CSU ANDREWS BEGINS TWO-DAY 47TH ACADEMIC CONVOCATION WITH CBEA AND CHM GRADUATES

TUGUEGARAO CITY, CAGAYAN — With the theme “CSU Graduates: Carrying the Spirit of Resilience and Innovation for Local and Global Relevance,” the 47th Academic Convocation for the Conferment of Degrees and Titles of Cagayan State University (CSU) Andrews Campus commenced on July 1, celebrating the achievements of 924 graduates from the College of Business, Entrepreneurship and Accountancy (CBEA) and the College of Hospitality Management (CHM).

The ceremony, held at the Andrews Gymnasium, recognized Batch 1 from CBEA, which produced 569 graduates, including 145 academic awardees — 27 Cum Laude, 58 with Academic Distinction, and 60 With Merit. Batch 2 from CHM followed, with 355 graduates, of whom 19 received academic honors, including 7 Cum Laude, 5 with Academic Distinction, and 7 With Merit.

The solemn ceremony began with the traditional processional, followed by the presentation of candidates for graduation and the address of petition led by Atty. Carla Marie L. Sumuigad, CEO of CSU Andrews Campus, and Dr. Mariden V. Cauilan, Vice President for Academic Affairs.

The awarding of diplomas, conferment of Latin honors, granting of civil service eligibility, and imposition of hoods followed, marking the official entry of the graduates into the professional world.

During the conferment of degrees, Dr. Arthur G. Ibañez, CSU Officer-in-Charge President, delivered the Charge to the Graduates, reminding them of their lifelong responsibility to serve with purpose and integrity. “Remember, however, that to whom much has been given, much will also be demanded — by God, from whom all good comes, by the communities you are called to serve, and by the university that has nurtured you throughout these formative years,” he said.

In her video message, CHED Chairperson and CSU Board of Regents Chair Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis commended the graduates for their strength and perseverance. “You’ve made it this far because of tapang, disiplina, at pag-asa. But remember, no one climbs the mountain alone,” she said, acknowledging the vital role of parents, educators, and university leaders in the students’ success.

One of the most touching moments came during the Address of Thanks by two Cum Laude graduates, who bravely shared their personal stories and gratitude.

Mr. Justin Ivan B. Lagundi, Cum Laude, BS in Business Administration major in Marketing Management, reflected on the motivations behind his journey, “Para sa pangarap, para sa sarili, para sa pamilya — lahat kakayanin ko,” he said, capturing the determination that fueled his years of hard work.

Equally moving was the testimony of Mr. Mark Joseph V. Catindoy, a Cum Laude graduate of BS in Hospitality Management, who spoke of the silent battles behind his success — the loneliness of living alone in the city, the nights spent crying on a rooftop, the financial struggles that nearly forced him to stop schooling.

But his most powerful words were reserved for one person in the audience — his mother. “To my Mama, what a brave woman you are. Thank you for bringing me into this world. Thank you for providing for my needs, even in times when you could no longer sustain yourself. Thank you for being my superhero. Most importantly, thank you for not giving up."

He ended his speech with a note of hope and pride, “And so, as we close this chapter of sacrifice and wear the most expensive gown we’ve ever owned, let us spread our wings, fly with pride, and tell the world: Tatak CSU, Tatak Number One!”

The convocation continues with the second day on July 2, which will honor graduates from the College of Teacher Education, Graduate School, and the College of Allied Health Sciences, completing the Andrews Campus’ 2025 graduation rites.