The Embassy of Hungary in the Philippines, led by H.E. Titanilla Tóth, honored Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) for its contributions to the multilingual poetry anthology 𝘏𝘪𝘯𝘥𝘪 𝘗𝘢𝘴𝘪𝘴𝘪𝘭 𝘢𝘯𝘨 𝘗𝘢𝘨𝘴𝘪𝘣𝘰𝘭 (A Blossoming that Will Not be Stifled). This recognition was held during Hungary’s National Day celebration at Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, on October 14.

Representing MMSU at the event, upon the ambassador's invitation, is Ms. Elloize Arnelle Querubin, Executive Assistant to the University President. She was accompanied by Ms. Annette Ablan from the International Relations Office of the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte. Both received the award on behalf of MMSU President Virgilio Julius P. Manzano, Jr.

The said anthology is a collection of poems from renowned Hungarian poets like Sándor Petőfi, translated into six Philippine languages, including Filipino. It was first introduced at the inaugural Philippine Book Festival in 2023, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of Philippines-Hungary diplomatic relations.

In its latest edition, the collection expanded its linguistic reach with the inclusion of Ilokano translations, further celebrating the richness and diversity of Philippine languages.

This expansion became possible through the efforts of Asst. Prof. Leonardo Tejano of MMSU College of Teacher Education. Tejano's work in translating 20 Hungarian poems into Ilokano enhanced the anthology and also bridges cultures by making Hungarian literature accessible to Ilokano speakers in the Philippines. This connection is expected to bring greater appreciation for the richness of both Hungarian and Ilokano literary traditions, ultimately bringing the worlds of Hungary and the Philippines closer together.

In the foreword, Dr. Manzano expressed his gratitude to the Embassy of Hungary for the opportunity to showcase Ilokano literature on a global scale. He stated, “Bringing twenty Hungarian poems into Ilokano allows our readers to hear distant voices through a language close to home.” The University President stressed that this cultural exchange proves that Ilokano is a language of learning, art, and public life, recognizing the significant role of translation in creating connections across cultures.

“For our students and teachers, the poems create a space where literature becomes a living classroom. They invite reflection on shared human concerns: love, memory, work, nature, and hope. They also nurture skills in close reading, ethical translation, and comparative thinking that our university deeply values,” Dr. Manzano added.

The inclusion of Ilokano in the anthology shows the strong cultural connection between Hungary and the Philippines. It also reflects MMSU’s support to elevate Ilokano as a major Philippine language in global conversation. Copies of the anthology will be available at the MMSU University Library on all campuses.

Eloize Arnelle Querubin