Hawaii student delegates welcomed at MMSU for cultural interface
By Wimbledon Bosque
Bridging cultures across the Pacific, student delegates from the State of Hawaii, led by Mr. Zachary Espino, Senior Special Assistant at the East-West Center, visited Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) on March 17 for a cultural exchange and learning engagement.
The delegates were welcomed by MMSU President Virgilio Julius P. Manzano, Jr., together with Internationalization, Linkages, and Partnership Director Jeanette Dials and ILP chiefs.
The President praised the strong ties with the State of Hawaii and partner institutions. He encouraged more intercultural engagements, which will bring more global insights and sensitivity to the diversity of world cultures. Dr. Manzano expressed, “I want more employees and students to be exposed to international collaborations such as this, because we need more global perspectives to engage in global conversations.”
As part of their visit, Katutubo Exchange Philippines Founder and President Edwin Antonio delivered a lecture, featuring indigenous cultures from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Student delegates of Hawaii and students of MMSU also experienced the fun of traditional Filipino games.
Meanwhile, Vice President for Academic Affairs Aris Reynold Cajigal assured the MMSU academic community’s support for global engagement like the Aloha Interface. “Though separated by the Pacific Ocean, a meaningful connection exists between the State of Hawaii and the province of Ilocos Norte, one that strengthens people-to-people ties,” he added.
In his message, Mr. Espino expressed pride in the student delegates of Hawaii, noting their “passion, heart, and willingness to engage with Filipinos.” He added that their visit to MMSU reflects their existing ties and shared commitment to nurturing future Ilokano leaders and strengthening cross-cultural understanding.
Moreover, the delegates were treated to cultural performances by the Bin-i Dance Troupe of the College of Teacher Education (CTE), including the college’s String Ensemble and Quartet.
Also present during the event were Vice President for Administration and Finance Fides Bernardo Bitanga, Vice President for Research, Development, and Innovation Nathaniel Alibuyog, Vice President for Strategic Planning and Foresight Meejay Domingo, and Vice President for Resource Generation and Management Bjorn Santos.
As part of their cultural immersion, the delegates visited Paoay for its Sand Dunes experience, tried the famous Ilocos empanada in Batac, and explored other local attractions in Ilocos and Manila in the next few days.
Mar, 24, 2026 03:25:pm
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