Article by: Shaina Camille F. Macaranas and Alexa Julianna E. Karaan
Graphics by: Marcus D. Agustin and Cassius Klai C. Francisco
College romance is one cliché that seems to never get old. The mere idea of having a partner throughout one of the most pivotal moments of one’s life makes it a trope that is highly sought after. Mapúa University is not exempt from romance filling the street of Muralla. In fact, the university proves itself to be a measure of strength—uniting Mapúans in academics, and in the case of two alumni, in love.
Eros
Picture this: More than a decade ago, two undergraduates were tied by the red string of fate at the very grounds of the then Mapúa Institute of Technology. Batch 2007 Mechanical Engineering student Agustin Revilla was doing his Student Catholic Action (SCA) duties at the Sta. Rita Chapel. As if fate was plucking their heartstrings, Mara Vannesa Lordan, a Batch 2008 Engineering Management Mapúan, was also at the same place fulfilling her responsibilities. His eyes stayed fixated on her as something about her captivated him. She radiated a sense of playfulness with wit and intelligence that captured his attention—he fell in love at first sight. Luckily for Agustin, Mara belonged to the same organization. They crossed paths again at the SCA tambayan where they were officially introduced to one another.
Pragma
Both knew about the difficulties of being a Mapúan: the heavy workload and rigorous then-quarterm system. Despite all the obstacles they faced, their relationship thrived. Although cliché, their love made college life bearable by sharing the burden.
For Agustin, their student life was “80% student ka, tapos 20% others.” This was the reality that the couple fully comprehended. Managing their academic responsibilities alongside a relationship became an advantage instead of a drawback as they had a grasp of the university’s environment. Both had a thorough understanding about what was expected from students at the university because they had firsthand experience with academic challenges. Through everything, they learned to generate mutual support.
It is undeniable that the Cardinal lifestyle is not for the faint of heart, especially when the university was under a quarter system. For non-Mapúans, the crunched time may seem like an excuse and may be difficult to comprehend. Being a Mapúan couple, Mara shared how the institution solidified their foundation even more. During the times when Agustin had multiple assignments alongside tests and projects to complete, she offered her assistance, while Agustin stood by Mara throughout her thesis research. They built a system of trust and teamwork to push one another in the right direction.
Agape
The couple also got the experience of long distance relationship, and they consider it the hardest hurdle they have overcome. The shift was difficult, having been within close proximity of one another during their undergraduate to being kilometers away in order to build their careers. However, Mara explained that being surrounded by fellow Mapúans made working in Japan bearable. The distance between her and Agustin felt palpable at best, explaining the students of Mapúa will always find their way together—no matter where they are. Both focused on their careers before settling down as they saw that fit. The strong bond they developed in Mapúa kept them close.
One of the many facets of love is its ability to move past challenges and retain its stability. Unwavering, unconditional love will prevail regardless of circumstances. When Mara was asked about the moment she realized she wanted to marry her husband, her first response was that it was because the foundation of their relationship was already unbreakable. However, later, after the interview, she shared that she ultimately said yes and she knew he was the one because he had the purest heart. In her exact words, “I have never known any man as generous as him. He doesn’t have anything, yet he gives more than what he receives, especially to those in need. He taught me that sacrifice is one of the highest forms of love. He makes me a better person. He helped strengthen my faith in God. I love every part of him. I knew back then that I want to spend the rest of my life with him.”
With that said, he proposed in the Sta. Rita Chapel with the words, “Basta magkasama tayo, kakayanin natin lahat.” Inevitably, all roads led back to the quaint chapel inside the university as they also chose to tie the knot at the place where they first met and where they got engaged. The Sta. Rita Chapel holds memories and significance to their relationship, from their first impressions until they vowed death to do them part.
For the Mapúans seeking to be bitten by the lovebug, Agustin said that it is not about finding love because it is already everywhere—it’s about how to keep the spark aflame. A relationship requires more than just love to endure, it should also harbor understanding, patience, and communication to make it work. According to Mara, love should not be selfish. Instead, it should give optimism in life. One must love someone who grows with them throughout everything; to stay strong and be understanding whenever there are hardships.
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