Central Mindanao University Academic Paradise of the South
Central Mindanao University (CMU) successfully conducted its first-ever series of Pre-Commencement Exercises from July 6–9, 2026, bringing together faculty members, graduating students, and their families in a celebration of academic excellence and achievement.
Held at the University Convention Center and the College of Engineering Atrium, the four-day series served as a college-based recognition program ahead of the university-wide commencement ceremony. By holding separate exercises for each college, CMU created a more intimate setting where graduates could be recognized alongside their peers while highlighting the distinct accomplishments and traditions of their respective academic units.
Each program featured the formal presentation of candidates for graduation, the recognition of Latin honor recipients, special leadership and academic awards, and the traditional hooding ceremony.
A defining feature of the pre-commencement exercises was the student addresses delivered by the top graduates of each college. Reflecting on their academic journeys, the graduates shared stories of perseverance, growth, and gratitude while encouraging their fellow graduates to face the future with purpose and integrity.
Among them was College of Business and Management summa cum laude graduate Hyacinth May C. Cariaso of the Bachelor of Science in Office Administration, who challenged her fellow graduates to let humility and compassion define their success.
“To my fellow graduates, as we leave this hall today, may we never measure people by their beginnings, never look down on someone because of the path they took, and never allow our achievements to become greater than our character. Instead, may we carry forward grateful hearts, humble spirits, and the courage to keep growing wherever life leads us,” Cariaso said.
The ceremonies also became heartfelt occasions for gratitude as graduates paid tribute to their parents and guardians for the sacrifices that made their education possible. Parent representatives likewise shared inspiring testimonies about the challenges, hopes, and unwavering commitment behind every graduate’s journey.
Representing the parents of the College of Education graduates, Mrs. Ethel Z. Subayno reminded the Class of 2026 that the diploma they received represents not only their personal achievement but also the countless sacrifices of their families. She encouraged the graduates to use their education meaningfully as a way of honoring the hard work, perseverance, and unconditional support that brought them to this milestone.
The Pre-Commencement Exercises provided graduates with a more personal and meaningful opportunity to celebrate their academic accomplishments before joining the entire Class of 2026 in the university’s commencement ceremony.
