SIRMATA | Vol. XXXVIII No. 3 January, 2022

Sirmata Relevance. Excellence. Growth. The official publication of Mariano Marcos Vol. XXXVIII No. 3 State University college students January, 2022 THE 44TH FOUNDATION ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL ISSUE NEWS MMSU celebrates 44th University Foundation Anniversary Page 3 “University of the Future” is Unfolding Before Our Eyes Page 4 MMSU.SirmataOfficial SirmataOfficial [email protected]

02 NEWS Sirmata Vol. XXXVIII No. 3 Relevance. Excellence. Growth. January, 2022 USC holds CHS KNIGHTS WIN BACK-TO-BACK StalliONLINE Network Season IN MISS MMSU 2022 Edmar Delos Santos 3: Sappuyot Concert After Lyza Claire Raquel from the College of overlooked,” an excerpt of Mr. Ancher Anthony Cua Health Sciences (CHS) won Miss MMSU in Tacata’s winning answer. IV, owner of Applause N’ Ryand Ugalde 2018, another CHS Knight won the title, making Cheers, Mr. Randy Leaño, it back-to-back wins for the said college. Gieanne Marie Palacay Director of Ms. Laoag With the emerged as first runner-up City International, and aim of Jmee Jeanne Tacata, me get where I am right while Kayla Miralex Patoc the chairman of the panel, showcasing won 2nd runner-up. Prof. Arsenio Gallego, the a second-year nursing now,” said Tacata. Aside the former Director of diverse talents of the Other candidates also the Center for Human Stallions, the Mariano student, was recently from winning the title, she got minor awards: Britney Movement Studies of Marcos State University- Nicole Agundin of the MMSU. University Student crowned as the winner also got the Best in Long College of Engineering Council conducted (COE) won the Best in Meanwhile, University its third edition of of the same pageant last Gown award. Headshot and Best in President Shirley C. the StalliONLINE Runway Walk, Joanna Mae Agrupis congratulated the Network last January January 31 held at the The chosen top six Durias of the College of organizers of the event, 17-29 via facebook live. Arts and Sciences (CAS) especially the USC. The sappuyot concert Teatro Ilocandia and candidates who advanced as Best Introductory “The University Student is one of three major Video, Angelica Ramos Council has opened the activities put up by the live-streamed via MMSU in the question and answer of College of Business, door for all the ladies in student organization Economics, and the university in selection in celebration of the University Student Council portion were Brithney Accountancy (CBEA) as of the most beautiful and students’ day. Beauty with a Purpose fitting one to carry the (USC) Facebook page. Nichole Raguindin (COE), Awardee, and Gianne Miss MMSU sash and This virtual event was Marie Palacay from crown,” she said in her participated by the different With 16 Miss MMSU Angelica Ramos (CBEA), College of Teacher message. colleges and laboratory Education (CTE) as Best schools of the University, 2022 hopefuls from Grazielle Reina Laran in Swimwear. After four long years, each with a different the USC was able to put show schedule. The said different colleges from (CAS), Jmme Jeanne The board of judges up the pageant again as concert commenced with of the said pageant is Mr. one of the highlights of performances coming from various campuses of the Tacata (CHS), Kayla Aian Raquel, Head of the Students' Day in line the Laboratory Schools of the Ilocos Norte Tourism with the celebration of the Batac Campus. university, Tacata stood Miralex Patoc(CBEA), and Office, Ms. Krissel Joy 44th university foundation Abygail Garduque, anniversary of the Mariano The creativity and out among other lovely Gieanne Marie Palacay Legislative Officer of the Marcos State University. talent of the students was House of Representatives, displayed with the variety candidates. (CTE). of concepts seen in their performances. With this, In an interview, Tacata “First of all, I will thorough planning was made, despite the students’ shared that she did not serve as the voice of the hectic schedule— all to guarantee a good show. expect to be hailed as the students. I will also help This program serves as new Miss MMSU as other in stopping the spread of a platform to highlight the hidden gifts of students to candidates also deserve to self-diagnosis through the prove that Stallions does not only hold the banner win the crown. internet such as in TikTok for excellence in academic endeavors, but also has “Hindi pa rin nagsink- or Youtube. I would also the talent to provide entertainment through in sa akin na ano na nanalo advocate and stop the world-class performances. ako or that I got the crown, misinformation that is As a long time performer and a but either way I am proud happening, especially participant, Jay Ducao Agnir encourages all of myself and I am also to adults and also to learners to join University activities such as the proud [of] towards the students like me, because Sappuyot concert as a way to conquer fears and to people that {who] helped this mental health is establish self-confidence.

Sirmata NEWS 03 Relevance. Excellence. Growth. Vol. XXXVIII No. 3 January, 2022 Agrupis highlights MMSU’s 2021 MMSU ACHIEVEments celebrates Shaina Dwine M. Pablo 44th University Foundation To commemorate Mariano Marcos State University’s 44th Founding Anniversary, the university Anniversary president, Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis delivered her 2022 State of the University Address highlighting the university’s successes and achievements in line with the Seven-Point agenda, as well as a glimpse of Dana Meryll Gapas the future in holding high the green and gold during the anniversary convocation last January 20 held at the Teatro Ilocandia and on different online platforms. Recognizing years of The president proudly Moreover, she detailed we seized that triumphs and achievements, noted that MMSU retained the accomplishments opportunity, explored university’s successes in the the Mariano Marcos State the passion to go forward, of the faculty members, more possibilities, and past year for the clear goal University (MMSU) to elevate and excel, and stakeholders and students committed ourselves to and strong determination celebrated a month-long to develop new methods on different ventures. making positive change to succeed despite the festivity for the 44th to assist and enhance the in the lives of our people, COVID-19 pandemic. University Foundation lives of the students. “Indeed, we are always staying true to the Anniversary Celebration thriving through the vision of our founder, and “Without a doubt, the that started on January 20. She praised the so-called ‘new normal.’ constantly committing MMSU with President achievements towards But we should not only ourselves to excellence. Shirley and all of you in Thanksgiving Service academic excellence. limit our aggressiveness From here we will move her team will reach even at Teatro Ilocandia was “MMSU set a new record to meeting the challenges forward. Together, we greater heights. Go make held as a kick-start for the in the university’s entire of the present. Our goal will achieve more,” she a bigger difference in the celebration. The university history with the biggest should be to define the concluded. lives of our stakeholders. officials, directors, chiefs, number of programs next normal, a better And as you fortify your faculty and staff were producing top passers,” normal,” Agrupis said. Meanwhile, Hon. international partnership present in the venue she said. “We have Roy A. Cimatu, secretary and collaborations, make while the students joined significantly improved In closing, Agrupis of the Department of our country, the Philippines, through Facebook live. One our performance in board again thanked and Environment and Natural even prouder,” Cimatu said. highlight of the start of the exams and we expect to do congratulated everyone Resources (DENR), celebration is the opening even better as we continue for all the achievements served as the event’s guest With the MMSU’s of the garden show and to beef up our support and and new milestones of the of honor and speaker. administration, faculty, Trade Fair at the College of calibrate our strategies.” university. He complimented the researchers and students, Law (COL) grounds. Cimatu hopes to see “Here in MMSU, additional systems and According to Dr. Angelina Abrojena, the technologies developed dean of the College of as well as inputs to Business, Economics and USC leads Students’ national policymaking Accountancy (CBEA) Day 2022 in support of people- in her opening remarks, Ian Paul Villanueva centered environmental and the trade fair and garden sustainable development show will open doors strategies. in achieving quality As one of the main events of the university foundation anniversary “I join you in education, research, celebration, the USC has spearheaded the Students’ Day 2022. Unlike last as well as extensions year, the activities were held on-campus and on different dates that spanned envisioning bigger dreams services in the university, the whole month of January. for Filipino people as thus, contributing to we work together in the achievements of the Its highlight is the Miss accumulate resources Thus, the blended word safeguarding, protecting, university as they celebrate MMSU 2022 pageant. for the Oplan Sappuyot ‘KARUBATAN’ from and future proofing our more years of feats. After four years of hiatus, program of the Office karagatan and kagubatan. environment,” he added. a new Miss MMSU was of Student Affairs and The University crowned on the last day Services (OSAS). Meanwhile, the College Furthermore, former President, Dr. Shirley of January. “This year’s of Business, Economics members of the university’s Agrupis acknowledged all edition of Miss MMSU Moreover, a two-day and Accountancy board of regents and the people behind the trade is a revamp of the usual bloodletting activity was (CBEA) led the Stallions’ administrative council fair and the preparation for pageant conducted organized by the College Emporium, a competition were honored for their the founding anniversary in annually,” said university of Health Sciences that had representatives service to the institution. general. President Dr. Shirley (CHS) student council from each college install The event was attended in Agrupis in her speech. and the College of a booth where they person by Representative Various activities True enough, the pageant Medicine (COM) Students could sell a variety of Angelo Marcos Barba of and programs were was viewed by thousands Association. merchandise. the 2nd District of Ilocos prepared for the celebration online. Norte; Vice Governor of the foundation The College of Various contested Cecilia Araneta-Marcos, anniversary. It includes the Notably, a series of Agriculture, Food and events were also representing Governor Stakeholders Forum and virtual concerts, called Sustainable Development organized. Among Matthew M. Manotoc; Students’ Day 2022. StalliONLINE Network (CAFSD) and College which are several Mayor Albert Chua Season 3: Sappuyot of Aquatic Sciences and Esports tournaments, an of the City of Batac, It will run from January Concerts, was conducted Applied Technology intercollegiate debate, and BOR members, AdCo 6 to February 3. by the different student (CASAT) student councils the Speak Up: Stallion officials, and other councils in the university. collaborated to organize Talk, a roundtable debating staunch supporters, while Students from the different a two-part webinar event. The USC, however, representative from other colleges and laboratory entitled, “PROJECT will not formally announce government agencies and high schools showcased a KARUBATAN: A Webinar the winners in the said MMSU’s strong partners, variety of performances, on Ridge and Reef” that events as well as that of state universities and all while helping focused on the protection the coveted Best Student colleges (SUCs), attended of the oceans and forests. Council award until via Zoom. February 18.

04 OPINION Sirmata Vol. XXXVIII No. 3 Relevance. Excellence. Growth. January, 2022 programs. Combined, committing itself to excellence, shaping the current trend tells the contours into a us that, taken as a whole, the university “University of the Future” by pledging is embracing the new with the Fourth realities and new possibilities. Industrial Revolution (FIRe) as the new In times of norm in its operations profound social change, to stay relevant and responsive amid various crises. These are not set of incoherent adaptation to changes, because they offer a preview of what the university will likely to be. Notwithstanding the pandemic, time and process are also variables. The innovative university will have to institutions emerge as profoundly embrace these shifting values of the new “UNIVERSITY OF THE different alternatives normal especially that FUTURE” IS UNFOLDING to endow students BEFORE OUR EYES and mainstream it’s taken the first step of opening the campus college programs. for face-to-face The promise of MMSU at 44 will classes. These values should be rooted in incrementally adapt to outcomes of quality, changing conditions, EDITORIAL of the university. and emphasizing as it has historically, it must be student The prominence that MMSU is Qu a l i t y of the university’s a multisectoral maintaining its centric rather than the education was refurbishment of its transformed milestones was community. In the past current vision and name on the outside because mission. In retrospect, of the nationwide renowned during year, MMSU produced we can already see because quality health pandemic to its 44th Foundation the biggest number meet the needs of Anniversary of programs that the early adaptations education should still an emerging global, be at the top priority. digital, academic Celebration with the generated top passers and the changes of “University of the excellency. This year, such magnitude that quality education is theme, “MMSU at and posted high passing are coming. We can future” is unfolding once again confronted 44: ACHIEVEing rates in licensure to serve the needs of more” last month examinations; glimpse the future before our eyes; surely, the student colleges these kaleidoscopic while achieving and of January. Indeed, opened its Center for at the margins of changes will emanate expanding the pursuit ambitious vision. the university has Flexible Learning MMSU President into better focus if we extended its programs and upgraded its and strategic plans in Virtual Learning Shirley C. Agrupis vanguard these values at the margins of the academic excellence, Environment; and expressed in her university’s vision and fifth SOUA that the private and public reached Level IV university is constantly mission. partner institutions, accreditation in its 11 SIRMATA Edsel Harry Turda Editor-in-chief / Jamico Cris Jingco; Althea Dela Cruz Associate Editors / Christelle Alynna S. Agustin; Angel Alyssa Pascua; Rizza Swerte Urbina Managing Editors / Grazielle Reina S. Laran; Maria Anna Jessica Rosqueta Circulations 2E0d2it1o-r2i0a2l 2Staff Managers / Shaina Dwine Pablo News Editor / Jesusa Mae Sumaoang Features Editor / Princess Alyzza A. Calamayan Literary Editor / Adrianne Lorenzo Corpuz Sports Editor / Anthony Joseph V. Duyao Layout Artist / Neil Bryant Baliao Visuals Editor / MMSU.SirmataOfficial Ian Paul R. Villanueva; Dana Meryll Gapas; Graziel Mae G. Ramat; Kyle Nojen O. Andres; James Carlo Lucas; Warren Raciles; Mary SirmataOfficial Grace Tajon; Marc Louie Pasion Writers / Casmir Remyell Cadiente Photojournalist / Aira Nadine Q. Pascua; Paola Joy Francisco; [email protected] Lujean Guieb; Illustrators/Graphics Artists / Edmar Delos Santos; Randy C. Gianan Jr.; Hyung Sun James Maestrado; Ryand Angelo Ugalde; Jayson Sabong; Jessa Mariz Corpuz; Christian Jay Perpuse; Correspondents / Prof. Bryan R. Realgo; Prof. Bryan Eli B. Sadorra Technical Advisers / Dr. Editha B. Valdez English Critic / Prof. Djoanna D. Pungtilan Fillipino Critic / Dr. Marlina L. Lino Ilocano Critic

Sirmata OPINION 05 Vol. XXXVIII No. 3 Relevance. Excellence. Growth. January, 2022 ‘‘INSURGENT AKO BA? Edsel Harry R. Turda Editor-in-Chief Nasubukan buto’t balat nagleggings hipon? Sayang naman!” kanya-kanya tayong ng may maluwag na mo na bang pa! Nagbra pa, akala mo Ako ba? PANGET opinyon na malayang damdamin. Kritikal, maging naman may itatago. Eh, AKO, at alam ko! Akala naihahayag ngunit hindi kung mamartapatin. ganito? Alam hindi mo nga matukoy mo ba papatulan kita porke’t may kalayaan Ito’y repleksyon mo ba ang pakiramdam kung saan ang likod kahit ganito ang mukha kang gamitin ito, ay lamang kung gaano ng nasa posisyon ko? at harap! Hay nako, ko? Kung magiging hindi mo na iisipin ang kasaklap mamuhay sa Naranasan mo na siguro wala silang maganda ba ako, sa kahihinatnan nito bago mundong mapanghusga. bang maging ako? kinakain.” Ako ba? tingin mo magiging mo gamitin. Hindi lahat Karamihan sa kanila Sigurado akong hindi PAYAT AKO, at alam tayo? Hindi naman ng opinyon mo, gustong ayon sa DOH, pa. Mahirap hilingin ko! Ano bang pinuputak porke’t ganito lang mapakinggan. Kung nagkakaroon ng na sana ikaw na lang ng mga butsi niyo? ako ay wala na akong hindi naman hinihingi depresyon at kung hindi ay ako. Ang sabi nila, Bakit, inaano ba kayo standards. Inaano ba sa’yo, tumahimik ka naman ay takot, takot pagdating ng panahon, ng suso ko, ng katawan kita? na lang. Ano bang na humarap sa mga tao magbabago rin ang ko? Wala naman di ba? mawawala kung ititikom dahil sa konotasyong lahat. Matututunan Kung walang kayong O, ano? Naririndi mo ang bibig mo’t hindi baka mahusgahan lang. rin ng mga tao na sasabihing maganda, ka na ba? Mabigat manghusga? Mabuhay umintindi. Na tingnan makikiusap na lang, ba? Hinding-hindi mo ng mapayapa. Mag-isip Ilan lang ang mga ka, ng walang halong tumahimik na lang kayo. hihilinging maging ako. bago magsalita. nailatag na ehemplo sa panghuhusga. Ngunit Sino ba naman may napakaraming karanasan dalawang dekada’t “Raul! Raul! gustong makutya ng Sa Filipinas, hindi isa ng iba’t ibang tao na dalawang taon na ang Raul! Ang kapal paulit-ulit? Wala. Hindi kundi walo sa sampung may kanya-kanyang nakakalipas, oo sige, naman ng mukha ng ko lubos maintindihan tao ang nagiging biktima insikyuridad sa kanilang nagbago nga ang lahat, baklitang ito, akala kung anong nakukuha ng diskriminasyon. sarili. Namulat ako pero ang pananaw ng mo naman mababago ng mga tao sa Isang indikasyon na ng maaga sa mundo tao? Ganoon pa din. ng pagdadamit babae pagbibigay opinyon iilang porsyento na ng napakaraming niya sa nasa pagitan nila kahit hindi naman lang ang natitirang diskriminasyon at “Ano ba iyan, ng dalawang hita niya! hinihingi. Totoo, may taong nakakahinga umasang magbabago parang baboy na Kapag pinanganak kang nga ang mundo tulad ng nagdamit tao! Uy, lalake kahit magdamit ‘‘Namulat ako ng sinasabi ng iba. Ngunit makikiraan raw! babae ka pa, lalake ano? Baente y dos Tumabi kayo, baka ka pa din!” Ako ba? maaga sa mundo anyos na ako, ganoon pa kayo pa’y madisgrasya. BAKLA AKO, at alam ng napakaraming din. Sa tingin ko, mas Parang ten-wheeler ko! Pinakealaman ko diskriminasyon.” masahol pa nga ang mga truck ba naman kasing ba kung anong gusto tao ngayon eh. Kung dadaan sa maliit na niyong isuot? Pinuna krimen lang sana ang pinto. Kakasya ka ko ba ang mukha niyo panghuhusga, siguro ba? Hoy, pssst!” Ako kung sa mukhang babae andami nang nakulong. ba? MATABA AKO, ka, o lalake ka, kahit Hanggang kailan ba tayo at alam ko! Hindi iba naman ang nasa ganito? Ilang dekada niyo na kailangang pagitan ng dalawang pa ba ang hihintayin ipagkalandakan at hita mo? Hindi naman bago natin maisip, ulit-ulitin pa. Eh ano di ba? Eh bakit mo ako maging makatao? May naman, kung mataba pinapakealaman? aasahan ba talagang ako? Inaano ba kayo pagbabago sa mundong ng mga bilbil ko? Wala “Uy, tingnan niyo, mapanghusga? O baka naman di ba? okey na sana pero, naman magiging normal ampanget ng mukha. na lang sa tao, ang “Ano iyan, puno? Tapon ulo, kain ganitong sitwasyon? ‘Di na nahiya parang katawan. Ano ito,

06 OPINION Sirmata Vol. XXXVIII No. 3 Relevance. Excellence. Growth. January, 2022 ‘‘AVALANCHE TO WHICH ARE WE GEARING UP? Christelle Alynna Marie S. Agustin Managing Editor For almost safety and guaranteeing they started coming critical happens within no student should be two years, better learning to school physically, the parameters of the left behind; everyone the pandemic opportunities, there’s they could no longer university. must have a less- undoubtedly a broader picture that attend to these jobs burdened feet to go caused twists and turns illustrates more of the subsequently losing Limited face-to-face along with this ride. The when it comes to our reasons on why some their source of income. classes is a gamble question is, how will perspectives. The shift students do not appear This would exacerbate inevitably accompanied the university further in learning modalities to have the same thirst financial issues and have with risk, and became address these concerns sow the seeds of the for face-to-face classes a significant impact on unaffordable for carried by the students? general claim that as they had before. the student’s ability to students. While this How can everyone be flexible learning is less finance education. When is an attempt dressed encouraged to fully effective compared to Numerous reports students are confronted as an opportunity believe again to the idea face-to-face meetings. indicate that the with challenges like to reestablish the that in-person session is With the university pandemic-induced these, they are most pre-pandemic era of the best option they can finally holding limited consequences in the likely to get more schooling, students were have? face-to-face sessions, educational landscape pressured, as it may look confronted with not just we have heard students primarily include that they are unable to necessary adjustments, Both sides of the expressing sentiments high dropout rates, keep up with the waves but also new struggles coin also reveal that that they’d rather mental health problems that are approaching they had never faced it is important to keep continue taking online and socio-emotional them in their academic before which directly students’ academic fires classes. This particular concerns among endeavors. affect their academic burning so that they change on their students. In the context performances. The can continue to provide preference came from of MMSU reaching The waivers may university grounds may warmth and light to intangible reasons and the point of allowing seem to voice consent, have been prepared their future. Some of this boils down to a in-person classes, some however, the concern to the greatest extent these flames must have question: to which are students are carrying on health and safety possible, but we must been extinguished by we gearing up, towards baggage of difficulties has still its ink ready to keep in mind the the pandemic, but at academic excellence or that directly affect write when something long-held belief that some point, it might be towards new problems the options they wish worth noting that the to acknowledge? to attain. Some are ‘‘No student should be university should or unfavorable to face- can reignite it. Let’s not In retrospect, the to-face sessions due to left behind; everyone grow tired of asking for approval to conduct shortage on financial must have a less- the basics: considerate face-to-face classes resources, such as a burdened feet to go professors, championing is a product of the sufficient budget to along with this ride.” engaging discussions university’s tremendous rent dormitories, for over linear learning and efforts exhibited for a allowances and for active interaction over long time– from the public transportation mere instruction. implementation of expenses. There is vaccination programs also a mental risk for How a student act is to the preparation and those who are not always base on his or establishment of safe psychologically ready her understanding and campus environment to live away from their perspective. So, why are just few to homes. don’t we acknowledge mention. However, it is and address their interesting to note that, Some students have problems first, then, aside from the clash begun to work part-time allowing their desire for between ensuring public jobs juggled with their academic excellence to online classes. When emerge naturally?

Sirmata OPINION 07 Vol. XXXVIII No. 3 Relevance. Excellence. Growth. January, 2022 HARD CALL ‘‘CHAINED FREEDOM Grazielle Reina S. Laran Managing Editor Our vaccination should be respected. The vaccinated, be the first Let us be a bit more in their respective fields. cards have vaccination card does to understand what these considerate. The I am not selling the idea been the most not really represent our unvaccinated ones feel. academic standing of that we must not be in demand actual health condition, The 2% should not feel these unvaccinated vaccinated but what I identification card. This having it doesn’t mean outcasted, we must do students must not be am trying to emphasize small rectangular piece we cannot become a something for them. tampered just because is that, being vaccinated of thick paper with a carrier of the virus and These 2% should be our they cannot attend should always be a person’s identity on it vice versa. Our validity priority. Again, we were classes physically. choice and never a has been the basis of in our society should all there in the phase of Training and learning requirement. We have a person’s validity in not always depend on doubt and overthinking must not stop just to stand for our rights our society now. This is what the dominant of what the vaccines because they can’t and must not be dictated our validity in entering number prefer but we will give us or take attend face-to-face by the ideology of establishments where should also be able to from us. As products of classes, there should be standardization that the we get our needs. Now see clearly on what is vaccination, we should a fair treatment in class University is inculcating that face-to-face classes at stake. Lives are at understand them the of these vaccinated and to our system. Well, is back, being fully stake; we should use most for we were there unvaccinated ones. if their defense is the vaccinated is one of the our freedom to make in the hesitancy stage, vaccination percentage requirements in joining choices for the wellness it’s just that they are a The percentage of is the only solution the said occurrence. of all. bit more intrigued and vaccinated students will to fight the rise of The university lead the taking more time to never be an assurance Covid-19 cases, then vaccination roll-out To my co-vaccinated understand what these to the rise of Covid-19 they have not yet for students that have peeps, let us be real, vaccines can give them. cases and will never be researched well the not been vaccinated on we all experienced a concerete solution to circulation of the said their local government vaccine hesitancy before What can we do? let the students succeed virus. It doesn’t mean units. With 98% of getting our jabs. We that when you are vaccinated students and do not know what the ‘‘We have to stand vaccinated you get 2% unvaccinated, where vaccine carries but it the full protection, but does this 2% fit? is only our trust to the for our rights and it’s only to make your science community must not be dictated system be familiar There are a lot of and the trust that these by the ideology of with the virus and be reasons why these vaccines will all bring standardization.” immuned with it. people choose to us back on what we’ve be unvaccinated. been used to that lead us Let us share our Some of these are the to getting those shots. narratives. It is always following: concern on Getting vaccinated was our stories that compel the side effects of the not an easy call. We others into action. We vaccine, distrust in the were concerned about communicate the things government or medicine, the vaccine’s physical we believe in the best questions on the benefit effects, but we were possible way we can and of vaccination, and even more concerned best possible mode of personal reasons such about what would delivery we can use. It’s as religion, culture, happen if the vaccine never too late to aim for etc. These reasons are was not used. that 100%. valid, their choices It should be us,

Esports Mania If there would be a Mt. Rushmore for the several rescuers from the abyss of inactivity during this pandemic, the rise of Esports will surely be included. Since its early days, the graph for online games has only seen an increase in attention and popularity. Now, the lack of physical-centric activities, along with the factors of trend and gaming influence, pointed the spotlight to the Esports scene, elevated the competitive online gaming into its prominent era. In fact, it is so prominent these days that Mariano Marcos State University held its first major university-wide 3-game Esports mania for its 44th foundation anniversary. It featured three online games commonly played by students and gamers alike. Besides Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, MMSU also managed to conduct a tournament for PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds: Mobile, and for Valorant. From the long history of amateur tournaments for varying online games, the call of As the most popular The tournament Tournament was played While the Mobile game is highly game in the pocket, proper for Mobile between Team Maki Legends: Bang Bang addictive and Mobile Legends: Bang Legends: Bang Bang (COE), and Omicron has the moniker of entertaining Bang served as the included a two-bracket (CAS), the top-seeded gunshots, the real gun as its original highlight of the Esports format which enabled squads from bracket show game with literal counterpart. tournament. The the tournament A and bracket B, explosive matches relatable set of heroes, managers to draft a respectively. The series is PlayerUnkown’s This battle entertaining gameplay, round robin approach ended with a 3-0 sweep Battlegrounds royal game and fierce battling, for the enlistment of the for Team Maki, headed Mobile. Also known employs MLBB made the online top 4 teams of each by team captain Carl as PUBG:Mobile, 100 players, competition popular bracket. The eventual Salvacion. the original version either as to Stallions. Not to two top 4s collided in of the game was a solo, mention the inspiring a best of 3 manner for Team Maki emphasized as a duo, or a effect of the contest the semis of which the (champion) members: PC game, yet the squad, to invite upcoming triumphants faced in a Carl Julius Salvacion, transition to the on entrants, and umpire best of 5 finals match Jayson Laforga, James mobile platform future rivalries that will up. Arjay Acosta, Nhico indicated that the magnify the intensity Achuela, John Calvin of the games. For the result, Bryle Tomon, Jhonray After its conclusion, Ma. Karel Mariñas, president the grand finals of Garcia. of the host college’s student council (CAS), shared the Mobile Legends her thoughts on the event. SPORTS “The presence of esports mended our drive to do things beyond our capacity. In this pandemic era, we’ve been neglected with a lot of physical activities or sports in general,” said Mariñas in her opening statement. She further elaborated on why Esports is now a prominent feature that the university must have in terms of displaying the raw potential of students who may have a future in the professional scene. “Esports helps us cope with our motivation to compete with our athletic ambitions…This esports tournament not only satisfied our need to showcase our mechanical skills, but it also structured a very bright and strong future of esports here in the university,” declared Mariñas.

for MMSU 44th students to bring an official Esports contest has satisfied the thirst of the competitive Stallions for paramount showcasing of skills. The MMSU Esports tournament was administered by the College of Arts and Sciences and University Student Council. It required the 8 different colleges to send their most practiced and most seasoned participants to contend against the best of their fellow challengers. In total, a massive number of 38 teams combined in all of the 3 games raised the banner of their own factions. The teams wrestled and combated from January 14, to January 18, and at its conclusion, the deserving winners acclaimed their unrivaled spot at the top. specific maps for execution. A game popularised determining elements 10 total teams from survival. For the For the results, the by its amusing and that contribute to a the different colleges tournament itself, enjoyable gameplay, match of a Valorant. combated for the MMSU umpired host college (CAS) Valorant is a staple From the picking of prestigious recognition dominated throughout household name for agents in certain maps, of being the champion. 10 PUBGM the whole tournament the gamers who are up to the rapport and And in its conclusion, teams that and obtained both 1st into volatile and rapid team chemistry of the the squad from College battled their and 2nd places via their matches. Contrary to squad, as well as the of Engineering, COE way through representative teams the aforementioned mechanical prowess of to the moon, led blazing ITlog and Seeknkill, led games, Valorant the players, Valorant is by Jovencarl Java guns and by Patrick Borja and requires a player of a a certain platform for the managed to incur no high- Leigh Aloha Badua, capable computer, in Stallions to showcase series losses in their calibre respectively. addition to the differing their maximum Cinderella run, as they tactical gaming peripherals, capability as an Esports pummeled their way Team ITlog and a stable internet player. through the finals with (champion) members: to play. While this a 3-1 gentleman sweep Patrick Borja, Adrian may retract many over EZW Ensign E Cudapas, John Eliezer stallions from playing (LHS-Laoag). Galano, Zachary it competitively, the Domingo. situation for the Esports COE to the moon tournament suggested (champion) members: When asked about the future plans of the otherwise. Jovencarl Java, Joshua student council, Mariñas reiterated her strong Tomas, Marc Adonis beliefs on the students’ potential to develop their While it may sound Asuncion, Arylle Jake skills and how they need to be exposed to larger simple to one’s eyes, Nifalar, Raymund Jan events. there are a lot of Pedro, Russel Piedad. “I believe we have great talents here in our SIRMATA university and right now we are just needing bigger stages to showcase it. Luckily, we already started these ‘bigger stages’, like this one,” Mariñas concluded. There is no doubt for the students, gamer or not, that the tournament held a strong foundation for the future of not only Esports, but also the bright path of the students in the world of competitive gaming. While considered as a success, the succeeding years are now ought to continue this exciting tradition of which exemplifies the presence of skills and competitive spirit of the Stallions.

FEATURE Sirmata 10 Vol. XXXVIII No. 3 Relevance. Excellence. Growth. January, 2022 “Ay wait, makapag-post muna nga sa Tiktok.” “Baka nagchat na si crush.” “Malayo pa naman deadline, makapagscroll nga muna sa fb” “Lose streak na naman sa ML, last game na promise” “Hala, deadline na ng report ko bukas, wala pa akong nasisimulan.” “Bahala na si batman.” Pamilyar ba ang mga linyahang ‘yan sa inyo? Marami sa atin ay may gawi na madalas ipinagpapaliban ang ilan sa ating mga gawain. Ito ay ang tinatawag na procrastination o ang habit ng pagpapaliban at pag-iwas sa iyong mga gawain. Sa new normal na ating kinahaharap, malaking pagbabago ang nangibabaw. Maraming estudyante ang tambak ng sandamukal na “school activities”, mga takdang-aralin o “school requirements.” Na sa halip na mga manliligaw ang pumipila sa kanila ay araw-araw silang pinipilahan ng essay, reflection paper, reaction paper, thesis, poster, infographic at samahan pa ng video nila sa P.E. At habang nagpo-procrastinate ang iba, dito na papasok ang pagtaas ng stress at isyung pangkalusugan. Ngunit huwag nang mabahala! Dahil may baong bagong “study tips” si Parekoy Sirmata sa kaniyang mga kaibigang estudyante. Epektibo! Produktibo! At mapapa “GOODBYE STRESS” ka! STUDY TIPS NI PAREKOY SIRMATA TIP 01: TIP 02: Jayson Sabong TIP 04: TIP 05: KNOW DO IT FOR MAKE A URGENT TIP03: YOUR LEARNING TO-DO FIRST LEARNING LIST SEIZE EVERY STYLE OPPORTUNITY Ang paggawa ng list Isang paraan para di Maari kang gumawa Isa sa mga Ano ba ang layunin things to do ay isang magahol sa oras ay ng plano, outline sa pinakamahalagang mo kung bakit mo ito malaking tulong para unahin ang mga dapat gagawing essay o kaya paraan upang maiwasan ginagawa? Dahil ba sa mga estudyante dahil unahing ipasa at malapit naman sketch kung ang stress ay paggamit requirement at pinagawa ipinapaalala nito ang mga sa itinakdang-petsa poster ang pinagawa sa mo ng iyong sariling kasi ng guro mo o dahil dapat tapusin o gawin ng pasahan. May mga iyo. Isa pang magandang learning style. Minsan gusto mong matuto? o kaya mga itinakdang binibigay na gawain ang pakinabangan na oras ay may mga pagkakataon ang Ang isang estudyante, pagsusulit o mahalagang mga guro na bukas na tuwing gabi na sa halip na isang estudyante na hindi kinakailngan niyang meeting na dapat salihan. ang petsa ng pasahan magscroll ng scroll sa masyado naiintindihan isapuso at isaisip ang Sa paglilista ng mga at yung iba sa mga fb at magihintay ng reply ang mga nakapaloob sa bawat tinuturo at dapat gawin, unahing susunod na linggo. Upang ni crush ay gamitin ang module learning material pinapagawa ng mga guro isulat ang mga gawain di ka matambakan ng oras na ito para magnilay at mas lumalawak ang sa kanya at lawakan ang na malapit sa itinakdang sandamakmak na gawain, nilay sa kung anong kaalaman nito kapag diwa ng pagkatuto na petsa ng pasahan o kaya unahin mong tapusin konsepto mo gagawin inihahanay niya ang ito’y parte ng kaniyang naman mga gawain na ang mga dapat ipasa yung reaction paper mo kaniyang sarili sa kapalaran sa buhay dahil di masyado mahirap kinabukasan, at mga o kaya kung paano mo panonood ng educational kung wala siya ni isa upang maayos mong susunod na gawain sa ipapamalas ang total videos hinggil dito. May nito, walang silbi ang mapamahalaan ang iyong sumunod na araw. body work-out video iba ring pamamaraan ang mga pinapasa niyang mga oras. Sa pamamagitan mo sa P.E. Sa ganitong ibang estudyante upang gawain at mag uugat ito nito, nahihimay ng isang paraan, mapapabilis mapabilis ang paggawa malalim na stress dahil estudyante ang kaniyang ang paggawa ng mga ng mga gawain nito gaya hindi niya hinanapan mga gawain sa itinakdang itinakdang gawain dahil ng pakikinig ng music ng patutunguhan kung oras na paggawa at naging makabuluhan ang habang gumagawa at bakit ito nag-aaral. Ika maipapasa nang maaga paggamit mo ng oras. sa pagrerebyu naman nga, kung mahal mo at bago ang itinakdang- tuwing malapit na ang ineresado kang matuto, petsa ng pasahan. pagsusulit, epektibo rin siguradong produktibo ang pagsusulat ng notes ang bawat araw mo. at mga mnemonics ng bawat konsepto. Nawa’y natuldukan ni parekoy SIRMATA ang mga hinanaing ng kaniyang mga katoto. Ang stress ay animo’y isang sakit na kapag di mo inagapan ng gamot, ikaw mismo ang maapektuhan. Kaya ano pa hinihintay niyo, sundin natin ang Epektibo! Produktibo! “GOODBYE STRESS!” na study tips ni Parekoy SIRMATA!!!

Sirmata LITERARY 11 Vol. XXXVIII No. 3 Relevance. Excellence. Growth. January, 2022 FROM A NATIVE TASTE-BUD’S TASTE BUDS Graziel Mae Ramat Sweet, sour, salty, Tinubong is one of and tinubong as the main days and then deep frying in almost every food kiosks and bitter –good the delicacies that can be dish along other Ilocano it in oil with a specific in the region, especially food will make life found throughout Ilocos. It delicacies, were offered range of temperature for it in Vigan and Batac City, way, way better. Add is a mixture of ground glu- to their patron saint as a to be satisfyingly crunchy. since the people have their some more for the umami tinous rice, strips of young token of gratitude for every It comes in different flavors own versions of empanada flavor –don’t be shy, take coconut meat, and sugar farmer’s bountiful harvest. –classic, sweet, adobo, and longanisa, respectively. what you are craving for! cooked in coconut milk. The bamboo-ish taste and chili, barbecue, and cheese. Vigan is garlicy in flavour Although it seemed to have smell of tinubong is what This one is obviously ready of longanisa and empana- Being able to visit and the same ingredients as ka- makes it unique and more to fire up taste buds! da, as what my taste buds stay in other places in lamay, tinubong is different special. Taste-bud’s taste say. Although that is the Ilocos gave me the oppor- on how it is prepared and buds approve! Going further north, case, even a single bite can tunity to have a taste of cooked. The ingredients the Ilocos region of- determine that the Ilocano the food that they proudly are placed in the “tubong” Kalamay and fers something more… spirit is poured in every offer. The Ilocos region is or the inner node of a chichacorn is a famous mouth-watering, literally, ingredient included. well-known for its cultural bolo or bamboo, and then sweet and salty snack and since these food are paired heritage sites and various cooked in dug rectangular pasalubong combo of with Sukang Iloko! Ilocos These delicacies comes tourist spots both from holes which are considered Ilocos. These are mostly longanisa, empanada, in different flavors, tex- Southern and Northern as traditional cooking produced in the City of and bagnet are one of the tures,and way of cooking, part –and along with the stoves. In the municipal- Candon where the locals main dishes that are much and are just one of the sceneries and experiences ity of Tagudin, the most cook these delicacies. Ka- known to tourists as well as many dishes that we, Ilo- that satisfy the eyes –their southern part and consid- lamay is a sticky sweet deli- locals. They can be found canos, are proud of. These delicacies satisfies the ered to be the Gateway to cacy made out of glutinous dishes do not only serve stomach in addition to Ilocandia, they celebrate a rice flour, coconut milk, as a platter that we offer to one’s soul. traditional thanksgiving on and brown sugar. Tradi- tourists, but also serves as every last Friday of January tional wrapping of kalamay something more than its prior to celophanes include taste or aroma –something putting it in a coconut shell that goes beyond our taste then wrapped with dred buds. banana husk. On the other hand, Ilocos chichacorn or Something that surely kornik is made by soaking satisfies the heart, and of corn kernels in water for course –our stomach!

LITERARY Sirmata 12 Vol. XXXVIII No. 3 Relevance. Excellence. Growth. January, 2022 Elpis Amidst Cerebro’s ChaoEntrys 718. Stop chasing yourseylfoutrryliinfgeh.atoDveosnat’vtoeobnfseilnoytdmhoeeapnofeetoneanerctlryeeyploisewnneogie.pthIltepsouwmathftniiiloxdneegdvebbeivenireitnrtegecyfrotfhtolmyhirneetagsfb.teeaYrcnoadruuesagedoieJynesogsuitunhwsaiatlleMlnotsraeyefrSoummaoang Code:Synéchise. It’s an account Twitter that would post words of encouragement to those who need to hear it. Synéchise is a Greek word that translates as keep going. On the account’s bio, the words Endroit Sûr was written. It means somewhere you feel at ease; a safe place. It encourages whoever reads it to keep going no matter how difficult it is. After all, when Pandora opened the box and hell broke loose, only Elpis remained. And just like the owner of the said account, I wanna be a ray of hope to others, for I am Selene, the brightest light despite being surrounded by Erebus. Looking after yourself doesn’t only mean taking care of your physical health, but also your mental health. In order to take care of your mental health, you need to Talk about your feelings. Opening up about what you genuinely feel inside is very difficult, as not everyone would understand it. But talking about what you feel helps you stay in good mental health. It also allows you to deal with the times when you feel troubled. Keep active. Doing some regular ex- ercise allows you to concentrate better, and boost your self-esteem. By ex- ercising, it also helps you keep both your brain and vital organs healthy. Make sure to eat properly and don’t skip meals. In order for it to function in optimum capacity, your brain needs a mix of of nutrients for it to also stay healthy. Drink moderately and sensibly. When we are troubled, we can’t help but get some good drink. Some peo- ple would tend to think that by consuming alcohol, it will help you forget your worries or loneliness. Sure, that’s partly true, but its effects is only temporary. Once you’re so- ber, you’ll remember every single thing you try to forget over and over again. Drinking is not an advisable way to manage your feelings. Drinking oc- casionally is fine, but you should limit your alcohol intake according to your tolerance, and don’t be too dependent on it. Keep in touch. When things get tough, having deep talks with someone you trust is advisable. You don’t need to keep everything in. There are people out there who are willing to listen to you, even strangers. As other people say, sometimes even a stranger is a better listener, as they won’t judge you for baring your vulnerable side to them. Ask for help. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness. If you really cannot handle things on your own anymore, don’t hesitate to seek help from others. Take a break, don’t push yourself too much. Changing your pace and environment is another way to take care of yourself. Its not bad to reward yourself some me time, in order not to drain or exhaust yourself. Engage yourself into something you enjoy. Indulging yourself into activities you enjoy doing helps you to beat stress, and to also boost your self-esteem. Accept and love yourself for who you truly are, not what others want you to be. This might be a tough one to do, as there are a lot of reasons and traumas that prevent us from accepting and loving every part of us. But bear in mind that we are unique and beautiful in our own ways. Its healthier to accept who you truly are, rather than living a somebody else’s shadow. You don’t need to hide. And how can others accept you, if you can’t even accept yourself? Having a good self-esteem helps you cope up with the difficulties life will make you face head on. Lastly, care for others. Caring and sympathizing with others allows you to establish strong bonds with others, and it will bring you closer to them. With all the challenges life brings to us, we can’t help but be vulnerable at times. We are humans with emotions after all. That is why we need to learn how to take care of ourselves, both physically and mentally, so that in the future, we will be able to create a better version of ourselves. A stronger and more resilient version of us. We are stronger than we think we are. And as long as the sun keeps rising in the east, there’s always Elpis to keep us going. Keep going, my bravest!

Sirmata LITERARY 13 Relevance. Excellence. Growth. Vol. XXXVIII No. 3 January, 2022 amamangha pa rin luv…Mag-ingat ka palagi… kaniyang ipinapagawa. uniporme na siguradong naka-uniporme din siya ng ako sa mga nangyari Miss na kita.” Ito ang Ginising ko na ang aking madudumihan din. Ipinikit katulad sa akin. sa buhay ko mula nagpapakiliti sa aking puso iniirog dali-dali kong ko nalamang ang aking mga at nagpapatunay na hindi hinalikan siya sa pisngi mata at hinayaan ko na ang “Jay nga pala, nars din Nnoong dumating at nagpaalam sapagkat tadhanang dumikta kung ano na katulad mo.,” mahinahon si Derick sa aking ko na kailangan pa ng sino ako ay mahuhuli na sa ang mangyayari sa akin. na sabi niya habang buhay ang matagal ko ng man o ng anumang bagay aking trabaho. Ngunit nakangiti at inabot ang pinapangarap na lalake. bago pa man ako makaalis Nagtaka ako sapagkat kaniyang kamay. Sa hindi sa aking buhay sapagkat ay naramdaman ko ang malambot na medyo may ko malaman na dahilan ay Matipuno at gwapo wala na makita ko lang siya sa aking kaniyang mainit na mga mga matitigas na parte ang bigla na lang tumitibok nang akong mahihiling pa. Siya ang tabi ay sapat na upang kamay sa aking pupulsuhan aking kinabagsakan. Unti-unti napakalakas ang aking puso kumumpleto sa buhay ko at magkaroon ng saysay ang at ako’y napalingon. kong iminulat ang aking mga at tila huminto ang oras sa sa aking naghihingalong puso aking paghinga sa mundong mata at nakita ko ang isang pagkatataong iyon. Inabot ko na noon pa man ay nakiki mapaglaro. “I love you luv! Ingat sa mala-anghel na mukha. ang aking mamasa-masang ”sana all” lang sa tiktok. trabaho mo.,” mahinahong kamay at ako ay nagpakilala Ngunit ngayon masasabi Dali-dali na akong sabi niya habang suot- “Nasa langit ba ako?,” rin. bumangon at naghilamos suot ang matamis na mga sabi ko sa gwapomg kong “sana all no more!” pagkatapos ay magluluto na ngiti na hindi ko kalian estranghero. Jusko po, siya na ba Magmula noong araw na man pagasasawaan. Ang ang aking “the one” ? nakilala ko siya ay nagsimula rin para sa aming umagahan. ngiting tumunaw sa aking “Huy miss, nangagalay Napatanong ako sa aking Kailangan kong gumising ng nagyeyelong puso. na kamay ko oh!,” tugon ng sarili “Sapat na nga ba si na ring makulayan ang aking maaga dahil sa aking trabaho estrangherong gwapo at Derick?” munting paraiso na ako lang bilang isang nars. Mahirap “Mahal din kita luv.,” doon ay nagising ang aking ang may alam. Sa wakas, pero kinakaya lalo na ngayon tugon ko sa kaniya at agad kamalayan. Agad akong “Hay, hindi ko na alam! araw-araw ay pppmayroon na kailangan kong mag-ipon na tumakbo palabas ng tumayo ng matuwid at inayus Gggrrrr!” na ring nagsasabi sa aking para mapakasalan ko na ang bahay papunta sa sakayan ang aking sarili. Ngayon mga katagang aking pinakamamahal na ng bus. Kailangan kong ko lang mas natitigan ang “Mahal na kasintahan. magcommute ngayon dahil mukha niya, tunay ngang mahal Alam ko, na hindi na ipinapaayus ko pa ang aking parang anghel ang aking kita siya maghahanap pa ng iba kotse. nasa harapan at sapagkat ibinibigay ko lahat napansin ng bagay na gusto niya Habang ako ay ko na at sinusunod nagmamadali hindi ko naman lahat namalayan na mayroon ng utos na palang nakaharang na bato sa aking dinaraanan. Dahan-dahan akong ‘‘Bigla na lang bumabagsak sa lupa kasama ng aking tumitibok nang napakalakas ang puting aking puso at tila huminto ang oras Kailan sa pagkatataong hindi nagiging iyon.” SAPAT ANG SAPAT NA? Warren Raciles

COMICS Sirmata 14 Vol. XXXVIII No. 3 Relevance. Excellence. Growth. January, 2022 DAYWarrenRaciles Sunset ends INNOCENT’S CRY beautifully, James Carlo R. Lucas It is when we parted – On the alley, resonates, Perhaps, fear is the cause goodbyes. The downpour of rain “Shoot them all!” says their Of turning a blind eye to Broken ties, starts. master. these. Shuttered The sound of every drop On the alley, But fear is nothing dreams, FFraodme tthhee nruosistey orofotfhse AThneotvhiectrimunlsioelsve–d lciafeseless. TCoomfepaarreisdttoottohleeralitvees lost. All gone gunshots. Of abuse in power. injustice. away… TBhurlolyuignhg tbhuelleftlessphieorfcetdhe BEaardtghed cops walk freely on FWoer tahree pgorewaetrerthtahtanpetohpisle– innocent. Where their victims were hold Like a From nothing, their anger buried. IIns gproewateer.r than the people withering flower Watered... revived… bloomed. I am finally growing, Freely thriving without you. Am I ready for another sunshine?

Sirmata SPORTS 15 Vol. XXXVIII No. 3 Relevance. Excellence. Growth. January, 2022 NAGSUBLIKAN Dear 2nd Sem, Agsuratak Randy Gianan Jr. kenka tapnon Kalpasan iti atiddog ibaga nga a panawen, itedko amin rigat, sakrificio, ken kaniam. Saanak ragsak agkurang a kas ti inka naipariknan, panagkurangna Nagsublikan. kaniak. Saanka “Urayenka”, paasaen a kas sakbayko inbaga iti panagpaasa ken bagik panangsakitna nga “Uston.”, kaniak. Ipategka. “talaga a saanka Ayatenka. agsublin.” Iyurnonganka. Ngem nagkamaliak. A kas kanayonko Inurayka lang koman ibaga, mas tapnon naisaganak ti nasisitaka ngem bagik kenkuana. iti panagsublim. Uray man ammok Surat iti kari, a saan a kasla datin, Agtutubo iti puli naragsak daytoy kararuak bayat panagpasungadmo kaniak. Magutigotak manen, a makakita kaniam. Agsubliak met kenkan, MMSU a pagadalak. Randy Gianan Jr.

MISSION SIRMATA, commits itself to link, bridge the gap and continually host the interaction of the stakeholders of the University - the students, schools administrator and the community towards desirable educational and socio-cultural development objectives, promote and preserve Filipino cultures and traditions, and catalyze community response and action in national and local issues. VISION SIRMATA, the official publication of the college students Mariano Marcos State University is envisioned to be the principal student organization to advocate social consciousness. Uphold and advance the rights of students, and promote their general welfare through fair, balanced, innovative and responsible campus journalism