

by Federick Abad

during the final round sweeping them off with a clean finish, 3-0. A couple of engagements have been witness throughout the games in favor of Alonzos. Their momentum remained consistent which eventually extinguished the fire of Whitelist.

During the last minutes of the third round, Alonzo poured their best to secure the uncontested win. Seconds later, cheers have swallowed the building as they celebrate thier sweet win.

According to CBEA Alonzo's team Captain Adrian Charles Tuddao, "It was an

intense match all throughout the tournament and we are lucky to surpassed the defending champs, COE to the moon. Even though we defeated my varsity team, we still remained friends and honored the value of sportsmanship."

"We are happy that our team CAS Whitelist are able to join again the final round considering that the last time we were on the finals was during the first try out of MMSU's search for a mlbb team," said Charles Antonio of the opposing team.

In addition, he also stated that there is a lot of team errors, miss communication and also pressure coming from

their organization (CAS) because they are expecting them to become the champion.

Adrian Charles G Tuddao, Ramon Salvador Castilla, Naim Mohammad Guro, Arjay Ramos, Reign Cedrick Agulay and Charles Mcdeiniel Yabut, are students from CBEA that represented this college and ranked 1st in the MLBB eSports tournament.

The said tournament is part of the activities of MMSU'S 45th Foundation Anniversary, which aims to support and strengthen the eSports community in the university.