496 Graduates March Forward with Unshaken Spirit at 42nd Commencement Exercises by Dina Gien Sanchez
In a testament to unwavering determination and collective resilience, Abuyog Community College (ACC) proudly celebrated its 42nd Commencement Exercises on July 30, 2025, at Abuyog Mini gym, under the theme: “ACCians: A Purposeful Journey, A Meaningful Victory.”
Despite the looming threat of a tsunami alert issued by PHIVOLCS following an 8.8-magnitude earthquake that struck off the coast of Russia, and the unrelenting humidity that tested the endurance of everyone present, the celebration marched on — a powerful metaphor for the graduates’ own academic journey.
Starting promptly at 8:00 AM, the atmosphere at the Abuyog Mini gym was charged with emotion, anticipation, and a sense of purpose. The event commenced with a grand processional march, signaling the start of a remarkable milestone for 496 graduates from the College of Hospitality Management and Entrepreneurship (BS Entrepreneurship – 78 and BS Hospitality Management – 149) and from the College of Arts, Science and Education (BSEd Mathematics – 29, BSEd Science – 44, BSEd Social Studies – 63, BSEd English – 71, BEED – 62)
It was then followed by the lighting of the ceremonial candle by College President Dr. Clemelle L. Montallana. The ACC AFROTC cadets led the entrance of colors, ushering the singing of the Philippine National Anthem, the heartfelt invocation by Cydylheart P. Oribe (BSEd English, Cum Laude), and the resonant Abuyog Hymn.
The morning soared with speeches and symbolic moments: Ava Pogoy (BSEd Social Studies, Magna Cum Laude) delivered the warm welcome. “As we step out and bring the learning we’ve earned, remember that we are more than the diplomas we are yet to receive and the awards we’ve gained. So much more, that the journey of quiet persevering, the gained courage fought in life’s battles, and the character built within us reveal our true brilliance and worth.” Pogoy said.
The presentation of candidates for graduation by College Registrar, Marlisa B. Rinos highlighted the diversity of ACC’s academic strength with the 496 candidates for graduation.
This was followed by the Petition for Conferment of Degrees by Deans Dr. Domer P. Regis (CASE) and Dr. Teofilo O. Montallana (COHME), and the official conferment by College President, Dr. Clemelle L. Montallana.
As humidity built and the program extended until past 1:00 p.m., the energy never wavered. Proud families joined the graduates in receiving diplomas and special awards.
The Valedictory Address delivered by Ma. Romiela A. Cutura (BSEd Social Studies, Magna Cum Laude) served as the emotional core of the ceremony, reminding her fellow graduates, “As we step out into the world beyond these walls, let us carry with us not just the lessons from the textbooks, but the wisdom of our experiences. Let’s face challenges with bold hearts, let’s chase dreams no matter how far they seem, and let’s remember that the journey isn’t over.”
More than just a rite of passage, the momentous day included: Induction of graduates into the ACC Alumni Association by Prof. Ella Krista Traya and the Pledge of Loyalty led by Gilbert A. Villaquer (BSHM, Cum Laude)
Moreover, though 5th District of Leyte Representative, Hon. Carl Nicolas Cari, the commencement speaker, was unable to attend due to an equally important engagement, his Commencement message was read with inspiration and impact by the Executive Chairman, Hon. Mayor Lemuel Gin K. Traya.
Heartfelt tributes to parents, the turnover of class souvenirs, the emotional “Light Up” graduation song, and the recessional marked a powerful close to the celebration.
Despite the odds—natural tremors, weather discomfort, and a sudden tsunami scare—Batch Abyanon Class of 2025 did not waver. Their purposeful journey indeed led to a meaningful victory, one that will resonate not just in the college annals but in the hearts of everyone who bore witness.