Inaugurating MSU-IIT’s first-ever Mx. IIT Influencer, seven candidates from the seven colleges of the institute joined a press launch organized by the Kataastaasang Sanggunian ng mga Mag-aaral (KASAMA) on March 29, at the Mindanao State University – Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT) Premier Research Institute of Science and Mathematics (PRISM) Conference Hall and livestreamed via KASAMA’s Official Facebook Page.
In the opening remarks of the Vice Chancellor for Student Service, Dr. Rohane M. Derogongan shared the history and inspiration for Mx. IIT Influencer and how it transpired from the foremost influencer of MSU-IIT, Chancellor Prof. Alizedney M. Ditucalan, JD, LLM. Notably, Vice Chancellor Derogongan reminded everyone that a true influencer of MSU-IIT must manifest and uphold the vision, mission, and core values of the institute.
Mx. IIT Influencer puts the advocacies of the candidates on top of the pageantry aspects. Additionally, the event aims to promote inclusivity; hence, the use of the gender-sensitive pronoun — Mx.
The different colleges are represented by Jelie Malmis from the College of Arts and Social Sciences (CASS); Chel Diane Falceso from the College of Education (CED); Winona Jane Salvo from the College of Computer Studies (CCS); Jhon Cyril Miñoza from the College of Health Sciences (CHS); Daffnea Marticio from the College of Economics, Business, and Accountancy (CEBA); Zhea Sanchez from the College of Science and Mathematics (CSM); and Angel Mae Dolino from the College of Engineering (COE).
The press launch had several questions from the hosts as well as the audience. CEBA’s Daffnea Marticio feels happy because through Mx. IIT Influencer, norms are broken and inclusivity is promoted in the institution. Additionally, COE’s Angel Dolino expressed that despite the nervousness, she is still grateful to be a part of Mx. IIT Influencer and to represent her college. CED’s Diane Falcesco shared her preparations for the competition where she practiced for her walk, question and answer, and also attended workshops. Furthermore, CCS’ Winona Salvo emphasized that she prepared herself mentally to just relax and enjoy the journey in being a Mx. Influencer.
When asked if they feel pressured, CSM’s Zhea Sanchez said, “We have actually been trained to see pressure as something that would be an avenue for us to be better. And [this] type of pressure will actually help us be the influencers we were meant to be.” CHS’ Jhon Miñoza added that their advocacy will not end in the Mx. Influencer competition, because no matter what will happen, they will continue to keep fighting and advocating for all their plans and beliefs. Lastly, CASS’ Jelie Malmis emphasized that pressure made them become more progressive, empowered, and transformational.
In the calendar of activities for the Mx. IIT Influencer, Sen. Christine Tecson, the chairperson of the event, noted that the candidates will be having their outreach programs and special projects that will be conducted by their colleges.
Report by Karl Anthony Ong
Proofread by Juvanie Ambayic
Photos by Anthony Rivera
