PCA CHIEF DEXTER BUTED TO CSU-SM GRADUATES: KINDNESS, ATTITUDE AND PURPOSE DEFINE SUCCESS

Despite the relentless downpour on the afternoon of June 7, the spirit of celebration remained undeterred during the 47th Academic Convocation of Cagayan State University–Sanchez Mira for the Conferment of Degrees and Titles.

Gracing the ceremonies was Dr. Dexter R. Buted, CEO of the Philippine Coconut Authority and former President of Pangasinan State University, whose keynote address stirred reflection, conviction, and courage among the 688 graduates.

In a powerful and heartfelt speech, Dr. Buted reminded the Class of 2025 that failure is not the end, but the beginning of growth. “Never fear failure. Fear the refusal to learn from it,” he declared. “Fail wisely and let failure teach you to become resilient human beings.”

Encouraging graduates to live lives anchored on purpose and integrity, he highlighted the value of attitude over mere credentials. “Attitude makes you perfect,” he said. “Knowledge and skills matter, but the right attitude completes the equation of success.”

He also left students with the lasting lesson of kindness as a radical and transformative force. “Life is not measured by what you collect for yourself. Your kindness will outlive your resume.”

Dr. Buted’s challenge to graduates centered on purpose-driven living. “Your why matters more than your what,” he urged, introducing the “888 rule” for a balanced life—8 hours for work, 8 for rest, and 8 for what makes the soul light up. “I don’t know what the future holds,” he said, “but I know the future is you. Class of 2025, you are the legacy of Cagayan State University.”

This year’s graduates hailed from ten colleges: Agriculture; Business, Entrepreneurship and Accountancy; Criminal Justice Education; Engineering; Hospitality Management; Industrial Technology; Information and Computing Sciences; Teacher Education; and the Graduate School. Among them were 13 Cum Laude, 14 with Academic Distinction, and 24 With Merit, totaling 51 honor graduates.

In a moving Charge to the Graduates, CSU Officer-In-Charge President Dr. Arthur G. Ibañez called on the new degree holders to uphold ethical standards and to be of service to those in need. “Make CSU known by the excellence of your professional lives,” he said. “Be selfless, especially for those left behind.”

Delivering the Address of Thanks, Rica M. De Asis, Cum Laude and Bachelor of Secondary Education–Mathematics graduate, reflected on the emotional journey of student life. “Thank you for giving us not just classrooms, but communities and opportunities,” she said. “This institution has seen us at our best and our worst.”

CHED Chairperson and CSU Board of Regents Chair Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis, in her video message, lauded the graduates for reaching this milestone amid adversity. “Your education is more than a personal victory—it’s the foundation of nation-building,” she said. “You are the architects of a more inclusive Philippines.”

The grounds may have been soaked, but the hearts of the graduates overflowed with pride and purpose. CSU Sanchez Mira’s 47th Convocation proved that a true CSUan rises above any challenge, undaunted, determined, and destined for greatness.