18/06/2026
๐ก๐๐ ๐ฆ๐จ - ๐ฆ๐ฎ๐ป ๐ ๐ถ๐ด๐๐ฒ๐น ๐๐น๐ฎ๐๐ ๐ผ๐ณ ๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ฎ๐ฒ ๐๐บ๐ฏ๐ฎ๐ฟ๐ธ๐ ๐ผ๐ป ๐ก๐ฒ๐ ๐๐ผ๐ฟ๐ถ๐๐ผ๐ป๐
A seed does not become a harvest overnight. It begins as something small, buried beneath the soil, unseen by many. Yet through patience, nourishment, and resilience against storms and droughts, it grows into something fruitful. For the 206 graduates of North Eastern Mindanao State University (NEMSU) - San Miguel Campus, commencement day represents that harvest, a celebration of years of dedication, sacrifice, and perseverance finally coming into bloom.
Gathered at the Mahayag Multipurpose Gymnasium in Mahayag, San Miguel, Surigao del Sur on June 18, 2026, graduates, parents, faculty members, and guests witnessed the 69th University Commencement Exercises carrying the theme, โReimagining Education Beyond Degrees: A Legacy of Empowered Skills, Adaptive Innovation, and Global Possibilities.โ
The ceremony marked not only the completion of academic requirements but also the beginning of a new chapter filled with opportunities and responsibilities.
The program opened with the salutation delivered by Jihad Darika P. Mosenabre, Magna Cum Laude graduate of the Bachelor of Science in Agriculture. Reflecting on the collective journey of the graduating class, Mosenabre said, โEvery challenge we encountered became an opportunity to grow, and every obstacle became a stepping stone leading us closer to our goals.โ Her words captured the spirit of a graduating class that endured countless struggles yet remained steadfast in pursuing their dreams.
The formal proceedings continued as Dyna V. Aya-ay, LPT, Registrar Designate, presented the Attestation of Compliance with Academic Requirements. This was followed by the Petition to Confer Degrees and Titles delivered by Dr. Marvie V. Gonzaga, OIC Campus Director, who formally presented the 206 candidates for graduation from the Bachelor of Science in Agriculture, Bachelor of Science in Forestry, Bachelor of Agricultural Technology, Bachelor of Technology and Livelihood Education, and Certificate of Agricultural Science programs.
The much-anticipated conferment of degrees was officiated by NEMSU President Nemesio G. Loayon, PhD, SUC President III, officially recognizing the graduates' successful completion of their academic programs. For many families in attendance, the moment represented years of sacrifice and unwavering support finally rewarded.
The commencement address was delivered by Marco Antonio C. Morido, OIC - Regional Technical Director for Research and Regulations of the Department of Agriculture - Caraga. Introduced by For. Allan L. Gloria, MSF, Chairperson of the Department of Agriculture and Forestry, Morido shared a personal story of determination and discipline during his own college years.
โAng akoa college life's, na-maintain ko ug grades nga at least pinakadako nako nga grado 2.75 - 3.00,โ Morido said, emphasizing that success is not always measured by perfection but by consistency and commitment. He further reminded graduates that education serves as a foundation rather than a finish line. โThe degree you received is not your final destination; it is the foundation upon which you build your future,โ he stated.
His message resonated with the graduates as they prepared to step beyond the university and face a rapidly changing world. In an era shaped by innovation and global opportunities, the commencement speaker encouraged them to remain adaptable, continue learning, and use their knowledge in meaningful ways that contribute to society.
Following the address, a Plaque of Appreciation was presented to Morido by University President Nemesio G. Loayon, PhD, and OIC Campus Director Dr. Marvie V. Gonzaga in recognition of his inspiring message and valuable contributions to the occasion.
One of the most significant highlights of the ceremony was the distribution of diplomas and transcripts of records led by the University President and key university officials. The awarding of plaques and medals for Latin Honors followed, with recognition given by University President Nemesio G. Loayon, PhD, and Vice President for Academic Affairs Maria Lady Sol A. Suazo, PhD. Honor graduates were likewise granted eligibility recognition by the Civil Service Commission through its representative alongside university officials, acknowledging their academic excellence and future opportunities in public service.
As the celebration neared its conclusion, gratitude took center stage through the Speech of Gratitude delivered by Ara C. Mandigal, Magna Cum Laude graduate of the Bachelor of Science in Forestry. Looking back on her academic journey, Mandigal shared a lesson that had guided her throughout college.
โThroughout my college journey, there was one lesson that deeply stayed in my heart - the word KAKUGI. KAKUGI means Kaalam, Kusog, ug Ginoo,โ she said.
She then left her fellow graduates with a message that echoed throughout the gymnasium: โWhenever life becomes difficult remember KAKUGI - Kaalam, Kusog, ug Ginoo. Let knowledge guide our decisions. Let strength keep us moving forward. And let God remain at the center of our life,โ Mandigal stated.
The ceremony also included the Pledge of Loyalty led by Jihad Darika P. Mosenabre, the Alumni Oath administered by Jocelyn P. Serrano, MSCS, Alumni Coordinator, and the Acknowledgment delivered by Dr. Marvie V. Gonzaga, OIC Campus Director.
As the graduates marched out of the venue, diplomas in hand and dreams in their hearts, they carried with them more than academic credentials. They carried years of lessons learned, friendships formed, challenges overcome, and values cultivated within the halls of NEMSU - San Miguel.
The Class of 2026 now stands at the threshold of new possibilities. While their paths may lead to different destinations, they share a common foundation built on knowledge, resilience, and hope. Their graduation is not merely the end of a university journey - it is the beginning of a lifelong pursuit of growth, service, and purpose.
And like seeds that have weathered every season before finally bearing fruit, the graduates of NEMSU - San Miguel Class of 2026 now step into the world ready to grow, contribute, and leave a lasting impact wherever their journeys may lead.
Remember KAKUGI - Kaalam, Kusog, ug Ginoo. Let knowledge guide our decisions. Let strength keep us moving forward. And let God remain at the center of our life,โ Mandigal stated.
The ceremony also included the Pledge of Loyalty led by Jihad Darika P. Mosenabre, the Alumni Oath administered by Jocelyn P. Serrano, MSCS, Alumni Coordinator, and the Acknowledgment delivered by Dr. Marvie V. Gonzaga, OIC Campus Director.
As the graduates marched out of the venue, diplomas in hand and dreams in their hearts, they carried with them more than academic credentials. They carried years of lessons learned, friendships formed, challenges overcome, and values cultivated within the halls of NEMSU - San Miguel.
The Class of 2026 now stands at the threshold of new possibilities. While their paths may lead to different destinations, they share a common foundation built on knowledge, resilience, and hope. Their graduation is not merely the end of a university journey - it is the beginning of a lifelong pursuit of growth, service, and purpose.
And like seeds that have weathered every season before finally bearing fruit, the graduates of NEMSU - San Miguel Class of 2026 now step into the world ready to grow, contribute, and leave a lasting impact wherever their journeys may lead.
Congratulations, Class of 2026!
Photos by Adrian Gerlaban, Jessica Rojo and Jan Rix Sabiaga
