The first fruits of the academic year 2025-2026 of Central Philippines State University (CPSU) were finally sown as the San Carlos Campus celebrated the completion of the higher education requirements of 595 graduands on May 11, 2026.

“By virtue of the power and authority vested in me by the Board of Regents of Central Philippines State University and after complying with all the requirements set forth by the Commission on Higher Education, I hereby confirm you as graduates,” declared University President Dr. Aladino C. Moraca.

The beginning of the CPSU Graduation Season was officially marked by the raising and procession of the university mace held by Board Secretary V Ma’am Nelly N. Cabual in the ceremony that featured the university-wide theme: “Empowered by Knowledge and Skills, Committed to Service, Ready to Lead.”

The commencement speech was delivered by the guest of honor, City of San Carlos Vice Mayor Hon. Christopher Paul S. Carmona, who encouraged the graduates with his profound message centered on the meaning of success

Honorable Carmona expressed, “Success is not reserved for those who start ahead but for those who keep moving forward even when they start behind. It reminds us that circumstances may change our beginnings, but they do not determine our destiny unless we change them—unless we surrender to them. It teaches us that resilience is a stronger advantage and that determination can carry a person farther than privilege ever could. Most importantly, it tells us that every person wants the power to rewrite their story. Not by changing the past, but by refusing to give up on the future. Graduates, this story reflects your journey in many ways. You started from different places and had different advantages. But what brought you all here today are the same things. Perseverance, discipline, and the courage to continue even in moments of doubt. As you move forward today, I want you to remember this. Success is not defined by where you come from but by the strength of your character, the clarity of your purpose, and your willingness to keep going even when the path ahead is uncertain.”

Ninety-six (96) graduands of the Bachelor of Science in Agribusiness (BSAB), one hundred thirty-seven (137) of the Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management (BSHM), one hundred forty-five (145) of the Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT), fifty-one (51) of the Bachelor of Science in Criminology (BSCRIM), forty-nine (49) of the Bachelor of Elementary Education (BEED), forty-six (46) of the Bachelor of Secondary Education (BSED) major in Mathematics, and seventy-one (71) of the BSED major in Science marched on the red carpet and eventually received their diplomas as graduates.

The Latin honors recipients, five (5) receiving the magna cum laude distinction and 27 receiving the cum laude distinction, were awarded medals in commendation of their exemplary academic performances, and Ms. Erica Anne Eleccion was commended as the highest academic honor awardee.

“Our challenge is this: Do not let our education end with [the attainment of] our diploma. The world doesn’t just need more employees; it needs more leaders. It needs people who act with integrity when no one is watching. It needs teachers who inspire, technologists who innovate for the common benefit, and agriculturists who can feed a growing nation while protecting our land. As we represent Central Philippines State University, let us remember that our value is not measured by our salary but by our service. Let us be the generation that brings solutions to San Carlos City, to Negros Occidental, and to the entire Philippines,” said Miss Eleccion.

President Moraca, Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Grenny I. Jungco, and San Carlos Campus Administrator Dr. Ken M. Balogo led the distribution of diplomas and transcripts of record to the graduates, with the distribution of the essential documents being one of CPSU’s best practices, which makes employment and opportunity search for the university clientele more convenient.

“To our graduates, this day belongs to you. For each medal, each certificate, and each smile we witness today represents years of determination and hard work. Behind every success are parents who sacrifice, teachers who guide, friends who encourage, and God who sustains throughout your educational journey…CPSU takes pride in sending forth graduates who are prepared to become the drivers of progress in their communities and in the nation. May you carry with you the values and lessons you have learned within this institution, and may you use your knowledge not only for personal success but also for the betterment of your society,” said Vice President Jungco in his opening remarks.

The ceremony was successfully organized under the leadership of Doctor Balogo, with the collective efforts of the campus faculty and staff and the robust support of the university administration.

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