What a journey it has been!
This line from the song “Journey” by Lea Salonga marked a nostalgic moment as the last batch of Pampanga State University (Pampanga State U) – Senior High School (SHS) took their final bow and officially received their diplomas during the 8th Commencement Exercises held at the Dr. Ernesto T. Nicdao Sports Center on June 30, 2025.
A total of 780 students graduated from various strands, including Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM); Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS); Accountancy and Business Management (ABM); and the Technical-Vocational Track.
Dr. Dolores D. Mallari, University Registrar, presented the candidates for graduation, while Dr. Enrique G. Baking, University President, accepted and confirmed them.
Following this, the awarding of academic honors and special recognitions was led by SHS Principal Louie Fe S. Villanueva, together with Engr. Reden Hernandez, Executive Vice President and concurrent Vice President for Administration and Finance and Vice President for Academic Affairs; and Dr. Dolores Quiambao, Vice President for Student Affairs and Services.
The ceremony concluded with the graduates singing a commencement song as a fitting tribute while they step into the next chapter of their lives, guided by the theme “Henerasyon ng Pagkakaisa: Kaagapay sa Bagong Pilipinas.”
Reflecting on the journey of SHS department
The discontinuance of the Senior High School (SHS) program was ordered through a Commission on Higher Education (CHED) memorandum dated December 18, 2023, directing state universities and colleges (SUCs) and local universities and colleges (LUCs), including Pampanga State University, to cease offering SHS.
The decision reiterates CHED’s policy that SHS programs in these institutions were intended only for the K-12 transition period, covering School Years 2016–2017 to 2020–2021.
In an interview, SHS Principal Louie Fe S. Villanueva recalled on the journey and achievements of the final batch of SHS graduates at Pampanga State University.
“They have accomplished so much, but I would say it's their ability to overcome uncertainties. They have shown resilience despite academic challenges,” Villanueva revealed.
“The university played a crucial role by providing academic guidance and a nurturing environment. The administrators, faculty, and staff have helped them succeed,” she further added.
Villanueva also pondered on what an honor it was to serve as the principal of the SHS department, expressing her gratitude and best wishes to the graduates.
“To the last batch of the Senior High School Department—the last torchbearers—may you carry the values, memories, and experiences you have earned in the university as you move forward on your own journey,” she expressed.
Furthermore, Villanueva encouraged the last torchbearers of the SHS department to carry with them the values, memories, and experiences they have gained at the university as they move forward on their own journeys.
Heartfelt messages
The graduating class of 2025 was led by Cleo Klyeiza Mae Pablo as class valedictorian, followed by Sarah C. Buan as class salutatorian.
In her message of gratitude, Pablo remarked how proud she was of her fellow graduates as they all showed up from taking the very first step up to the day of graduation.
“It is okay to be scared of the uncertainties that the future might bring, but always remember that growth has always existed between fear and courage. Just keep showing up like you always did,” Pablo shared in her address.
“I may not have the ability to witness the long journey ahead of every single one of you, but know that someone is proud of you... The fact that you are here is an achievement that can never be measured by any certificate or medal,” she shared.
Meanwhile, Buan opened the ceremony by acknowledging the fruits of her fellow graduates’ hard work, as well as the support of the people who surrounded them.
“This day marks another milestone in our lives — the end of a journey. But may this conclusion not diminish your blazing potential. Rather, continue to soar high and be living proof of Dr. Jose Rizal’s words, ‘Kabataan ang pag-asa ng bayan,’” she said in her welcome address.
Buan further highlighted the day as a celebration of the students’ hard-earned achievements, acknowledging each one who worked their way to enter this hall with fulfilled hearts, proud of the journey they had in this institution.
Encouraging the graduates
Aldrich Carl P. Galang, an alumnus of Pampanga State University - SHS Batch 2019 and top 3 passer in the October 2023 Certified Public Accountant Licensure Examination, returned to his alma mater to inspire the last full batch of SHS students.
He shared his personal experiences as he transitioned to the next stage of his life, much like the graduating class.
“Success doesn't require perfection. It requires consistency. You don’t have to be the smartest or most talented person in the room to succeed. What matters more is showing up, putting in the work, and being consistent—even when it’s hard,” Galang stated.
He also recounted his own student days, when he studied for long hours, even on weekends and during semester breaks. Despite all that effort, he did not graduate with Latin honors— but he continued on his path.
“I’m not saying you have to do what I did. What I’m saying is: find your own rhythm. Success looks different for everyone, but it will always require consistency,” he added.
Photo credits: Public and Media Affairs Unit
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