Palawan State University celebrated another milestone as it conferred degrees upon 632 graduates during the second batch of its 56th Commencement Exercises held on the afternoon of June 30, 2026, at the Edward S. Hagedorn Coliseum.
The graduating class comprised students from the San Rafael Campus, College of Teacher Education, College of Hospitality and Tourism Management, and College of Criminal Justice Education, whose years of dedication, perseverance, and academic excellence culminated in the University’s annual commencement rites.
The ceremony formally commenced at exactly 1:00 p.m. with the academic procession, followed by the entrance of colors. A solemn invocation was led by Kyla Jade A. Villanzana, Magna Cum Laude graduate of the Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management program, before the PSU Singers rendered the Philippine National Anthem.
In her welcome remarks, Dr. Maila N. Lucero, Vice President for Academic Affairs, warmly welcomed the graduates, their families, faculty members, guests, and members of the University community as they gathered to celebrate one of the most significant milestones in the graduates’ academic journey.
The deans of the respective colleges formally presented their candidates for graduation, highlighting the number of graduates in each academic program. Thereafter, Prof. Marissa S. Pontillas, Officer-in-Charge of the Office of the University President, officially conferred the degrees upon the graduating class.
Delivering the commencement address, Dir. Edna Imelda F. Legazpi, Regional Director of CHED MIMAROPA, congratulated the graduates and reflected on the University’s journey through the years, reminding them that they now carry the legacy of Palawan State University wherever life may lead them. She encouraged the graduates to persevere in their chosen professions, embrace lifelong learning, and make meaningful contributions to their communities through the knowledge and values they have gained from the University.
Following the commencement address, the PSU Singers presented a musical offering before the awarding of diplomas and transcripts of records.
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, Mary Rose E. Teodones, Magna Cum Laude and Bachelor of Secondary Education graduate, delivered the response on behalf of her fellow graduates. She encouraged her classmates to take pride in the degrees they had earned, remain steadfast in pursuing their aspirations, and never lose hope in achieving their dreams. She also expressed heartfelt gratitude to their families, mentors, friends, and everyone who supported them throughout their academic journey.
The ceremony continued with the recitation of the Pledge of Loyalty led by Camille Joy S. Pulao, Loyalty Awardee and Bachelor of Science in Criminology 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 they leave the halls of Palawan State University, the 632 graduates carry with them not only the knowledge and skills they have cultivated through years of learning, but also the values of excellence, service, and integrity that have become part of who they are. As they embark on new journeys, may they remain rooted in the lessons and experiences that shaped them at PalawanSU, carrying the pride of their alma mater wherever life leads and striving to create a meaningful impact in the communities they will serve.
