Pangasinan State University (PSU) officially commenced its 47th Pangkalahatang Pagtatapos on July 28 at the CSI Stadia in Lucao, Dagupan City, honoring 1,735 graduates from the Alaminos City, Sta. Maria, and Urdaneta City campuses under the theme, “PSUnian na Hinubog sa Integridad: Handa para sa Makatao, Makabayan, at Marangal na Serbisyong Glokal.”
The commencement exercises marked a significant milestone for the first cluster of graduates, celebrating years of perseverance, academic excellence, and personal growth as they completed their respective degree programs.
According to Dr. Weenalei T. Fajardo, Vice President for Academic and Student Service, the graduates comprise 1,735 PSUnians from the three campuses, marking the opening of this year’s university-wide commencement exercises.
The candidates for graduation were then formally presented by their respective Campus Executive Directors: Dr. Liza L. Quimson of Alaminos City Campus, Dr. Oliver C. Caasi of Sta. Maria Campus, and Dr. Renato E. Salcedo, CESE, of Urdaneta City Campus, signifying the successful completion of years of hard work, perseverance, and academic excellence.
In his message, University President Dr. Elbert M. Galas reminded the graduates that their achievements extend beyond academic recognition, emphasizing that they now carry the identity and legacy of Pangasinan State University wherever life may lead them.
“Habang dala ninyo ang pangalan ng Pangasinan State University saan man kayo makarating, dala rin ninyo ang responsibilidad na ipagpatuloy ang kultura ng kahusayan, integridad, at paglilingkod na siyang nagbigay ng dangal sa ating institusyon.”
He further emphasized that this year’s graduation theme serves not only as a declaration but as a lifelong commitment for every PSUian to uphold integrity and render humane, patriotic, and honorable service.
Following the President’s message, Dr. Jeanilyn L. Villanueva, Vice President for Administration and Finance, introduced the Guest of Honor and Speaker, Dr. Ricmar P. Aquino, Commissioner of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).
In his commencement address, Aquino recognized the sacrifices, resilience, and determination that brought the graduates to this milestone, reminding them that graduation is not the end of learning but the beginning of greater opportunities and responsibilities.
“Ang diplomang hawak ninyo ay hindi ang katapusan ng paglalakbay. Ito pa lamang ang simula.”
He underscored that while technology and artificial intelligence continue to reshape industries and professions, integrity remains the defining quality of every true professional.
“Maaaring pabilisin ng teknolohiya ang ating paglalakbay, ngunit ang integridad ang siyang nagtuturo kung saan tayo patutungo.”
Aquino encouraged the graduates to remain lifelong learners, embrace innovation without compromising their values, and use their knowledge and skills to serve both their communities and the nation with compassion, patriotism, and ethical responsibility.
The ceremony was also personally attended by Administrator and Chief Executive Officer and former PSU President Dr. Dexter R. Buted of the Philippine Coconut Authority, Director Gilbert Rabara of the Department of Agriculture – Ilocos Region Records Unit, Mr. Romel Rivera, Senior Specialist of Civil Service Commission – Ilocos Region and members of the Board of Regents.
Following the commencement address, graduates who earned Latin honors were recognized through the awarding of academic medals before the formal conferral of diplomas upon the members of the Class of 2026.
After receiving their diplomas, Christian B. Galera, Magna Cum Laude graduate of the Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering major in Embedded Systems from the Urdaneta City Campus, delivered the message of gratitude on behalf of the graduating class.
In his address, Galera honored the parents, families, mentors, faculty members, University officials, and the Filipino people whose trust, sacrifices, and unwavering support paved the way for the graduates’ success. He reminded his fellow graduates that as Iskolar ng Bayan, they carry the responsibility of using their education not only for personal advancement but also in service of others.
Reflecting on the graduates’ transition from students to professionals, Galera emphasized that they would no longer be the ones seeking signatures to complete documents but would soon become individuals whose own signatures would bear responsibility and shape the lives of others.
“Ang isang pirma ay hindi lamang pagtatapos ng isang proseso. Ito ay pagtanggap ng pananagutan.”
He challenged the Class of 2026 to uphold integrity in every decision they make, stressing that while a name may gain recognition, it is the responsibility behind one’s signature that ultimately defines a person’s character and legacy.
The commencement exercises continued with the graduates’ oath of loyalty, followed by the oath of membership to the alumni association, reaffirming the graduates’ commitment to uphold the ideals and values of Pangasinan State University as they joined its growing community of alumni.
The ceremony concluded with the singing of the Pangasinan State University hymn and the traditional abaray toss, symbolizing the graduates’ successful transition from students to alumni as they embark on a new chapter of service, leadership, and lifelong learning.
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