𝐉𝐇𝐂𝐒𝐂 𝟐𝟕𝐭𝐡 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐄𝐱𝐞𝐫𝐜𝐢𝐬𝐞𝐬: 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐑𝐨𝐬𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐟𝐢𝐫𝐦𝐬 𝟗𝟖𝟖 𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐮𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐭 𝐃𝐮𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐚𝐠 𝐂𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐮𝐬

As part of the 27th Commencement Exercises of J.H. Cerilles State College (JHCSC), the Dumingag Campus held its graduation ceremony on June 16, 2026. Guided by the theme, “JHCSC Future-Ready Graduates as Drivers in Advancing A.C.H.I.E.V.E. for Global Excellence,” the ceremony recognized the perseverance, dedication, and accomplishments of 988 graduates who completed their respective academic programs.

The event was graced by Hon. Joseph Kim C. Yu, First District Representative of Zamboanga del Sur, who served as the Commencement Speaker. Members of the JHCSC Board of Trustees, college officials, faculty members, staff, proud parents, and distinguished guests gathered to celebrate this significant milestone in the graduates’ lives.

As presented by the respective School Deans, Dr. Edgardo H. Rosales, President of J.H. Cerilles State College, formally acknowledged and confirmed the 988 graduates from various academic disciplines, signifying the culmination of years of academic excellence, perseverance, and commitment.

In his commencement address, Hon. Yu encouraged the graduates to embrace every challenge as an opportunity for growth, reminding them that setbacks are not signs of defeat but stepping stones toward success. Emphasizing resilience and perseverance, he shared the inspiring message, “Failure is not the opposite of success; it is part of success.” He challenged the Class of 2026 to move beyond their comfort zones, explaining that true growth comes from confronting fears, embracing challenges, and refusing to let yesterday’s limitations define tomorrow’s possibilities. He urged the graduates to remain courageous, adaptable, and determined as they pursue their aspirations, emphasizing that success is built through continuous learning, unwavering commitment, and the willingness to rise after every setback.

As presented by the respective School Deans, Dr. Edgardo H. Rosales, President of JHCSC, formally acknowledged and confirmed the 988 graduates across various programs. The academic programs and number of graduates are as follows:

Adding inspiration to the ceremony, Johnabeth D. Dela Torre, Magna Cum Laude, delivered the valedictory address on behalf of the graduating class. Reflecting on the unexpected turns of life, she reminded her fellow graduates that the most meaningful blessings often come from paths they never imagined taking. “The best things in life are the ones we never planned,” she shared, encouraging everyone to embrace uncertainty with faith and confidence.

Sharing her personal journey, Dela Torre recounted the hardships, sacrifices, and obstacles she encountered throughout her academic life, emphasizing that every challenge became an opportunity to grow stronger and more determined. With heartfelt gratitude, she paid tribute to her parents, acknowledging them as the driving force behind her success. She dedicated her achievements to them, recognizing their unwavering love, sacrifices, and constant support as the foundation of everything she had accomplished.

Recognizing exemplary student leadership and service, Hon. Benjie T. Jimenez, System-Wide Supreme Student Council President and Student Trustee, was presented with the Highest Non-Academic Excellence and Leadership Award, making him the sole recipient among approximately 200 student leaders in recognition of his outstanding commitment to student welfare, servant leadership, and meaningful contributions to the JHCSC community. His recognition underscored the College’s commitment to developing not only academically competent graduates but also principled leaders dedicated to making a positive impact in society.

The commencement exercises served not only as a celebration of academic excellence but also as a testament to the resilience, determination, and aspirations of the graduating Class of 2026. As they begin new chapters in their lives, the graduates carry with them the knowledge, skills, and values nurtured by JHCSC, preparing them to become future-ready professionals and leaders capable of driving innovation, excellence, and sustainable development in an increasingly dynamic global society.

The successful conduct of the ceremony once again reflects J.H. Cerilles State College’s unwavering commitment to providing accessible, quality, and transformative education while producing competent professionals and future leaders who are prepared to advance the institution’s A.C.H.I.E.V.E. agenda and contribute meaningfully to their communities, the nation, and the world.