Bar topnotcher urges 18 new BukSU Law Graduates to serve with integrity

Bukidnon State University (BukSU) conferred the Juris Doctor (JD) degree upon 18 graduates from the College of Law during the university’s 92nd Commencement Exercises held at the University Mini Theater on May 26, 2026.

The ceremony highlighted the growing prestige of the university’s legal education program, punctuated by addresses from the university administration and a historic alumnus guest speaker.

Atty. Gerilin A. Gascon, CPA, JD, who placed 14th nationwide in the 2025 Bar Examinations, served as the commencement speaker. Gascon urged the new graduates to prioritize integrity and public service as they transition into the legal profession.

“We need good lawyers with good hearts, as we face a scarcity of lawyers with integrity,” Gascon said, describing law school as an ultimate test of character, discipline, and resilience.

Gascon also challenged the graduates to adapt to technological advancements reshaping the legal field, advising them to use innovation responsibly to provide equitable access to justice.

“The law is a powerful instrument that reaches every silent space,” Gascon added. “When used wisely, it uplifts and protects the marginalized, strengthens institutions, and upholds the rule of law.”

During the ceremony, BukSU President Dr. Joy M. Mirasol delivered the State of the University Address for the College of Law, praising the department’s rapid growth and competitive standing.

Mirasol highlighted the college’s recent milestone in the 2025 Bar Examinations, where BukSU achieved an overall passing rate of 51.67 percent, surpassing the national average and producing 31 new lawyers, including Gascon.

“What was once a young law school steadily finding its footing has now become a rising program recognized for its excellence,” Mirasol said.

The president also lauded the college’s active participation in prestigious national and international platforms, noting student representation in the Jessup International Law Moot Court Competition, the National International Humanitarian Law Moot Court Competition, and the Asian Law Students’ Association Spring Camp in Vietnam.

“Their achievements tell us one thing clearly: BukSU law students can stand confidently alongside the best legal minds in the country and beyond,” Mirasol said.

Closing her address, Mirasol challenged the Class of 2026 to embody the university’s core values of excellence, professionalism, integrity, commitment, and culture-sensitivity.

The 18 candidates for graduation were presented by Atty. Ophelia Pilar E. Rubio-Zamora, Dean of the BukSU College of Law, and officially confirmed by President Mirasol.

In keeping with a university policy established in 2023 to streamline academic transitions, all graduates immediately received their official Transcript of Records (TOR) and diplomas upon the conclusion of the ceremony. (BukSU – Information Unit)