By Brett Andrew Rikke Bungcayao, StratCom Correspondent

Mariano Marcos State University, in collaboration with the MMSU Global Alumni-Hawaii, Federated Alumni Association Incorporated (FAAI), and the Office of Student Affairs and Services (OSAS), held the groundbreaking ceremony for the MMSU Alumni Park today, November 18. Located near the covered court and student center, the park is designed to be a space where students can learn, create, and connect with nature while enjoying modern facilities.

The idea for the park was first envisioned by CHED Commissioner and former MMSU President Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis, along with former FAAI President Bismark Angelo Quidang, now a councilor in the City of Batac. After two years of planning and collaboration, the project is finally taking shape, thanks to the support of MMSU alumni. It is expected to be completed by February 2025, providing students with a creative and inspiring environment.

The project was initiated during the 3rd MMSU Global Alumni Reunion in Honolulu, Hawaii, last July. The event, led by Dr. Agrupis and attended by 17 MMSU faculty members, raised $50,253 to fund the park. The MMSU Global Alumni Association-Hawaii, headed by Mr. Lawrence Patricio, played a key role in making the project possible.

Hon. Quidang expressed his aspirations for the park, emphasizing its role in fostering learning, creativity, and innovation. He highlighted the importance of making the space a meaningful contribution from the alumni, ensuring it serves as a lasting legacy for future generations of students.

Speaking at the ceremony, Commissioner Agrupis acknowledged the hard work and dedication behind the project. “Dear students, please value this place and sustain that zeal of excellence because all levels of MMSU, under the leadership of your President, are doing everything to give you the best,” she said.

Meanwhile, Alumni Regent Hon. Gwyneth Quidang expressed her pride in the alumni's collective effort, highlighting the park's role in enriching the student experience and fostering a stronger sense of community within the university.

MMSU OIC President Dr. Prima Fe R. Franco also underscored the importance of alumni support. “This will serve as an inspiration and a challenge to the alumni of the university to help the university more, all for the sake of developing human capital,” she shared.

The event was attended by university officials, including Vice Presidents Dr. Virgilio Julius Manzano Jr., Dr. Oscar Agpaoa, and Dr. Nathaniel Alibuyog; Director for Internationalization, Linkages, and Partnerships Dr. Mee Jay Domingo; Director of Center for Human Movement Studies Prof. Ryan Dean Sucgang; Alumni Relations Chief Prof. Krismary Sharmaine Yapo; and OSAS Director Prof. Emil James Tanagon. Student Regent Hon. Aleczandrix Mark Cid and college deans were also present, along with other university officials, staff and students.