By Karren Jay G. Asgar
On July 15, 2026, Central Philippine University College of Law (CPU COL) held its Commencement Exercises for the Class of 2026 at the Rose Memorial Auditorium.
The ceremony opened with the overture, entrance of colors, and processional of the graduating students, faculty members of the College of Law, university officials, and guests. Rev. Karel D. Victoria, Associate Pastor of the University Church, delivered the invocation, followed by the singing of the Philippine National Anthem.
University President Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy welcomed the graduates, their families, guests, and members of the Centralian community, describing the occasion as a celebration of “a triumph of intellect, endurance, and character.”
“Graduation from law school is truly a milestone because it is the culmination of an academic journey marked by sleepless nights, rigorous coursework, and the intense pressure of preparing for the ultimate test of legal aptitude, the Bar Examinations,” he said.
Rev. Dr. Dagohoy also expressed his gratitude to the graduates’ families and loved ones for entrusting CPU with their legal education.
“As you enter a world that urgently demands legal minds anchored in integrity, truth, and a steadfast dedication to the rule of law, I pray that you will embody the training you have received from your Alma Mater, bearing the mark of Scientia et Fides (Knowledge and Faith) and Exemplary Christian Education for Life (EXCEL),” he added.
College of Law Assistant Dean Atty. Liza Lyn S. Lamason Garcia introduced the commencement speaker, Atty. Allan G. Panolong, National President of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines.
In his commencement address, Atty. Panolong challenged the graduates to uphold three mandates that define the legal profession. He urged them to elevate the standards of the profession through lifelong learning, emphasizing that passing the Bar should mark the beginning rather than the end of legal education. He also encouraged them to safeguard the administration of justice by practicing integrity and upholding ethical standards in the legal profession. Finally, he underscored the importance of rendering public service through legal aid, particularly to marginalized and underserved communities.
“This celebration is beautiful and fiercely deserved. But it is momentary because tomorrow morning, when the confetti has settled, the biggest battle of your professional lives begins,” he said, reminding the graduates that only 53 days remained before the 2026 Bar Examinations.
Following his address, Rev. Dr. Dagohoy and College of Law Dean Atty. Aila Rae B. Endonila presented a Certificate of Appreciation to Atty. Panolong.
The program also featured a musical number by Eunice Erica E. Galan, a second-year Juris Doctor student. Dean Endonila then presented the candidates for graduation.
Rev. Dr. Dagohoy conferred the Juris Doctor degrees and led the investiture of hoods, assisted by University Registrar Ms. Charissa June G. Deocampo and CPU administrators.
Representing the graduating class, Cum Laude graduate Yeadda Marie D. Panes delivered the graduates’ response, expressing gratitude to the University, faculty members, families, and supporters for their guidance throughout their legal education.
The graduates were commissioned by Rev. Dr. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian, Senior Pastor of the University Church, followed by the Alumni Pledge led by Dr. Anita U. Illenberger, President of the CPU Alumni Association, Inc.
The commencement exercises concluded with the singing of the CPU Alma Mater Song, the benediction led by Pastor Neva Grace L. Fabila, Pastor for Campus Ministry of the University Church, and the recessional.