The 12th Commencement Exercises of Central Philippines State University-Hinigaran Campus concluded successfully on June 17, 2025—welcoming 246 new graduates across 5 bachelor programs.

Clad in their graduation togas hooded in blue, violet, and yellow, 246 graduands marched with their parents and guardians as members of the graduating class of 2025 in the culminating ceremony signifying the productive end of their undergraduate journeys.

47 Latin distinction recipients—10 Magna Cum Laude awardees and 37 Cum Laude awardees—with 4 special academic awardees also received medals and certificates of recognition for their exemplary academic performance throughout four collegiate years of studying their bachelor programs.

Turning their tassels, graduates were officially confirmed by the Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Grenny I. Jungco, on behalf of the University President, Dr. Aladino C. Moraca, to have successfully complied with their respective program requirements set by the Commission on Higher Education.

26 Bachelor of Science in Agribusiness graduates, 84 Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management graduates, 68 Bachelor of Science in Information Technology graduates, 53 Bachelor of Elementary Education major in General Education graduates, and 15 Bachelor of Secondary Education major in Mathematics graduates obtained their diplomas conferred by VPAA Jungco and assisted by CPSU-Hinigaran Campus Administrator, Dr. Karla C. Salvallon.

Class Valedictorian and Magna Cum Laude, Hajiah Mae N. Leyte, conveyed a speech filled with gratitude to the Almighty God, her parents, siblings, teachers, and classmates—ending her message with encouragement, “Life is filled with challenges, discouragements, and failures—things don’t always go as planned but as you go out into the world and pursue your dreams, always remember that there is a God that you can lean on and trust. We cannot predict what tomorrow will bring so let’s place our hopes and worries in the hands of the One who holds our future. As I end this message, I want to share a verse from the book of Proverbs 3:5-6 which says, ‘Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding, in all your ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct your paths’.”

Tackling the boons and banes of emerging artificial intelligence-powered technology, Guest of Honor & Speaker, Café Bob’s & Bob’s Pastry Shop President, Mr. Roberto “Bobby” A. Magalona, imparted trade secrets and key traits for graduates in approaching their new life chapters and in obtaining success—emphasizing the willingness to work, persistence despite failures, openness to learning and correction, integrity of character, and faith in God as essential ingredients to soaring high.

Mr. Magalona said, “If you have focus and determination, these will propel you forward. Whatever you dream of or whatever field you’d like to take on, be clear of your goal and focus…If you fail, keep moving forward. Do not be afraid of failure. When you see an opportunity, take the opportunity, and even if you fail, [know that] failure is the best teacher because it will make you wiser. Keep on trying, do not limit yourselves, explore your capabilities, and do not be afraid to fail because that will equip you with the strength of heart and the strength of character.” 

Negros Occidental 5th District Representative, Hon. Congressman Atty. Emilio Bernardino “Dino” L. Yulo III; and Isabela Municipal Mayor-elect, Hon. Miguel Angelo G. Yulo, conveyed their felicitations to the graduates and their families through their presence in the commencement ceremony.

Hon. Cong. Yulo shared the inspiring story of one of her constituents who struggled from a broken family and strived hard to pursue her education degree eventually becoming a licensed professional teacher and said, “Education is about giving people the chance to rise beyond the circumstances, and it is about believing in those who are often overlooked, like many of you. That’s what we do not only through giving scholarships but also by being present and by creating spaces where people are heard, where trials are acknowledged, and where help is given. To my beloved graduates, carry this story with you and let it remind you that success is not always loud, but it is sometimes quiet, humble, and rooted in a struggle. Let me remind you that the journey is not just for you. Look at your parents who made sacrifices over the past years. Use your education to uplift others. May we build a society where every child has the same chance to succeed, where education is not a privilege but a right, where small acts create ripples of change. To all of you, mabuhay and congratulations!”

Led by VPAA Jungco, CPSU key officials namely, University Mace Bearer and Board Secretary V, Ma’am Nelly S. Cabual; CPSU-Valladolid Campus Administrator, Dr. Manilyn Mananap; former CPSU-Hinigaran Campus Administrator, Ma’am Bella D. Supe; and Public Information Office Head, Dr. Freia L. Vargas, joined the campus’ faculty and staff in witnessing the realization of class of 2025’s baccalaureate dreams as they turned their tassels and received their diplomas. 

CPSU continues to uphold its philosophy of providing “decent, affordable education for sustainable productivity and global competitiveness” with its new set of graduates from all walks of life as a testament to its steadfast commitment.

CPSU-Moises Padilla Campus will be hosting its Commencement Exercises for AY 2024-2025 tomorrow, June 18, 2025, with the theme: “Legacy of Wisdom, Celebrating Success: 75 Years Strong and Infinite Futures.”