The Aquarian Official Student Publication

24/07/2025

15/07/2025

𝐂𝐓𝐔-𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐦𝐞𝐧 𝐖𝐫𝐚𝐩𝐬 𝐔𝐩 𝟓-𝐃𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠-𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐩 𝐨𝐧 𝐄𝐱𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐭 𝐒𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐲
by RQue | EIC

Cebu Technological University Carmen Campus successfully concluded its 5-Day Training-Workshop on Community Extension Services and Impact Study on July 7-11, 2025, held at Hagnaya Beach Resort and Restaurant, San Remigio, Cebu. The workshop aimed to strengthen the university’s extension initiatives through evidence-based documentation, GAD-attributed programming, and capacity-building in writing publishable outputs.

The training was attended by faculty extensionists, coordinators, and project team members involved in planning, implementing, and evaluating community-based programs. It featured sessions on writing newsworthy extension reports, aligning projects with Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) GAD attribution standards, and preparing manuscripts for submission to reputable journals.

The 5-day activity was made possible through the support and facilitation of CTU Carmen Campus Director, Dr. Anthony S. Ilano, along with the participation of key extension members and faculty including Dr. Marie Joy C. Inso, Chairperson, Extension Services/GAD/PWD,; Dr. Anna Marie C. Neiz, Assistant Campus Director / Campus Dean of Instruction, Dr. Noel Roble, Dean of Graduate School/ Campus Administrator - CTU Sogod Extension,; Dr. Auda Mae Signe, Dean, College of Technology; Ms. Honey Lyn R. Gomez, OIC-Dean College of Fisheries and Allied Sciences/ CFAS, GAD Coordinator, Engr. Teofilo D. Antolijao, OIC-Dean College of Maritime Sciences, and Dr. Emardy T. Barbecho, Dean, College of Education, Arts and Sciences; Ms. Maricris D. Colipano, COT, Extension Services Coordinator; Engr. Dione A. Baring, CMS, Extension Services Coordinator; Dr. Quennie Rose H. Abao, CEAS, Extension Services Coordinator; Mr. Jay Lord I. Estil, CFAS, Extension Services Coordinator and Mrs. Ena Abagail U. Bayani, CEAS, GAD Coordinator.

One of the highlights of the training was a special talk on the Anti-R**e Law of 1997 (RA 8353) and the R**e Victim Assistance Law of 1998, which aimed to raise awareness among participants and beneficiaries about their rights and legal protections related to gender-based violence. The talk was delivered by Atty. Joey Ann Colipano-Kho and was aligned with the university's GAD initiatives.

The resource speakers throughout the event included Dr. Aurelio P. Vilbar, Director of Ugnayan ng Pahinungod UP-Cebu, Dr. Jihan S. Comeros, Adviser of The Aquarian and Mr. Rhyan Jay C. Signe
OIC Chairperson of ICPА, who provided insights on documenting impact, strengthening project visibility, and public communication of university extension efforts.

On the final day, a culminating program and awarding of certificates were held. Participants also wore assigned color-coded attire representing different days of the training, as part of the themed engagement and unity-building.

The training-workshop marks another step forward in CTU-Carmen’s commitment to responsive, inclusive, and data-driven extension service delivery.

via CTU Carmen Campus Admin Office

Article by Rachel Q. Quezon
Layout by Kevin B. Escoton

Photo in courtesy of Ms. Mary Jane Nuñeza and Ms. Jonna V. Merino

24/06/2025

𝐅𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐌𝐢𝐥𝐤𝐟𝐢𝐬𝐡 𝐭𝐨 𝐌𝐢𝐥𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐧𝐞: 𝐂𝐓𝐔’𝐬 𝐌𝐬. 𝐂𝐲𝐧𝐝𝐲 𝐆. 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐫𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐧 𝐖𝐢𝐧𝐬 𝐁𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐎𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐭 𝐔𝐏𝐕 𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐮𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐜𝐡 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞
By Queenie Marie D. Buton | Feature Writer

Cebu Technological University – Carmen Campus faculty member from College of Fisheries and Allied Sciences, Ms. Cyndy G. Condrillon, made waves at the 2025 Graduate Research Conference hosted by the University of the Philippines Visayas (UPV) on June 21, 2025.

Currently on study leave, Ms. Condrillon proudly represented CTU and was among a select group of scholars chosen to present in Cluster 1: Natural Sciences and Fisheries, under the Institute of Fish Processing Technology (IFPT). Her paper, selected from among 20 submissions, underwent a meticulous screening process by the conference committee before being granted a coveted oral presentation slot.

She did not only present, she won!

Ms. Condrillon clinched 1st Place for Best Oral Presentation in her cluster, besting entries from top graduate students across the country. Her study titled “Isolation and Identification of Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) from Milkfish Chanos chanos (Forsskål 1775) Processing Wastes” puts forth a groundbreaking approach to sustainable resource utilization. The research explores aquaculture waste as an ethical, ecological, and economical alternative source of GAGs substances typically sourced from sharks and pigs.

Her work champions Sustainable Development Goals, aligning with SDG 12: Responsible consumption and production through waste valorization, SDG 14: Life below water, by minimizing marine waste discharge and SDG 3: Good health and well-being, by promoting the nutritional benefits of milkfish.

Remarkably, her study also addresses a 31-year scientific gap in this niche, last explored by Sherief and Kurup in 1994, thereby setting new directions in fisheries science and bioresource innovation.

"I would like to take this moment to thank God for the wisdom, strength, and talents He has graciously bestowed upon all of us," Ms. Condrillon shared in her heartfelt message.

"This win is dedicated to my roommate, Ate Faye, whose laptop I accidentally broke while revising my manuscript. The award will go toward funding its repair," she added with sincerity and humor.

"My deepest gratitude goes to my Thesis Adviser, Dr. Sharon N. Nuñal, my committee members Dr. Mae Grace Nillos and Mr. Leonilo F. Endoma Jr., and my ever-supportive external critic Asst. Prof. Rica P. Cainglet. To CTU, thank you for supporting me in completing my Master’s degree. This achievement belongs to all of us."

The UPV Graduate Research Conference is known for providing a premier platform for Master’s and PhD students to share innovations in natural sciences, management, and social sciences. Presentations are evaluated based on originality, scientific rigor, and potential for impact—making Condrillon’s award a significant feat.

Her work is more than a scientific achievement, it’s a symbol of resilience, relevance, and responsibility.

“To everyone I’ve met along this journey, may you continue to explore boldly, live intentionally, and fulfill the unique missions entrusted to you,” she concluded.

As Ms. Condrillon continues her academic journey, she brings pride not only to CTU-Carmen but also to the country’s growing movement for ethical science and marine conservation. Her voice, like the ocean that inspires her, is calm but powerful, carrying with it the message that even in waste, there is worth.

via CFAS Department Chairperson, Ms. Honey Lyn R. Gomez and CFAS faculty, Ms. Cyndy Condrillon

Article by Queenie Marie D. Buton
Photo in courtesy of Ms. Brittany Miroslava O. Briton and Rose Ann Apacible

18/06/2025

𝐂𝐓𝐔-𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐦𝐞𝐧 𝐁𝐫𝐢𝐝𝐠𝐞𝐬 𝐇𝐨𝐬𝐩𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐬’ 𝐃𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐦𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐢𝐧 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 𝐏𝐢𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐑𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐬
By Ashley Nicole Arenza | Writer

Cebu Technological University – Carmen Campus recognized third-year Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management (BSHM) students during the 2025 Pinning Ceremony held on June 17, 2025, at the CTU Banaag Gymnasium, marking their transition from academic learners to industry-ready interns.

With the theme “Bridging Dreams to Reality: The Future of Hospitality Begins Here,” the event celebrated the perseverance and dedication of the BSHM students as they received their pins, symbolizing their readiness to enter the field of hospitality.

Ms. Maricris Colipano, Internship Chairperson, welcomed attendees with her opening remarks, emphasizing excellence, service, and resilience in the hospitality industry. A statement of purpose was given by Dr. Richard Agustin, followed by an inspirational message from Dr. Anna Marie Neiz, Dean of Instruction.

Distinguished guests graced the event, including Dr. Gypsy Rose Capuno (Chairperson of Internationalization), Ms. Gretchen Laurente (OIC Chairperson of Job Placement and Alumni Affairs), Ms. Rose Ann Campita (Chairperson of Industrial Technology) and Mr. Clyde R. Zamora.

The event featured an inspiring keynote address delivered by Ms. Ethel Morales, Vice President for Operations at ThinkGlobal Consultancy Services and also featured insights from BSHM alumni who once walked the same path including Ms. Angelica Faith Pasay, former intern at The Langham Hotel, Hongkong., Ms. Aissa Abayon, former intern at Sunprime Kamala Beach, Thailand., Ms. Merry Rose Ceniza,Amenity Attendant at Nustar Fili Hotel., Ms. Charlotte Jean Mercado, Front Office staff at Hotel Elizabeth., and lastly Mr. Mark Jones Sumayo, Magna Cum Laude graduate and Housekeeping staff at Nustar Fili Hotel.

Each speaker shared practical insights and encouragement, with Mr. Sumayo’s words striking a chord among the audience: “The acronym F.A.I.L. means First Attempt In Learning” signifying the students’ readiness to embark on their internship journey.

The Pledge of Commitment was led by Miss Mardonia Poro, where interns vowed to serve with dedication, uphold excellence, and represent CTU-Carmen with pride.

In a heartfelt tribute, future interns offered flowers and tokens of appreciation to their parents as a gesture of gratitude for their support throughout the academic years.

The ceremony concluded with Miss Gretchen Laurente’s closing remarks, reminding the future interns that true hospitality is about more than service, it is about creating meaningful experiences. “Real success is not measured by the number of awards,” she said, “but by how deeply you touch the lives of those you serve.”

Written by Ashley Nicole Arenza
Photos taken by Ashley Nicole Arenza | Stephanie Jayson
Layout by Stephanie Jayson

15/06/2025

𝐂𝐓𝐔-𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐦𝐞𝐧 𝐇𝐨𝐥𝐝𝐬 𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐮𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐑𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝟐𝟏𝟕 𝐍𝐚𝐯𝐚𝐥 𝐑𝐎𝐓𝐂 𝐂𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐭𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐬
By Princess Ann Marie Cambaya | Feature Editor

Cebu Technological University – Carmen Campus recognized 217 cadets and cadettes during the graduation ceremony of the Basic Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC) Program 2025 under the 566th Naval ROTC Unit, held on June 15, 2025, at the CTU Banaag Gymnasium.

The ceremony, which began at 9:00 a.m., opened with the Entrance of Colors, followed by an invocation led by MW/ENS Kharylle R. Masocol, 4CL. The Delta Company Band performed the Philippine National Anthem, setting a solemn and patriotic tone for the event.

Engr. Monette D. Apor, ROTC Coordinator, delivered the opening remarks. He acknowledged the efforts of the university administration, faculty, and staff, and commended the graduates for completing their training. He also outlined plans to enhance the ROTC unit and encourage wider student participation.

The presentation of graduates was facilitated by S1YN Denver Martinez, PN, followed by the official declaration of graduation. The awarding of certificates was conducted by ENS Mariz S. Lupa, Dr. Anthony S. Ilano (Campus Director), Dr. Anna Marie C. Neiz (Dean of Instruction and Assistant Campus Director), CPO Rey P. Buenafe, PN CMAA NRCEN NAVY, Ms. Rhea Lou C. Canque, and Engr. Apor.

The highlight of the program was the inspirational address delivered by the Guest of Honor, Dr. Anthony S. Ilano, who urged the graduates to uphold the core values of service, hard work, and sacrifice. Drawing from personal experience, he emphasized that these virtues will serve as their guide in future endeavors, both in service and in civilian life.

The ceremony continued with a series of performances, including the singing of “Pilipinas Kong Mahal” and the Navy Hymn, followed by the Batch Song rendered by the graduates. A dance presentation featuring cadets, cadettes, and officers added a celebratory and spirited atmosphere to the occasion.

The program concluded with the Exit of Colors and a formal recessional, bringing the event to a close with dignity and unity.

For the 217 graduates, this ceremony marked not only the successful completion of their ROTC training, but also the beginning of a broader responsibility, to lead with honor, serve with integrity, and embody the values of the Naval ROTC in every path they pursue

Written by: Princess Ann Marie Cambaya
Layout by: Stephanie V. Jayson
Photos taken by John Rey Rojas | Princess Ann Marie Cambaya | Jasmine Ylanan

13/06/2025

𝐂𝐖𝐓𝐒-𝐍𝐒𝐓𝐏 𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐮𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: 𝟒𝟐𝟗 𝐂𝐓𝐔 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐦𝐞𝐧 𝐒𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐑𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐠𝐧𝐢𝐳𝐞𝐝 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐞
By Princess Ann Marie Cambaya | Feature Editor

A total of 429 students from Cebu Technological University (CTU) Carmen Campus, including participants from the Sogod Extension Campus, were honored during the university’s second National Service Training Program–Civic Welfare Training Service (NSTP-CWTS) Graduation Ceremony held on June 13, 2025, at the CTU Carmen Banaag Gym.

The event began with the processional, entrance of colors, invocation, and the singing of the Philippine National Anthem. Dr. Anna Marie C. Neiz, Dean of Instruction and Assistant Campus Director, delivered the welcome remarks. She commended the students for their active participation in community initiatives such as clean-up drives and outreach activities, emphasizing that NSTP is not merely an academic requirement but a vital step in developing civic responsibility and leadership.

Dr. Benjie B. Ociones, NSTP Chairperson, introduced the keynote speaker, Campus Director Dr. Anthony S. Ilano. In his address, Dr. Ilano encouraged the graduates to carry forward the values of service they had learned through the program.

"𝙎𝙚𝙧𝙫𝙞𝙘𝙚 𝙙𝙤𝙚𝙨 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙚𝙣𝙙 𝙬𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙢 𝙚𝙣𝙙𝙨; 𝙞𝙩 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙪𝙚𝙨 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙮 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙜𝙞𝙫𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙮 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙘𝙖𝙧𝙚." he said.

Certificates of recognition were awarded to Dr. Ilano and various institutional partners who supported the NSTP-CWTS program. The awarding ceremony was led by Dr. Anna Marie C. Neiz, Dean of Instruction, together with Dr. Noel D. Roble, Dean of the Graduate School and Administrator of CTU Sogod Extension Campus; Prof. Honeylyn Gomez, Dean of the College of Fisheries and Allied Sciences; and Dr. Emardy Barbecho, Dean of the College of Education, Arts and Sciences.

The highlight of the ceremony was the presentation and confirmation of the 429 graduates. These students came from a range of academic programs, including Bachelor of Science in Fisheries, Bachelor of Industrial Technology, Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management, Bachelor of Secondary Education major in Mathematics, Bachelor of Elementary Education, and Bachelor of Technology and Livelihood Education. Certificates of completion and special awards were presented following the confirmation.

Mrs. Charina A. Ociones administered the Oath of Honor and Responsibility. The event concluded with the graduation song and the CTU Hymn.

Before the program ended, Dr. Noel D. Roble reminded the graduates that the lessons from NSTP extend far beyond the classroom.

"𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙟𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙣𝙚𝙮 𝙙𝙤𝙚𝙨 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙚𝙣𝙙 𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚; 𝙞𝙩 𝙗𝙚𝙜𝙞𝙣𝙨 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙮𝙤𝙪." he said.

Dr. Jihan S. Comeros served as the Lady of Ceremony, ensuring that the event proceeded smoothly and respectfully.

More than just a milestone, the graduation ceremony marked the beginning of a greater commitment to public service. As they move forward, CTU-Carmen NSTP-CWTS graduates are equipped not only with knowledge but with a sense of duty,to lead with integrity, serve with sincerity, and make meaningful contributions to their communities

Written by: Princess Ann Marie Cambaya
Layout by: Stephanie V. Jayson
Photos by: Princess Ann Marie Cambaya | Stephanie V. Jayson | John Rey A. Rojas

12/06/2025

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐔𝐧𝐭𝐨𝐥𝐝 𝐒𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐁𝐞𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐝 𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐮𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐃𝐚𝐲
By Princess Ann Marie Cambaya | Feature Editor

Graduation is often seen as the finish line, a celebration of years of hard work, sleepless nights, and dreams finally within reach. But behind every proud graduate lies a story not always told, a story of a quiet sacrifice, unwavering determination, and love, especially from those who stood by them through it all. Rain or shine, they offered their time and effort without hesitation, driven only by love.

On the day of the ceremony, while many were seated inside the venue, some parents stood outside, watching from afar. Some were under umbrellas, some holding flowers, and others trying to peek into the ceremony just to catch a glimpse of their loved ones. Yet all of them stood there with pride in their hearts.

Juna Iway, the mother of a Bachelor of Science in Fisheries graduate, shared her emotions as she stood outside during the graduation:

"𝗡𝗮𝗹𝗶𝗽𝗮𝘆 𝗸𝗮𝘆 𝗻𝗮𝗵𝘂𝗺𝗮𝗻 𝗻𝗮𝗴𝘆𝘂𝗱 𝗻𝗶𝘆𝗮 𝗶𝘆𝗮𝗻𝗴 𝗸𝘂𝗮𝗻, 𝗽𝗮𝗴-𝗲𝘀𝗸𝘄𝗲𝗹𝗮. 𝗧𝘂𝗻𝗴𝗼𝗱 𝗻𝗴𝗮 𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝘀𝗮 𝗮𝗸𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗸. 𝗧𝘂𝗻𝗴𝗼𝗱 𝘀𝗮 𝗶𝘆𝗮𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗴 𝗽𝗮𝗴-𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗱𝘂𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗸𝗮𝗿𝗼𝗻, 𝗯𝗮𝗵𝗮𝗹𝗮 𝗻𝗮𝗴 𝗻𝗮𝘂𝘄𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗻. 𝗦𝗮𝗹𝗮𝗺𝗮𝘁 𝗸𝗼 𝘀𝗮 𝗮𝗸𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗸 𝗻𝗴𝗮 𝘀𝗶 𝗝𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗻 𝗜𝘄𝗮𝘆 𝘀𝗮 𝗶𝘆𝗮𝗻𝗴 𝗽𝗮𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗸𝗮𝗺𝗼𝘁 𝗻𝗴𝗮 𝗺𝗮𝗸𝗮𝗹𝗮𝗺𝗽𝗼𝘀 𝘀𝗮 𝗽𝗮𝗴-𝗲𝘀𝗸𝘄𝗲𝗹𝗮."

(“𝘐’𝘮 𝘩𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘺 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦 s𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘴𝘩𝘦𝘥 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘴𝘵𝘶𝘥𝘪𝘦𝘴. 𝘔𝘺 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥 𝘪𝘴 𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘤𝘪𝘢𝘭 𝘵𝘰 𝘮𝘦. 𝘌𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘪𝘧 𝘐 𝘨𝘰𝘵 𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘥 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘢𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘰𝘥𝘢𝘺, 𝘐’𝘮 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘧𝘶𝘭 s𝘩𝘦 𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘥𝘶𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘥. 𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘮𝘺 daughter, 𝘑𝘶𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘯 𝘐𝘸𝘢𝘺, 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘩er 𝘥𝘦𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘰 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘴𝘩 𝘴𝘤𝘩𝘰𝘰𝘭.”)

For many parents, the journey was not easy. Providing education meant giving up personal needs, working extra hours, and making difficult financial decisions just to ensure their children had what they needed.

Rodrigo Roilo, a father from Panalipan, Catmon, expressed his overwhelming pride for his youngest daughter, Ronelyn, a Bachelor of Elementary Education graduate:

“𝗡𝗮𝗹𝗶𝗽𝗮𝘆 𝗻𝗴𝗮 𝗻𝗮𝗸𝗮𝗵𝘂𝗺𝗮𝗻 𝗻𝗮 𝘂𝗴 𝘀𝗸𝘄𝗲𝗹𝗮. 𝗛𝗮𝗻𝗴𝘁𝘂𝗱 𝗽𝘂𝗱 𝘀𝗮 𝗶𝘆𝗮𝗻𝗴 𝗽𝗮𝗴𝘁𝘂𝗯𝗼 𝘂𝗴 𝗸𝗮𝗿𝗼𝗻 𝗸𝗮𝘆 𝗻𝗶𝗹𝗮𝗺𝗽ó𝘀 𝗴𝘆𝘂𝗱 𝘀𝗶𝘆𝗮. 𝗡𝗮𝗮 𝘀𝗶 𝗡𝗮𝗻𝗮𝘆 𝗻𝗶𝗺𝗼 𝗱𝗶𝗿𝗮. 𝗡𝗮𝗹𝗶𝗽𝗮𝘆 𝗸𝗼, 𝗻𝗮𝗹𝗶𝗽𝗮𝘆 𝗸𝗼 𝗻𝗴𝗮 𝗻𝗮𝗸𝗮𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗱𝘂𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗮𝗸𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗵𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗻. 𝗦𝘆𝗲𝗺𝗽𝗿𝗲, 𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗶𝘁𝗮 𝗻𝗮 𝘀𝗮𝗱 𝘀𝗶𝘆𝗮 𝘂𝘆, 𝗶𝘆𝗮𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗴 𝗽𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗶𝘁𝗮. 𝗡𝗮𝗴𝗽𝗮𝘀𝗮𝗹𝗮𝗺𝗮𝘁 𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗴 𝗸𝗼.”

(“𝘐’𝘮 𝘩𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘩𝘢𝘴 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘴𝘩𝘦𝘥 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘴𝘵𝘶𝘥𝘪𝘦𝘴. 𝘍𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘨𝘳𝘰𝘸𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘶𝘱 𝘶𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘭 𝘯𝘰𝘸—𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘮𝘢𝘥𝘦 𝘪𝘵. 𝘠𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘮𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘪𝘴 𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘰𝘰. 𝘐’𝘮 𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘩𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘮𝘺 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘩𝘢𝘴 𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘥𝘶𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘥. 𝘖𝘧 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴𝘦, 𝘴𝘩𝘦’𝘭𝘭 𝘯𝘰𝘸 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨. 𝘐’𝘮 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬𝘧𝘶𝘭.”)

To his daughter, he added a heartfelt message:

"𝗗𝗮𝗶, 𝗺𝗮𝘆 𝗲𝗱𝗮𝗱 𝗻𝗮𝗸𝗼 𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗼 𝗻𝗮𝗸𝗮-𝗳𝗲𝗲𝗹 𝗽𝗮 𝗴𝘆𝘂𝗱 𝗸𝗼 𝗻𝗴𝗮 𝗺𝗮𝗹𝗶𝗽𝗮𝘆𝗼𝗻 𝗸𝗼 𝗻𝗴𝗮 𝗺𝗲𝗱𝘆𝗼 𝘀𝗮 𝗮𝗸𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝗽𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗶𝗱𝗮𝗿𝗼𝗻, 𝗻𝗮𝗸𝗮𝗹𝗮𝗺𝗽𝗼𝘀 𝗴𝘆𝘂𝗱 𝗸𝗮."

(“𝘋𝘦𝘢𝘳, 𝘐 𝘮𝘢𝘺 𝘣𝘦 𝘰𝘭𝘥, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘐 𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭 𝘴𝘶𝘤𝘩 𝘫𝘰𝘺—𝘢𝘵 𝘮𝘺 𝘢𝘨𝘦, 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘮𝘢𝘥𝘦 𝘪𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩.”)

Students, too, made countless sacrifices. They gave up their comfort, time, and even their health. There were moments when they had to skip family gatherings, miss out on time with friends, or forego vacations. Some nights they barely slept due to schoolwork. Others forgot to eat, rushing to class or beating deadlines. They faced anxiety over exams, sleepless nights over grades, and the constant pressure of securing their future.

Aljen Shin Mondarte, the boyfriend of a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management graduate, reflected on their shared journey:

"𝗙𝗲𝗲𝗹 𝗸𝗼 𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗴, 𝗻𝗮-𝗳𝗲𝗲𝗹 𝗻𝗮𝗸𝗼 𝗻𝗴𝗮 𝗸𝘂𝗮𝗻, 𝗻𝗮𝗵𝘂𝗺𝗮𝗻 𝗻𝗮 𝘀𝗶𝘆𝗮. 𝗗𝗮𝗴𝗵𝗮𝗻 𝘀𝗶𝘆𝗮𝗴 𝗴𝗼𝗮𝗹𝘀 𝘀𝗮 𝗶𝘆𝗮𝗵𝗮 𝗹𝗶𝗳𝗲. 𝗔𝗻𝗴 𝗳𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁 𝗻𝗶𝘆𝗮 𝘂𝗻𝗮𝗵𝗼𝗻 𝗶𝘆𝗮𝗵𝗮 𝗳𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝘆, 𝗱𝗮𝗽𝗮𝘁 𝗯𝗮𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲. 𝗛𝗮𝗽𝗽𝘆 𝘀𝗮𝗱 𝗸𝗼 𝗻𝗴𝗮 𝗻𝗮𝗸𝗮𝗵𝘂𝗺𝗮𝗻 𝗴𝘆𝘂𝗱 𝘀𝗶𝘆𝗮, 𝗱𝗶𝗹𝗶 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗵𝗮 𝘀𝗮𝘂𝗻𝗮 𝗻𝗴𝗮 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗻𝗮 𝘀𝗶𝘆𝗮. 𝗚𝗿𝗮𝗯𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗴 𝘀𝘁𝗿𝘂𝗴𝗴𝗹𝗲 𝗻𝗮𝗸𝗼, 𝗻𝗮𝗺𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝗱𝘂𝗵𝗮, 𝗸𝗮𝘆 𝗸𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗱𝘂𝗵𝗮 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘀𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁. 𝗡𝗶𝘆𝗮 𝗸𝘂𝗮𝗻, 𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗯𝗲 𝗸𝗮𝗮𝘆𝗼 𝗮𝗻𝗴 𝘀𝘁𝗿𝘂𝗴𝗴𝗹𝗲 𝗸𝗮𝘆 𝘁𝗮𝗴𝗮-𝗮𝗱𝗹𝗮𝘄 𝗻𝗮𝗴𝗯𝘆𝗮𝗵𝗲 𝗺𝗶 𝗱𝗶𝗿𝗶 𝗻𝗶𝘆𝗮, 𝘁𝗮𝗴𝗮-𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗼𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗺𝗶."

(“𝘐 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘧𝘦𝘭𝘵 𝘪𝘵—𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘮𝘢𝘥𝘦 𝘪𝘵. 𝘚𝘩𝘦 𝘩𝘢𝘴 𝘴𝘰 𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘺 𝘨𝘰𝘢𝘭𝘴 𝘪𝘯 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦. 𝘏𝘦𝘳 𝘱𝘳𝘪𝘰𝘳𝘪𝘵𝘺 𝘩𝘢𝘴 𝘢𝘭𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘣𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘧𝘢𝘮𝘪𝘭𝘺, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘴 𝘪𝘯 𝘣𝘢𝘭𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦. 𝘐'𝘮 𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘭𝘺 𝘩𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘺 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘥𝘶𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘥. 𝘐𝘵’𝘴 𝘥𝘪𝘧𝘧𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘯𝘰𝘸 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘢𝘭𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘺 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨. 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘨𝘨𝘭𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘣𝘰𝘵𝘩 𝘰𝘧 𝘶𝘴 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘸𝘦 𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘣𝘰𝘵𝘩 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘴𝘵𝘶𝘥𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘴. 𝘐𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘪𝘯𝘤𝘳𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘣𝘭𝘺 𝘵𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩, 𝘸𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘮𝘶𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘭𝘦 𝘥𝘢𝘺 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘊𝘰𝘯𝘴𝘰𝘭𝘢𝘤𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦.”)

To his partner Angela Arreglado, expressed heartfelt words:

"𝗟𝗼𝘃𝗲, 𝗸𝗮𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗻𝗮𝗮𝗯𝗼𝘁 𝗻𝗮𝗴𝘆𝘂𝗱 𝗮𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗲 𝗻𝗴𝗮 𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗱𝘂𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗻𝗮𝗸𝗮. 𝗡𝗶𝘆𝗮 𝗸𝘂𝗮𝗻 𝘀𝗮𝗱, 𝗸𝗮𝗵𝘂𝗺𝗮𝗻 𝗻𝗶𝗺𝗼 𝗮𝗻𝗮 𝗻𝗮𝗮 𝗻𝗮𝘀𝗮𝗱 𝗸𝗮𝘆 𝗻𝗲𝘄 𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗽𝘁𝗲𝗿. 𝗟𝗮𝗯𝗮𝗻 𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗴 𝗴𝘆𝘂𝗱 𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗴 𝗱𝘂𝗵𝗮 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗮 𝘀𝗮 𝗮𝘁𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝗴𝗼𝗮𝗹𝘀."

(“𝘓𝘰𝘷𝘦, 𝘸𝘦’𝘷𝘦 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘺𝘰𝘶’𝘷𝘦 𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘥𝘶𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘥. 𝘈𝘯𝘥 𝘯𝘰𝘸 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘱𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘪𝘴 𝘥𝘰𝘯𝘦, 𝘢 𝘯𝘦𝘸 𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘦𝘨𝘪𝘯. 𝘓𝘦𝘵’𝘴 𝘬𝘦𝘦𝘱 𝘧𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘰𝘨𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘨𝘰𝘢𝘭𝘴.”)

Some students lived even harder lives. They worked to feed themselves, support their families, or pay for school expenses. These students weren’t just studying, they were surviving.

Paul Aldrich Damiles, a Bachelor of Marine Engineering graduate, shared how far he had come:

"𝗦𝗮𝗹𝗮𝗺𝗮𝘁 𝘀𝗮𝗱 𝗸𝗮𝘆 𝗻𝗮𝗸𝗮𝗹𝘂𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝘀𝗮 𝘁𝘂𝗻𝗮𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗻."

(“𝘐’𝘮 𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘧𝘶𝘭 𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘨𝘦𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩 𝘮𝘺 𝘴𝘵𝘶𝘥𝘪𝘦𝘴.”)

Now aspiring to become a licensed marine engineer, he offered a message to his family, especially his mother, Marilyn Singson Damiles:

"𝗦𝗮𝗹𝗮𝗺𝗮𝘁 𝗸𝗮𝘆 𝗯𝗶𝘀𝗮𝗻 𝗻𝗮𝗮 𝘁𝗮𝘆 𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗶𝘆𝗮 𝗻𝗴𝗮 𝘂𝘀𝗮𝗵𝗮𝘆 𝗱𝗶𝗹𝗶 𝗺𝗮𝘀𝗮𝗯𝘁𝗮𝗻, 𝘄𝗮𝗹𝗮 𝘀𝗶𝗹𝗮 𝗺𝗼𝗵𝘂𝗻𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝘂𝗴 𝘀𝗮𝗯𝗼𝘁 𝘂𝗴 𝘀𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗮."

(“𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶, 𝘥𝘦𝘴𝘱𝘪𝘵𝘦 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘥𝘪𝘧𝘧𝘪𝘤𝘶𝘭𝘵𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘸𝘦 𝘧𝘢𝘤𝘦𝘥, 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘺 𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘺𝘰𝘯𝘥 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘥𝘴, 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘨𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘶𝘱 𝘰𝘯 𝘮𝘦. 𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘭𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘰𝘧𝘧𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘶𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘴𝘶𝘱𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵.”)

Despite obstacles like limited venue space, bad weather, or long distances, families still showed up. Their presence, even from afar, was an act of love and pride. It did not go unnoticed.

Graduation is more than just a ceremony. It is a tribute to the strength of families, the resilience of students, and the countless small sacrifices that made the journey possible. Whether standing under bright lights or umbrellas, the people who gave their all for this moment are the true heroes behind every diploma.

Written by: Princess Ann Marie Cambaya
Layout by: Stephanie V. Jayson | Joenel Olaguer
Photo by: Cherry Mae B. Andrada

12/06/2025

𝗖𝗧𝗨 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗺𝗲𝗻 𝗛𝗼𝗹𝗱𝘀 𝟲𝟭𝘀𝘁 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗘𝘅𝗲𝗿𝗰𝗶𝘀𝗲𝘀 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗣𝗿𝗶𝗱𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗛𝗼𝗻𝗼𝗿
by: Aegen L. Taneo | News Writer

A proud celebration of academic achievement and perseverance took place on June 10, 2025, as Cebu Technological University (CTU) – Carmen Campus held its 61st Commencement Exercises at the Banaag Gymnasium. A total of 432 graduates marched with pride, marking the culmination of years of hard work and dedication. With the theme of unity, excellence, and gratitude, the event featured a Baccalaureate Mass, Ceremonial Hooding, and the formal Graduation Ceremonies, attended by university officials, faculty, proud families, and honored guests. The day was filled with inspiring speeches, the awarding of diplomas and honors, and heartfelt tributes from top graduates, signifying the end of one journey and the beginning of another for the Class of 2025.

For the graduates, this ceremony held special significance. Having missed their Grade 12 graduation due to the pandemic, the opportunity to finally march across the stage was deeply emotional. The occasion was not just about academic success, but also about resilience and hope after years of uncertainty. Families cheered, emotions ran high, and each step on stage became a moment to remember.

CTU Carmen Campus Director Dr. Anthony S. Ilano congratulated the graduates and emphasized that their education is a lifelong responsibility. Highlighting the theme, “𝘗𝘦𝘳𝘱𝘦𝘵𝘶𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘒𝘯𝘰𝘸𝘭𝘦𝘥𝘨𝘦 𝘣𝘺 𝘌𝘮𝘱𝘰𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘎𝘦𝘯𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘊𝘦𝘣𝘶 𝘛𝘦𝘤𝘩𝘯𝘰𝘭𝘰𝘨𝘪𝘤𝘢𝘭 𝘜𝘯𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘪𝘵𝘺,”
he urged them to share their knowledge and values for the betterment of their communities. He praised their resilience and encouraged them to move forward with humility, courage, and compassion as proud CTU graduates.

SUC President IV Dr. Joseph C. Pepito also delivered a powerful message, acknowledging the support of families, mentors, and friends. He reminded the graduates that education is a legacy meant to uplift others and that their real journey is just beginning. With integrity and passion, he called on them to lead, innovate, and serve their communities, carrying the CTU spirit with pride and purpose.

Magna Cum Laude Mc Allen J. Gabato, from the BS Marine Engineering program, expressed deep gratitude in his speech. He thanked the faculty, staff, and deans for their support, and honored his fellow graduates and their families, especially those who made sacrifices behind the scenes. Reflecting on his own hardships, he said, “𝘛𝘰 𝘢𝘯𝘺𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭𝘴 𝘵𝘰𝘰 𝘣𝘳𝘰𝘬𝘦𝘯, 𝘵𝘰𝘰 𝘣𝘦𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘥, 𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘰𝘰 𝘱𝘰𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘰 𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘦—𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘮𝘣𝘦𝘳, 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘱𝘢𝘪𝘯, 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘱𝘰𝘸𝘦𝘳,” reminding everyone that success comes in different timelines, and that education is a true form of empowerment.

As the ceremony drew to a close, the 61st Commencement Exercises of CTU Carmen stood as a proud and meaningful tribute to the 432 graduates who now carry the name and values of Cebu Technological University into the wider world. The event was not only a recognition of academic success, but also a celebration of perseverance, unity, and hope, marking a powerful new beginning for the Class of 2025.

Written by Aegen L. Taneo
Layout by Joey M. Gervise
Photos by Kristelyn Talabok | Rolando R. Roilo Jr. | John Rey A. Rojas | Christian Paulo Villanueva

12/06/2025

𝗖𝗧𝗨 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗺𝗲𝗻 𝗛𝗼𝗹𝗱𝘀 𝗗𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗼𝗳 𝗦𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗕𝗼𝗮𝗿𝗱 𝗖𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗼𝗻𝘆 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗕𝗮𝘁𝗰𝗵 𝗗𝗿𝗮𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗶𝘀
by: Aegen L. Taneo | News Writer

With pride, honor, and a strong sense of maritime tradition, Cebu Technological University (CTU) Carmen Campus held its Donning of Shoulder Board Ceremony for Batch Draconis on June 11, 2025 at the CTU-Carmen Bana-ag Gymnasium.

Carrying the theme “𝘚𝘢𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘈𝘮𝘪𝘥𝘴𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘖𝘤𝘦𝘢𝘯: 𝘊𝘰𝘯𝘯𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘊𝘶𝘭𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘢𝘭 𝘋𝘪𝘧𝘧𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘴, 𝘔𝘢𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘚𝘦𝘢𝘴, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘚𝘶𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘐𝘯𝘥𝘶𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘔𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦 𝘌𝘹𝘤𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦,” the ceremony recognized the cadets’ readiness to take on the next chapter of their maritime journey.

A total of 173 cadets and cadettes, including 111 Dean’s Listers, participated in the symbolic rite, which marks their transition from students to apprentice seafarers. The donning of the shoulder board is a long-standing maritime tradition, symbolizing not just a change in attire but a deeper commitment to leadership, discipline, and service.

In his welcoming speech, CTU Carmen Campus Director, Dr. Anthony S. Ilano reflected on the meaning of the tradition and its role in shaping future maritime leaders.

“𝘛𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘤𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘰𝘯𝘺 𝘪𝘴 𝘢 𝘱𝘰𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘧𝘶𝘭 𝘳𝘪𝘵𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘱𝘢𝘴𝘴𝘢𝘨𝘦,” 𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘢𝘪𝘥. “𝘐𝘵 𝘪𝘴 𝘢 𝘵𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘵𝘪𝘳𝘦𝘭𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘦𝘧𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢 𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘳 𝘰𝘧 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘤𝘢𝘮𝘦 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮. 𝘛𝘰𝘥𝘢𝘺, 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘦𝘢𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥𝘦𝘳 𝘣𝘰𝘢𝘳𝘥 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘢𝘴 𝘴𝘵𝘶𝘥𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘴, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘢𝘴 𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘦𝘳𝘴, 𝘧𝘶𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘦 𝘦𝘯𝘨𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘦𝘢𝘴.”

The event was graced by distinguished guests from the maritime industry and partner institutions, including 𝘏𝘰𝘯. 𝘑𝘰𝘴𝘦 𝘌𝘮𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘍. 𝘙𝘰𝘣𝘭𝘦, 𝘗𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘊𝘌𝘖 𝘰𝘧 𝘙𝘰𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘚𝘩𝘪𝘱𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘐𝘯𝘤.; 𝘊/𝘌 𝘙𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘰 𝘓𝘶𝘻𝘶𝘳𝘪𝘢𝘨𝘢, 𝘊𝘌𝘖 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘗𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘊𝘖𝘔𝘗𝘔𝘈𝘕 𝘐𝘯𝘤.; 𝘚𝘩𝘦𝘯𝘢 𝘙𝘩𝘦𝘢 𝘗𝘦𝘥𝘳𝘰𝘴𝘢, 𝘚𝘶𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘷𝘪𝘴𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘵 𝘊𝘖𝘔𝘗𝘔𝘈𝘕 𝘐𝘯𝘤.; 𝘚𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘰𝘯 𝘌𝘷𝘢𝘯 𝘛𝘢𝘤𝘱𝘢𝘭𝘢𝘯, 𝘔𝘢𝘳𝘬𝘦𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘋𝘪𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘰𝘳 𝘰𝘧 𝘈𝘴𝘪𝘢 𝘋𝘪𝘨𝘪𝘵𝘦𝘤𝘩 𝘚𝘰𝘭𝘶𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘐𝘯𝘤.; 𝘔𝘴. 𝘎𝘪𝘳𝘭𝘪𝘦 𝘉𝘢𝘤𝘰𝘭𝘰𝘥, 𝘎𝘦𝘯𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘭 𝘔𝘢𝘯𝘢𝘨𝘦𝘳 𝘰𝘧 𝘡𝘙𝘊 𝘛𝘳𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘊𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘐𝘯𝘤. and representatives from Phil Asia Maritime Services Training Center Inc.

These guests shared words of encouragement, reminding the cadets of the importance of professionalism, cultural sensitivity, and dedication to maritime excellence.

More than just a celebration, the ceremony served as a reaffirmation of CTU’s mission to mold globally competitive maritime professionals. As the newly donned cadets stood tall and proud, the gymnasium echoed with a sense of determination and purpose.

With this milestone, Batch Draconis is now set to navigate the open seas, equipped with tradition, strengthened by education, and ready to connect cultures across oceans.

Written by: Aegen L. Taneo
Layout by: Stephanie V. Jayson | Joey M. Gervise
Photos by: Kristelyn Talabok | Rolando U. Roilo Jr. | John Rey A. Rojas

12/06/2025

𝗠𝗰 𝗔𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗻 𝗝𝗲𝗿𝗲𝘇 𝗚𝗮𝗯𝗮𝘁𝗼, 𝗠𝗮𝗴𝗻𝗮 𝗖𝘂𝗺 𝗟𝗮𝘂𝗱𝗲: 𝗙𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗛𝘂𝗺𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗕𝗲𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗛𝗶𝗴𝗵 𝗦𝗲𝗮𝘀
by: Princess Ann Marie Cambaya | Feature Editor

"𝘔𝘢𝘺 𝘸𝘦 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘣𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘸𝘦 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘶𝘯𝘴𝘦𝘦𝘯. 𝘠𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘷𝘢𝘭𝘶𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘥𝘦𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘥 𝘣𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘥 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘦𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘰𝘳 𝘣𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘨𝘯𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘨𝘦𝘵, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘣𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘸𝘩𝘪𝘤𝘩 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘭𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘵𝘩."

These words echoed through CTU-Carmen Banaag Gym as Mc Allen stood on stage as living proof that perseverance and humility can overcome even the hardest beginnings. At just 23, he graduated 𝘔𝘢𝘨𝘯𝘢 𝘊𝘶𝘮 𝘓𝘢𝘶𝘥𝘦 from the College of Maritime Sciences, valedictorian of his class, a licensed Officer-In-Charge of Engine Watchkeeping (OIC-EWK), and was already set to sail on an international vessel.

But what made him truly unforgettable that day wasn’t the medals on his chest or the career waiting for him overseas. It was the quiet strength of his words, and how he honored not just his journey, but the shared struggles of those beside him.

His journey began in quiet struggle, where each day was about survival, not success. His father’s absence left not just a void, but a weight his mother carried with strength and grace. Through it all, she raised him to value kindness, respect, and quiet resilience.

"𝘔𝘢𝘮𝘢, 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘦𝘯𝘥𝘭𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘦, 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘱𝘳𝘢𝘺𝘦𝘳𝘴, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘮 𝘦𝘮𝘣𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘦 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘮𝘺 𝘳𝘦𝘧𝘶𝘨𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘳𝘮. 𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘢𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘮𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘷𝘢𝘭𝘶𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘥𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴, 𝘩𝘶𝘮𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘺, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘦."

He spoke not just for himself, but for the countless others who had struggled in silence. Early on, he heard the whispers: “𝘞𝘢𝘭𝘢𝘺 𝘱𝘢𝘱𝘢. 𝘓𝘪𝘴𝘶𝘥 𝘱𝘢 𝘫𝘶𝘥. 𝘓𝘪𝘴𝘶𝘥 𝘯𝘪 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘢𝘩𝘶𝘮𝘢𝘯 𝘰𝘨 𝘪𝘴𝘬𝘸𝘦𝘭𝘢.”

But he kept showing up, day by day, step by step. He never sought praise, only to do what was right, even in the quietest corners. That quiet consistency built more than academic success. It built strength of character.

In his speech, he made it clear that his achievements were never his alone. He spoke not just for himself, but for the countless others who had struggled in silence.

"𝘛𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘨𝘦, 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘮𝘦𝘥𝘢𝘭, 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘮𝘪𝘤𝘳𝘰𝘱𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦, 𝘪𝘵 𝘪𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘦 𝘢𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘦. 𝘐𝘵 𝘣𝘦𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘥𝘶𝘢𝘵𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘩𝘢𝘭𝘭. 𝘐𝘵 𝘣𝘦𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘬𝘦𝘥 𝘥𝘢𝘺 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘯𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘵𝘰 𝘨𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘶𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘦𝘥𝘶𝘤𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘸𝘦 𝘥𝘦𝘴𝘦𝘳𝘷𝘦. 𝘈𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘵 𝘣𝘦𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘴𝘵𝘶𝘥𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘨𝘨𝘭𝘦𝘥 𝘪𝘯 𝘴𝘪𝘭𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦, 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘮𝘢𝘺 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘦𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘮𝘦𝘥𝘢𝘭𝘴, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘨𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘶𝘱."

When the pandemic turned classrooms into computer screens and made even basic access to learning difficult, he continued. There were days with no stable internet, nights full of responsibilities, and moments where it all felt too heavy. But he pressed on. It was never about chasing a title, it was about doing meaningful work, even in unseen moments.

Through it all, he remembered every person who believed in him: friends who stood by him, classmates who encouraged him, and teachers and mentors who saw what others didn’t.

He turned to his fellow graduates with a message that resonated deeply:

"𝘚𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘮𝘢𝘺 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘪𝘵’𝘴 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘯𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨. 𝘉𝘶𝘵 𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘥𝘰. 𝘚𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘰𝘧 𝘣𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘶𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘥, 𝘰𝘧 𝘣𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘰𝘭𝘥, 𝘴𝘶𝘣𝘵𝘭𝘺 𝘰𝘳 𝘥𝘪𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘭𝘺, 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘮𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘰𝘰 𝘣𝘪𝘨 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘯𝘢𝘮𝘦. 𝘈𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘺𝘰𝘶, 𝘐 𝘴𝘢𝘺: 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘨𝘪𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘶𝘱."

He didn’t forget to thank the institution that shaped him:

"𝘛𝘰 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘢𝘤𝘶𝘭𝘵𝘺, 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘧𝘧, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢𝘥𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘰𝘧 𝘊𝘛𝘜, 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘶𝘯𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘪𝘵𝘺 𝘢 𝘱𝘭𝘢𝘤𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘶𝘥𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘴 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘨𝘳𝘰𝘸."

What he has built is more than a résumé. His true legacy is not found in medals or licenses, but in how he made others feel seen, respected, and inspired. In a world often driven by applause, he reminds us that true success is measured not by recognition, but by character.

Sometimes, the most remarkable journeys begin in silence. And sometimes, the greatest victories are not shouted, but lived, quietly, sincerely, and with grace.

His story is a reminder to us all: you don’t have to come from privilege to rise; you don’t need a perfect path to succeed. You just need to keep going, stay grounded, and never lose the heart that led you there.

𝗔𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗶𝘀 𝗮 𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗵 𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴.

Written by: Princess Ann Marie Cambaya
Layout by: Stephanie V. Jayson | Joey M. Gervise
Photo by: Kristelyn Talabok | Christian Paulo Villanueva | Rolando R. Roilo Jr. | John Rey A. Rojas
Photo by courtesy of Mc Allen J. Gabato