The CITizen

MMSU-CIT Honors Its Newly Graduated Doctors

The Mariano Marcos State University – College of Industrial Technology (MMSU-CIT) proudly congratulates the following faculty members for successfully earning their doctoral degree.

Your achievement reflects years of hard work, perseverance, and dedication to lifelong learning and professional growth. Behind every diploma is a journey of determination and commitment to excellence.

We also recognize the inspiring words of Dr. Aldous D.V. Asuncion:

“My journey in pursuing this degree was long, but no doubt, it has led to wondrous adventures. One thing I have learned through this journey is that while we gain more knowledge and better understanding of the things around us in earning advanced degrees, the more that we should keep both feet on the ground.”

May this milestone inspire others to pursue excellence, leadership, and service. Your MMSU-CIT family proudly celebrates your well-deserved success.

Congratulations, Doctors!

Bridging Theory and Practice: An Externship Initiative at PH–US
Exercise Balikatan 41-2026
by Gerlie D. Miole & Christian Jay P. Pungtilan

The externship activity initiated by Dr. Jon-Jon P. Graniada and Ms. Gerlie D Miole, both instructors of Banquet Function and Catering Services under the Food Processing and Service Management program of MMSU-CIT, marked a meaningful convergence of academic instruction and real-world professional engagement during the PH–US Exercise Balikatan 41-2026: Casualty Care and Evacuation through Military-Civilian Partnership (Inter-Operability Exercise).
In this high-level international setting, the educators were entrusted with serving VVIP executives—an experience that required precision, adaptability, and adherence to elevated standards of hospitality and service. Their participation exemplifies the essence of externship: translating classroom theories into practice while operating in a dynamic, high-stakes environment.

Through this initiative, Dr. Graniada and Ms. Miole reinforced the importance of experiential learning, not only for students but also for educators who continuously refine their expertise through industry immersion. Their involvement ensures that their teaching remains aligned with current trends and global standards, particularly in multidisciplinary settings.

According to Dr. Graniada, “This externship initiative allows us to take the theories we teach within the four walls of our classrooms and apply them in real-world settings, while also keeping us aware of and updated on the latest trends in the industry.”

The externship was further enriched through its partnership with Chef Cherrie Joy of CJ’s Food Services, whose expertise contributed to the successful delivery of quality service. This collaboration underscores the value of strong academe-industry linkages in advancing professional growth and excellence in the field.
Ultimately, this initiative reflects the educators’ commitment to lifelong learning—ensuring that classroom instruction remains relevant, responsive, and grounded in real-world application.

Advancing Technical Competence in Garments Production NC II: MMSU-CIT Faculty Achieve Excellence and Assessor Leadership Recognition
by Gerlie D. Miole

The Mariano Marcos State University – College of Industrial Technology (MMSU-CIT), through its Garments Technology / Apparel and Fashion Technology program, proudly celebrates the outstanding achievements of its faculty members in the field of garments production and assessment.

Prof. Gloria T. Torres and Dr. Mylene D. Calaranan have both been officially assessed as COMPETENT in Garments Production NC II and beyond meeting the standard, they distinguished themselves through exceptional performance.
Prof. Torres was honored with the Outstanding Participant Award, a recognition of her remarkable efficiency and speed in completing the required tasks during the assessment. Meanwhile, Dr. Calaranan earned the Top Loading Assessor Award and has now achieved a significant milestone as an Accredited Regional Lead Assessor for Garments Production NC II, further strengthening her role in advancing technical education and competency assessment.

These accomplishments were realized during the Capability Building Program for Prospective Lead Assessors on Garments Production NC II, conducted from April 27 to 30, 2026, at Slim's Fashion and Arts School in De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde, Manila.

This milestone reflects MMSU-CIT’s continued commitment to excellence, industry relevance, and the professional growth of its educators in the garments and fashion sector.

CIT Culinary Team Wins Top Prize at 4th Garlic Festival
by Gerlie D. Miole

The College of Industrial Technology (CIT) team earned first place in Garlic Master: A Culinary Clash during the 4th Garlic Festival held March 27, 2026, at the MMSU Garlic Research Center.

Competing under the name CIT Golden Cloves, the team was composed of Jay Sidney Gumallaoi, a third-year Food Processing and Service Management student, and Abbie Valencia, a first-year Culinary Technology student. They were coached by Mrs. Christine Q. Banez and Ms. Realyn Q. Salvador, whose guidance played a key role in the team’s success.

The team secured the top spot with their signature dish, Bawang-Based Supreme (Carabeef Orbs in Twin Garlic Tomato Reduction), which highlighted the depth and versatility of garlic through innovative preparation and presentation.

Under their coaches’ mentorship, the students demonstrated culinary excellence, creativity, and precision, effectively showcasing garlic as the central ingredient.

The victory reflects not only the students’ skill and dedication but also the commitment of CIT faculty to developing industry-ready competencies through hands-on training and competition.

The Garlic Festival served as a platform for participants to apply their technical knowledge in a real-world setting, further strengthening their confidence and professional skills in the culinary field.

CIT’s continued success in such competitions underscores its commitment to excellence, innovation, and collaborative learning.

Behind Every Champion: MMSU-CIT’s Gold Medal Mentors at the 2026 Provincial Skills Olympics
by Gerlie D. Miole

The 2026 Ilocos Norte Provincial Skills Olympics, hosted by TESDA Ilocos Norte and held on March 17–19, 2026, at SM City Laoag, was not only a showcase of student excellence but, more importantly, a testament to the dedication, expertise, and mentorship of the faculty behind their success.

Representatives of Mariano Marcos State University–College of Industrial Technology (MMSU-CIT) garnered a total of four gold medals, showcasing excellence made possible by dedicated mentors in each category who invested time, knowledge, and effort in shaping the competitors into competent representatives of their respective fields. This year’s gold medalists exemplified not only technical excellence but also the effectiveness of guided training and industry-aligned instruction.

In the Cooking category, held at Northwestern University, Cherie Joy R. Layaoen of FPSM 3B secured the gold medal, with assistance from Christian Dave U. Bagaoisan of FPSM 3C, under the expert leadership of Dr. Jon-Jon P. Graniada. His technical mastery and disciplined training approach established a strong foundation for excellence and played a vital role in refining the students’ practical skills and competition readiness.

Similarly, in the Bakery category at Divine Word College of Laoag, Jerick P. Ancheta of CUL 1C emerged as gold medalist, assisted by Cate Allyssa S. Ramos of CUL 1C, under the mentorship of Mr. Christian Jay P. Pungtilan. His guidance, attention to detail, and consistent supervision enabled the competitors to perform with confidence and precision.

In Fashion Technology, held at SM City Laoag, Joselito Acebu of GT 2A achieved a gold-winning performance under the mentorship of Prof. Gloria Torres, who nurtured both creativity and technical competence through sustained coaching and expert instruction.

Meanwhile, in Electrical Installation at MMSU-CIT, Justine Joven T. Antonio of ELTR 3A secured the gold medal under the guidance of Mr. Eljames Tomas, whose rigorous technical training and professional insight enabled the competitor to meet industry standards and excel in the competition.

The success of these mentors reflects a shared commitment to excellence in technical and vocational education. Their ability to translate knowledge into practice, instill discipline, and inspire confidence among students played a crucial role in achieving outstanding results.

This achievement was further strengthened by the leadership and support of OIC-Dean Prof. Aldous dV. Asuncion and Department of Industrial Technology Chair Prof. Fairie Anne A. Domingo, alongside TESDA focal person Ms. Criza Maeridel C. Ubasa, and the college’s supporting organizations led by Mr. Jerylvin A. Rabago, Student Affairs and Services Coordinator.

Ultimately, the triumph at the Provincial Skills Olympics is not only a celebration of student achievement but also a recognition of the faculty and experts whose passion for teaching and commitment to excellence continue to shape globally competitive professionals—proving that behind every champion is a mentor who makes excellence possible.

CIT Faculty Members Recognized at the PRAISE Awarding Ceremony 2026
By Marjorie N. Suniga

Faculty members of the Mariano Marcos State University–College of Industrial Technology (MMSU-CIT) were recognized for their outstanding achievements in research, innovation, professional development, and public service during the annual PRAISE Awarding Ceremony, held as part of the University’s Foundation Anniversary celebrations. The ceremony took place on January 16, 2026, at the MMSU Teatro Ilocandia in Batac City.

The Program on Awards and Incentives for Service Excellence (PRAISE) Awarding Ceremony honors individuals who have demonstrated exemplary performance and made significant contributions in instruction, research, extension, and institutional development, thereby reinforcing the University’s commitment to academic excellence and public service.

One of the highlights of the ceremony was the conferment of the Presidential SUCCEED Award, which recognizes faculty members for notable accomplishments in research presentation, scholarly publication, career development, and intellectual property generation.

Mr. Cris Jade T. Agtang received both the Best Research Presenter Award and the Third Best Research Paper Award for his study entitled “Web Accessibility Assessment and Ranking of State Universities and Colleges in the Philippines.” Mr. Marc Clinton A. Dacuycuy likewise earned the same distinctions for his research titled “Constructivist Strategy-Enriched Material in The Contemporary World.” Ms. Realyn Q. Salvador was recognized for her contribution as a co-author of the research article “Assessing the Self-Reported Level of Food Hygiene Knowledge and Practices Among Cookery Teachers in Northern Philippines,” published in MDPI’s Journal of Hygiene.

Other recipients of the Presidential SUCCEED Award for Career and Self-Development included Dr. Baby ‘Rlene I. Bayoc, Dr. Mark Alvin D. Bueno, Dr. Zaldy A. Fernandez, Mr. Norwin C. Adriatico, Mr. Christian Jay P. Pungtilan, Mr. Karl Lorenze E. Gumsat, Mr. R.J. Joshua R. Guira, Mr. Christopher B. Sales, Mr. Dave Malan G. Dahilig, Mr. Spheire Joy B. Domingsil, and Ms. Jessica Camille B. Ramirez.

In the area of innovation and intellectual property, Mr. Samuelito R. Demandante, Prof. Aldous dV. Asuncion, and Mr. Jerylvin A. Rabago were recognized for securing copyright registration for iVote: Voting System of MMSU-CIT. Prof. Asuncion also received recognition for the copyright registration of the ETEEAP Application Management System Software.

Meanwhile, Dr. Felicitas P. Sanculi and Mrs. Christine Q. Bañez were conferred the TAKWAT Award (Food Innovation Center) for their registered utility model, Mango Sinigang Mix.

The University likewise honored long-serving faculty members through the Loyalty Awards. Prof. Ferdinand P. Huenda and Prof. Gloria T. Torres were recognized for 30 years of government service; Prof. William G. Bermudez for 25 years; Dr. Byron Joseph A. Hallar, Dr. Janet C. Rivera, and Prof. Fairie Anne A. Domingo for 15 years; and Mr. Marc Jenc S. Salvador and Mrs. Jhonna E. Galarpez for 10 years of service.

Overall, the PRAISE Awarding Ceremony underscored the University’s sustained commitment to cultivating a culture of excellence and recognition by honoring the dedication and contributions of its faculty members to research, innovation, professional growth, and public service.

Culinary and Cultural Exchange: Guangxi Health Science College Engage with MMSU-CIT
by Gerlie D. Miole

Mariano Marcos State University – College of Industrial Technology (MMSU-CIT) welcomed students, faculty, and staff from Guangxi Health Science College (GHSC) for a three-day academic and cultural exchange program held from January 19 to 21, 2026. The event, hosted by the Food Processing and Service Management (FPSM) and Culinary Technology (CulTech) programs of the Department of Industrial Technology, aimed to foster international collaboration, cultural understanding, and the exchange of technical and practical competencies in hospitality, wellness, and food service education. This initiative also served as a benchmark for the College’s future offering of a Bachelor in Homecare Services Technology program.

The program formally commenced with an opening ceremony on the first day. College administrators, faculty members, and visiting delegates gathered to mark the start of the exchange, emphasizing the importance of cross-border academic partnerships and experiential learning opportunities for both institutions.

On the second day, GHSC students conducted a series of skill-based demonstrations reflecting their academic training and cultural heritage. Activities included martial arts, professional organizing techniques, infant massage, neck and shoulder massage, tea art, and the preparation of soups and dumplings. These demonstrations provided students and faculty with insights into traditional and contemporary health practices, wellness services, and culinary techniques practiced in China.

In addition to technical demonstrations, the visiting students presented cultural activities that highlighted creativity and tradition. These included paper cutting and fan art using water-dipping techniques, allowing participants to appreciate the artistic expression and cultural symbolism inherent in these practices. The interactive nature of the activities fostered meaningful engagement and cultural exchange between the Filipino and Chinese participants.

On the third day, FPSM and CulTech faculty members, together with GHSC students and professors, conducted a learning visit to Planaxis Grill and Restaurant in Bacarra, Ilocos Norte. The activity featured a brief restaurant tour and a culinary demonstration on the preparation of tupig, a traditional Ilocano rice delicacy. This session highlighted local food heritage and showcased indigenous food processing techniques, complementing the international culinary exchange earlier in the program.

The program concluded with a closing ceremony at the MMSU Center for Flexible Learning in Batac City, attended by FPSM and CulTech faculty members. During the event, both host faculty and visiting delegates shared messages of appreciation and reflections, underscoring the success of the exchange and the collaborative learning experiences gained. Certificates of participation were also presented, symbolizing the strengthened partnership between MMSU and GHSC and reaffirming the commitment of both institutions to future academic and cultural collaborations.

Overall, the visit of the GHSC delegation to MMSU proved to be a productive and enriching experience. It strengthened institutional linkages, enhanced intercultural understanding, and provided students and faculty with valuable exposure to diverse technical skills and cultural practices aligned with hospitality, health sciences, and culinary education.

MMSU-CIT Faculty Coaches Lead Culinary Team to Success at Kusina Ilocandia 2026
by Leslie Anne Tuliao

The award-winning performance of the Mariano Marcos State University–College of Industrial Technology (MMSU-CIT) Food Processing and Service Management (FPSM) team at Kusina Ilocandia 2026 was anchored on the dedication, discipline, and mentorship of its faculty coaches, whose guidance proved instrumental to the students’ success.

Marking its first participation in the regional culinary competition held on January 14–16, 2026, at the Speaker Pro-Tempore Francisco I. Ortega Venue in San Fernando, La Union, the MMSU-CIT culinary team competed in the Pasta Showdown, Culinary Quiz Bee, and Cocktail Mixing events. The team secured a Bronze Award in the Pasta Showdown, a Diploma in the Culinary Quiz Bee, and a Gold Award in Cocktail Mixing—achievements that underscored both the students’ competence and the depth of faculty mentorship behind their preparation.

Faculty coaching responsibilities were clearly defined and strategically aligned with each competition category. Ms. Leslie Anne Tuliao and Mrs. Christine Q. Bañez led the Culinary Quiz Bee, strengthening students’ theoretical mastery, food safety knowledge, and understanding of industry standards. Ms. Realyn Q. Salvador and Mr. Matt Jeamner Sibayan coached the Pasta Showdown team, focusing on technical precision, plating aesthetics, and professional kitchen discipline. For Cocktail Mixing, Dr. Jon-Jon P. Graniada and Ms. Gerlie D. Miole provided hands-on supervision, refining technique, creativity, and confident ex*****on. Across all events, the coaches conducted intensive training sessions, reviews, and continuous feedback to ensure the students performed with competence and composure under pressure.

The team’s success was further reinforced by the collective support of all FPSM faculty members, who contributed academic guidance, technical insights, logistical assistance, and sustained encouragement throughout the preparation period. This collaborative effort fostered a strong culture of mentorship and teamwork within the department.

Beyond formal training, the faculty demonstrated exceptional commitment by extending working hours, balancing teaching responsibilities, and providing constant motivation to the students. Their dedication exemplified the role of educators as mentors who cultivate excellence beyond the classroom.

The achievements of the MMSU-CIT FPSM culinary team at Kusina Ilocandia 2026 stand as a testament to the synergy between committed faculty leadership and student perseverance. As the college continues to strengthen its presence in regional and national culinary competitions, the unified support of its faculty remains central to producing skilled, competitive, and industry-ready graduates.

MMSU–CIT Faculty Showcase Global Research Engagement at ACLAB 15
By Gerlie D. Miole

A team of faculty members and researchers from Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU), including two representatives from the College of Industrial Technology (CIT), participated in the 15th Asian Conference on Lactic Acid Bacteria (ACLAB 15), held in Taipei, Taiwan, on November 19–21. Their involvement formed a major component of the CHED-supported IFP–Probiotics Research Project, which underscores the dissemination of research outputs through internationally recognized scientific platforms.

The delegation, composed of nine MMSU scholars - Prof. Fairie Anne Domingo and Dr. Felicitas P. Sanculi from CIT, and Prof. Angelica May Mendoza, Prof. Rhian Jaymar Ramil, Dr. Peter James Icalia-Gann, Prof. Ma. Danica Ramil, Prof. Kristian Gay Beltran, Ms. Jimmbeth Zenila Fabia, and Ms. Xenia Elika Bucao from other MMSU units who individually presented research papers aligned with the project’s focus on probiotics and emerging microbial technologies.

During the three-day conference, the MMSU representatives delivered studies showcasing developments in omics-based analysis, microbial biotechnology, functional food design, and food safety innovations. These scientific contributions reflected the project’s goal of generating impactful research and highlighted MMSU’s strengthened role in the international probiotics research landscape.

ACLAB 15 convened more than 500 participants from 17 countries, providing a platform for knowledge exchange and interdisciplinary collaboration. Following the conference, all MMSU-presented works are being prepared for submission to Scopus-indexed journals, ensuring broader dissemination and long-term academic visibility.

The University emphasized that the delegation’s participation significantly advanced the objectives of the IFP–Probiotics Project. Moreover, it reaffirmed MMSU’s commitment to research excellence, global engagement, and initiatives that contribute to the advancement of scientific knowledge in the region.

The CITizen: First Edition

https://online.pubhtml5.com/zfxdi/dsny/