Central Mindanao University Academic Paradise of the South
Central Mindanao University (CMU) recognized its top-performing students during the 2026 University Recognition and Awards Day held on April 15 at the University Convention Center.
A total of 383 students received University Honors, alongside 2,767 College Honors and 236 First Year Honors for their outstanding academic performance. Another 24 students and seven student organizations were also acknowledged for their exceptional non-academic contributions.
The university likewise commended board topnotchers and top-performing programs in the 2025 licensure examinations.
Gracing the event as guest speakers were Engr. Eve Jane F. Garcia and Ms. Joanne Vitri B. Zamora, L.Agri., both of whom ranked among the top 10 passers in their respective licensure exams.
Engr. Garcia, who placed second in the December 2025 Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering Licensure Examination, shared a mindset that helped her survive the difficult exams, thesis, and board exam preparation: that struggle is normal. She further explained that learning is meant to be hard because it prepares students to change lives and serve communities through their profession.
“Every lesson you study, every skill you learn, and every problem you solve is a step toward serving others,” Engr. Garcia said.
Engr. Garcia also encouraged everyone to remain grateful, choose kindness, and pursue excellence not just intellectually, but also in character.
Meanwhile, Ms. Zamora, who ranked ninth in the November 2025 Agriculturist Licensure Examination, reflected on a journey shaped by setbacks and pauses rather than a straight path to success. She emphasized the importance of perseverance and learning from mistakes along the way.
“Looking back, I realized that becoming a topnotcher was never about a few months of review. It was about mistakes. Pauses. Failures. Lessons,” Zamora recalled.
University President Dr. Rolito G. Eballe challenged the honorees to pursue deeper learning, lead more effectively in their organizations, and practice sharper judgment, kindness, and bravery in their daily lives, stressing that excellence is a habit rather than a one-time achievement.
“In your academics, go deeper. In your organizations, lead better. In your everyday choices, be sharper, kinder, and braver. Because excellence is not an award, it is a habit,” Dr. Eballe said.
He concluded by urging the honorees to carry their recognition with humility, discipline, and a strong sense of responsibility, reaffirming the university’s belief in their potential.
Centered on the theme “Shaping Global Leaders through Excellence, Integrity, and Service,” the university’s recognition program was conducted in two sessions and broadcast live via its official Facebook page. [Johnica Chantal G. Montero]
