By Karren Jay G. Asgar

CPU President Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy acknowledged the 152 graduates and completers of Fortress College, Inc. (under the management of Central Philippine University) during their 43rd Commencement Exercises and Moving Up Ceremony.

On May 24, 2024, Fortress College, Inc. held its Baccalaureate Service with its theme, “Cultivating a Grateful Heart” at the Good Shepherd Church in Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental. On the afternoon, the 43rd Commencement Exercises and Moving Up Ceremony were afterwards celebrated, conferring a total of 152 graduates and completers.

As the academic year ends, Fortress College, Inc. (under the management of Central Philippine University) marks the culmination of students’ educational journeys with various ceremonies. Among these, the Baccalaureate Service was held, which stands out as a time-honored tradition that holds deep significance for graduates, completers, and their families.

Rev. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on graced the event as the guest speaker by sharing God’s words with the graduates and completers of Fortress College, Inc. during their Baccalaureate Service.

This year’s Baccalaureate Service speaker was Rev. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on, Director of the CPU Office of Communications. In his message, he highlighted the importance of cultivating a heart of gratitude, even in the face of adversity. “Thank God in spite of difficult circumstances. Find God and make meaning in these things. God was faithful to Joseph, Daniel, Elijah and Paul. God will continue to be faithful to those who have faith in Him.” He shared that we are intertwined with something greater than ourselves, that every breath we take, and every joy we experience is a gift to be cherished.

In the afternoon, the 43rd Commencement Exercises and Moving Up Ceremony was celebrated with the theme, “Kabataang Pilipino sa Matatag na Kinabukasan ng Bagong Pilipinas.” A total number of 152 students were conferred, composed of 10 students who came from kindergarten, 23 from elementary, 36 from the junior high school department, 54 from the senior high school department, and 39 from the technical vocational program.

For the welcome remarks, Fortress College, Inc. President, Ms. Grace Tingson-Hughes, commended the graduates and completers for their hard work, determination, and perseverance. She also encouraged the graduates to recognize the role of God in all their success, drawing inspiration from the Bible verse of Psalm 106:1 NIV: “Praise the Lord, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever.” She afterwards introduced this year’s commencement speaker, CPU President Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy, D.Min., M.Div.

Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy highlighted that in his capacity as the CPU President, it was the first time addressing the graduating students of Fortress College, Inc. ever since Asian Christian Outreach, Inc. (ASCO), Fortress College, Inc., and Central Philippine University (CPU) entered into a Memorandum of Agreement to take effect the donation of all properties that are used in the operation of Fortress College to Central Philippine University.

He also shared that he is delighted for the graduates and completers to honor the sacrifices made by their family and loved ones who have supported and encouraged them on their journey. “Graduates, as you take on the next step in your life’s journey, please know that I am excited for all of you because I believe that God has already positioned you to achieve greater things and, more importantly, to have a part in Kingdom work wherever he brings you next,” he said. Dr. Dagohoy also stated that his commencement message drew inspiration from biblical passages of Joshua 1:1–9.

As fellow institutions dedicated to the pursuit of knowledge and the empowerment of individuals, Central Philippine University shares in the joy and pride of seeing these talented individuals reach this significant milestone in their lives.