Batac city: Thousands of blooming sunflowers greeted visitors on Thursday as they entered the Ferdinand E. Marcos park located at the administration building of the Mariano Marcos State University. Growing sunflowers is an annual tradition and a symbol for MMSU. Once they start to bloom, it signals that graduation season is approaching.

According to Philippines News Agency, this year, MMSU president Virgilio Julius Manzano Jr. initiated the establishment of a sunflower art and garden amid the threat of the El Ni±o phenomenon. Workers from the General Services Office, along with the Extension Directorate, helped set up the garden, which is now open for public viewing. In addition to rows of sunflowers, the garden features art letter installations that are instantly eye-catching.

Manzano stated that the sunflower garden showcases technology and creativity to attract more visitors and inspire students to achieve more. It also serves as a gift to its graduating students on June 10 to 11, marking the first time the university will hold a two-day graduation. 'The sunflower blooms could last only two weeks, but they have a lasting impact,' Manzano said, emphasizing that the design shapes MMSU's future plans to develop virtuous, future-ready individuals and create innovative solutions for sustainable communities.

In his welcome remarks at the launch of the Sunflower Art and Garden, Dr. Nathaniel Alibuyog, vice president for research, development and innovation, mentioned that the vibrant blooms are more than just a collection. 'The sunflower garden represents one of the university's cherished traditions,' he said.

This sentiment was echoed by Dr. Marlowe Aquino, the extension director of MMSU, who noted that the sunflower art and garden signify 'growth with excellence.' Batac City Mayor Mark Christian Chua, along with the city tourism officer Angelica Yumul, expressed support for further promoting the university's beautiful landscape by integrating it into the city's agro-tourism trail.