In a milestone event, the Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology conferred degrees to 1,825 graduates—including 74 magna cum laude and 324 cum laude honorees—during its in-person, university-wide commencement held June 5, 2025, at Tamasak Arena in Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo.
For the first time in its 68-year history, graduates received their actual diplomas on stage during the ceremony.
ISUFST President Dr. Nordy C. Siason Jr. led the conferment, highlighting both pride and purpose in his message.
“This isn’t just a graduation—it’s a celebration of grit and growth,” Siason said.
“Behind every diploma is a story of sacrifice, sleepless nights, and hope.”
“At ISUFST, we don’t just hand out degrees—we help shape lives that will serve, innovate, and make a real difference in our communities,” he added.
Department of Education Secretary Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara, the designated commencement speaker, was unable to attend due to official duties with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
His message was delivered by DepEd Undersecretary Peter Irving Corvera.
Angara underscored his connection with ISUFST, recalling his role in securing PHP10 million in funding for the College of Education Annex in 2018 and co-authoring Republic Act 10604, which converted the Iloilo State College of Fisheries into a state university.
He also credited his late father, Sen. Edgardo Angara, as the Senate co-author of the law.
“Today, I want to underscore the importance of synergy between our basic and tertiary education,” Angara stated in his message.
“Together, DepEd and ISUFST share the vision of producing globally competitive, locally grounded graduates.”
He praised ISUFST’s leadership in marine sciences, sustainable technology, and community development.
“ISUFST stands as a shining example of innovation and excellence,” he said.
“As you sail forth into deeper waters, carry with you the pride of your roots.”
“Kamo ang buhi nga pamatuod nga wala sing limitasyon ang inobasyon kung ang tuyo amo ang pagpaayo sang kalidad sang edukasyon diri sa aton nga pungsod,” Angara added, highlighting innovation in education.
This year’s graduates came from five campuses and represented diverse academic disciplines:
- Main Campus–Tiwi Site (295): 91 BS Fisheries, 16 BS Marine Biology, 27 BPE, 18 BSED English, 21 BSED Filipino, 4 BSED Math, 9 BSED Science, 4 BSED Social Studies, 27 BTLEd, 72 BSTM, 6 BLGA
- Main Campus–Poblacion Site (470): 99 BEED, 40 BSED English, 96 BS Information Technology, 161 BS Hospitality Management, 44 BIT Automotive, 16 BIT Electricity, 14 BIT Electronics
- Dingle Campus (409): 58 BS Agriculture Animal Science, 114 BS Agriculture Crop Science, 20 BEED, 11 BSED Math, 11 BSED English, 31 BS Filipino, 6 BS Science, 53 BS Information Technology, 105 BS Hospitality Management
- Dumangas Campus (262): 52 BEED, 58 BSED English, 9 BSED Math, 16 BSED Science, 58 BS Hospitality Management, 69 BS Information Technology
- San Enrique Campus (389): 29 BEED, 27 BSED English, 12 BSED Math, 35 BSED Filipino, 50 BS Agriculture Animal Science, 67 BS Agriculture Crop Science, 73 BS Hospitality Management, 36 BS Office Administration, 60 BS Information Technology
During the seven-hour event, the Civil Service Commission awarded certificates of eligibility to 398 Latin honor graduates, exempting them from the Career Service Exam for government positions.
These honor graduates were also formally inducted into the ISUFST Alumni Association, establishing a lifelong connection to the university’s professional network.
Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Joan Belga praised the graduates’ readiness for meaningful impact in their fields.
“These graduates have undergone a well-rounded and outcomes-based education,” she said.
Vice President for Administration and Finance Dr. Johnny Dolor emphasized ISUFST’s investment in infrastructure aligned with global workforce needs.
“Our upgrades in automotive technology and research hubs reflect our commitment to excellence,” he said.
The ceremony also recognized ISUFST’s recent institutional achievements:
- Outstanding Board Performance Award for an 80% passing rate in the October 2024 Licensure Examination for Fisheries Professionals
- 100% Certificate of Program Compliance for all undergraduate and graduate programs
- National recognition for community extension, internationalization, peace education, Indigenous Peoples education, and student affairs
- Commendation for support to CHEDRO VI and as model implementer of STUFAP/CSP (ISUFST Dingle Campus)
The graduation capped a week of recognition and baccalaureate services held from June 2 to 4 across ISUFST campuses in Dingle, Dumangas, San Enrique, and the Main Campus (Tiwi and Poblacion).
Ceremonies included both Catholic and non-Catholic services held in churches, halls, and cultural centers.
Founded in 1957, ISUFST is the country’s first and only fisheries university.
It is recognized as a Center of Development in Fisheries, holds ISO 9001:2015 certification, and maintains CHED and AACCUP accreditation.
The university offers 27 undergraduate and 16 graduate programs, serving more than 8,500 students with a faculty of over 280, half of whom hold doctorate degrees. (Photos by Ricky Ramos / Text by Herman Lagon / PAMMCO)
