University News

SHS celebrates 2025 graduates at 8th commencement exercises

Elaine Carie A. Andres, News, Communication Management Office

The Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) Senior High School marked a milestone on June 11, 2025, at the Bulwagang Balagtas, University Library. 89 students took the stage at the university’s 8th Commencement Exercises, carrying the theme “Generation of Unity, Partners for the New Philippines.” The ceremony was a celebration of academic achievement and a call to service, unity, and resilience for the next generation of leaders and professionals.

Senior High School Principal Assoc. Prof. Michelle Sotto proudly presented the graduates—forty-one (41) from the Accountancy, Business, and Management (ABM) strand and forty-eight (48) from the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) strand.

Inspiration from the Frontlines
The event’s keynote speaker, Mr. Jeffrey Louis V. Din, a newly registered nurse at the Philippine Heart Center and a magna cum laude graduate of the University of Santo Tomas, delivered an address that deeply affected both students and parents. He vividly remembered his journey, shifting from ABM in high school to nursing in college. Also, he emphasized the importance of self-belief and perseverance in the face of uncertainty.

His speech was highlighted by a series of impactful quotes that struck the audience:

“To those still undecided, I see myself with you… I needed the peace and clarity of mind, as well as the discernment to know what your heart truly wants. And once you set your mind to it, I hope that you gather the courage to go out of your comfort zone to pursue it.”

He added, “The students who survive are not always the ones who get it right the first time. They are the ones who refuse to quit. So just show up with a purpose and a clear goal in mind… It is better to illuminate than merely to shine.”

Mr. Din called on graduates to recognize their privileges and extend help to others, challenging the students to be “liwanag sa dilim,” a light in the darkness by sharing knowledge and uplifting others.

“Mental health disorders are real disorders, no less significant than physical illnesses. Seeking help for your mental health is not a sign of weakness, but an act of courage.”

Beyond personal achievement, Mr. Din’s words reminded students that success is not about being the smartest person in the room but about having “grit,” the combination of passion and perseverance.

Graduates Ready to Leave Their Mark
In a heartfelt thanksgiving speech, STEM graduate Mr. Sebastian D. Padilla reminded his peers that their roles extended beyond their dreams. “Our roles in society do not end within ourselves. The struggle is oftentimes shared, never withheld, because the world is a stage, and everyone must play their part,” he reflected.

Mr. Padilla encouraged his fellow graduates and quoted writer Mr. Ricky Lee – “Magkaroon ka ng boses, ng opinyon…, mundo mo ito. Di ka parang hangin nagdaan lang, mag-iwan ka ng marka.” (“Have a voice, an opinion, this is your world. Don’t just pass by like the wind—leave your mark.”)

Looking Ahead
As the ceremony concluded with the Pledge of Loyalty and the university hymn, the message was clear: the Class of 2025 was poised not just to aspire to personal success but to become partners in building a better and more unified Philippines.