“Remember, you are only tenants of the positions you hold. Lead with purpose, serve with humility, and transform lives. Transform your organization and transform this University,” Engr. Rio Nico Costales challenged the newly installed student leaders of the University of Northern Philippines during their oath-taking ceremony on September 11, 2026 at the UNP Gymnasium
The newly elected and appointed student leaders pledged to uphold integrity, accountability, service, and inclusivity as they take on their respective responsibilities. Their leadership will focus on promoting student welfare, strengthening student participation, and supporting the University’s programs, advocacies, and institutional goals, further highlighting the important role of student organizations in building a responsive, engaged, and empowered campus community.
The oath-taking ceremony of approximately 800 newly elected and appointed student leaders went beyond the formal assumption of organizational positions, marking the beginning of their collective commitment to meaningful student governance. The ceremony called on the new leaders to embrace leadership as a responsibility rooted in service, representation, accountability, and active participation in strengthening the University community and advancing the welfare of their fellow students.
Dr. Mariano Parteno Avila delivered the opening message, setting an inspiring tone for the ceremony as he congratulated the Student Council for the successful organization of the event. He also commended the Council’s continued efforts to strengthen student leadership, broaden participation, and promote meaningful engagement among students in the University, emphasizing the importance of active and responsible leadership in advancing a vibrant campus community.
Addressing the newly elected and appointed student leaders, UNP President Dr. Erwin Cadorna called on them to embrace their roles as a responsibility to serve and represent their fellow students, rather than simply as positions to hold. He emphasized that true leadership is shaped long before one assumes office—through the values developed in the classroom, the relationships built within the University, and the willingness to participate in the community.
“Your journey as a student leader did not start during the campaign period. It started in the four corners of the classroom. Leadership in a student organization is not about title or position; it is about responsibility. You are chosen to represent, and that representation carries a weight that demands you act not for personal glory, but for the collective good,” Dr. Cadorna said.
He further urged the student leaders to carry out their mandates with integrity, accountability, and a genuine commitment to student welfare, reminding them that their effectiveness as leaders will ultimately be reflected in the positive impact of their service on the University community.
Dr. Rolando Navarro, Vice President for Academic Affairs, emphasized the vital role of responsible, principled, and service-oriented leadership in promoting a stronger and more engaged student community. He urged the newly installed leaders to listen attentively to the concerns and aspirations of their fellow students, collaborate closely with the University and other student organizations, and uphold integrity and accountability in carrying out their responsibilities throughout their term.
“Let your purpose be greater than your position, and let your commitment to service be stronger than the challenges you encounter,” Dr. Navarro said, reminding the student leaders that meaningful leadership is defined not by the position they hold, but by the purpose they pursue and the service they provide.
Engr. Costales, an instructor from the College of Engineering and former Student Council President, served as the Guest of Honor and Speaker, drawing from his experiences in student leadership and public service to inspire the newly installed leaders to lead with courage, integrity, adaptability, and a clear sense of purpose.
Engr. Costales urged the student leaders to embrace three guiding principles: “Stand for Truth, Be Adaptive, and Remember Your Roots.” He emphasized the need to uphold truth and integrity in making decisions, remain resilient and adaptable amid challenges and changing circumstances, and stay grounded in the values, experiences, and people who shaped their leadership journey.
“Remember, leadership is not being remembered for the position you held; it is being remembered for the difference you made while you held it,” he added.
With the solemn administration of the Oath of Office by President Dr. Cadorna, the newly elected and appointed student leaders of the University of Northern Philippines formally assumed their responsibilities, marking the beginning of a new chapter of student leadership anchored on integrity, accountability, service, and commitment to the University community.
The ceremony drew to a meaningful close with closing remarks from Student Council President Hon. Rachelle Anne Imperial, who expressed her appreciation to the University administration, faculty members, organizers, and fellow student leaders for their support and active participation in the event.
She likewise called on the new leaders to work together, listen to the concerns of their fellow students, and transform their ideas and aspirations into meaningful programs and initiatives.
The collective commitment of the Student Council and mandated college and student organizations reflects UNP’s continuing efforts to empower students as active partners in University development and to nurture a culture of leadership grounded in service, collaboration, and responsibility.
