Mariano Marcos
State University

GS orientation program: PJM urges graduate students to strengthen community-based research

By Benedict Jay Collado

Putting emphasis on the importance of research as a driving force for strengthening community involvement, Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) President Virgilio Julius P. Manzano Jr. urged the Graduate School students to strengthen community-based research during the college’s orientation program at the Center for Flexible Learning (CFL) on August 15.

The comprehensive day-long event, dubbed ‘SUCCEED @ GS: Graduate Synergy’, was designed to transition graduate students smoothly into advanced academia by briefing them on academic pathways, student welfare, safety protocols, and university-wide support systems.

In the morning, the session featured a dynamic lineup of speakers and an interactive talk-show format that connected directly with different service heads. Atty. Therese Zsa Raval of the Rotary Club of Laoag Sunshine inspired attendees with her talk themed ‘#SUCCEED Through Service’.

This was followed by GS Secretary Winicel May Ancheta, who laid out the essential guidelines and policies governing the Graduate School, while Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Chief Reynold Gujang and Traffic Management Chief Agustin Diric emphasized campus safety and security in their briefings.

Furthermore, in a talk-show format, robust student systems accessible to students were thoroughly explained by various directors, namely Prof. Lawrence John Tagata of the Office of Student Affairs and Service (OSAS), Dr. Geraldeen Pascual, the Guidance Counseling Coordinator, Ms. Maria Cristeta Llacuna of the University Library System, and Sr. Ma. Theresa Rasos of Health and Wellness Services. 

Other university officials who participated in the morning session included Legal Office representative Atty. Ma. Saniata R. Marcos, University Registrar Prof. Henedine A. Aguinaldo, ITC Skills Development Chief Dr. Gerry L. Contillo, and ITC Director Engr. Vladimir P. Ibañez.

Additionally, PJM and GS Dean Doreen Domingo also addressed student inquiries on publication requirements, thesis advising, learning modalities, and access to academic resources. This orientation recalibrated the Graduate School's dedication to supporting students through both academic guidance and essential university services.