116 graduates (31 from Bachelor of Elementary Education, 40 from Bachelor of Secondary Education Major in English and 45 from the Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management Major in Travel and Hospitality Management)proudly marched with their parents as they earned their degrees, original diplomas and transcript of records.

The ceremony was made more meaningful by this year’s commencement speaker, Dr. Ian Dominic F. Tabañag, SLCHE who is an educator, a scientist and a researcher. Aside from congratulating the graduates, he also challenged them to be catalysts of change as they embarked in their future endeavor. He highlighted four key concepts that the graduates may bear in mind as they leave the portals of their institution: what they love, what they are good at, what the world needs and what you are paid for, emphasizing the roles and differences of mission, passion, profession and vocation altogether providing a ground for one’s purpose.

Additionally, a response from Ms. Princess Rhina G. Pahayahay, top 1 Academic Awardee of the Class 2025, Magna Cum Laude of BSEd English, also made an impact as she recalled her experiences being a student to now a graduate, from being a wandering freshman to an accomplished alumna. As she said, “Layo pa pero layo na” significantly putting an end onto something and bravely getting ready to whatever may lie ahead of them.

The event was also graced by key individuals who generously contributed a lot in the event: Hon. Amos C. Cabahug, newly-elected Municipal Mayor of Balamban, Hon. Melvin Justin M. Labuca, Asturias Municipal Vice-Mayor and Hon. Bethany Señoron, representative of incumbent and outgoing Balamban Mayor Ace Stefan V. Binghay. In attendance are also the administrative officials and council of Cebu Normal University headed by the University President, Dr. Daniel A. Ariaso Sr.

Due credits and acknowledgement are also given to the following individuals in making a huge difference to the beautification of the CNUB Campus gym from flattening the soil, approval of vehicle request to transport needed materials to and from Balamban to CNU Main Campus, installation of wiring, provision of paint and other needed paraphernalia:

Hon. Ace Stefan V. Binghay, incumbent and outgoing Balamban Municipal Mayor;

Hon. Alfie V. Binghay, Balamban Municipal Vice-Mayor;

Former Balamban Municipal Mayor Alex Binghay;

Hon. Amos C. Cabahug, the newly-elected Municipal Mayor of Balamban with his team (Mr. Baltazar Tribunalo, Mr. Victor Yntig and Mr. Rolando Curaza);

Hon. Melvin Justin M. Labuca, Asturias Municipal Vice-Mayor;

Assistant District Engineer Reynaldo V. Navales DPWH Cebu 3rd District Engineering Office Toledo City;

Engr. Joseph Beltram Ybañez of J. Beltram Construction;

Engr. Joel Jubay and Engr. Adonis De Pio from LGU Balamban;

Barangay Nangka Capt. John Paul George Rallos;

Barangay Nangka Councilors and electricians;

Mr. Ryan Dinoy from LGU Balamban;

Mr. Rodel C. Bontuyan from Provincial Environment & Natural Resources Office;

Dr. Daniel A. Ariaso Sr, CNU SUC President III; and

CNU Main silent donors.

Gratitude is also extended to the entire CNU Balamban Campus Family led by the Campus Director Dr. Meshel B. Balijon and Dean of Education Dr. Marchee T. Picardal, the Faculty, Staff, Student Leaders of different Campus’ Organizations, Utilities and CNU Main Campus personnel who tirelessly worked hard and who pulled all ends in making the event possible from the preparation to the actual setting (both in recognition and graduation). Their sleepless nights and immeasurable compassion to serve truly showed that they are the epitome of the solid foundation of CNUB in all of its endeavors since the start.

Indeed, the celebration is a momentous occasion to everyone involved, especially to the proud parents who also gained a milestone today. This day will surely be etched on the CNUB Campus’ history.

To the Class 2025, CONGRATULATIONS and may you continue in making your Alma Mater proud!

Words: Anelyn B. Tacuyan

Photos : Cebu Normal University FB Page