By Chessa Pae Faustino, StratCom Correspondent

Prof. Jerry R. Yapo of the Department of Humanities of the University of the Philippines - Los Baños held a book launch and opened an art exhibition on April 27, at the MMSU University Educational Training Center.

Prof. Yapo, director of UPLB Office for Initiatives for Culture and Arts (OICA) and a proud Bataqueño, spearheaded the display of artistic materials that depict his Ilokano roots, academic life and reflection on other aspects of society. College and high school students, representatives of LGU Batac City, and friends and family of the author joined the activities.

The 1996 recipient of the UPLB Outstanding Teacher in the Social Sciences and Humanities tapped Mariano Marcos State University to co-organize the event meant to raise awareness and promote appreciation of culture and the arts. He also donated copies of his book titled, 'Artfully Speaking and Other Essays,’ to MMSU, Batac Junior College and the Batac City LGU. 

In her message MMSU President Shirley C. Agrupis further emphasized the significance of the arts in shaping the Ilokano identity and in advancing human development.

Assisted by the University Library System and the College of Arts and Sciences, the exhibit runs until May 12. It is open to the public. (HLY/JVBT/SCO, StratCom)