University News

Sta. Rosa Campus Sends Class of 2026 Into New Adventures at PICC

Gicel Roger Salvilla, News, Communication Management Office

SDG 4 SDG 10 SDG 11 SDG 17

A milestone two decades in the making unfolded at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) Plenary Hall as the PUP Sta. Rosa Campus celebrated its 20th Commencement Exercises on October 2, 2026, bringing together graduating students, families, university officials, faculty members, and guests in a celebration of perseverance, achievement, and service.

The momentous occasion highlighted the continuing growth of PUP Sta. Rosa Campus, which was established in 2003 during the administration of the late Leon C. Arcillas, the first mayor of the City of Santa Rosa. Twenty-three years after its establishment and now on its 20th commencement exercises, the campus continues to serve as an avenue for accessible and quality higher education for students from Santa Rosa and nearby communities.

The commencement exercises were attended by the Vice President for Campuses Dr. Armando A. Torres, Sta. Rosa Campus Director Dr. Leny V. Salmingo, directors of various PUP campuses, university officials, faculty and staff, and City of Santa Rosa Mayor Arlene B. Arcillas, who served as the commencement speaker.

A legacy of education and commitment

For Mayor Arcillas, the occasion carried a deeply personal meaning.

In her address, Arcillas became emotional as she recalled the challenges faced by PUP Sta. Rosa Campus following the death of her father, former Mayor Leon C. Arcillas, in 2005. Her father played a significant role in establishing the campus in 2003, laying the foundation for what would become a lasting educational institution in the city.

Reflecting on the efforts to preserve the campus, Mayor Arcillas shared:

“We went through a lot for PUP Sta. Rosa, which was to be removed, but I fought for it because I believe in the people inside of it, especially all the students.”

Her message underscored her continuing support for the campus and its students, emphasizing that PUP Sta. Rosa remains open to learners not only from Santa Rosa but also from communities beyond the city.

Addressing the graduates, Arcillas encouraged them to carry the identity and values of an Iskolar ng Bayan wherever their professional journeys may lead.

“As Iskolar ng Bayan, make sure that you show that you can adapt, adjust, and go wherever you want to go—making your family and your city, PUP Sta. Rosa, proud.”

The commencement celebration also became an opportunity to recognize Mayor Arcillas as a recipient of the Tanglaw ng Bayan, a prestigious University recognition honoring individuals whose contributions have made a significant impact on society and the nation.

“Pangkaraniwan, ordinaryo, pero sa huli, panalo”

Adding a reflective voice to the celebration was John Lloyd D. Broñosa, Summa Cum Laude graduate of the Bachelor of Science in Accountancy, who delivered the thanksgiving message for the graduating batch.

Anchoring his message on the Latin word “Indomitus,” meaning untamed, unyielding, and unconquered, Broñosa described the graduates’ journey as an adventure that began “barefooted” and continued through the challenges of the pandemic, virtual learning, and college life.

He reminded his fellow graduates that success does not always have to be marked by awards or recognition.

“Pangkaraniwan, ordinaryo, pero sa huli, panalo.”

(Ordinary, unremarkable, but in the end, victorious.)

Broñosa emphasized that every journey is worth celebrating, whether filled with achievements or quietly defined by perseverance. He also drew three qualities from the University’s name—Patience, Understanding, and Positivity—which he said helped the graduates remain Indomitus throughout their journey.

As they move beyond the campus, Broñosa urged the graduates to use their education to serve others and contribute to the nation.

“Ipagpatuloy nawa natin ang paggamit ng ating karunungan mula sa PUP sa pagpapabuti ng ating mga sarili, sa pagtulong sa ating mga kapwa, at higit sa maraming aspeto, sa pagpapa-unlad ng ating bayan.”

(May we continue to use the knowledge we gained from PUP to improve ourselves, help others, and, above all, contribute to the development of our nation.)

He called on his fellow graduates to remain “Indomitus” in their respective professions, carrying integrity and accountability as they turn their knowledge into meaningful action and become part of the change they hope to see.

Stories of perseverance and gratitude

The celebration also gave graduates and their families an opportunity to reflect on the years spent inside the PUP Sta. Rosa Campus.

Angela Cielo M. Cleto, Cum Laude graduate of the Bachelor of Science in Electronics Engineering, shared a message for future students of the campus, encouraging them to appreciate their time in PUP.

“Take their time and enjoy. Parang matagal yung four years, pero mabilis lang talaga, and kahit gaano ka katagal mag-stay sa paaralang ito, for sure magiging worth it lahat.”

(Take your time and enjoy the experience. Four years may seem long, but they really go by quickly. And no matter how long you stay in this school, I’m sure it will all be worth it.)

For her mother, Alicia M. Cleto, seeing her daughter graduate from PUP was a source of pride and fulfillment.

“Syempre proud ako sa kanya, at alam ko magagaling naman ang mga taga-PUP at mga estudyante.”

(Of course, I’m proud of her. I know that PUP students and graduates are capable and excellent.)

Her words reflected the sentiments of many parents and families who stood alongside the graduates throughout their academic journey.

The 20th Commencement Exercises celebrated not only the graduates’ achievements but also the enduring partnership amongx the University, the City of Santa Rosa, families, and the community.

Since its establishment in 2003, the Sta. Rosa Campus has continued to provide accessible education while preparing graduates to contribute to their communities and the nation.

The milestone reflected the University’s INSPIRED core values through the graduates’ perseverance, the support of their families and community, and their commitment to using their education in the service of others.

The celebration also advanced SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals through accessible education, inclusive opportunities, community development, and collaboration among the University, local government, families, and stakeholders.

As a new generation of Iskolar ng Bayan steps forward, the 20th Commencement Exercises affirmed that every journey—whether ordinary or extraordinary—is shaped by courage, perseverance, and purpose.