By Jesslyn Keith Valite

In celebration of the 107th birth anniversary of MMSU’s founder, the university holds its President Ferdinand E. Marcos (FEM) Lecture Series dedicated to exploring and reflecting on his continuing legacy. The event engaged the participants in a meaningful discussion about FEM’s life, leadership, and influence on both Philippine history and Ilokano society.

MMSU OIC President Dr. Prima Fe Franco expressed her enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, "This series serves as a humble part of our university in celebrating the birth of its founder, the late President Marcos.” She also added that this event is an opportunity to engage with history meaningfully. 

Meanwhile, Prof. Herdy Yumul, director of the Office for Strategic Communication and chair of the President FEM lecture series explained, “This dialogue is essential to our understanding of history.” He added that it is a shared commitment of MMSU in expanding knowledge, dialogue and the appreciation of our Ilocos Norte heritage. 

During the lecture series, Dr. Imelda Najorda, social studies professor of the College of Teacher Education, presented “Apo Lakay: A balanced perspective on the Marcos-era achievements, challenges and historical reflections.” Her lecture aimed to provide a well-rounded view on the Marcos era, bridging connections to the Generation Z. Furthermore, Dr. Najorda focused on gaining a balanced understanding of FEM’s presidency, addressing both his achievements and controversies. She also emphasized the importance of developing critical thinking skills and analyzing historical events from an unbiased perspective. Her approach also highlighted teaching techniques that promote objective and informed discussions. 

Additionally, Prof. Leslie Kay Corpuz, history professor and chief of the Center for Ilokano and Amianan Studies gave a lecture titled “Kaugaliang Ilokano at Ilocos: Ugat ng pagsisimula at pag-angat ng karera ni FEM.” Her presentation focused on the rise of Marcos’ political career, examining how his Ilokano heritage and the culture and traditions of Ilocos influenced his achievements and projects. Prof. Corpuz explored the connection of Marcos’ political career with the cultural and traditional aspects of the Ilokano community. 

Prof. Rex-Belli Alejandro, social sciences department chair focused on the topic, Marcos as futures thinker. His lecture explored the concept of futures thinking as a framework, and examined elements of FEM’s thinking that aligned with this approach. Prof. Alejandro evaluated how Marcos’s strategies and visions might reflect futures thinking principles and discussed potential alternatives for future considerations.

After the lectures, an open forum was conducted with the audience and viewers via facebook live. MMSU officials, faculty members and students from various colleges in the university attended the series.

The President FEM Lecture Series 2024 precedes this year’s MMSU-PhilRice paddy art, which features Senator Imee Marcos.