By Cyrus A. Natividad

College of Law Class 2023 Commencement Speaker Retired Judge Nery Duremdes, shares his experiences in Law practice.

The Central Philippine University College of Law Class of 2023 held its Commencement Exercises on July 24, 2023 in the afternoon at the Rose Memorial Auditorium. Proud parents were there with the University officials, guests, faculty and staff as the graduating class of 2023 marched to the auditorium to celebrate their success.

The invocation was led by Rev. Ruth G. Lunasco, Associate Pastor of the University Church. Dr. Teodoro C. Robles CPU President gave his welcome message. He acknowledged the Guest Speaker, Retired Judge Neri Duremdes, the Members of the Board of Trustees and the Corporation led by Atty. Von Lovel Bedona, (BOT Vice Chair), and the CPU Alumni Association; the Vice Presidents, the College of Law Faculty and Staff. He also reiterated his vision of moving the University forward with the consistent increase of enrolment. At present he said, “The University’s high record of enrolment is due to its excellent performance. This moved CPU to be included not only in the local, but also in world rankings of Universities – specifically among 16 Universities in terms of quality education.”

Dr. Robles challenged the class of 2023 as he told them, “Never get tired of seeking excellence and performance.” He also encouraged the graduates by reflecting upon the verse in Proverbs 16:3 which says “Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.”

Atty. Aila Rae B. Endonila, Dean CPU College of Law introduced the Guest Speaker – Retired Judge Nery G. Duremdes, a graduate of the CPU College of Law (cum laude) in 1972.  In the same year, Duremdes became the 13th successful examinee of the Bar Examination, getting 83.58 point in the National Licensure Exam for Lawyers. Duremdes was a Law Professor in Persons and Family Relations subject during his time at the CPU College of Law.

Duremdes is ccurrentl the Provincial Administrator of the Province of Antique. As an alumnus of CPU, Duremdes emphasized the Central Spirit, assuring the lawyers-to-be that “Central Loves you”. He said that “Because you have simply kept the Central Spirit burning in your heart…wherever you may be, it will always be alive.”

He said that “Your legal career is not the end, but the legal means to the end.” He shared a motto of a good friend which says, “I am 3rd, to me God is first and the others – the 2nd.” He added that, “If you want peace, work for justice, engage in social justice. The same, if not many of you engage in human rights advocacy. Central Philippine University will be proud of you!”

Dr. Robles and Atty. Endonila handed the plaque of appreciation to Judge Neri Duremdes. An inspirational song was rendered by Rusieljs Lunasco.

Atty. Endonila presented this year’s candidate for graduation from the College of Law. Dr. Robles conferred the degrees to the Graduates of 2023. The response from the graduates was delivered  by Jessa P. Ochat, Cum Laude. Rev. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian administered the commissioning. Atty. Jeremy Bionat, CPUAAI President led the Alumni Pledge. The singing of the Alma Mater Hymn followed.

The program ended with a benediction by Rev. Roger Quimpo.