Vol. 4 No. 2, February 2020 MMSU adopts English as medium of communication

Members of the University Academic Council convene for their 129th meeting at the mini-theater of the College of Medicine. One of the their topics during the meeting is the improvement of English proficiency among faculty, staff, and students.

our Language Center, Center for Ilokano he Mariano Marcos State (UAC) in their meeting last February 18 and Amianan Studies, Center for Human University (MMSU) will now as the whole council aims to develop Movement Studies, and Sentro ng Wika T use English as a medium of competent professionals who are at Kultura. “We continue to offer courses instruction and official committed to provide “our students on Ilokano, Filipino, and foreign communication in the university with the right tools to succeed in an languages”, she added. system. increasingly diverse, knowledge-driven, and competitive global environment.” “At the basic education levels, we will MMSU President Shirley C. Agrupis continue to observe the principles and said this academic stand will attain its “That is why we have integrated an practices of Mother Tongue Based- ultimate goal of developing the intensive English course, focused on Multilingual Education (MTB-MLE), in proficiency of the faculty, staff, and developing English proficiency for accordance with Republic Act 10533 and students in the English language. academic and communicative purposes, Dep Ed Order No. 74, s. 2009. in all our curricular programs,” Dr. Moreover, we continue to look for ways “This is the University’s response to Agrupis said, emphasizing that the to more effectively and beneficially results of recent surveys and studies enhancement of courses in science and implement multilingual education and which show a decline in the English mathematics are also being developed conduct research in the field in aid of proficiency of Filipino students,” Dr. to boost the skills students learned in the policy,” Dr. Agrupis assured. Agrupis said, adding that her main basic education levels. purpose is to enhance the English The university president, however, competencies of our students, which is “All of these are part of a holistic made it clear that outside academic also one of the primary concerns of the approach to ensure that our graduates contexts and official functions, everyone Department of Education (DepEd). would have the right competencies and is free to use whatever language they are attitudes to not only be employable, but comfortable with. “We encourage the MMSU to become 21st century leaders,” she community to master the English added. “We do not mean to penalize or language as a means to communicate discriminate our staff and students from with the world, especially as we intensify In the light of this, even as the using the language of their hearts, but we our bid for internationalization,” she university pursues to strengthen the use are working to enhance their linguistic said. of the English language, it continues to repertoire and equip them with a wide support, encourage, and promote array of skills and competencies with Dr. Agrupis’ declaration stemmed inclusion, diversity, and multilingualism which they can build a bright future for from the collegial stand of the members through academic, cultural, and research themselves, their families, and their of the University Academic Council activities. These include the programs of communities,” she stressed. 2 Office for Strategic Communication Vol. 4 No. 2, February 2020 Univ intensifies efforts to improve students’ English proficiency will again be tested to know if they By john vincent b. toribio have reached the B2 level of graduating students to further hone proficiency using the Common their skills and competencies in o address the alarming European Framework of Reference, pronunciation, listening, reading decline of English an international standard to describe comprehension, vocabulary, writing proficiency of Filipino T language ability written by the Council and grammar. college students in the country, the of Europe. (B2 is the upper Mariano Marcos State University intermediate level of English in the Like the first program, students will (MMSU) is set to implement two CEFR, by which an English user could take a diagnostic exam in the beginning new English language programs usually say “I am a confident English of the program to enable the Language among its students. speaker.” At this level, students can Center to personalize a 30-hour function independently in a variety of program for identified proficiency University President Shirley C. academic and professional levels. Thirty students will comprise a Agrupis tapped the Department of environments in English.) class to be conducted either early in the Languages and Literature of the morning or after office hours. College of Arts and Sciences and the Those who fail to reach the said university Language Center to create level will be given additional Certificates of Completion will be new programs to improve students’ coursework to pass the class. If issued to students who have skills in the use of the English language. students still fail, they have to re-take participated in at least 75% of the total the said course. class time and have manifested The DLL initially proposed before improvement in their English skills the university Board of Regents (BOR) Additionally, the English language based on the post-test given. to require all MMSU students to take an teachers of the university will be enhancement course called Intensive required to take any of the following Each student will be required to pay English. Meanwhile, the LC proposed to tests before teaching the subject: Test PhP 750.00 to cover class expenses. require all graduating students to of English as a Foreign Language undergo an English Enhancement (ToEFL), International English These efforts of the university Program. The two offices obtained Language Testing System (IELTS) and attempt to face the challenge posed by approval from the BOR. Test of English for International the results of various research. The Communication (TOEIC). They are study conducted by the Hopkins On one hand, the Intensive English also expected to be trained on the use International Partners show that the subject, with a course code of Engl 01, of the CEFR. level of English proficiency of college is already included in all the curricular graduates from the is lower offerings of the university after having On the other hand, the English than the target English proficiency of been approved during the University Enhancement Program is a non-credit High school students in Thailand. Academic Council last February 18. The course scheduled during the first or Specifically, the English proficiency of course is scheduled on the students’ first second semester of the final academic the Filipino test-takers was at the year of study, either on the first year of students in the university. intermediate level or equivalent to the semester or second semester. Classes will adopt a learner-centered, B1 level. (with reports from Dr. interactive, skills-integrated, and Marlina L. Lino and Dr. Jan Rich A. Classes will employ a holistic content-based approach. This is to help Guira) approach to language learning which aims to improve students’ listening, speaking, reading and writing skills, with focus on communication, grammar and critical thinking skills.

In the beginning of the course, the students will take a diagnostic test to determine their level of proficiency. During the course, the students are required to maintain a portfolio showing their improvement in spelling, grammar, organization, and vocabulary. At the end of the course, the students Office for Strategic Communication 3 Vol. 4 No. 2, February 2020 MMSU gets ISO certification

By daniel p. tapaoan jr. the agreed ongoing program, to its corrective action plans within 30 successful endorsement of calendar days. he SOCOTEC Certification certification following a yearly audit Philippines, Inc. has and to its compliance with ISO Dr. Agrupis also thanked the T awarded the International 9001:2015 terms and conditions. Development Academy of the Organization for Standardization Philippines (DAP) for providing (ISO) 9001:2015 certificate to the Overwhelmed with joy, MMSU MMSU training and technical Mariano Marcos State University President Shirley C. Agrupis guidance, which made the ISO (MMSU), certifying that the exclaimed that all efforts of the 9001:2015 certification possible. university has an effective and university constituents for the efficient quality management university’s bid for ISO certification MMSU is one of the 19 system (QMS). had finally paid off. government agencies assisted by the DAP in developing their respective With certificate no. SCP000422Q, “This is due to the concerted Quality Management Systems the MMSU’s ISO 9001:2015 efforts of all units, a proof that if we certifiable to the ISO 9001:2015 certification covers the university’s work harmoniously and standard in 2019. provision of advanced, professional conscientiously, we can make things and higher education, research, possible in just a short span of time,” The QMS is one of the mandates extension and support services in its she beamed. of the government through campuses in the City of , Executive Order 605, s. 2017, which City, and Currimao. The original date of certification seeks to promote and enhance was December 18, 2019. However, public sector performance through Issued on February 7, the certificate the auditing body raised minor the adoption of international is valid until December 18, 2021, nonconformities of MMSU, standards. subject to the university’s adherence to prompting the latter to submit its

4 Office for Strategic Communication Vol. 4 No. 2, February 2020 DOST oks MMSU’s P12.3-M project on indigenous plants By reynaldo e. andres

he Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Thas approved the PhP12.3 million fund for the Phase 2 project of the Mariano Marcos State University - Tuklas Lunas Development Center (MMSU- TLDC) in order to continue embarking the development of herbal and potentially medicinal products using indigenous plant species (IPS) available in .

MMSU President Shirley C. Agrupis said this second phase of the TLDC million for the Phase 1. Immediately, project will surely contribute in ensuring Rodel T. Utrera, Dr. Epifania O. the University has started doing the health of the people and in Agustin, Dioniso L. Jamias, Araceli research on at least 11 selected IPS that optimizing the potentials of Badar, and Dr. Miriam E. Pascua. will be used to make anti-inflammatory underutilized plant species. herbal products. Prior to the approval of the fund The first phase of the project, for the Phase II project, MMSU- The plants have long been known “Development of Anti-Inflammatory TLDC Chief Anabelle B. Alejo and to have anti-inflammatory properties, Herbal Products from Ilocos Prof. Kristian Gay D. Beltran based on their reported folkloric uses. Indigenous Plants,” started in 2018 after presented the project, “Formulation These were identified and culled from the DOST approved a PhP35-million Dosage Forms from Standardized the 46 IPS in the province that were fund for the anti-inflammatory drugs Non-Toxic Bioactive Extracts from documented and characterized by research project. From this amount, the Indigenous Plants” in an executive MMSU researchers Menisa A. Antonio, DOST initially released a PHP12- committee meeting with the DOST officials held at the Hotel Jen, Pasay City last February 20.

Prof. Alejo said the Phase II aims to discover and optimize the potentials of another five indigenous plants in the province for medicinal purposes.

Dr. Agrupis has welcomed the approval of the fund, saying the people, especially those from rural communities, need affordable, effective, and organic medicinal products from indigenous plant species to address health-related concerns.

Survey results showed that the IPS are grown from seven composite TLDC chief Anabelle Alejo (extreme left) and Prof. Kristian Gay Beltran of MMSU, pose for a towns in Ilocos Norte – Adams, souvenir shot with the staff of the Philippine Council for Health Research and Development Pagudpud, Bangui, Dumalneg, Vintar, (PCHRD) after they presented the project, "Formulation Dosage Forms from Standardized Carasi, and Nueva Era. (with a Non-Toxic Bioactive Extracts from Indigenous Plants” in an executive committee meeting report from D. P. Tapaoan, Jr.) with the DOST officials. Office for Strategic Communication 5 Vol. 4 No. 2, February 2020 MMSU, DA to put up onion and garlic research center By reynaldo e. andres support, through Agriculture Secretary Agriculturists, Bureau of Plant Industry, fficials of the Department William D. Dar, because the proposed Philippine Rice Research Institute, and of Agriculture – Bureau of Center will surely help farmers who the Agricultural Training Institute, is OAgricultural Research (DA- are perennially beset with problems on currently helping to revive the ailing BAR) met with the garlic experts the decreasing supply and quality garlic Ilocos’ garlic industry by establishing a and researchers of the Mariano in the provinces of Ilocos Norte and sustainable seed support project. Marcos State University (MMSU) Ilocos Sur. on Tuesday (February 25) and One component of the project is discussed the establishment of an She said the establishment of an the university’s allotment of five Onion and Garlic Research and onion and garlic research center in the hectares from its more than 200-hectare Development Center in the main MMSU campus will be another production area in the main campus campus in order to elevate the milestone to be added in the list of solely for high quality garlic varieties status of the local products toward many development projects in the such as the Ilocos White, Cabuyao, global competitiveness. MMSU that the present leadership of Ilocos Pink, and Tan Bolters. DA is supporting. In a meeting held at the MMSU’s Working in partnership with the FEM conference hall, Mr. Joell Lales, Among other DA-BAR-assisted mentioned agencies, the university is chief of DA-BAR’s Program projects in the university is the PhP 1.3- stepping up moves to enhance the Development Division, said this is now million storage facility for onion and capability of the onion and garlic the right time to address the needs and garlic at the MMSU warehouse, which growers in producing high quality gaps of both crops amid the unabated the DA inaugurated in 2014, as a planting materials, too, so that it could influx of poor quality onion and garlic gesture of support to the ailing sustain the garlic seed system in the products from nearby countries that is industry. The facility is in line with the province. annually hurting the pockets of local MMSU project: Revitalizing the garlic farmers in Ilocos Norte, the garlic industry through a sustainable seed Meanwhile, records from the Bureau capital of the Philippines. support system. of Agricultural Statistics (BAS) show that Ilocos Norte is contributing an Lales has challenged MMSU The warehouse is intended to annual share of 69 percent in the total President Shirley C. Agrupis and the safeguard high quality onion and garlic garlic production in the country. MMSU experts involved in the research bulbs from pests and diseases so that Occidental Mindoro ranks second with of these two crops “to come up a farmers will have healthy planting a contribution of 22.03 percent, while concept (in the establishment of the materials for the next cropping season. Quezon Province and Ilocos Sur rank Center) so that we can act on it third and fourth with annual (immediately).” The MMSU, along with the productions of 2.93 and 2.68 percent, provincial government of Ilocos respectively. Lales hopes that the outlined science Norte, DA, Office of the Provincial and technology (S&T) interventions of DA-BAR for onion and garlic in the province will address these concerns as he encouraged the MMSU researchers to take part in addressing the productivity decline of both crops by generating and promoting promising technologies.

In addressing the woes of local onion and garlic producers in the province, the DA-BAR official hopes that the main role of the Center will be a nucleus of growth and development.

Meanwhile, Dr. Agrupis has welcomed the DA-BAR’s gargantuan 6 Office for Strategic Communication Vol. 4 No. 2, February 2020 DA, Ilocos Norte agencies Univ, city gov’t ink agreement for INAFES push pro-poor programs

ity Mayor Albert D. Chua and MMSU President CShirley C. Agrupis signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to jointly implement pro- poor programs last February 3 at the Sangguniang Panlungsod Session Hall.

Titled Plano and Pasilaw, the programs allow families in the City The Department of Agriculture, Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte, and various agencies of Batac to avail free services of the in Ilocos Norte sign a memorandum of agreement for the establishment of the INAFES. MMSU engineers, particularly for structural, plumbing and electrical he Department of Ranison C. Narciso, NIA Division plans. Agriculture and the Manager Danilo V. Gomez, PAFC T Provincial Government of Chairman Benjamin Y. Campañano, Jr., Under the agreement, the city Ilocos Norte led the ceremonial FNIA Chairman Rogelio G. Ceredon, government’s Building Office shall signing of the memorandum of SWISA President Alger S. Valdez, and refer qualified applicants of the two agreement (MOA) for the CAMP President Benigno D. Peczon. programs to MMSU for the free establishment of the Ilocos Norte consultation services. The Agriculture and Fisheries Extension About 2,000 farmers from , departments of Civil Engineering System (INAFES) on February 28 at Sarrat, San Nicolas, Paoay, Piddig, and and Electrical Engineering are the Ilocos Norte Centennial Arena, the City of Batac who are recipients of specifically tapped for these Laoag City. the rice farmers financial assistance cash programs. cards and other interventions from the Others involved for the creation of government witnessed the ceremonial Dr. Agrupis said MMSU students INAFES are the Mariano Marcos State MOA signing. will formulate the plans, with the University (MMSU), Regional supervision and approval of their Agriculture and Fisheries Extension Also present in the event were professors, as required by the local Network (RAFEN), the League of Senator Imee R. Marcos, Ilocos Norte government unit for the issuance of Municipalities of the Philippines in Vice Governor Cecilia Araneta-Marcos, a building permit. “This is one way Ilocos Norte (LMP-IN), League of and officials from the DA, regional and to help the people of the City of Municipal and City Agriculturists of the local government offices, organizations Batac so they will no longer pay Philippines in Ilocos Norte and cooperatives. professional fees for specialists,” she (LeMMCAP), the National Irrigation stressed. Administration (NIA) Regional Office I, The INAFES is a harmonious Provincial Agriculture and Fisheries network of government and non- The university president added Council (PAFC), Federation of National government organizations in the that this will serve as the students’ Irrigators Association (FNIA), Small province that share science-based “applied laboratory” in their Water Irrigation System Association knowledge and innovations in farming respective fields, thus preparing them (SWISA), Inc., and the Coalition for and fishing enterprise for the benefit of for their eventual graduation. Agriculture Modernization in the various stakeholders. Philippines (CAMP), Inc. The officials of the City It aims to strengthen the existing Government of Batac, the university The agreement was signed by Ilocos extension system in the province Vice President for Administration Norte Governor Matthew Marcos through the help of professional and Finance, Engr. Ami Ruth Manotoc, Agriculture Secretary William researchers and extension workers who Cocson, the dean of the College of D. Dar, MMSU President Shirley C. will provide technical and business Engineering, Dr. Nathaniel Alibuyog, Agrupis, RAFEN Chair Rogelio C. advisory services to farming and fishing and other faculty members witnessed Evangelista, LMP-IN President Fidel A. communities. (D.P. Tapaoan, Jr.) the MOA signing. (by D.P. Cimatu, Jr., LeMMCAP President Tapaoan, Jr.) Office for Strategic Communication 7 Vol. 4 No. 2, February 2020 British Ambassador visits MMSU

In addition, Pruce highlighted that MMSU is collaborating with the British Geological Survey and the Ateneo de University to study the effects of climate change on groundwater resources - the availability of water and the possible consequences of flood and drought.

The British envoy also visited the Bislak River in Vintar, Ilocos Norte for its flood control system project.

Led by the University of Glasgow and the University of the Philippines, the Bislak River covering the municipalities of Vintar and Bacarra ritish Ambassador to the He said the British Embassy in in Ilocos Norte is being studied to Philippines Daniel Pruce Manila is co-organizing the Study better understand possible flood visited the university last World UK 2020 to provide bigger scenarios and to enable the town to B be better prepared for any water- February 6 to strengthen ties with opportunities for Filipinos to study in the academic community. the United Kingdom and to improve related risks. faculty exchange through scholarship Pruce discussed the British grants, to explore on joint research Since Pruce assumed as British government’s program on projects and to broaden curricula with representative to Manila in August transnational education with the Philippine universities, and to develop 2017, this was the first time that he university officials and students during better access to new resource materials. visited Ilocos Norte. He promised to a meeting among the Administrative come back to further strengthen Council (AdCo) officials at the River The British Embassy official said he friendly relations and stronger Mount Hotel and Resort, Sarrat, Ilocos takes pride of his government’s collaboration on areas both beneficial Norte. contribution to global education. to the UK and the Philippines. Cabinet spouses to provide scholarships to deserving students By daniel p. tapaoan jr. In the agreement, the DU30CSA will Also, the applicant will be provide a total of PhP 100,000 financial interviewed by the DU30CSA, attend he Duterte Cabinet Spouses assistance to every deserving student of to an orientation program, write a short Association, Inc. the university for one academic year. essay on how the scholarship will help T(DU30CSA) will provide a MMSU will submit to the association up him or her, and will make a monthly scholarship grant to deserving to three qualified nominees for the budget receipt of the scholarship grant. undergraduate students of the scholarship after a pre-screening process Mariano Marcos State University to be undertaken by its faculty members. The scholarship covers the grantees’ (MMSU) who are pursuing expenses on housing (PhP 30,000), agricultural or science and The scholarship is open for third year food (PhP 40,000), transportation (PhP technology programs. MMSU students whose parents’ annual 20,000), and for books and school gross income does not exceed PhP supplies (PhP 10,000). DU30CSA President Betty D. 250,000. The students must also not have Medialdea and MMSU President any scholastic delinquency; must be The grant will be for two years, as Shirley C. Agrupis signed a enrolled in at least 15 units at the time of long as on the second year of memorandum of agreement (MOA) the award of the grant; and, must not implementation, the selected scholars for this purpose in 2019. have been held liable in any disciplinary continue to meet the academic and action. financial qualifications. 8 Office for Strategic Communication Vol. 4 No. 2, February 2020 AdCo reviews 2019 outputs, sets plans for 2020

By daniel p. tapaoan jr.

embers of the MMSU Administrative Council M convened for the 2019 Performance Review and 2020 Planning Workshop held at the Rivermount Hotel and Resort in Sarrat, Ilocos Norte.

The activity, which ran from February 6-7, aimed to assess the performance of all the colleges and units in attaining their respective goals indicated in the 2019 University Strategic Plan, and to formulate plans and to set targets for this year. about ambitions and accomplishments,” presented the accomplishments of their In her speech, MMSU President she said. offices with respect to the seven-point Shirley C. Agrupis thanked the agenda, ACHIEVE. administrators for the collective While the university had accomplishments of the university for accomplished a lot and continues to Then, the AdCo members reviewed more than two years. She also talked strive for more, Dr. Agrupis the 2018-2023 MMSU Strategic Plan about the MMSU’s aspiration to encouraged the university administrators and crafted the Operational Plan for become a University 4.0 (in line with to sustain the conduct of performance 2020. The institutional calendar was also Education 4.0, and in response to review and planning workshop as a part presented to the administrators. Industry 4.0, the latest industrial of MMSU’s quality and excellence- revolution). driven culture. The AdCo members, led by the university president, ended the activity “It may look like another ambitious During the activity, the vice- by re-igniting their commitment to goal, but I know that our team is all presidents, deans and directors MMSU 4.0 through an oath. 4 SUCs benchmark with MMSU

our state universities and MMSU College of Arts and Sciences Meanwhile, last February 21, the colleges (SUCs) conducted (CAS) presented their best practices in MMSU QS team presented the benchmarking activities here offering the college’s degree programs university’s strategic plans, F accomplishments, and journey in in the university this February. to the visitors from CBSUA. gaining its three QS stars to the visitors The Central Bicol State University of MMSU President Shirley C. Agrupis from BSU, TSU, and ISU. Agriculture (CBSUA), Benguet State also presented the university’s University (BSU), Tarlac State University accomplishments and programs to the In January, MMSU became the first (TSU), and Isabela State University guests, hoping that MMSU and CBSUA state university in the country to be (ISU) visited the university to look into can explore possible areas for awarded with three stars by the QS MMSU’s best practices and on how it collaboration in the future. The faculty Stars Rating System. Using the QS gained its stars from the Quacquarelli members of the visiting institution international metrics, it was evaluated Symonds (QS) Stars Rating System. became interested in applying MMSU’s on the following areas: teaching, English programs (under the Language employability, academic development, On February 4, the department Center and the Department of internationalization, facilities, innovation, chairs and program coordinators of the Languages and Literature) in their social responsibility, and program school. strength. Office for Strategic Communication 9 Vol. 4 No. 2, February 2020 Agrupis releases new Team ACHIEVE designees Reappointed as directors of various units are Prof. Arsenio T. Gallego (Center for Human Movement Studies), Dr. Oscar M. Agpaoa (Financial Management Services), Ms. Marcela V. Aison (Human Resources Management), Dr. Leonisa A. Silvestre (Health and Wellness Services), Mr. Jan Francis O. Javier (Security Services), Dr. Marilou P. Lucas (Research), Dr. Aris Reynold V. Cajigal (Extension), Ms. Lenie G. Bayangos (Business), Dr. Marlowe U. Aquino (Science and Technology Park), Prof. Wilben Christie R. Pagtaconan (Information Technology Center), Dr. Mee Jay A. Domingo (External Linkages and Partnerships) and Dr. Frederick F. Rodrigo (Quality Assurance). The appointees take their oath of office before MMSU President Shirley C. Agrupis after the flag raising ceremony on February 3 in front of the FEM Hall. Their designations are valid For the chiefs of offices, new until July 31, 2021, unless sooner revoke. names are: Mr. John Vincent B. Toribio (Information Services), Mr. of the College of Health Sciences Ryan Roi B. Domingo (Digital Media MSU President Shirley C. (CHS), Dr. Cesario Y. Pacis of the Services), Dr. Annjeannette Alain D. Agrupis has appointed College of Industrial Technology Galang (Admission), Dr. Jan Rich A. M various university (CIT), and Dr. Eliza T. Samson of the Guira (Student Development), Mr. personnel to administrative College of Teacher Education (CTE). Rowell C. Tagatac (Cultural designations by virtue of Special Atty. Brian Jay Corpuz and Prof. Development), Prof. Aleli R. Martin Order No. 20-010. Veronica O. Grande are officers-in- (Expanded Tertiary Education charge of the College of Law (COL) Equivalency and Accreditation Designated anew as vice presidents and the College of Aquatic Sciences Program Office), Engr. Vladimir P. are Dr. Prima Fe R. Franco for and Applied Technology (CASAT), Ibañez, (National Service Training academic affairs, Engr. Ami Ruth R. respectively. Program Office), Dr. Byron Joseph Cocson for administration and A. Hallar (Distance Learning), Ms. finance, and Dr. Epifania O. Agustin Prof. Luvee Hazel C. Aquino was Rebecca P. Rangcapan (Records and for research, extension, and business. appointed as the secretary of the Archives Management System), Mr. Dr. Carmelo J. Esteban, who university and the Board of Regents, Gerard S. Ragudo (In-Service previously served as director for while Atty. Ma. Saniata R. Marcos is the Trainings), Ms. Shareid Shundy B. planning, was assigned to serve as officer-in-charge of the Legal Office. Aguilar (University Psychology vice president for planning and Testing Center), Engr. Jonas Paul B. development. The newly designated directors of Dela Cruz (Disaster Risk Reduction), the different offices are Mr. Reynaldo Mr. Erick Jay A. Dela Cruz Reappointed deans of their E. Andres (Office for Strategic (Procurement Planning), Ms. respective colleges are Dr. Virgilio Communication), Prof. Henedine A. Norjemar I. Galing (Contract Julius P. Manzano of the Graduate Aguinaldo (University Registrar), Dr. Management), Mr. Rogelio Tagatac School (GS), Dr. Ricardo S. Guanzon Elizabeth Marfel F. Gagni (Student (Carpentry), Mr. Romeo L. of the College of Medicine (COM), Affairs and Services), Ms. Eliza G. Borromeo (Plumbing), Mr. Louie T. Dr. Joselito I. Rosario of the College Villarin (University Library System, Ruguian (Motorpool and Mechanical of Agriclture, Food and Sustainable Prof. Andres Y. Tungpalan Services), Mr. Franklin S. Clarion Development (CAFSD), Dr. Marivic (Administrative Services), Mr. Erick Jay (Ground Maintenance), Mr. M. Alimbuyugen of the College of A. Dela Cruz (Procurement), Engr. Giovannie Stanley S. Malab Arts and Sciences (CAS), Dr. Angelina Ariel B. de los Santos (General (Landscaping), Mr. Joel I. Adajar Abrojena of the College of Business, Services), Prof. Reynold Villacillo (Visual Arts), Dr. Arnold M. Caoili, Economics and Accountancy (Planning), and, Engr. Romeo R. (Regional Research and Training (CBEA), Dr. Nathaniel R. Alibuyog Duldulao (Physical Planning and Center for Climate Change Studies), of the College of Engineering Development). (COE), Dr. Manolita S. Crisostomo (See Team ACHIEVE...page 12) 10 Office for Strategic Communication Vol. 4 No. 2, February 2020 CBEA celebrates 33rd founding anniversary

o foster unity among its faculty, students and Tadministrators, the College of Business, Economics and Accountancy (CBEA) conducted series of activities in celebration of its 33rd founding anniversary.

With the theme, “Semper Ad Meliora: Always Towards Better Things,” the events happened last February 10 were participated by around 1,300 students, 60 alumni and 30 faculty and staff. The celebration was accommodate the burgeoning The celebration culminated with spearheaded by the CBEA Faculty Club, population of the college. simultaneous departmental fora with Alumni Association, and the Student the various stakeholders of the college - Council. Moreover, the students joined in a the representatives from industries, team-building activity to tighten their government agencies, non-government The celebration started with a bonds. Their respective organizations organizations, alumni, students and thanksgiving service and an opening also put up booths in the college. parents. They discussed about the program at the University Covered revised proposed curriculum of the Court. Highlighting the event was the A Lunch-for-a-Cause activity was also different degree programs of the inauguration of the college’s new held to purchase LED wall to be college and their respective College building led by the college dean, Dr. placed at the lobby and an amplifier Research, Extension and Development Angelina Abrojena. The structure, with speaker to be set up at the college’s Agenda (CREDA). (by D.P. Tapaoan, six classrooms, addresses the need to social hall. Jr.) CIT alumnus donates automotive tools

During his visit to MMSU last February 12, Mr. Gagarin recalled his days in the college. “As I look back on my college days, I remember my professors who influenced me in my professional and personal life. When I think about all the things that my alma mater did for me, I want to give back as a gesture of gratitude,” Gagarin said.

Dr. Cesario Y. Pacis, the college dean, said that the college is grateful for n alumnus of the BS in These tools include: Diagnostic Scan the alumni who visit and donate tools Industrial Technology – and instruments which are beneficial for Automotive Technology tool FixAssist OBD2+ ABS; a 17-pc A Screwdriver set; an inspection mirror/ the learning process of the students. program donated automotive tools pick-up tool; multimeter; battery brush; “Our graduates never forget CIT to the College of Industrial which they claim to have transformed Technology, particularly to the 8-function miltimeter; 99-pc electrical home repair kit; 25-pc stripper/crimper their lives to becoming successful and department of Bachelor in financially stable. They are very Automotive Technology. and terminals set; torque wrench 20-100 LBS; 12-IN, 17-IN, & 25-IN curved fascinated of how the university has pry bars; 3-pc adjustable wrench set; 3- metamorphosed, and this motivates Mr. Eric Gagarin, a member of the them more to keep coming back,” he 2010 class, donated the automotive piece locking pliers set; 10-pc ratcheting combination wrench set; and, a 28-pc stressed. (by Athen Lee D. Delos tools for the students to use in their Santos, CIT Correspondent) laboratory classes combination wrench set. Office for Strategic Communication 11 Vol. 4 No. 2, February 2020 CTE, DepEd Ilocos Norte hold workshop on needs-based research

By Niña Christelle Sumintac Innovations/Strategies/Inventions to the CTE Correspondent Identified Problems by Prof. John Paul C. Vallente; Methods of Research by Dr. Rosabel L. Acosta and Dr. Jahnese D. Asuncion; and Action Research Timeline/ Gannt Chart, Result and Discussion and Conclusion and Recommendation by Prof. Gerry D. Abad and Dr. Bert A. Gamiao.

The trainers were joined by Mr. Ryan A. Dulig and Mr. Jay Lagutero, 2018 Basic Education Research Fund (BERF) Grantees from DepEd-IN who discussed the importance of Action Research and its difference from the basic research.

The seminar-workshop is the first he MMSU College of twenty teachers from the 21 districts of extension project of the MMSU-CTE Teacher Education, in Ilocos Norte participated in the this year. T coordination with the seminar-workshop. Department of Education (DepEd) This is an effort of the College that – Ilocos Norte, held a month-long The DepEd Ilocos Norte tapped directly responds to one of the 7-point seminar-workshop on Strengthening the CTE faculty members to serve as agenda of University President Shirley the Needs-Based Researches for trainers in the activity. teachers held at Filipinas East C. Agrupis, which is High Impact and Transformative Extension and Outreach Elementary School, San Nicolas, Topics discussed during the seminar- Program. Ilocos Norte. workshop were: How to Identify Problems for Action Research and How to Write The month-long extension activity The joint extension activity aimed to Rationale/Context of the Action Research by culminated last February 20, 2020 at the propagate a culture of research in the Prof. Aleli R. Martin; Identifying Research basic education sector. One hundred Questions and How to Identify Solutions/ DepEd Ilocos Norte office.

(Team ACHIEVE...from page 10) Limon (Product Safety and Excellence) and Ms. Rhea R. Espiritu Standards), Engr. Artbellson G. (Center for Diver Training and Mamuri (University Innovation Education). Prof. Anabelle B. Alejo (Tuklas Lunas Technology Services), Dr. Bobby A. Development Center), Prof. Estrelita Eclarin (Data Science Unit), Mr. Designated anew as chiefs of O. Domingo (Natural Resources Prospero T. Valdez, Jr. (Technical offices are: Mr. Procopio B. Dafun, Jr. Conservation and Management Services and Maintenance), Prof. Ryan (Documentation Services), Dr. Center), Engr. Samuel S. Franco Dean T. Sucgang (Alumni Relations), Geraldine B. Pascual (Student (Center for Innovative Materials in Dr. Marlowe U. Aquino (International Welfare), Prof. Milagros B. Barruga Emerging Applications), Mr. Nestor Programs), Prof. Jeanette G. Dials (Institutional Student Programs and T. Alonzo (Training Facilities), Ms. (International Faculty and Student Services), Mr. Clarence S. Ordonia Vinamay Grace R. Cabugon Mobility), Engr. Philip D. Padre (Sports Development), Dr. Ronald (Accommodation), Dr. Susan G. (Project Management Section), Dr. Candy S. Lasaten (Instructional Aquino (Agribusiness), Ms. Kristel Margarita G. Hilario (Program and Materials Development), Prof. Jay Pee Ivy J. Badar (Marketing Center), Mr. Institutional Accreditation), Dr. B. Ilacas (OJT / SIPP / Practicum), Rogelio A. Abiva, Jr. (SIP Hub), Michelle D. Reynera (International Ms. Phebe M. Pasion (Supply and Prof. Rhoda T. Garcia (Food Accreditation), Mr. Leonardo D. Property Management), Mr. Products Innovation Center), Prof. Tejano (Center for Iloko and Alexander C. Martinez (Document Mishael Joy S. Barrera (Technology Amianan Studies), Dr. Jovenita A. Business Incubation), Dr. Mark R. Aragon (CHED Center for Teaching (See Team ACHIEVE...page 13) 12 Office for Strategic Communication Vol. 4 No. 2, February 2020 MMSU is member of distance education consortium TWG

he Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) is one of T the six state universities composing a technical working group (TWG) that will work on the creation of the Consortium of Open and Distance Education Institutions in the Philippines.

Other schools included in the TWG are the University of the Philippines - Open University (UPOU), Benguet State University (BSU), Central Luzon State University (CLSU), Don Mariano The Technical Working Group (TWG) of the Consortium of Open and Distance Education Marcos Memorial State University Instititutions in the Philippines. (DMMMSU), and the Ifugao State collaboration, particularly on distance In support of the MOU’s intent, the University (IFSU). education, among the Consortium member-universities shall support the members. The MOU specifically leads activities of the TWG by allocating UPOU chancellor Dr. Melinda DP. to the development and offering of appropriate resources needed for the Bandalaria and university presidents Dr. programs, cross-enrolment, sharing of abovementioned purposes. Shirley C. Agrupis (MMSU), Dr. educational resources and publication, Feliciano G. Calora, Jr. (BSU), Dr. and research. Other specific areas of cooperation Edgar A. Orden (CLSU), Dr. Jaime I. will be elaborated later in subsequent Manuel, Jr. (DMMMSU), and Dr. Eva Also, the TWG will collaborate for formal agreements to specify the Marie Codamon-Dugyon (IFSU) signed the capacity-building on faculty and detailed terms and conditions of such a memorandum of understanding student exchange, and for international collaborations. (MOU) for this purpose at the UPOU collaboration and accreditation. Headquarters in Los Baños, Laguna last The cooperation between the six February 20. Pursuant to the MOU, all research state universities shall be based on the outputs, discoveries and innovations principles of mutual benefit and respect As stipulated in the MOU, the TWG produced by the TWG shall be jointly for each other’s independence. (by D.P. will identify areas of academic owned by the member-universities. Tapaoan, Jr.)

(Team ACHIEVE...from page 12) R. Demandante, (Technology appointed anew as coordinators of Demonstration), Ms. Mercy Fausta R. Dingras and Paoay campuses, Tracking System), Ms. Imelda C. Gaño (Applied Communication), Mr. respectively. For the laboratory Corpuz (Accounting Office), Ms. Norman D. Viernes (Food Service), schools, Dr. Bert A. Gamiao of Remedelina G. Villena (Budget), Ms. Ms. Corazon Diana A. Pastor (Meat Laoag campus and Dr. Resureccion Amelita U. Pungtilan (Cashier), Dr. Processing), Prof. Sucgang (University M. Mateo of Batac campus were Saturnina F. Nisperos (University Research Ethics Review Board), Dr. designated as new principals. Personnel Development Program), Sherlyn B. Nicolas (Monitoring and Mr. Jimmy A. Banayat (Security), Ms. Evaluation Unit), Mr. Arman A. The appointees took their oath of Agnes L. Gabriel (Bids and Awards Barruga (Software Development and office before the university president Committee Secretariat), Dr. Network Administration), Arch. Aida after the flag raising ceremony in Floramante C. Pastor (Pollution V. Cabang (Physical Planning Section), front of the FEM Hall on February Control Unit), Michael Freddie S. Engr. Michael N. Duldulao (LACAD), 3. These designations are valid until Balanay (Electrical Services), Engr. Dr. Marlina L. Lino (Language July 31, 2021, unless sooner revoke. Wilson R. Duldulao (Electronics), Center), Ms. Carmencita A. Saladino Engr. Thomas D. Ubiña (National (Marine-based Product Research and For contact details of the Bioenergy Research and Innovation Development), and Dr. Maria Eliza S. university administrators, visit https:/ Center), Dr. Dionisio S. Bucao Lopez (Sentro ng Wika at Kultura). /www.mmsu.edu.ph/about/ (Garlic Research Center), Ms. Bella directory. -- (D.P. Tapaoan, Jr.) C. Gervacio (Training and Moreover, Dr. Jocelyn A. Bernabe Continuing Education), Dr. Sosima and Engr. Ruben J. Dabalos were Office for Strategic Communication 13 Vol. 4 No. 2, February 2020 Grad School, Language Center CTE honors hold lecture on Ilokano language alumni By ma. deleilah f. adriatico By Niña Christelle Sumintac

he College of Teacher Education recognized its T Balay ti Alumni donors during its Alumni and Awards Night held last February 14.

The college gave special citations to the building’s wall donors, room sponsors, alumni kings and queens in grateful appreciation of the alumni’s overwhelming efforts to help build CTE’s Balay ti Alumni.

n celebration of the intellectualization of the Ilokano An awards committee was created International Mother Language. to recognize the generous donors. Language Day 2020, a Through the committee head, Dr. I Alegria T.Visaya (NLTC Class of 1972), lecture on Intellectualizing the In the activity, University President Ilokano Language User and Shirley C. Agrupis emphasized the need the individual and group donors were Speaker for Research and to strengthen Ilokano studies in the given platinum, gold, silver, and bronze Scholarship for the Community was university focusing on Ilokano language awards. conducted last February 22 at the and culture. CTEX Hall, MMSU Laoag The committee also recognized the Campus. The activity was participated in by class with the biggest donation which is graduate and undergraduate students in the NLTC Class of 1968. Meanwhile, Famous Ilokano studies scholar, Dr. the university, particularly those who are the NLTC Class of 1973 was also Aurelio S. Agcaoili, associate professor taking PhD in Linguistics, MA recognized as the Royal Class as it has and coordinator of the Ilokano Education (majors in Ilokano Studies, produced a king and a number of Language and Literature Program of Language and Literature, and Wika at queens in a row from 2015 to 2019. the University of Hawaii at Manoa, Panitikan), MA in English Language and delivered a lecture on the Literature and AB English Language. Dr. Rosabel L. Acosta, outgoing alumni affairs coordinator, said that the accumulated donations totaled to PhP MMSU sets good record 3.8 million and USD 3,000. MMSU Federated Alumni in PT, ME exams Association Inc. President Bismark A. Quidang, the event’s guest of honor, said, “I am confident that the Alumni nce again, the University institutional passing rate of 62.50% as Relations Office will link all alumni who exhibited good against the 61% national success rate. are now global citizens to be a blessing performance in the to President Shirley C. Agrupis’ O Meanwhile, 15 out of 29 graduates Physical Therapy and Mechanical ACHIEVE”. Engineer licensure examinations from the College of Engineering administered by the Professional hurled the examination for MEs, In the event, Ms. Aurelia Bacud- Regulation Commission held last producing 51.72% institutional passing Opeña (NLTC Class of 1970) was also rate, higher than the national average February 2-3 and 23-24, hailed as the CTE Alumni Queen 2020. respectively. which stood at only 38.45%. The Alumni Night is an annual event Ten out of 16 graduates from the These passers were among the 729 of the College, gathering graduates even College of Health Sciences (CHS) new PTs and 1,334 new MEs in the passed the PT test, yielding an country. from its predecessor school. 14 Office for Strategic Communication Vol. 4 No. 2, February 2020 CHED issues LES Laoag is overall champ guidelines in regional contest to prevent spread of COVID-19 he MMSU Laboratory Florianne Felix, Katricemaye Ansagay, Elementary School and Charmaine Cachila, fourth. They were all coached by Ms. Romelyn he Commission on Higher T(LES) in Laoag City Education (CHED) has campus emerged overall Lagura, directed all higher education champion in the region-wide institutionsT (HEIs) to observe the academic and literary arts For the essay writing contest, guidelines of health authorities in contests held last February 5-6. Kimberly Ardelle Aurelio Umlas preventing the spread of COVID-19, landed first place in the English a disease caused by the coronavirus. The Philippine Science High category, while Shaundei Wayne School – Ilocos Region Campus in Valdez landed second in the Filipino The guidelines released last February San Ildefonso, Ilocos Sur category. Coaches were Mr. Mark Ian 11 recommend HEIs to discuss about conducted the competitions in line Tagami and Ms. Janeth Luis, the suspension of school events, such as with its celebration of the 18th respectively. sports activities, which involve the congregation of students. CHED stated Foundation Day and Science, that schools and groups must review Technology, Engineering and Also, the group of Jacob Flor, with their respective Department of Mathematics (STEM) Week. Mark Antin Planta, and Elijah Health (DOH) regional offices whether Alimpia emerged as the first placer in to push through or postpone any Four groups from the LES won the Math Trail contest. Meanwhile, planned events. This is in line with the in the Investigatory Project Wizard Starry Christi Sampayan landed third recent recommendation of the DOH to contest: Thrizie Reyes, James in the vocal solo contest. Ms. Rica “avoid attending, participating in, and Daron Apay, and Julienne Lucas, Jane Natividad was their coach. organizing events that draw a huge first place; Amon Ra Rahon, Rylie number of attendees.” Felicity Mina Algonahota, and Naiah Amano Ancheta won second Razheed Batangan, second; Aliah place in the Science and Technology Citing orders from the DOH and Writing (Filipino), with Mr. Leonardo the World Health Organization (WHO), Concepcion, Jian Mikaela Juan, and the commission also urged faculty Chjalsmyr Saturnino, third; and, Tejano as the coach. members, staff, and students to avoid believing and spreading fake news about the disease. “HEIs are encouraged to only rely on and disseminate relevant information obtained from DOH and WHO via their official websites,” it stated. In addition, CHED also recommended the creation of a central in-house resource of COVID-19- related information available for students and institute personnel. The agency also encouraged institutions to establish screening protocols based on the WHO guidelines for screening and response.

While there is still no vaccine to prevent COVID-19, CHED asked students and personnel to strictly follow the recommended preventive actions to prevent its spread, such as avoiding close contact with people who are sick, staying home when sick, covering mouth and nose when sneezing, cleaning and disinfecting frequently used objects, and sanitizing hands regularly. Office for Strategic Communication 15 Vol. 4 No. 2, February 2020

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