By Jesslyn Keith Valite

Mariano Marcos State University held the second MMSU Film Festival, featuring a biographical documentary film about alumnus and National Economic and Development Authority Secretary Arsenio Balisacan, award-winning short films, and alumni stories, on January 22 at Teatro Ilocandia. 

Premiering at the festival, the documentary film “Arsi”  portrayed Dr. Balisacan’s journey from his humble beginnings in a rural farming community in Solsona, Ilocos Norte, to becoming the first magna cum laude graduate of MMSU in 1979. It showcases his challenges, achievements, and the values that have shaped his career as a seasoned economist.

Following its premiere, NEDA Sec. Balisacan thanked MMSU for depicting his personal life. He recognized the significant role the university played in shaping his professional character. “MMSU did more than provide education. It nurtured my growth and instilled values that have remained with me to this moment.” 

"Each milestone to the journey stands as a testament not only to personal effort but also to the collective support of the community who believed in me,” the cabinet secretary added.

MMSU OIC-President Prima Fe R. Franco expressed her admiration for Dr. Balisacan’s story, noting that it serves as a powerful inspiration for the youth, especially students at the university. "These films reflect the rich creativity of our constituents and the values that the university holds.”

Produced by the Office for Strategic Communication (STRATCOM), Arsi was helmed by Dr. Romel Pascua under the supervision of STRATCOM Director Herdy Yumul. It was the first MMSU-funded film to be showcased at the annual film festival.

After Dr. Balisacan's documentary, the film festival also exhibited four award-winning films produced by homegrown creatives at the university: Mr. Ryand Angelo Ugalde’s “Tawid” and “Byukon,” Mr. Melver Ritz Gomez’ “Ina Bulan,” and Dr. Pascua’s “Zanjera.”

The stories of MMSU alumni produced by STRATCOMM, such as documentaries about two community doctors, a local eatery’s nursing licensure examination topnotcher, and a retired commodore from the Philippine Navy, were also screened. 

Commission on Higher Education Commissioner Shirley Agrupis, a former MMSU president, emphasized the university’s role in nurturing the creative minds of students and employees, providing them with an institutional and annual event to present their narratives. “This is another legacy that we can sustain to harness the skills of MMSU constituents and show what the university has in the power of storytelling.”

The film festival was attended by the Balisacan family, Ilocos Norte Vice Governor Cecilia Araneta Marcos, NEDA Director Danilo Lorenzo Atanacio, City of Batac Mayor Abert Chua, former MMSU President Santiago Obien, former Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority's Regional Director Edison Riñen, Consultant to the Ilocos Norte First District Representative Mr. Edwin Cariño, visitors from other state universities and colleges, university officials, film directors, featured alumni and their family and friends, employees, and students.

Launched in 2024, the MMSU Film Festival aims to serve as a platform for independent filmmakers from the university to showcase their art while inspiring the growth of visual storytelling in the community. This year’s festival was one of the highlights of the 47th MMSU Foundation Anniversary.