Over 1,600 Graduates Honored at BukSU’s 91st Commencement Exercises

Bukidnon State University awarded degrees to 1,627 students during its 91st Annual Commencement Exercises held across four days—June 13, 17, 18, and 19, 2025.

The College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) had the largest number of graduates at 470, followed by the College of Business. A total of 130 students graduated with honors, including 111 cum laude and 19 magna cum laude recipients.

Behind the figures are stories of students who overcame hardship, navigated identity, and worked to finish degrees against the odds.

Gerilin Ana-os Gascon, from the College of Law, spoke about pursuing legal education through a scholarship-funded path. She said her years as a government scholar from elementary to college built a sense of duty to give back through public service.

“Since grade school, high school, and college, I have been a government scholar, so I owe everything to the government. It’s time to bring back the honor,” said Gascon.

Economics graduate Reymark Ortiz shared his experience of being the first in his family to complete higher education. He recounted balancing economic challenges and gender identity, and said the university environment played a role in helping him navigate both.

Fellow Economics graduate O.R. Pinahan, a member of the Higaonon tribe, shared his experience as a working-student, driven by a desire to serve as an example to other indigenous youth.

“I work hard to study and finish my degree and show other lumads that they can also do what I can do,” Pinahan shared.

At the joint commencement of the College of Business and the College of Public Administration and Governance, Business Administration graduate Ivan Rhey B. Tadlas described his experience with burnout and external judgment. He said these shaped his current direction as he prepares to pursue a career in finance or marketing.

According to University President Dr. Joy M. Mirasol, education should not only provide knowledge but also cultivate character, vision, and leadership.

She urged the graduates to embrace their distinct identity as “thinkers, creators, and changemakers who lead with both intellect and integrity” in an ever-evolving world. She also stressed the importance of exploring new approaches and questioning the status quo, while ensuring that innovation is “anchored in purpose” and leadership is “grounded in compassion and accountability.”

Reminding the graduates of the resilience, collaboration, and service they developed during their time at the university, Mirasol expressed pride in their achievements and confidence in their future. “Padayon, Class of 2025. The world is waiting,” she concluded. (Genavev M. Labora, IU Intern)