MMSU opens month-long 48th Foundation Anniversary Celebration
Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) commenced the celebration of its 48th Foundation Anniversary today, January 6, marking 48 years of sustained excellence in quality instruction, research, innovative extension services, and strong community involvement. With the theme “One Vision, One MMSU,” the anniversary highlights the institution’s shared dedication to shaping the futures and contributing to national progress.
The celebration started with the traditional “Diana Around the Town,” a symbolic activity that signaled the opening of the month-long festivities. This was followed by the Thanksgiving Ecumenical Service held at the Teatro Ilocandia, and the opening of the Trade Fair and Garden Show at the MMSU College of Law open grounds, attended by members of the MMSU Board of Regents, university officials, as well as faculty, staff, students, and other members of the university community.
In his message during the opening, MMSU President Virgilio Julius P. Manzano Jr. expressed his gratitude to the individuals and leaders who played an important role in shaping the university’s present achievements. He acknowledged the contributions of past administrations, noting that their leadership laid a strong foundation that enabled the university’s continued progress.
“We thank our past leaders who cleared the way for us, making it easier for us to succeed,” Dr. Manzano said. He also assured stakeholders that the university will remain committed to being a people-centered institution, bold in its vision and disciplined in its governance.
PJM further encouraged university personnel to sustain the culture of excellence by striving beyond mediocrity, emphasizing that the administration remains steadfast in supporting its workforce. “The real strength of MMSU is its people, competent and dedicated to delivering the university’s mandate to its stakeholders. This administration will continue to support you, as you also work beyond the average,” he added.
Moreover, Vice President for Resource Generation and Management and Chairperson of the 2026 Foundation Anniversary, Dr. Bjorn Santos, emphasized that the celebration serves a deeper purpose beyond commemoration. He noted that the occasion provides an opportunity not only to reflect on the institution’s journey and achievements, but also to realign its goals and priorities in preparation for the challenges and opportunities ahead.
VP Santos emphasized that the Foundation Anniversary theme underscores the unity of the academic community, reminding stakeholders that despite coming from different colleges, disciplines, and backgrounds, they are bound by a common purpose and a shared direction.
“This event is not merely a celebration, but a renewal of commitment, an affirmation to continue working collaboratively and moving forward as one institution toward a collective vision of growth, excellence, and service,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Trade Fair and Garden Show features a wide range of exhibits, including horticultural displays, research-based technologies developed by MMSU researchers, and products from private exhibitors within the province and nearby areas. Exhibits are grouped into categories such as furniture and handicrafts, food and refreshments, dry goods, ornamental and agricultural plants, and technology-based products, featuring both innovation and local enterprise.
A variety of activities are expected in the month-long celebration, including the annual PRAISE awards, MMSU Film Festival, Community Innovation Expo, Students’ Day, Employee’s Day, MMSU Retirees Day, nightly student performances, and culminating with the 2026 Stakeholders Forum. One of the anniversary highlights is the Investiture and State of the University Address of the 8th MMSU President, Dr. Virgilio Julius P. Manzano, Jr. He will present the University’s key achievements and milestones over the past year and launch MMSU’s 7-point SUCCEED agenda.
Established in 1978, MMSU has evolved into a leading institution of higher education in the Philippines. It is recognized for its commitment to academic excellence, innovative research, and impactful extension initiatives. After almost five decades, MMSU remains dedicated to transforming lives through education, innovation, and service to the community. (𝘔𝘔𝘝)
Jan, 09, 2026 08:47:am
Written By:
STRATCOM
