ISAT U Leon Campus holds Recognition Program 2026
The Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT U) Leon Campus celebrated the Recognition Ceremony for the Class of 2026 with the theme, “Achieved Today: Lead Tomorrow: Excellence, Equity and Empowerment in Action,” honoring students for their academic accomplishments and inspiring them to become future leaders.
The ceremony opened with a welcome message from Dr. Eric James P. Talagon, Officer-in-Charge (OIC) for Campus Administration, who acknowledged the presence of the University President, Dr. Gabriel M. Salistre, Jr., the honored guest speaker, representatives from cooperating schools and industry partners, faculty and staff, and the proud parents and guardians who have supported the graduates throughout their journey. In his address, Dr. Talagon encouraged the students to carry with them three guiding principles: pursue excellence without arrogance, practice equity, and use education to empower others.
He also emphasized the importance of upholding the core values of ISAT U. He inspired the graduates with the reminder that “the world does not need more followers of the crowd but rather leaders who are brave enough to start, humble enough to lead, and steady enough to stay when it gets hard.”
Mr. Calasagsag Inspires 2026 Graduates
No one is more fitting for the role of a recognition speaker other than an alumnus himself. Mr. Joeven C. Calasagsag, Supervising Agriculturist/ OIC-Chief Partnerships and Accreditation Division DA-Agricultural Training Institute spoke to inspire ISAT U Leon Campus graduates at ISAT U Covered Court on June 15, 2026.
In his speech, Mr. Calasagsag emphasized that the occasion was more than simply celebrating academic achievements. It was a reflection of the metamorphosis that the graduates had experienced throughout their journey in college. He compared the graduates to a butterfly, explaining that transformation often comes with challenges. Just as a caterpillar under went several stages before becoming a butterfly, students also faced struggles and difficulties before emerging stronger and more capable. He expressed his hope that the graduates would use their education to become productive and law-abiding citizens who will contribute positively to society.
He also shared his own story as a former student of the university. According to him, ISAT U was not originally his first choice. He had planned to pursue a different degree in another school, but financial limitations led him to enroll in Agroforestry instead. What started as a practical decision eventually became a meaningful journey that helped shape his career and personal growth.
Mr. Calasagsag further acknowledged the challenges that graduates encountered during their academic journey, from demanding studies and countless requirements to field activities and other responsibilities.
Despite these hardships, he stressed that such experiences helped develop resilience, discipline, and character. He reminded the graduates that their achievements were not theirs alone but were also made possible through the sacrifices, support, and encouragement of their families and loved ones. For this reason, he encouraged them to recognize and appreciate the people who helped them reach this milestone.
In line with the theme of recognition, Mr. Calasagsag said, “True excellence does not mean being flawless. It does not mean you never make mistakes. Rather, it means possessing the unwavering commitment to do your absolute best with whatever resources you have, wherever you are planted.” Pointing out that you should not aim to be perfect but better each day.
Mr. Calasagsag further emphasized that while skills and intelligence are valuable, they are not the most important qualities needed to succeed in the real world. According to him, character remains the foundation of lasting success. To illustrate this point, he presented the word CHARACTER (C for Compassion, H for Honesty, A for Adaptability, R for Respect, A for Ask, C for Conscientious, T for Task, E for Extra Mile, and R for Rest and Recreate) as a mnemonic, assigning a meaningful value to each letter and highlighting the virtues that individuals should embody in their personal and professional lives.
Before concluding his speech, Mr. Calasagsag reminded the graduates that the world is vast and filled with uncertainties and challenges that may come unexpectedly. However, he encouraged them not to be afraid, as reaching this milestone has already proven their readiness to face whatever lies ahead.
Mr. Calopez, Finding Purpose in Unexpected Paths
During the Recognition Program, one of the most inspiring moments was the speech delivered by Mr. John Lennard T. Calopez, Magna Cum Laude of the Bachelor of Science in Agriculture Major in Animal Science and Outstanding Graduate of Leon Campus, Academic Year 2025–2026. His words were not only a celebration of academic achievement but also a powerful reminder of resilience, perseverance, and the beauty of embracing life’s unexpected journey.
In his speech, Mr. Calopez shared the story of his personal aspirations and how his dreams evolved over time. As a young learner, he once envisioned himself becoming a scientist and even dreamed of being an inspiring chef. However, life led him in a different direction, eventually becoming a graduate of Animal Science.
His journey demonstrated that success does not always follow the path we originally planned. One of the most memorable lines from his speech was “Sometimes, the most beautiful destinations are found on the roads we never planned to take.”
This statement resonated deeply with many of the graduating students. It reflected the reality that life’s greatest opportunities often emerged from unexpected circumstances.
Mr. Calopez also reminded everyone that no dream is too distant, no obstacle is too great, and no beginning is too humble for those who are willing to work hard, persevere, and believe in themselves. These words carried a powerful message of hope and determination, especially for students who may be struggling with challenges and uncertainties about their future.
His story revealed that success is not reserved for those with perfect circumstances, but for those who remain committed despite facing obstacles. His speech inspired the graduating students to reflect on their own journey. There might be trials and struggles along the way that may tempt us to give up, but just persevere and continue pursuing our goals, he pointed out.
His experience reminded everyone that challenges are not roadblocks but opportunities for growth and self-discovery. Ultimately, his speech served as a testament to the power of perseverance and faith in oneself. It taught everyone that every journey had a purpose and that success was not determined by where we began, but by the courage we showed in moving forward. As we continue our own paths, may we carry with us the lesson that even the most unexpected roads can lead us to remarkable destinations, he finally concluded.
Written by: The Green Thumb Publication
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