As the university turns 40 this year, it seeks to further fortify itself in the pursuit of excellence and its relevance in the lives of people it serves.

This is evident in the lineup of activities in this year’s Foundation Anniversary celebration, revolving around the theme “Fortified at 40: Together, We ACHIEVE.”

The Ruby Year celebration kicked off on January 6 with an early morning Diana around the campus and the City of Batac, followed by a Thanksgiving Service at Teatro Ilocandia. 

After the Thanksgiving Service, the garden show and trade fair was opened at the lawn fronting the College of Law. 

“We look ahead to a life, fortified by excellence, propelled by our zeal, to make a significant and lasting difference in the life of people,” MMSU President Shirley Agrupis said in her speech at the opening of the garden show. 

“Together as one MMSU community, we continue to realize the vision of our founder, President Ferdinand E. Marcos, for MMSU to become a beacon of enlightenment and a hub for innovation in Ilocos Norte and the whole country,” she added. 

The Garden Show and Trade Fair is an annual activity featuring horticultural exhibitions and the products of MMSU, the agencies it assists and collaborates with, as well as commercial establishments. 

In the evening, students showcase their talents through evening performances at the fair grounds. 

On January 19, a Stakeholders’ Forum was held at the MMSU Hostel (See story on page 15). 

A Grand Motorcade, conducted in the morning of January 22, heralded MMSU’s accomplishments. The Motorcade started at the Batac campus, and passed through San Nicolas, Paoay and Laoag. It culminated in a ceremony at the FEM Centennial Park, where student leaders and the President 40 released balloons that symbolize MMSU’s aspirations for the next 40 years. 

Different exhibits such as the academic booth, book fair, and foodarama was opened on January 23 at the grounds of the Laboratory Elementary School. 

CHED Regional Director Cherrie Melanie Diego served as the Guest Speaker during the event. 

It was also highlighted by the launching of the book “Catalog of Indigenous Food Plants in Ilocos Norte.” 

Three activities were held on January 24. 

In the morning, a skills training and gift giving was conducted at the COL grounds (See story on page 17). 

Meanwhile, university employees participated in sports and cultural competitions, dubbed as “Watwat @ 40.” 

This was followed by a victory party in celebration of MMSU’s 15-time championship in regional athletic and cultural competitions. 

On January 25, faculty, staff and students who have gone abroad for studies and training shared their experiences through the annual “Academic Journey Across Cultures,”  which consisted of a forum and an exhibit. The event was ‘fortified’ through performances depicting traditional dances in the countries visited. 

In the afternoon, model employees were awarded for their exemplary performance in the annual PRAISE Awards ceremonies. 

Today, January 26, the green wall project along the periphery of the university will be launched (see story on page 14), followed by the laying of the cornerstone of the National Bioenergy Research Center (NBERIC) in front of the College of Engineering. 

At 9:00 am, a forum on media and society will be held at the Covered Court with GMA veteran journalist Jiggy Manicad as speaker. 

The Anniversary Convocation, the celebration’s most significant event, is set this afternoon at Teatro Ilocandia. In the Convocation, Dr. Agrupis will deliver the State of the University Address, where she will present MMSU’s accomplishments in the past year. 

Senator Sherwin T. Gatchalian will be the guest speaker. Senator Gatchalian is expected to challenge the university constituents toward greater accomplishments and service to the community. 

In the same event, former BOR members will also be recognized. The day’s events will be capped by a talent showdown of employees and a fireworks display at the university oval. 

The Students’ Day will be held on January 29. The event will feature awarding of student achievers and outstanding student organizations, various competitions, and a lights parade. 

In the morning of January 30, MMSU retirees will convene for a forum and for the blessing of the Retirees Office. 

In the evening, alumni will gather for the Ruby Ball and awarding of 40 distinguished alumni. 

The Foundation Anniversary activities will culminate on January 31 with the “Parambak idiay Talon” at the CAFSD Campus in Dingras. 

MMSU was established on January 6, 1978 through PD 1279 signed by former President Ferdinand E. Marcos .