CATARMAN, Northern Samar — Former Northern Samar First District Representative Paul Daza urged nearly 3,700 graduates of the University of Eastern Philippines (UEP)here to view their diplomas not merely as academic achievements but as symbols of the sacrifices and aspirations of their families during the university’s 65th Commencement Exercises.
Daza, a lawyer and member of the UEP Board of Regents, served as the commencement speaker before 3,687 graduates from the university’s 12 colleges, including the Graduate School and the College of Law, at the packed Academic Circular Building on the university’s main campus during the June 30 ceremony.
Addressing the graduates, Daza, who also served as governor of the province, reminded them that earning a college degree represents years of perseverance shared not only by students but also by the people who supported them throughout their education.
“A diploma is far more than a piece of paper. It is a symbol of sacrifice, hope and purpose—one that belongs not just to the student, but also to the families who sacrificed, prayed and worked to see them through,” he said.
He emphasized that behind every diploma is the unwavering support of parents, grandparents, siblings and loved ones who worked hard, saved money, borrowed when necessary, and never stopped believing in the students’ potential.
“Behind every diploma is your Mama, Papa, Lolo, Lola, Ate, Kuya, or a loved one who sacrificed, prayed, worked, borrowed, saved and believed in you,” Daza told the graduates.
To underscore the significance of completing higher education, Daza cited national education statistics, noting that only a small percentage of Filipino children who begin kindergarten eventually finish college.
“Of every 100 children who enter kindergarten, only about 60 complete high school, and only around 15 graduates from college,” he said, encouraging the graduates to recognize the privilege and responsibility that come with earning a degree.
He concluded his address by reminding the Class of 2026 that their diplomas represent not only personal success but also the hopes of their families and communities.
“When you hold your diploma, remember that you are not only holding proof that you finished. You are holding hope, the hope of your family, the hope of your community, and the hope of many young people who are still dreaming of the opportunity you now have,” Daza said.
Founded in 1924, the UEP is the oldest state university in Eastern Visayas and has long been one of Northern Samar’s leading institutions of higher learning, producing graduates who have gone on to serve in government, education, business and other professions throughout the region and the country.
(PETER D. PAREDES)
