A baccalaureate mass was held at the University of Northern Philippines Gymnasium today, May 29, 2025, for the 4,764 candidates for graduation of academic year 2024 -2025.
Fr. Nick Vaquilar, officiating priest, stated in his homily, “Graduation is a celebration of achievement, but behind every diploma lies a story of doubt, sacrifice, sorrow, hardship, and perseverance. These challenges test our resolve and shape our character. There are times when the path seems unclear, and uncertainty weighs heavily on our hearts. Yet, it is through these moments that we grow stronger.”
He continued his homily saying, “Parents and professors play a vital role in this journey. Their encouragement and guidance helped the students shape their character and shape our future when we feel lost. The diploma they will receive is more than a certificate—it carries invisible signatures of every struggle endured and every lesson learned. And as you hold your diplomas soon, we carry the strength forged in hardship and the hope for a bright future. This journey, though difficult, is what makes our success truly beautiful and meaningful.”
Dr. Erwin Cadorna, UNP President, in his message after the celebration quoted Robert Jaworki saying, “The steeper the climb, the sweeter is the air on top.” He equated this saying as “the more sleepless nights, the more challenges, the sweeter will be your graduation.”
Dr. Cadorna continued his message advising the candidates not to forget to show gratitude, to live and do this gratitude as he wished for the success all graduates in their chosen endeavour.
For the 2024-2025 candidates for graduation who will be conferred with their degrees during the cluster graduation, there are 177 Graduate Studies, Juris Doctor (19), Degree Programs (3,418), and Certificate Programs (1,150).
