
28/06/2025
From Dreams to Legacy: NISU CAS Honors Graduating Students in Recognition and Donning Ceremony
Northern Iloilo State University (NISU), College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) held a heartfelt Recognition and Donning Ceremony last Tuesday, June 24, 2025 at the NISU Covered Gym. With the theme, “One Sablay, Many Stories: Honoring Individual Journeys and Shared Legacies,” the event paid tribute to the academic journey, perseverance, and achievements of graduating students from three distinguished programs: Bachelor of Science in Biology, Bachelor of Arts in Economics, and Bachelor of Arts in English Language.
The program opened with a solemn Processional, followed by the Doxology led by Mr. Janbeth G. Alindog, Information Officer II. Gathering 225 graduating students, 63 from AB Economics, 89 from AB English and 73 from BS Biology. The event honored their efforts and readiness for the future.
Dr. Edna T. Suganob, Dean of College of Arts and Sciences, warmly welcomed the guests, faculty, graduates, and their families. She expressed her admiration for the students’ resilience and academic excellence. In her message, she emphasized, "You are the authors of your own journey". Furthermore, she added that today's graduation of CAS students are just the starting point of their own legacy.
Moreover, the morning event was further highlighted as Mr. Almar Cipriano Duga, a proud alumnus of BS Biology Batch 2013 and currently a faculty member of Talingting National High School, delivered his Inspirational Message. He states, "Each of you were called to wear the sablay not just as graduate but as servant of the people." Reminding each graduates that their journey doesn't end here but a call to serve and to make an impact in the community.
The Donning of the Sablay was led by Dr. Suganob and Mrs. Leilane P. Gabion, Registrar III. Program chairpersons also played pivotal roles: Prof. Glenn Grace Bayhon, Chairperson of AB English Language; Dr. Sheila Mae O. Cantara, Chairperson of AB Economics; Dr. John Vincent V. Dollete, Chairperson of BS Biology; and Dr. Rhona G. Gregorio-Sese, Chairperson of BS Midwifery. The ceremonial donning marked both an ending and a new beginning.
The event also featured a moving Tribute Message by Mr. Webster Jhon A. Cerujano. In his message he states, "continue to seek your own truth and let it be your guiding light." Encouraging his fellow graduates to discover their truth and if discovered, navigate the world with that truth.
Furthermore, University President Dr. Bobby D. Gerardo and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Gilda E. Deguma delivered congratulatory messages, acknowledging the graduates' accomplishments and encouraging them to continue striving for excellence beyond the university gates.
This memorable celebration stood as a testament to Northern Iloilo State University, College of Arts and Sciences commitment to nurturing future leaders, critical thinkers, and changemakers ready to serve society with honor and integrity.
Words by Mikaella Cassandra Dequiña
Photos by Ma. Cherica Berug