Central Mindanao University Academic Paradise of the South
In celebration of Central Mindanao University’s (CMU) 71st commencement exercises, four distinguished guest speakers addressed different groups of graduates, sharing wisdom drawn from their leadership journeys and encouraging the new graduates to move forward with purpose, integrity, and compassion.
Hon. Audrey Kay Tan-Zubiri, representative of Bukidnon’s Third District, addressed graduates from the Colleges of Agriculture and Forestry and Environmental Science. She encouraged the graduates to leave behind a legacy grounded in truth, justice, and service to others.
“Let your legacy be that of a cultivator of excellence, truth, and justice,” Rep. Tan-Zubiri said.
Rep. Tan-Zubiri also reminded graduates to be not only skilled professionals but also honest leaders who prioritize public interest.
“I challenge each and every one of you to pursue excellence but always lead with empathy, to dream big, but always keep your feet on the ground, and to always stand for what is right even if you have to stand alone,” she added.
Meanwhile, Hon. Laarni Lavin Roque, representative of Bukidnon’s Fourth District and member of the CMU Board of Regents, spoke to graduates from the Colleges of Arts and Sciences and Human Ecology. In her message, she redefined the meaning of success, challenging the graduates to find fulfillment in purpose-driven work.
“Success is not about titles or applause. It’s about living with purpose. It’s about choosing work that doesn’t just pay—it fulfills. It challenges. It gives back. And if what you’re doing brings dignity to others, peace to your home, or healing to the world—even in small ways—you’re already winning,” she said.
Next, Nonito H. Dela Cruz, Acting Director of the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Region X, represented DBM Secretary Hon. Amenah F. Pangandaman in addressing the graduates from the Colleges of Business and Management, Engineering, and Information Sciences and Computing. Dela Cruz highlighted the transformative power of education and its role in nation-building.
“Through the quality education you have received here at CMU, you are now best positioned to shape policies, drive innovation, and inspire movements. You have the power to create a nation that thrives on knowledge, compassion, and innovation,” he said, underscoring the responsibilities the graduates now hold as future leaders.
Finally, representing Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” T. Go, Maramag Vice Mayor John Lester Tan-Malack Tan delivered a heartfelt message of appreciation and support. Speaking before the Colleges of Education, Nursing, and Veterinary Medicine, he acknowledged the pivotal role of families and educators in each graduate’s success.
“To the parents and families – saludo po kami sa inyo. You are the silent heroes behind every graduate here today. And to the faculty and leadership of CMU – thank you for your unwavering commitment to shaping minds and hearts,” he said.
Senator Go also sent his message to the graduates, encouraging them to take forward not just the knowledge from their academic journey, but also the values and relationships formed along the way.
“As you move forward, always carry with you the lessons learned not just in the four corners of the classroom but also in the relationships you’ve built and the values you’ve embraced. Let your dreams be guided by compassion, resilience, and the desire to serve,” the Senator said.
The 71st Commencement Exercises was held on July 24-25, 2025, at the University Convention Center with the theme “Conquering Horizons through Global Foresight, Performance Management, and Innovation.”
