By: Danica Zandra Q. Almazan, EdMgt
Amid an atmosphere of joy, gratitude, and accomplishment, Baguio Central University (BCU) celebrated the Commencement Exercises for the Graduating Class of 2026 on July 25, 2026 at the Baguio Convention Center, honoring students who successfully completed their undergraduate and graduate programs. Guided by the theme, “Soaring High Towards Excellence with Integrity: Empowered to Lead, Prepared to Serve,” the ceremony celebrated academic excellence and the University’s enduring mission of forming graduates who are intellectually competent, morally grounded, and committed to serving society. https://www.facebook.com/BaguioCentralUniversity/videos/4339524649634329
Held in the presence of the University’s Board of Trustees, administrators, faculty members, non-teaching personnel, families, alumni, and distinguished guests, the commencement rite marked the culmination of years of perseverance, discipline, and personal growth. More than a celebration of earned degrees, the occasion reflected the University’s vision of preparing graduates to become ethical leaders capable of making meaningful contributions in their professions and communities.
The commencement exercises formally opened with the Academic Processional, followed by the Entrance of Colors led by the BCU Color Guards Club and the singing of the Philippine National Anthem by the BCU Chamber Choir. These longstanding traditions highlighted the solemnity of one of the University’s most significant academic ceremonies.
The program continued with the Convocation Statement delivered by Dr. Elma D. Donaal, Vice President for Academic Affairs, who welcomed the graduates and reaffirmed the University commitment to excellence in education and holistic student formation. This was followed by the Message of the President, where University President Dr. Margarita Cecilda B. Rillera congratulated the graduates and encouraged them to uphold the values of integrity, professionalism, and compassionate service as they embark on new chapters of their lives.
The presentation of graduates by the respective college deans formally recognized the candidates’ successful completion of the University’s academic requirements before the official Conferment of Degrees by the University President. The graduates were guided through their respective colleges by Dr. Cherrie Mae M. Manuel, Dean of the College of Business Administration; Dr. Jocelyn B. Ang, Dean of the College of Hospitality and Tourism Management; Beca May Pidlao-Palitayan, MSCJSC, Dean of the College of Criminal Justice Education; Onofre F. Rillera, MSCE, Dean of the College of Engineering; Dr. Gina L. Casi, Dean of the College of Nursing and School of Midwifery; Dr. Lourdes M. Trajano, Dean of the College of Teacher Education and Liberal Arts; and Dr. Genevieve B. Kupang, Dean of the Graduate School.
One of the most memorable moments of the ceremony was the distribution of diplomas, where graduates proudly crossed the stage to receive the tangible symbol of years of dedication, perseverance, and hard work. Warm applause from families, faculty members, and fellow graduates reflected the collective pride shared by everyone who had supported their academic journey.
Graduate School candidates likewise participated in the traditional Hooding Ceremony, a distinguished academic rite symbolizing advanced scholarship, professional competence, and the responsibility to contribute meaningfully to their respective disciplines.
The commencement program also featured heartfelt Tributes to the Faculty, Parents, and Graduates, recognizing the unwavering guidance of educators, the sacrifices of families, and the resilience of the graduating class. These moments underscored that every academic success is the result of a shared journey built on encouragement, dedication, and perseverance.
As part of the University’s longstanding tradition, the graduates recited the Pledge of Loyalty before taking the Alumni Pledge, officially becoming members of the Baguio Central University Alumni Association. These meaningful rites reaffirmed their lifelong connection to their alma mater and their commitment to uphold the University’s ideals of excellence, integrity, and service.
The ceremony concluded with the singing of the BCU Hymn by the BCU Chamber Choir, followed by the Exit of Colors and the Academic Recessional, bringing the formal exercises to a close.
As the newest members of the BCU alumni community, the Class of 2026 now joins generations of graduates serving in education, healthcare, business, engineering, criminology, information technology, public administration, and many other fields. Equipped with knowledge, strengthened by experience, and inspired by the University’s values, they leave Baguio Central University ready to lead with integrity, pursue excellence, and contribute meaningfully to the nation and the global community.
The entire Baguio Central University community proudly congratulates the Class of 2026 and wishes them continued success as they embrace the opportunities and responsibilities that lie ahead.
Congratulations, Class of 2026. Fly high, BCU Eagles!