CHMSU Class of 2023 graduates in the rain

Carlos Hilado Memorial State University (CHMSU) held its Commencement Exercises with the theme “Shaping the Future through Globalized Education for Sustainable Development” for Class of 2023 at its Alijis, Fortune Towne, and Talisay campuses on June 16, 2023 at the Talisay Campus Football Field. Despite the rain during the ceremony, 2,177 graduates were conferred their degrees.

The ceremony kicked-off with the processional of administrators, staff, candidates, faculty, and Presidential entourage, followed by the introduction of the Commencement Speaker, Raul F. Muyong, EdD, President of Iloilo Science and Technology University, by Rosalinda S. Tuvilla, JD, Vice President for Administration and Finance.

In his message, Muyong emphasized the significance of education in the progress of communities and society, the importance of a strong and loving support system, and the necessity of soft skills and proper attitude to excel and grow in the workplace.

Muyong challenged the graduates to not only use their skills and knowledge for money, but to make a difference in the world.

“Make informed decisions – responsible actions for environmental integrity, economic viability, and a just society for present and future generations,” Muyong said.

He added that the graduates must always nurture in their hearts the passion for learning and to walk with gratitude for the people who were instrumental to their success.

Lastly, Muyong encouraged the Class of 2023 to prove and manifest that they are deserving of the honors, prestige, rights and privileges that go with their degrees.

“Let your education at Carlos Hilado Memorial State University be the foundation and instrument in the pursuit of your goal in life, which is to excel wherever you go and in whatever you do. Remember that excellence is not being the best, but doing your best,” he said.

The ceremony continued with the presentation of candidates from the College of Arts and Sciences, College of Business Management and Accountancy, College of Computer Studies, College of Education, College of Engineering, and College of Industrial Technology by their respective deans. The candidates were conferred and declared as graduates by Norberto P. Mangulabnan, PhD, University President.

Arlene G. Pasquin, MAEd, Registrar III, presented the University’s Latin honors – 26 Magna Cum Laude awardees and 119 Cum Laude awardees. Valerie A. Enriquez, Bachelor of Secondary Education major in English, received the Magna Cum Laude award with the highest general weighted average among the graduates. Jay B. Estrellas, EdD, Vice President for Academic Affairs, presented the award.

The graduates were being called by name to receive their diplomas when half-way through, the rain started. Even in the downpour, the graduates continued to come on stage while those who were finished were instructed to exit the field.
When all graduates received their diplomas, Rhoderick K. Samonte, Director for Internationalization and External Relations, announced that the Commencement Exercises will unceremoniously end due to the weather, but congratulated the graduates nonetheless.

“We are all under the dictates of nature, but again we have to show our resilience. You all deserve to be called out your names,” Samonte said.

Much to the surprise of everyone, the graduates returned to the field when the graduation song “Long Live” was played. The graduates brought out their flags, turned on their flashlights and danced to the song as they had rehearsed days before.

The night officially ended with the singing of the CHMSU Hymn.* (Kenny L. Andaya/Carlos Hilado Memorial State University, Talisay Main Campus)