The FarmBuilders

𝗛𝗼𝗽𝗲, 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗔𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗸 𝗡𝗘𝗠𝗦𝗨-𝗦𝗠𝗖 𝟲𝟵𝘁𝗵 𝗣𝗿𝗲-𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗘𝘅𝗲𝗿𝗰𝗶𝘀𝗲𝘀

Education is often measured by diplomas and academic titles, but for the graduating Class of 2026 of North Eastern Mindanao State University (NEMSU)–San Miguel Campus, it is best defined by the lives transformed through perseverance, sacrifice, and hope.

Guided by the theme, “Reimagining Education Beyond Degrees: A Legacy of Empowered Skills, Adaptive Innovation, and Global Possibilities,” the university held its 69th Pre-Commencement Exercises at the Mahayag Multipurpose Gymnasium on June 17, bringing together graduates, parents, faculty members, and guests in a celebration of achievement and resilience.

For the graduating class, the event symbolized far more than academic recognition. Beneath every cap and gown were stories of sleepless nights, financial struggles, family responsibilities, and personal challenges. Despite their different journeys, the graduates arrived at a common destination - proving that determination and hard work can overcome adversity.

The ceremony formally began with opening remarks delivered by Dr. Marvie V. Gonzaga, OIC Campus Director, who welcomed the graduates, faculty, and guests.

The hooding ceremony followed, led by college deans, department chairs, and the Assistant Campus Director, symbolizing the academic milestone of the graduating students.

The introduction of the keynote speaker was delivered by Dr. Alan S. Compe, Chairperson of the Department of General Teacher Education and Training.

The pre-commencement address was given by Ms. LovelieMay A. Tecson, MAHET, Instructor I and keynote speaker, who shared a message of inspiration anchored on her personal reflections. “SNAS is the school that gave me hope; this school is a light that uplifted me so I would not become a prisoner of my painful situation,”. She further encouraged the graduates, stating, “Do not be a prisoner of a bitter situation. Stand tall, dream audaciously, and remember that the Master Designer is not done with your story yet,”.

Following her message, Dr. Marvie V. Gonzaga presented a Plaque of Recognition to the guest speaker in appreciation of her inspirational address.

Awards and recognitions were then conferred to students, including Latin Honors, Academic Performance Awards, and Dean’s Lister distinctions for the first semester of Academic Year 2025–2026 across programs such as Bachelor of Science in Agriculture, Bachelor of Science in Forestry, Bachelor of Agricultural Technology, Bachelor of Technology and Livelihood Education, and Certificate of Agricultural Science. Medals and certificates were awarded by college deans, department chairs, assistant campus director, and proud parents and guardians.

In his speech of gratitude, Mr. Rendon P. Montenegro, Academic Performance Awardee from the Bachelor of Technology and Livelihood Education program, emphasized shared success. “As we stand here wearing our togas, we do not celebrate our efforts alone. Behind each of us are people whose care and sacrifice made this day possible,”.

The program also included non-academic awards presented by key officials, followed by the Address of Challenge delivered by Ms. Marie Gold C. Transfiguration, Academic Performance Awardee from the Bachelor of Science in Forestry. She reminded her fellow graduates, “Today is proof that success is not about having a perfect journey. It is about having the courage to continue despite the struggles,”.

The ceremony concluded with the graduation song of Class 2026, the NEMSU Hymn, the Retreat of Colors, and the Recessional March, marking the formal closing of a milestone event that honored both achievement and transformation.

Photos by Adrian Gerlaban, Jessica Rojo & Jan Rix Sabiaga