Marking the opening of its 61st Commencement Exercises, the University of Northern Philippines (UNP) solemnly held its annual Baccalaureate Mass on May 6 at the UNP Gymnasium, gathering graduating students, faculty, and university officials in a moment of thanksgiving and reflection ahead of the milestone rites.
The celebration drew an impressive 4,394 graduating students representing all 16 colleges of the university, highlighting the magnitude of the milestone as thousands gathered to mark the culmination of their academic journey.
The Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Most Rev. Fr. David William Antonio, Archbishop of Nueva Segovia, who delivered a stirring message that resonated deeply with the graduating class. Grounded in the Gospel, he called on each individual to cultivate a personal relationship with Jesus, reminding them that faith must remain at the core of their journey. He further emphasized the limits of worldly success, stressing that “you cannot bring your diploma before God,” a powerful reminder that all achievements find their true meaning only when anchored in humility and divine grace.
Concelebrating the Eucharistic celebration with Archbishop Antonio was Very Rev. Nick Vaquilar, recently elected as Bishop of the Diocese of Urdaneta, whose presence brought heightened significance to the occasion. He was joined by seven other priests, their collective participation reinforcing the solemnity of the rite and reflecting a strong sense of unity within the clergy during the sacred gathering.
In his message following the Eucharistic celebration, UNP President Dr. Erwin Cadorna expressed heartfelt appreciation while delivering a compelling reminder on the role of faith in nation-building. Stressing that “education grounded in faith builds a nation,” he urged the graduating class to anchor their academic accomplishments in a deep faith in God, noting that such conviction enriches and elevates the knowledge and values they have gained throughout their academic journey.
The baccalaureate mass looks forward to an uplifted spirituality of this year’s graduating students in light with their about-to-be journey outside of the university.
Article by Nestor Quilop III.
