One chapter closed, fifty-four stories commence.

The Second (2nd) Commencement Exercises 2026 of the Murcia Extension Class marked the conclusion of a chapter in Central Philippines State University (CPSU) history and the beginning of the send-off for fifty-four (54) new Cenphilian graduates beyond the university premises.

University President Dr. Aladino C. Moraca confirmed the graduation of twenty-nine (29) Bachelor of Science in Agribusiness (BSAB) and twenty-six (26) Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT) graduands, presented by Mr. Rhaprap C. Tondo, Program Head of Bachelor of Science in Agribusiness (BSAB).

On behalf of Dr. Raul C. Alvarez, Jr., REE, CESO, Director IV, Commission on Higher Education Region XVIII-Negros Island Region (CHEDRO-NIR), Dr. Paulo C. Cabanero, Chief Educational Program Specialist of the CHEDRO-NIR, shared his personal stories of struggle, resilience, and triumph, which resonate with the unique grassroots stories of the graduands.

“Allow me again to say to the parents and families, thank you for your sacrifice and unconditional support. This success is also your triumph. To the faculty members and university officials, thank you for your dedication to shaping the minds and character of these graduates. And to the graduates of the Class of 2026, carry with you the values—the lessons. Continue learning, continue leading, and continue serving. As CHED continues to pursue its mission under the Achieve Agenda—Advancement, Competitiveness, and Excellence in Higher Education—we remain hopeful because of graduates like you, who embody the future of our country—a stronger, more resilient, and more progressive Philippines. Congratulations, CPSU-Murcia Extension Class of 2026. May you go forward empowered by knowledge, committed to service, and ready to lead,” said Doctor Cabanero.

Mr. Justin Mark R. Iligan of the BSAB program is the Murcia Extension Class, Class of 2026’s highest academic honors awardee, one among the ten Magna Cum Laude honors recipients, with five Cum Laude distinction awardees and one special academic award recipient.

“As we leave with our diplomas in our hands, let us not forget where we came from, and let us remain humble, for this achievement does not entitle us to think we are better than anyone. This diploma is not a crown of superiority but a proof of our hardship, survival, and growth. It is a symbol that we are ready to advance to the next chapter of our lives. Everyone here deserves congratulations because finishing college is already a privilege. We are proud to be a part of CPSU-Murcia, a place that shaped us and gave us the strength to endure. Above all, everything is for God. As we continue to write the remaining chapters of our lives, may we always keep Christ in our hearts, guiding us toward purpose and service,” said Mr. Iligan.

Graduates who demonstrated excellence beyond their academic requirements were also recognized as exemplary co-curricular awardees in leadership, thesis or capstone, production initiatives, and on-the-job training performance.

Their respective parents and guardians accompanied the distinguished academic and co-curricular honors recipients and graduates in receiving medals, certificates, and original diplomas.

Dr. Joe-an Mae G. Escober, CPSU-Murcia Extension Class Coordinator, imparted the welcoming remarks for the attendees, highlighting the celebration of the perseverance and resilience of the graduands and the unique spirit of community in CPSU-Murcia.

“Those moments may seem small to others, but for me, those are the true achievements of this graduating class. Because education is not only about grades, medals, or diplomas. It’s also about humanity. It's about learning how to lift others when they are struggling…It is about becoming people who serve and who stand beside others during difficult times. That is why I can proudly say that this batch has already succeeded in life long before today’s graduation ceremony. You succeeded because you learned how to survive without losing your kindness. You learned how to survive without losing, because you refused to leave anyone behind, and because, despite your own struggles, you still found ways to help one another,” said Doctor Escober.

The 2nd Commencement Exercises of the CPSU-Murcia Extension Class was held at the Mambukal Convention Center, Brgy. Minoyan, Murcia, Negros Occidental, on May 13, 2026.

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