Maasin City—Under the warm June air, the Southern Leyte State University Maasin Campus (SLSU-MCC) celebrated a significant milestone in its 23rd Commencement Exercises held at the Maasin City Gym on June 2, 2025. It was a day marked by honor, reflection, and a sense of transformation as the graduates stepped into a new chapter of their lives.

The program began with an Academic Procession, setting the stage for a ceremony filled with pride and promise. Mr. Aris Rex D. Espinas led the National Anthem, followed by a formal pronouncement by Ms. Mabel R. Calva, Board of Regents Secretary, affirming the day’s significance.

Dr. Jude A. Duarte, the esteemed University President, introduced the commencement speaker, Director Grace Q. Subong of the DSWD Field Office VIII. In her inspiring address, Director Subong underscored the vital roles that the graduates of the Bachelor of Public Administration (BPA) and Bachelor of Science in Social Work (BSSW) programs will play in society. She described how BPA graduates, with their knowledge of complex frameworks and commitment to good governance, will help build strong institutions, while BSSW graduates will champion individual wellness and human rights, tirelessly advocating for those in need.

“Every moment spent in service, no matter how small, has the potential to change lives,” she reminded them. Director Subong’s words resonated deeply, urging the graduates to uphold the highest ethical standards and to never underestimate their power to create change.

This year, SLSU-MCC proudly produced 161 excellent graduates. Their hard work and dedication, now embodied in their diplomas and transcripts of records, stand as proof of their achievement. As Director Subong aptly put it, “The unwavering support has not been in vain. This is the tangible proof: you, as graduates.”

She further encouraged them to “uphold the highest ethical actions and let integrity be your guiding path” and to “build bridges, not burn them” as they embark on their future endeavors. Director Subong highlighted the complementary nature of Public Administration and Social Work, describing them as “two wings of the same bird, working together to soar in the wide sky.” One addresses personal challenges, while the other creates frameworks to enable that work—both dedicated to serving the people.

Acknowledging the challenges of being a student, she concluded, “Being a student is never a walk in the park, and ‘here you are,’” congratulating the graduates for their perseverance.

Following her Commencement Address, Dr. Duarte presented a Plaque of Appreciation to Director Subong, honoring her inspirational message. The presentation of candidates for graduation was led by Dr. Constantino G. Medilo, VP for Academic Affairs; Dr. Frederick C. Aniga, Campus Director; and Dr. Magdaleno T. Samaco Jr., Faculty Dean. Dr. Duarte then conferred degrees and awarded diplomas, assisted by university academic leaders and the Registrar.

The excitement peaked as Dr. Duarte awarded medals to the Honor Graduates, Academic Excellence Awardee, and Presidential Leadership Awardees—moments of immense pride for the graduates and their families. Mr. Andrew E. Franca, an Academic Excellence Awardee, led the graduates in the Pledge of Loyalty to their alma mater, followed by the SLSU Alumni Oath administered by Dr. Annabelle M. Hufalar, President of the Federation of Alumni Association. The ceremony concluded with the heartfelt singing of the SLSU Hymn and a joyful recessional, marking not just an end but the beginning of new journeys filled with purpose and promise.

(via Lyka Joy Mayol & Melou Jean Butlig| Pulse)

(Photos by Pulse Photojornalists| Pulse)