Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo – The academic degrees of 1,324 students of the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST) Class of 2023 were conferred to them during the Institutional Commencement Exercise held Friday, July 28, at Tamasak Stadium here. The ceremony, led by ISUFST President Dr. Nordy Siason, Jr., marked a significant milestone in the academic journey of the first graduates of the school as a university.
Among the graduates, four students achieved the distinction of magna cum laude, while 214 students were recognized as cum laude, hailing from 17 different colleges and programs. The achievements of these outstanding students were celebrated by the community, highlighting their dedication and academic excellence throughout their years of study, which includes the two pandemic years.
Cong. Ferjenel Biron, the commencement speaker and author of the law that has just converted the then college into a university, personally delivered his message to the graduates. He emphasized the values of compassion, empathy, and boldness in pursuing one’s dreams.
“Be compassionate. Be empathetic. Be bold in your dreams and unwavering in your pursuit of happiness,” Cong. Biron urged the graduates. He further emphasized that the country eagerly awaits their brilliance, passion, and spirit, as they step into the next phase of their lives.
In addition to Cong. Biron’s words of advice, the event also featured messages from esteemed guests. CHED Director Raul Alvarez emphasized the importance of taking care of one’s parents and emphasized the value of honesty. He reminded the graduates that it is their responsibility to reciprocate the love and sacrifices their parents and loved ones have made.
Furthermore, CHED Chairman Popoy De Vera, in a wired message read by Dr. Alvarez, urged the graduates to embrace the challenges that lie ahead. He encouraged them to continue the spirit of “bayanihan,” highlighting its potential as a tool for positive change in society.
The graduation rites showcased the collective success and determination of the graduates—who are now set to embark on their respective professional journeys—and the parents, faculty, and staff of ISUFST who journeyed with them in the process.
The program started on time and closed on a high note, leaving the graduates filled with hope, excitement, and a sense of purpose as they move forward to make a positive impact in their fields of expertise and beyond.
To note, ISUFST offers 26 undergraduate programs, six masters degree programs, and four doctorate degree programs spread to its five campuses. (Text by Herman Lagon; Photos by Ricky Ramos)
