By Jesslyn Keith Valite 

Highlighting MMSU's important role with the local community of the City of Batac, MMSU President Shirley C. Agrupis delivered her speech as guest speaker during the 11th Anniversary Celebration of Batacquenios of Hawaii at Honolulu Country Club on July 14.

Dr. Agrupis emphasized the university’s commitment to ensuring quality education for the youth and uplifting the status of life of Batacquenios through the research and extension activities offered by the university, including engagements that help local businesses generate additional income. “As part and parcel of Batac’s illustrious history, MMSU plays an integral role in its development. MMSU’s operations contribute to economic development by helping generate income for local businesses that cater to our ever-increasing student population,” she proudly stated. 

Furthermore, Dr. Agrupis recognized Batac's impactful role in MMSU’s unceasing achievements worldwide. Bannering one of the agendas on improving revenue generation and resource management, she urged the Ilocano community to continuously support the humble efforts of visioning to foster knowledge, a wider range of opportunities, and talents. 

She also reminded the Batacquenios to remember the life and achievements of the leaders of the City of Batac. “May their example of service, sacrifice, and love for the country continue to inspire and set an example for all of us today and in our future endeavors. May the support that we have received from the community continue to inspire and drive us forward for what we do for the university,” she expressed.

Present at the event were CTE dean Dr. Aris Reynold Cajigal; CAS dean Dr. Marlina Lino; COM Principal Investigator of Genomics and Genetic Engineering Laboratory Dr. Peter James Icalia-Gann; Chief of the Office for Research Ethics Prof. Rhian Jaymar Ramil; Executive Assistant Atty. Cheska Arla Agrupis; MMSU focal person in Hawaii Dr. Arlene John Peralta; Alumni Regent Hon. Gwyneth Quidang; Councilors of the City Government of Batac Hon. Bismark Angelo Quidang, Hon. Kichel Jomarie Pungtilan, Hon. Lucky Rene Bunye, and Hon. Christopher Lagmay; Mr. Bob McDermott, Former State Representative; Mr. Calvin Bagaoisan, OFCC President; Mr. Augie Tulba, City Councilor of Honolulu; and Mr. Joe Quibuyen, Chapter President of CIASI.

Established in 2013, the Batacquenios of Hawaii actively supports programs and projects that benefit the community of the City of Batac. Currently, the organization is led by Mr. Cesar  Caoili, President, and Ms. Ethel Querol Gomez, Vice President with Ms. Janet Daga (Secretary); Mr. Florentino Lagmay (Treasurer); Andrea Clemente (Assistant Treasurer); Mr. Orlando Clemente (Auditor); Mr. Glenn Quiaoit (Assistant Auditor); Mr. Reynaldo Dalinoc (Business Manager); Mr. Noel Daga, Mr. Oscar Santos, Mr. Romeo Caoili, Mr. Roland Sagun (Sergeant at Arms); Ms. Ofelia Caoili, Mr. Ronato Lagmay, Mr. Crispina Santos, Ms. Lilia Ulit (Press Relation Officers); Dr. Amy Jacang, Mr. Monico Beltran, Mr. Antonino Ulit, Ms. Naty Miyat, Mr. Lino Cobangbang, and Ms. Palmarin Cobangbang (Board of Advisers).

From July 12 to 21, the MMSU delegation made arrangements to enhance alumni engagement and will continue to renew partnerships across universities and industries in Hawaii.