Bunawan, Agusan del Sur | June 20, 2025 — A milestone in academic excellence and resilience was marked today at the Agusan del Sur State College of Agriculture and Technology (ASSCAT) as the institution held its 30th Commencement Exercises at the ASSCAT Sports and Sociocultural Center. A total of 1,274 graduates marched to receive their diplomas, including 68 Latin honor recipients, in a ceremony filled with celebration, reflection, and inspiration.

Anchored on the theme, “Advancing Academic Excellence, Cultivating Innovation, and Empowering Graduates for a Sustainable Future,” the event highlighted not only academic achievement but also the graduates’ readiness to contribute as transformative leaders in an increasingly complex world.

Gracing the occasion as Guest of Honor and Commencement Speaker was Hon. Amenah F. Pangandaman, Secretary of the Department of Budget and Management. She was formally introduced by DBM Caraga Regional Director Maria Fe D. Jagna, who also expressed pride in the region’s growing partnerships with higher education institutions like ASSCAT.

In her keynote address, Secretary Pangandaman called on graduates to embrace their identities and personal stories as sources of strength and social responsibility.

“Gamitin n’yo ang inyong pinagmulan, ang inyong pagkakakilanlan, at ang inyong natatanging kuwento sa buhay para mangarap at matulungan ding i-angat ang pamumuhay ng iba… You are now prepared not just to be leaders in your respective fields, but also responsible global citizens who advocate for lasting development and inclusivity—for Agusan del Sur, for Mindanao, and for the Philippines.”

She further emphasized the importance of inclusive growth, urging graduates to give back to the communities that shaped them.

Another key moment in the ceremony was the presentation of the CHED UniFAST Academic Excellence Award to Joanne R. Dumanon, Class Valedictorian and the lone Summa Cum Laude of SINAG Batch 2025. The award was personally handed over by CHED Caraga Regional Director Dr. Nelia A. Alibin.

In addition, representatives from the Civil Service Commission Caraga Region awarded Certificates of Eligibility to qualified graduates under Presidential Decree 907, recognizing their academic performance as a pathway to eligibility for government service.

In her valedictory address, Dumanon captured the spirit of her class with the phrase “Layo pa, pero layo na,” a reflection of both the challenges faced and milestones achieved. She spoke of overcoming personal hardships, navigating mental and emotional struggles, and persevering through family and academic responsibilities.

“We may still be far from where we dream to be, but we are already so far from where we started,” she said. “This honor is not mine alone. It belongs to everyone who believed in me when I doubted myself, who stayed when things got hard, and who gave even when they had little.”

The event was presided over by Dr. Joy C. Capistrano, ASSCAT President, along with members of the Board of Trustees, Vice Presidents, Deans, Directors, faculty, and administrative staff. Parents and guests filled the venue in proud celebration of the graduates’ achievements.

In her message, Dr. Capistrano congratulated the Class of 2025 and reminded them of their responsibility as stewards of innovation and sustainable development in their communities and professional fields.

The Class of 2025 leaves ASSCAT not only as diploma holders but as empowered individuals, equipped to contribute to the progress of Agusan del Sur, Mindanao, and the nation. Their journey reflects excellence, compassion, and the enduring values of an ASSCAT education.