Mariano Marcos
State University

PGIN lauds MMSU for psychometrician licensure exam feat

By Ian Paul Villanueva

The Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte (PGIN) awarded a Certificate of Recognition to Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU), in recognition of its landmark performance in the recent Psychometricians Licensure Examination.

Governor Cecilia Araneta-Marcos personally handed the award to MMSU Vice President for Academic Affairs Aris Reynold Cajigal during the opening program of the World Mental Health Month Celebration held on October 9 at SM City Laoag.

Organized under the initiative “SAFE PIN: Mental Health Month Celebration” by the Ilocos Norte Youth Development Office (INYDO) and the Speak Up, I’m Here Mental Health and Hotline Center, the event primarily aimed to raise awareness about mental health among its participants.

The awarding comes after MMSU ranked first among institutions with 50 to 99 examinees nationwide, registering a 100% passing rate from its 54 test-takers alongside seven national topnotchers produced by its pioneer graduating batch.

In receiving the award on behalf of MMSU President Virgilio Julius P. Manzano, Jr., Dr. Cajigal reiterated MMSU’s commitment to mental health advocacy and holistic well-being.

“Mental health is not a secondary concern; it is the very foundation of how we think, feel, learn, and grow together as a community. To care for one’s mind is not a sign of weakness; it is an act of courage. At MMSU, we remain steadfast in our commitment to nurturing an environment where well-being comes first, and where no student, educator, or citizen ever feels alone in their journey.”

Dr. Cajigal also paid tribute to the university’s seven board topnotchers whose “stellar achievements are more than personal triumphs; they are beacons of hope for our entire province.”