By Karren Jay G. Asgar

The CPU College of Law Class of 2025 celebrates their commencement on July 21, 2025, at the Rose Memorial Auditorium, marking the culmination of years of dedication, sacrifice, and unwavering faith. Congratulations, graduates!

On July 21, 2025, the Central Philippine University-College of Law (CPU-COL) held its annual commencement exercises for class 2025. The event, held at the Rose Memorial Auditorium, marked a significant achievement in conferring 35 graduates with their Juris Doctor degrees.

Rev. Karel Grace D. Victoria, Associate Pastor of the University Church, led the invocation, which was then followed by the singing of the national anthem. Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy, CPU President, warmly welcomed the graduates, their parents, families, and loved ones.

“Our dear graduates, please note that the legal profession in the Philippines today needs lawyers who will uphold justice and the rule of law. My prayer is that your Alma Mater through your respective deans, teachers, mentors, and of course, your beloved parents and guardians has provided you with quality training to make you as such, focusing on the core tenets of Scientia et Fides and the delivery of Exemplary Christian Education for Life (EXCEL),” Dr. Dagohoy said.

In his address, he also expressed his excitement for all the opportunities that await the graduates, urging them to remain steadfast in their values and to become compassionate legal professionals. “These will not only greatly benefit humankind or enhance the well-being of the world but more importantly, redound to God’s glory, honor, and praise.”

Atty. Avelino V. Sales, Jr., National Director of the Commission on Bar Discipline of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines, delivers an inspiring message as the Commencement Speaker during the CPU College of Law’s 2025 Commencement Exercises.

Atty. Aila Rae B. Endonila, Dean of the CPU-COL, welcomed the attendees and introduced this year’s esteemed commencement speaker, Atty. Avelino V. Sales, Jr., National Director of the Commission on Bar Discipline, Integrated Bar of the Philippines.

During his speech, Atty. Sales emphasized the importance of honoring one’s triumphs, as each is shaped by sacrifice, self-discipline, and more than a few tears. He urged the graduates to take pride in their journey, reminding them that as they step into the legal profession, they carry with them the heart of the University, reflecting its values, teachings, and unwavering commitment to justice and service.

“Let us take this moment to give due thanks to your parents and families, to your professors, your friends, and mentors. The degree you are about to receive may bear your names but it is a shared victory,” Atty. Salex shared.

He also mentioned the upcoming Bar Examinations in September, acknowledging the sacrifices that come with it, such as stress and sleepless nights. “The bar is not just an academic challenge, it is a moral and professional gateway.”

Atty. Aila Rae B. Endonila, Dean of the CPU-COL, presented the 35 candidates for graduation. It was then followed by the conferral of graduates and the investiture of hoods led by Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy, assisted by Ms. Charissa June G. Deocampo, CPU Registrar; Atty. Aila Rae B. Endonila, CPU-COL Dean; and Atty. Liza Lyn Lamason-Garcia, CPU-COL Assistant Dean.

In response on behalf of the graduates, Albert Jan Matthew Java delivered a moving and deeply reflective speech centered on humility, gratitude, and faith. “I have nothing to boast, all I have is privilege,” he said, emphasizing that his journey through law school was shaped by the support of peers, the guidance of excellent mentors, and the sustaining grace of God.

Rev. Dr. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian, Senior Pastor of the University Church, led the commissioning of the graduates. This was followed by the Alumni Pledge, administered by Brig. Gen. Ezra James Palomero Enriquez (Ret.), Vice President of the CPU Alumni Association, Inc. The ceremony continued with the singing of the CPU Alma Mater song. The ceremony concluded with the benediction led by Pastor Neva Grace L. Fabila, Associate Pastor for Campus Ministry.

As the graduates of CPU College of Law leave the hallowed halls of Central, they carry with them not only a degree but also the intersections of Scientia et Fides that will guide them in their future legal profession.