USTP Claveria honors 101 pioneer certificate of agricultural science completers in Talakag and Sumilao
By Dr. Nueva D. Salaan, STRATCOMM Coordinator, USTP Claveria
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The University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines in Claveria, Misamis Oriental (USTP Claveria) marked a historic milestone as it celebrated the first Closing Ceremonies of its Certificate of Agricultural Science (CAS) Extension Classes on June 26, 2026, in the municipalities of Talakag and Sumilao, Bukidnon. The ceremonies recognized 101 pioneer completers, comprising 53 from the Talakag Extension Class and 48 from the Sumilao Extension Class, reflecting the University’s commitment to expanding access to quality higher education in geographically underserved communities.
Held under the theme, “USTP Toward a Century of Trailblazing Innovation for a Sustainable Global Future,” the morning ceremony took place at the Miarayon Covered Court in Talakag, while the afternoon ceremony was held at the Sumilao Municipal Hall. The events were attended by university officials, local government leaders, faculty members, parents, alumni, and community partners.
Although designated as Closing Ceremonies, the programs observed the traditions of the University’s 40th Commencement Exercises, including the academic procession, presentation and confirmation of completers, conferment of certificates, recognition of academic achievers, inspirational messages, Completers’ Pledge, Alumni Pledge, singing of the USTP Hymn, and formal adjournment.
The ceremonies were presided over by Dr. Renato O. Arazo, Chancellor of USTP Claveria, together with members of the USTP Claveria Academic Committee, faculty, staff, and representatives from partner local government units.
The keynote address was delivered by Hon. Jose Manuel F. Alba, Representative of the First District of Bukidnon. Sharing his own educational journey from a remote community in Palawan, Congressman Alba encouraged the pioneer completers to view their Certificate of Agricultural Science not as the end of their academic journey but as a stepping stone toward earning bachelor’s degrees. He emphasized that education creates greater opportunities, strengthens agricultural productivity, and empowers individuals to help break the cycle of poverty.
Recognizing Bukidnon’s vast agricultural potential, Congressman Alba challenged the completers to become innovators, entrepreneurs, and responsible stewards of the province’s agricultural resources, expressing confidence that future leaders in agriculture would emerge from the pioneering batch.
During the Talakag ceremony, Municipal Mayor Renato S. Sulatan Jr. congratulated the completers and reaffirmed the municipality’s partnership with USTP Claveria in expanding access to higher education. In the afternoon ceremony, Sumilao Municipal Mayor Venice Marie P. Villo described the graduation as the fulfillment of her parents’ long-held dream of bringing college education to the municipality. She also announced that the groundbreaking of the permanent USTP Sumilao Extension Center is scheduled for July 2026, reaffirming the local government’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with the University.
Representing the pioneer completers were Laurence Benedict A. Cariño, who graduated With High Merit and delivered the Address on Behalf of the Completers during the Talakag ceremony, and Steffanie Y. Linondo, also a With High Merit awardee, who represented the Sumilao Extension Class. Both expressed gratitude to their families, faculty members, university officials, local government leaders, and community partners for making higher education accessible to their communities.
In his address, Cariño reflected on three lessons inspired by agriculture: the bamboo seed, symbolizing perseverance and thorough preparation; the rice seed, representing humility; and the sunflower seed, reminding graduates to remain guided by faith, hope, and purpose. Linondo encouraged her fellow completers to continue pursuing education and use their knowledge to uplift their families and contribute to sustainable agricultural development.
The ceremonies concluded with the Completers’ Pledge, followed by the Alumni Pledge led by Engr. Val Irvin F. Mabayo, Treasurer of the USTP Claveria Alumni Association, officially welcoming the pioneer completers into the University’s alumni community. Dr. Argin A. Gulanes then led the singing of the USTP Hymn before Dr. Renato O. Arazo formally declared the ceremonies adjourned.
Adding a festive atmosphere to the historic occasion was the special appearance of the winners of the Miss Earth Philippines 2025 pageant following both ceremonies, highlighting the importance of environmental stewardship and sustainable development—values that closely align with USTP’s mission.
For the 101 pioneer completers, the occasion marked the beginning of new opportunities to serve their families, communities, and the agricultural sector of Bukidnon through knowledge, innovation, and lifelong learning.
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