24–26 June 2026
Benguet State University held its 101st Commencement Exercises from June 24–26, 2026, conferring degrees upon nearly 3,000 graduates at the University Gymnasium. This year’s ceremony centered on the theme, “Cultivating Excellence and Innovation for Sustainable Communities and Global Futures.”
The three-day event officially began on June 24, 2026, with the Baccalaureate Service, giving graduates a meaningful moment of reflection and spiritual gratitude before receiving their hard-earned diplomas. Following the service, the graduation ceremonies took place across five separate cluster schedules.
During each ceremony, candidates for graduation were presented by their respective college deans and director, followed by the formal confirmation of degrees by University President Kenneth A. Laruan. The ceremonies then continued with the distribution of diplomas, awarding of medals, and the valedictory addresses honoring the families, faculty, and mentors who supported the graduates’ journeys.
Delivering her valedictory address, Ishtar Karylle D. Songot, a BS Mathematics graduate, shared the true spirit of the academic journey. She emphasized that beyond classroom lessons and shared documents, the most vital skills learned are the abilities to grow, adapt, and discover meaning in every endeavor. She also credited her time at BSU with helping her appreciate her chosen discipline and teaching her the value of pursuing what genuinely inspires her.
Meanwhile, Jasmin D. Hadsan, a BS Entrepreneurship graduate, reflected on her unexpected journey, saying that standing before the crowd was an honor she never imagined. With her entrepreneurial spirit, she inspired her batchmates to build businesses, connect globally, and smile—even at the difficult customers.
“Create food innovations that nourish lives, promote health through proper nutrition, discover life, create impact, explore matter, create solutions. Protect nature and build a sustainable future,” Hadsan urged.
Reflecting on a different path to success, BS in Agribusiness graduate Maria Teresa T. Velasco shared how taking a one-year academic break taught her that unexpected shifts in life’s “beat” are not failures, but preparations for a greater purpose.
“Hindi lahat ng paghinto ay katapusan at hindi lahat ng paglihis sa plano ay nangangahulugan na ligaw na tayo ng landas. Ito rin ay paghahanda para sa mas malalim na pag-unawa sa sarili, mas matatag na pananampalataya, at mas malaking layunin na hindi pa natin nakikita sa kasalukuyan [Not every pause is an end, and not every detour from the plan means we are lost. It is also a preparation for a deeper understanding of oneself, a stronger faith, and a greater purpose that we cannot yet see in the present],” Velasco expressed, reminding her peers that pauses often pave the way for deeper self-discovery and faith.
Focusing on the role of compassion and service in nation-building, BS Development Communication Graduate Olive Faith Bayao Montes encouraged her fellow graduates to use their education not only for personal success but also for the betterment of their communities.
Drawing from her family’s sacrifices and her experiences engaging with various sectors through Development Communication, Montes reflected on the dignity of ordinary people amid hardship and the importance of understanding their realities. She urged the Class of 2026 to remain empathetic, socially responsible, and committed to creating meaningful change, emphasizing that “the future will not be shaped solely by the smartest individuals but also by those who care enough to make a difference.”
Highlighting the value of educational opportunities, Zhaena Angelee T. Bailen, a BS Psychology graduate, reminded graduates that earning a diploma is a privilege not afforded to everyone. She emphasized that while students often face academic challenges, many young Filipinos must also contend with financial hardships, family responsibilities, and other circumstances that prevent them from pursuing or completing higher education. “Holding your diplomas is a privilege and a dream that many young Filipinos hope to achieve,” Bailen said, encouraging the Class of 2026 to recognize the resilience of those whose aspirations were set aside by difficult realities and to remain grateful for the opportunity to reach this milestone.
Following these addresses were the pledge of loyalty and the induction of the graduates into the University Alumni Association. // E. Bawayan and CD. De Guzman
Photo courtesy of UPAO Staff and BSDC Interns
