Tacloban City, Philippines – EVSU’s Graduate School recently conducted its 31st Hooding Ceremony and 102nd Commencement Exercises on July 5, 2024, at the Samar-Leyte Function Hall of Summit Hotel.
In attendance were key university officials, graduate school faculty, staff, and the graduates’ loved ones, all celebrating the graduation of Batch Lamrag of 2024, including 12 doctoral and 102 master’s graduates.
The Graduate School Coordination Office noted that the 114 graduates this year represent a significant increase from the 56 students of the previous year and the 105 graduates from batch 2022. As this trend continues, the university shows promise in producing more quality doctorate and master’s advanced degree holders who will lead various industries.
“Lamrag,” chosen as the batch name by the graduates, is a Waray-Waray term meaning “light” in English. “Light, in its purest form, represents knowledge and enlightenment. Throughout our academic journey… we have sought to illuminate our minds, dispelling the shadows of ignorance,” writes Mr. Jed A. Pido, a graduate of the MAED-Language Instruction program.
The commencement speaker, Hon. Lovell Anne Yu, municipal mayor of Alangalang and an alumna of EVSU’s Master of Public Resource Management program (graduated in 2018), shared her experiences in navigating the demanding world of politics. She was elected as the municipality’s youngest mayor at that time despite adversity. “Life is an unending journey filled with triumphs and challenges. There will be setbacks and obstacles, but remember, resilience is key,” she stated. She emphasized the graduates’ significant roles and influence as future leaders and urged them to uphold the good name of EVSU with honor and pride in their future endeavors.
Another highlight of the event was the delivery of the words of gratitude, presented by Ms. Josefina Apostol for the doctorate graduates and Mr. Alvin Remolado for the masters graduates. The representatives echoed collective appreciation for those instrumental in their success, including members of the administration, staff, other offices providing auxiliary services, and family.
These graduates are poised to become future leaders in various fields, including education, research, industry, and public service. They show the promise to drive innovation and advocate for positive change. These ceremonies will serve as an inspiration to future generations of scholars. The light of Batch Lamrag will undoubtedly continue to illuminate paths and inspire others in their pursuit of knowledge and excellence.
Written by: JS Beleña|UMDC
Edited by: MSP|UMDC
Photos by: MIT|UMDC
