183 ISUFST Graduate School Students Celebrate Milestone

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One hundred eighty-three graduate students from the School of Graduate Studies of Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology crossed the stage on Sunday, June 22, 2025, during the Regalia Hooding and Graduation Ceremonies at the Iloilo Convention Center in Mandurriao, Iloilo City.

Donning academic hoods that symbolized years of devotion, the graduates wore proud smiles shaped by late nights, difficult choices, and unwavering resolve.

The ceremony brought together master’s and doctorate degree awardees from five colleges, united under the theme: “Anchored in Excellence, Empowered by ISUFST: Graduates United in Charting a Sustainable and Transformational Future.”

Leading the event were ISUFST President Dr. Nordy D. Siason Jr., Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Joan M. Belga, Vice President for Administration and Finance Dr. Johnny B. Dolor, Graduate School Director Dr. Stephen Raymund T. Jinon, and keynote speaker Atty. Julius Palomar Alegrado, CESE, Deputy Director of the Career Executive Service Board.

Of the 183 graduates, 132 were from the College of Education, 25 from the College of Management, 12 from the College of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences, eight from the College of Information and Communications Technology, and six from the College of Agriculture.

This diverse group included educators, development workers, scientists, technologists, and future academic leaders.

Dr. Cjay B. Soliven, named Most Outstanding Graduate and Best Dissertation awardee in the SGS International Research Colloquium Agricultural and Fisheries category, delivered the graduates’ message.

A Top 5 board exam placer in 2016 and current ISUFST faculty member, Soliven shared that the honor was not just about titles but about staying, growing, and serving where he was most needed.

To him, ISUFST became more than a job—it became home.

Keynote speaker Alegrado reminded graduates that their degrees are not for display but tools for resilience, gratitude, and meaningful service.

“What counts is the heart you bring to the lives you touch,” he said.

Graduate School Director Jinon closed the ceremony by urging the class to lead with purpose—not just as achievers but as capable leaders ready to make a difference.

The event coincided with the close of SGS enrollment for Academic Year 2025–2026.

Orientation for new students is scheduled later this week, with classes set to begin next week—ushering in a new wave of graduate scholars ready to shape the future. (Photos by Pete Photography / Text by Herman Lagon / PAMMCO)