DAP President and CEO Leocadio Sebastian addresses first batch of MMSU Class of 2026
By Jedd Bryant Boado
Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP) President and CEO Leocadio Sebastian addressed the first batch of the Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) Class of 2026 as the guest of honor and speaker during the commencement exercises held today, June 10, at the proverbial Sunken Garden.
Dr. Sebastian is a distinguished Ilokano scientist who has dedicated his career to serving Filipino farmers. He has held positions in various agricultural institutions in the country and abroad, such as Executive Director of the Philippine Rice Research Institute, Regional Director of Bioversity International for Asia and the Pacific, and Regional Program Leader of the CGIAR Research Program on Climate Change, Agriculture, and Food Security in Southeast Asia.
In his speech, Dr. Sebastian encouraged the graduates to carry with them three important lessons he had learned throughout his more than four decades in the professional world: know yourself, keep adding to your toolbox, and get out of your comfort zone.
He also reminded them not to focus only on the degrees they have received, but also on the skills they can continue to develop and use in serving their communities.
“This diploma you are about to receive is an achievement worth celebrating—but it is not the finish line. It is just the starting block. Your degree tells the world where you started, but your skills will determine where you go,” he said.
The DAP President also emphasized the importance of lifelong learning and adaptability, urging the graduates to embrace new technologies and continuously develop their skills to remain relevant in a rapidly changing world.
“Commit to lifelong learning—and by that, I do not just mean to earn more degrees. Relearn skills, keep up with the current trends, do not let your knowledge grow stagnant, and always remain a student,” he urged.
Before concluding his address, Dr. Sebastian reminded the graduates that their future would depend on the choices they make and encouraged them to live with integrity and purpose.
“My dear graduates, your future is up to you. Your future is what you make of it. Your dreams will live or die by the choices you make from this day forward,” he remarked.
Meanwhile, Addison Pascua, Top 3 of the Class of 2026, delivered the words of gratitude on behalf of the graduating class. He thanked the Filipino people for investing in their education and urged his fellow graduates to repay those sacrifices.
“Millions of hardworking Filipinos—many of whom will never get to wear a toga or stand on a stage like this—funded our dreams. They did not just pay their taxes, but they also invested in our future. And now it is our turn to balance the equation and give back to our community,” he said.
In a video message, CHED Chairperson Shirley C. Agrupis congratulated the Class of 2026. She remarked that despite the challenges and uncertainties of today's world, the graduates would thrive and succeed wherever they go.
“Your education has not only equipped you with knowledge, but with the resilience, adaptability, and sense of purpose needed to move forward,” she said.
In his message, MMSU President Virgilio Julius P. Manzano, Jr., also commended the accomplishments of the Class of 2026. He expressed hope that the education they received from the university would help them navigate the challenges and opportunities in their fields.
“May the values and lessons you gained from the university guide you in every decision, every challenge, and every success that lies ahead,” he said.
The first batch of the MMSU 48th Commencement Exercises gathered 1,597 graduates from six colleges: the Graduate School with 182, College of Law with 16, College of Medicine with 44, College of Teacher Education with 790, College of Industrial Technology with 498, and the College of Aquatic Sciences and Applied Technology with 67. The second batch will hold its commencement exercises tomorrow, June 11.
Jun, 15, 2026 11:48:am
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