The University of Northern Philippines (UNP), the oldest state university in Northern Luzon, officially launched its Diamond Jubilee Celebration on Monday, September 8, 2025. The event marked the beginning of a commemoration leading up to the University’s 60th Founding Anniversary on October 14, 2025.
The celebration opened with the flag-raising ceremony, where university officials, faculty members, non-teaching personnel, and students gathered in solidarity. Adding vibrance to the morning, the faculty and staff wore their colorful Thursday uniforms, symbolizing unity and institutional pride.
Following the rites, a launching program was held at the Founders Plaza, a significant venue that stands as a tribute to founder and the visionaries who laid the foundations of the institution. Messages of inspiration and celebration echoed across the plaza, highlighting UNP’s growth from its humble beginnings into a premier center of higher learning in the region.
In his inspirational message, UNP President Dr. Erwin Cadorna highlighted the significance of the occasion. “Today is a lucky day for us,” he said. “We are not only launching our diamond jubilee but also celebrating the birthday of our dear mother, our Blessed Virgin Mary. It must be for this reason that we are given a beautiful weather, a conducive climate for us to launch and let the community know of this event.”
Dr. Cadorna described the celebration as a unifying moment for the UNP community. “We convene as a united family to commemorate a significant milestone in our journey—our diamond jubilee, marking 60 years of faith, fortitude, and steadfast dedication to learning. Being the oldest university in Northern Luzon signifies a historical distinction as one of the foremost universities in our nation for quality education, a testament to our profound commitment to honoring that heritage through advancement, excellence, and service.”
He emphasized that the jubilee is not only about the years gone by but also about the lives touched by the institution. “Each classroom lecture, research discovery, community outreach initiative, and the cultivation of young aspirations within the University has contributed to its foundation. Collectively, these instances constitute the dynamic mosaic of an institution that has remained resolute while adapting to change, maintaining its foundation while aspiring towards the future.”
Recalling the challenges the University has endured, Dr. Cadorna said, “Our University has encountered hardships through the years—typhoons, floods, earthquakes, even the pandemic. But these hardships have defined our stand, refined us through experience, and made us sufficiently robust to lead the next generation.”
He concluded with a call to action: “We must regard the diamond jubilee as both a celebration and a challenge—to uphold our commitment to cultivating individuals of character and competence, to intensify our quest for truth and innovation, and to persist as a beacon of hope not only in Northern Luzon but the entire nation. May the next 60 years surpass what we have achieved as we advance collectively—undaunted, unified, and motivated.”
Dr. Rolando Navarro, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Chairperson of the Special Events Committee, underscored the deeper meaning of the occasion. “This gathering is more than a milestone for our beloved institution—it is a tribute to the journey that has brought us here, to the people who have shaped UNP’s history, and to the promising future that lies ahead. For six decades, UNP has stood as a beacon of learning, innovation, and public service, nurturing leaders, professionals, and visionaries who continue to make a difference in communities here and abroad. Today’s celebration is not only about honoring the past but also about reaffirming the values and legacy that will guide us forward.”
An overview of the University’s history was presented by Atty. Jonalyn Almachar, University/Board Secretary.
One of the day’s highlights was the unity walk and parade, which brought together the entire UNP community. The parade followed the symbolic route from Tamag to Cuta, representing not only the physical journey of the participants but also the University’s continuous march toward progress, inclusivity, and excellence. Students, faculty members, non-teaching personnel, and officials joined hand in hand, turning the streets into a festive display of energy, color, and school spirit.
The Diamond Jubilee carries deep meaning for the UNP community. It is both a celebration of history and achievement and a renewed commitment to service and innovation. Over the next weeks, the University is set to host a series of events that will culminate on October 14, 2025, the official anniversary date.
As UNP looks back on six decades of service, it also sets its eyes on the future—strengthening its role in nation-building, advancing quality education, and shaping leaders who will carry forward its legacy for generations to come.
