By Mikee Natinga Norico
The CPU Senior High School Department conferred a total of 944 graduates during the 8th Commencement Exercises held at the Rose Memorial Auditorium.
On May 22–23, the CPU Senior High School Department celebrated its annual commencement exercises for Academic Year 2024–2025 at the Rose Memorial Auditorium. The SHS Excellence Awards and Pasidungog 2025 were held on the first day, followed by the SHS Dedication Service and SHS Commencement Exercises on the next day.
The morning of May 22 was dedicated to the recognition of academic excellence, starting with the awarding of the Top 10 Grade 12 students (Batch 1), followed by other Grade 12 and Grade 11 awardees. Each student was honored with medals and certificates, proudly received alongside their parents or guardians. Special academic awards were presented by Mr. Mark P. Casaquite, highlighting recipients of the CPU Faculty Union Academic Excellence Incentive Award, the President’s Incentive Award, and the CPURAFLU-FFW Cash Incentive Award.
In the afternoon, Pasidungog 2025 opened with a heartfelt message from CPU Vice President for Administration, Engr. Dany C. Molina. Speaking on behalf of the administration, he emphasized the value of perseverance, faith, and compassion in the pursuit of excellence. “Do not hide behind your medals,” Molina said. “Use your gifts—your time, talent, and treasure—as a source of encouragement and service to others.”
Following his message, awards in various categories were distributed, including achievements in ILOPRISAA Math and Literary-Musical competitions, sports and athletics, clubs and leadership. Notable recognitions were also given for Camper of the Year, Researcher of the Year, Outstanding Scout of the Year, Peer Facilitators, Dancers of the Year, and contributors from the SHS Sigrab Production Team and the Red Cross Youth.
On May 23, the SHS Dedication Service held at 8:30 a.m. marked a time of spiritual reflection for the graduating class. University President Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy delivered an inspirational message rooted in the promise of divine purpose and resilience, citing Joshua 1:5–9. “God already has a blueprint for your life,” he declared. “You have access to the resources of an infinite God… Where there is faith in God, there is always hope.”
Jade Margaret J. Arevalo, Class Salutatorian of Batch 2025, offered a powerful testimony of perseverance, humility, and divine faithfulness in her Declaration of God’s Faithfulness. “Para kanino ba ako bumabangon?” she asked. “I rise for the dreams God planted in my heart. I rise for the people I love. But more than that, I rise because I trust the Author of my story.” Her message resonated deeply, capturing the collective journey of the graduating class.
The much-anticipated 8th Commencement Exercises of the Senior High School Department took place in the afternoon of the same day. Before the processional, a total of 944 graduates were acknowledged—3 graduated with highest honors, 125 with high honors, and 221 with honors.
The program commenced with an invocation by Rev. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian, Senior Pastor of the University Church, followed by the singing of the national anthem.
In his welcome address, Rev. Dr. Dagohoy reminded the graduates of CPU’s commitment to Scientia et Fides—knowledge and faith. “Soar high, pursue your dreams,” he encouraged. “But never forget to put God at the center of your heart and life.”
The program was graced by esteemed guest speaker Atty. Niegil E. Libo-on, Court Attorney II of the Supreme Court of the Philippines. Drawing from his inspiring journey as a working student at CPU, he reminded the graduates of the value of vision, initiative, and purpose. “Starting something new is overwhelming,” he said. “But nothing happens if we don’t begin… It didn’t guarantee success, but it gave me purpose.”
Atty. Libo-on’s heartfelt speech served as a beacon of hope and courage for the graduates, many of whom are about to embark on college or other life paths.
One of the most anticipated moments of the ceremony was the conferring of diplomas. As each SHS graduate’s name was called, they walked across the stage to receive their diploma. The giving of diplomas was assisted by Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy, University President; Franklin G. Robite, SHS Principal; Engr. Dany C. Molina, Vice President for Administration; Atty. Niegil E. Libo-on, Court Attorney II; and other CPU officials.
Marion Alessandra A. Montaño, Class Valedictorian, delivered the Response from a Graduate, expressing deep gratitude on behalf of the graduating class to their parents, teachers, and the CPU community. The Class of 2025 also performed the graduation song “Battle Belongs” as a declaration of faith and unity in moving forward.
The Prayer of Dedication for the Graduates was led by Rev. Franz Hestia Lovejoy Q. Leysa, Associate Minister for the Youth, offering spiritual guidance as the students step into the next chapter of their lives.
The graduates were formally inducted into the CPU Alumni Association, Inc. by Brig. Gen. Ezra James Palomero Enriquez (Ret.), Vice President of the CPUAAI. This was followed by the singing of the Alma Mater Song, conducted by Sean Justine P. Franco, a Class 2025 graduate.
The ceremony concluded with a benediction by Pastor Neva Grace L. Fabila, Associate Pastor for Campus Ministry, and the Exit of Colors by the CPU ROTC.
The two-day event was not only a celebration of academic accomplishments but also a spiritual and emotional milestone for CPU SHS Batch 2025. As they step into the next chapter of their journey, the university sends them off with pride, hope, and the prayer that they will continue to embody the values instilled in them—academic excellence, faith in God, and service to others.