DOrSU Cateel Confers Degrees to 357 Graduates in 5th Commencement Exercises
The Davao Oriental State University – Cateel Extension Campus (DOrSU-CEC) honored 357 graduates during its 5th Commencement Exercises held at the campus gymnasium on June 27, marking another milestone in the university’s ongoing commitment to accessible and quality education in the province’s eastern corridor.
With the theme “Re-imagine, Renew, Revitalize: Convergence for Sustainable Regenerative Futures Towards GROWTH 2029,” the ceremony recognized graduates from five degree programs: 60 from Bachelor in Agricultural Technology (BAT), 46 from Bachelor of Elementary Education (BEEd), 31 from Bachelor of Science in Agribusiness Management (BSAM), 130 from Bachelor of Science in Business Administration – Financial Management (BSBA-FM), and 81 from Bachelor of Science in Criminology (BSC). Additionally, nine individuals were conferred the Certificate in Agricultural Science. Two graduates were recognized with the Latin honor Cum Laude for academic excellence.
Guest of Honor and Commencement Speaker Tessie Cagas-Tadle, President of Cateeleños International, delivered an inspiring message to the graduating class, urging them to rise above adversity.
“Never think you can’t make it just because you’re poor,” she said, reminding the graduates that financial hardship should never define their destiny. “Your background does not define your future,” she added, emphasizing that perseverance, discipline, and the willingness to learn remain powerful tools for success.
Class Valedictorian Efraim V. Pallado, representing the graduating class, encouraged his peers to face life’s uncertainties with courage and faith. “As long as we know where we are heading and trust that God is with us, we don’t need to fear what lies ahead,” he said. “We must never doubt the journey because, with faith, we can overcome any obstacles.”
University officials, faculty members, families, and local community stakeholders gathered for the ceremony, underscoring the strong support system behind the graduates’ achievements.
The event concluded with a message of hope and solidarity, affirming DOrSU-CEC’s role as a catalyst for educational growth and community development in Davao Oriental. As the graduates move forward, they carry not only their academic credentials but also the university’s mission to foster sustainable and regenerative futures for the region and beyond.
Access more photos of the event here: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1NGhcEMevhvFE9pcb5N0ri8op539bpqYb?usp=drive_link
