Graphics by John Carl Acosta
Honoring years of dedication, resilience, and academic pursuit, graduates from the School of Technology (SOT) and the School of Accountancy, Management, and Entrepreneurship (SAME) were conferred degrees during the second day of Eastern Visayas State University (EVSU) – Main Campus’ 104th Commencement Exercises held at the Tacloban City Convention Center, Friday, June 26.
The ceremony gathered 624 graduates, comprising 305 from SOT and 319 from SAME, together with faculty members, university officials, and families to celebrate the completion of their academic journey as Batch Elevare, the official batch name of this year’s graduating class.
Serving as Guest of Honor, Hon. Desiderio Apag III, Commissioner of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and Chairman-Designate of the EVSU Board of Regents, shared lessons drawn from his own experiences, encouraging graduates to continue growing beyond the classroom as they begin a new chapter in life.
“Never stop becoming because life is not merely about acquiring knowledge, it’s about becoming wiser, becoming compassionate, becoming more patient, becoming more understanding, and becoming the kind of person whose success uplifts others rather than serving only oneself,” Apag said.
Beyond recognizing academic excellence, the commencement exercises also celebrated the determination and sacrifices that made every diploma possible.
Rhea Fay Martinez, an academic achiever from the School of Accountancy, Management, and Entrepreneurship (SAME), shared how returning to school after becoming a wife and mother made earning her degree even more meaningful.
“Today, standing here as a graduate, I realized that it is never too late to pursue your dreams. This achievement is not only for me but also for my family. Lahat ng pagod at sakripisyo became worth it the moment I received my diploma,” Martinez said.
Reflecting on her journey, Martinez emphasized that success is not defined by age or circumstance but by perseverance and faith.
“Life may lead us to different paths, and sometimes we need to prioritize our responsibilities before our dreams, but hindi ibig sabihin na huli ka na or that your dreams are no longer possible. Because of my husband, family, and friends who continuously supported me, I learned that no dream is too late when you have faith, determination, and the courage to keep going,” she added.
Apag further reminded the graduates that success is measured not only by achievements but also by one’s commitment to serving others with integrity and humility.
“The future of the Philippines will not be built by policies alone or by technology alone; it will be built by people whose education is matched by integrity, whose competence is matched by humility, and whose success is matched by service,” he said.
With the turning of the tassel and the graduates’ recessional march, Batch Elevare concluded the morning commencement ceremony, carrying their diplomas as they embarked on a new chapter beyond the university.
Meanwhile, the university’s 104th Commencement Exercises continued in the afternoon with graduation ceremonies for students from the School of Architecture and Allied Disciplines (SAAD) and the School of Engineering (SOE).
Article by Kyla de Paz