ILIGAN CITY (PIA)--The dedication, hard work, and pursuit of excellence of the 2,141 graduates of the Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT) illuminated the 53rd Commencement Exercises.

Remarkably, 78.5% of the graduates earned prestigious Latin honors, with 68 Summa Cum Laudes, 906 Magna Cum Laudes, and 706 Cum Laudes among them.

Empowered by free tertiary education

The graduates' journey to success was bolstered by the Philippine Government's invaluable support through the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act (UAQTEA), which granted free tuition and other school fees at state universities like MSU-IIT.

This significant legislation empowered students from various backgrounds, such as Threcia Digamon, a Magna Cum Laude graduate in Bachelor of Arts in English Language Studies, to overcome financial constraints and adversities.

The UAQTEA played a pivotal role in Threcia’s success, providing her with the opportunity to pursue higher education without the financial burden of tuition fees. Despite the difficulties of having a single mother raise her, she was able to overcome these challenges through her determination and commitment to her studies.

"I am grateful to the Philippine government for providing free tuition at state universities, especially here at MSU IIT. It's not just the free tuition that we are very grateful for, but, of course, the world-class teaching as well," said Threcia.

Her dedication to academics and her various side hustles exemplify her resilience and determination to overcome adversity. She dreams of providing her mother with the life she deserves, a testament to her gratitude and love for the person who supported her unconditionally.

From market stalls to academic halls

Gemar Campos shared his inspiring journey from humble beginnings to graduating with honors. Growing up in a family of market vendors, he was raised on the principle that hard work and determination are the keys to success.
At the onset of the pandemic, Gemar's family decided to shift into the siomai business at the Tambo Market. Their meager income was not enough to provide him with the gadgets needed for online classes during the pandemic, but Gemar refused to let this obstacle deter him.
His artistic talent became his lifeline. He sold his paintings and drawings online and also ventured into selling second-hand clothes, better known as ukay-ukay. 

Amidst all the hardships and adversities, Gemar achieved what seemed like an impossible dream. He was named the College Valedictorian of the College of Education, received the University Sikap Award, and was recognized for his outstanding thesis paper and as an exchange student from Indonesia.

"With my dedication, passion, and work to balance my academic studies and sa akong pagka-working student para makaearn ug money, nakaingon gyud kog thank you sa Ginoo kay naaccomplish nako ang ing-ani nga achievement," he said.

(With my dedication, passion, and effort to balance my academic studies and work to earn money, I thank God because I have accomplished this achievement)

Embracing the unexpected

Reggy Bartido's journey to success was not without its twists and turns. Originally intending to pursue a degree in Political Science, life had different plans for him. He missed the cut-off score and found himself at a crossroads. Little did he know that this redirection would prove to be a blessing in disguise.

As he delved into the world of Sociology, Reggy's passion for understanding society, human behavior, and the power of change ignited. He excelled academically and graduated as Summa Cum Laude, becoming the Institute Salutatorian and College of Arts and Social Sciences Valedictorian.

Reflecting on his lessons from Sociology, Reggy emphasized the importance of inspiring others rather than imposing change upon them. With his heart set on serving the community, he aimed to make a difference through genuine inspiration and service in whatever capacity he could.

"In sociology, we have learned that change shouldn't be coming from us rather change should come from them. That's why we have to inspire them," he said.

Vision and support for science and technology

Chancellor Alizedney Ditucalan emphasized that MSU-IIT has well-defined objectives and a clear roadmap for the university's development.

"MSU-IIT has really clear objectives; we have a clear road map for the university. We have outlined the strategic objectives in order for us to continue improving the quality of education and research that we do," he said.

Meanwhile, Senator Francis Tolentino graced the commencement exercises. In an interview, he emphasized that he has been an advocate for science and technology.

"Lagi naman akong nasa likuran ng science and technology, in fact, ako nag-sponsor ng budget ng Department of Science and Technology (DOST), and the DOST is part of the foundations of this school. Nandu'n ang suporta ko generally," he said.

(I am always at the back of Science and Technology; in fact, I sponsored the budget of DOST, and the DOST is part of the foundations of this school. My support is there, generally)

The remarkable achievements of the graduates serve as a powerful testament to the inspiring impact of education, which remains a potent force for positive change, uplifting individuals and communities and guiding them towards a brighter and more inclusive future. (LELA/PIA-10/Lanao del Norte)