The first batch of Cenphilian Summa Cum Laude distinction awardees for the academic year 2025-2026 was recognized at Central Philippines State University (CPSU) – Valladolid Extension Class during its Second (2nd) Commencement Exercises 2026.

Held at the campus’s covered court on May 14, 2026, with the theme "Empowered by Knowledge and Skills, Committed to Service, Ready to Lead,” the commencement exercises also recognized twenty-seven Magna Cum Laude, one Cum Laude, and two Special Academic Awardee distinction recipients.

“I am standing before you as someone who waited seven years after high school before finally stepping into college. There were long years of waiting, of putting my dreams on hold, and of doubting if I would ever have the chance to wear this toga. When the opportunity finally came for me to enter CPSU, I walked into my class with absolutely zero expectations. I did not come here to compete, to chase titles, or to ask anything grand in return. My only prayer was simply to finish my degree. To be standing before you today as a Summa Cum Laude and your Valedictorian is an absolute shock to me. It is a humbling reminder that when we surrender our timeline to the Almighty God, His blessings are far greater than anything we could have ever planned. To those who started late, to those who had to pause their studies so they could work, and to those who secretly wondered if it was too late to try again: I want you to know that your timeline is valid. True excellence is sometimes simply having the courage to finally start, to not give up, and to finish what you started, no matter how long it takes. We did not run out of time. We arrived exactly when we were supposed to,” said Mr. Richard C. Managuit, Summa Cum Laude and Highest Academic Honors Awardee.

Moreover,  CPSU-Valladolid Extension Class Coordinator Dr. Manelyn L. Mananap presented 118 graduands, who were confirmed as graduates by the University President, Dr. Aladino C. Moraca, as approved by the CPSU-Board of Regents.

The commencement speech was delivered by the guest speaker, Valladolid Municipal Mayor Hon. Ricardo P. Presbitero Jr., who addressed the graduates with a profound message: “I would like to thank all of you for your hard work. You are the leaders who will help change our society. Now, at this point, if you ask me, What is the role of the graduates in the ancient building? My direct answer will be, You are not simply graduates of CPSU, all of you here receiving the diploma are the future of our country. You can start by assuming the role of a future teacher, future entrepreneur, future public servant, future volunteer, farmer, or future community builder. You will become part of the next generation who will shape the destiny of our municipality and our nation.”

He adds, “National development, or the so-called economic cycle, does not begin in Manila alone. It also begins in communities and towns like Valladolid. Development also begins in the classroom, on the farms, in the barangay, and in the acts of honesty and hard work. Nation building also begins with a clean conscience and faithful service.” 

“To the parents and guardians, thank you for your unwavering support and sacrifices. This achievement is also your achievement. To the faculty members and staff of this extension class, thank you for your dedication in molding the minds and shaping the futures of the Cenphilians enrolled in this campus. May this Commencement Exercise inspire all of us to firmly believe that through education, discipline, faith, and perseverance, dreams indeed become realities. Congratulations, Class of 2026. Congratulations and welcome to a new chapter of your lives,” said Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Grenny I. Jungco.

The university mace once more graced the red carpet of the CPSU-Valladolid, raised by Board Secretary V Ma’am Nelly N. Cabual, who also led the alumni pledge as a CPSU alumna.

Valladolid Municipal Vice Mayor Hon. Shirley R. Nacion also conveyed an inspirational message after the symbolic turning of their graduation cap tassels as graduates and the awarding of their respective diplomas.

“As graduates of CPSU, you now carry the responsibility of becoming instruments of progress and development in your respective communities. The world today needs leaders who are not only intelligent and skilled, but also kind, disciplined, resilient and socially responsible. Wherever you are, wherever life may take you, always remember the values and lessons that your school has instilled in you,” said Honorable Nacion.

The graduation rites concluded on an emotional note as the graduates approached their parents, guardians, and families in their graduation song and also hyped the attendees as they performed an upbeat community dance, conveying their heartfelt gratitude and triumphant sentiments.

CPSU-Valladolid also held a community invocation through a baccalaureate mass, which was followed by the Recognition Rites, which gave commendations to the achievements and exemplary performances of the students for School Year 2025 - 2026 through the conferment of medals and certificates.