Palawan State University honored 534 graduates during the first batch of its 56th Commencement Exercises held on June 30, 2026, at the Edward S. Hagedorn Coliseum, marking the culmination of years of dedication, perseverance, and academic achievement. Joined by their proud families, mentors, and friends, the graduates celebrated a milestone that signified both the fulfillment of their aspirations and the beginning of new opportunities beyond the University.
The first batch comprised graduates from the College of Arts and Humanities, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, School of Law, Graduate School, and the Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program (ETEEAP), marking another milestone in the University’s continuing mission of producing competent, compassionate, and socially responsible professionals.
The commencement rites formally opened with a solemn invocation led by Gerlie T. Dapar, Magna Cum Laude graduate of the Bachelor of Arts in Communication program, followed by the singing of the Philippine National Anthem by the PSU Singers. Dr. Maila N. Lucero, Vice President for Academic Affairs, then delivered the welcome remarks, warmly greeting the graduates, their families, faculty members, guests, and members of the University community as they gathered to celebrate this significant academic milestone.
Officer-in-Charge President Prof. Marissa S. Pontillas formally conferred the degrees upon the graduates and introduced the commencement speaker, Hon. Marvi Rebueno-Trudeau, Member of the Palawan State University Board of Regents.
In her commencement address, Hon. Rebueno-Trudeau reflected on how purpose, service, and the choices people make shape the meaning of life. Drawing from her own experiences in community service, she encouraged the graduates to use their education not only as a pathway to personal success but also as an opportunity to create meaningful and lasting impact in the communities they will serve.
Adding to the significance of the ceremony, the PSU Singers rendered a musical offering following the commencement address, providing a heartfelt tribute to the graduates as they prepared to embark on new journeys beyond the University.
The graduates also received recorded messages of congratulations and encouragement from Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis, Chairperson of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED); Hon. Jude A. Acidre, Representative of the TINGOG Party-list, Chairperson of the House Committee on Higher and Technical Education, and Member of the Palawan State University Board of Regents; and Hon. Amy R. Alvarez, Governor of the Province of Palawan. In their messages, they commended the graduates for their perseverance and encouraged them to pursue excellence as they embark on the next chapter of their lives.
Representing the graduating class, Nathaniel M. Laranjo, Magna Cum Laude and Bachelor of Arts in Political Science graduate, delivered the graduates’ response on behalf of the Class of 2026. Reflecting on the shared experiences that shaped their college journey, he recalled the challenges, triumphs, and lessons that resonated with his fellow graduates. He encouraged his classmates to believe in themselves as they pursue their aspirations with confidence and purpose. He also expressed heartfelt gratitude to their families, mentors, faculty members, and the entire University community for their unwavering guidance, encouragement, and support throughout their academic journey.
The ceremony continued with the recitation of the Pledge of Loyalty led by Chloe Ann V. Navarro, Loyalty Awardee and Bachelor of Science in Nursing graduate, followed by the induction of the Class of 2026 into the Palawan State University Alumni Association led by Hon. Glenn D. Vallejo, Alumni Regent. The commencement exercises concluded with the singing of the Palawan State University Hymn, symbolizing the graduates’ enduring bond with their alma mater.
Joining the celebration were members of the Palawan State University Board of Regents, college deans, faculty members, key administrative officials, University personnel, proud families, and guests, whose presence reflected the collective support behind the graduates’ academic success.
As the Class of 2026 embarks on new paths in their respective professions and endeavors, the University sends them forth equipped with knowledge, guided by values, and inspired to become leaders and changemakers committed to serving society with excellence, integrity, and compassion.
