The Batangas State University class of 2020 finally celebrated their academic success, as the university held its 52nd commencement exercises virtually, streamed live via the official BatStateU Youtube channel, December 3-5, 2020.
More than 5,000 students were declared graduates during the university’s first virtual graduation, consisting of eight virtual ceremonies, bannering the theme, “Gearing up Batangas State University for the Global Knowledge Economy.”
President Pro-Tempore of the Senate of the Philippines, Senator Ralph Recto, served as the commencement speaker for the first and third days, while the Chair of the Senate Committee on Higher, Technical and Vocational Education, Senator Joel Villanueva, was the speaker on the second day. They imparted how the graduates should use their education to serve the people and the community, and share the fruits of their hard work to the people around them, most especially those who are in need.
On the other hand, Atty. Lester Añonuevo and Dr. Jonathan Lou Esguerra, alumni of the Integrated School and ARASOF-Nasugbu Laboratory School, respectively, delivered their message to the basic education graduates. They stressed that the graduates should anchor their ideals to the core values of the university, and realize the importance of adapting to changing environment, and sustaining greatness amidst these changes.
In his message, University President Dr. Tirso A. Ronquillo told the graduates that this new chapter in their lives opens wonderful opportunities to build new dreams for themselves and their family. “May the education provided by Batangas State University fuel your personal and professional career as you make your own distinct mark in the world. You are always welcome to go back to the university, your second home,” Dr. Ronquillo shared.
The Pledge of Loyalty and Message of Gratitude were delivered by select students from the colleges and campuses of the university. These include honor graduates, student journalists, student leaders, student athletes, foreign students, and members of the LGBTQIA community. The ceremonies were hosted by Mr. Michael Lagaya, a faculty member of the university.
Dr. Kristoffer Conrad Tejada, VP for External Affairs and ICT, took charge in the preparation, implementation, and monitoring of the virtual ceremonies to ensure harmony of tradition and innovation. The videos were edited by the BatStateU FOCUS Camera Club. All videos of the virtual graduation can still be viewed at the university’s official Youtube channel.
