Eastern Samar State University

𝐄𝐒𝐒𝐔 𝐌𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐂𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐮𝐬: 𝐂𝐥𝐚𝐬𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔 𝐂𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐞 𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐢𝐫 𝐉𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐞𝐲 𝐚𝐭 𝐌𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐨𝐮𝐬 𝟔𝟑𝐫𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐄𝐱𝐞𝐫𝐜𝐢𝐬𝐞𝐬

Eastern Samar State University Borongan Campus’ 63rd Commencement panned out to be a grand event and such a momentous exercise for all involved who filled the University Grandstand on Friday, 15th of May 2026. The well prepared and spacious venue was utilized for the said event for the very first time, and to great success.

The panoramic grandstand served as a fitting backdrop for the most awaited day for the Graduating Class of 2026. Along with their parents, the graduates marched into the venue unmindful of the heat of high noon, grateful that they are finally at the conclusion of their college journey.

Bearing the theme, “Resilience in Conflict and Adversity: Upholding Excellence, Accountability and Service in Pursuit of Shared Aspirations”, this academic year’s finale could not be more befitting of the crossroads that the world and the country face at the moment.

Nevertheless, ESSU and its graduates have been extremely fortunate to be in the midst of the highly respected servant of the people and the admirable presence of none other than Senator Paolo Benigno ‘Bam’ A. Aquino IV as its Commencement Speaker. For this occasion, Aquino sets foot on Eastern Samar for only the second time, now as its number one senator following the May 2025 national elections.

Eloquently spoken, the venerable senator’s message was one of urging the graduates to be instrumental in driving national reform, reiteration of promise on track for delivery, and a commitment to help bring jobs to the province. In his words, “Sa mga minamahal kong graduates... Mahalaga ang boses ninyo, ‘wag kayong tatahimik. Mahalaga ang inyong partisipasyon, ‘wag kayong mawawalan ng pakialam. Mahalaga ang inyong mga pangarap, ipaglaban ninyo.”

He also added, “Hindi sapat na tapusin lang iyong mali. Kailangan din natin simulan kung ano iyong tama. Hindi sapat na itigil ang sistemang nagpapahirap sa taumbayan, kailangan din natin simulan ang sistemang magbibigay ng pag-asa, oportunidad at dignidad sa bawat Pilipino.”

Also present to show their full support for Class of 2026 were CHED Commissioner and ESSU BOR Chairman, Dr. Desiderio R. Apag III; Eastern Samar Lone District Representative, Hon. Christopher Sheen P. Gonzales; 4Ps Party List Representative and Minority Leader, Hon. Marcelino C. Libanan; Eastern Samar Governor, Hon. Ralph Vincent M. Evardone; CHEDRO8 Director, Dr. Maximo C. Aljibe; Borongan City Mayor, Hon. Jose Ivan Dayan C. Agda; and Borongan City Vice Mayor, Hon. Emmanuel T. Tiu Songco.

The eventful affair closed in a dramatic and exciting finale for everyone present, especially the graduates with their scintillating chorus and choreography of their graduation song, Liwanag Sa Dilim by OPM Rock royalty, Rivermaya. The venue glittered with handheld LED torches from their mobile devices as the song echoed while they swayed in unison to put an exclamation mark to their ESSU journey.

On behalf of the ESSU community, University President, Dr. Andres C. Pagatpatan, Jr. extends our warmest birthday greetings to one of our faithful partners in local government, Eastern Samar Lone District Congressman, Hon. Christopher Sheen Gonzales.

The undeniable service, inspiring leadership, and unwavering commitment you have given to the people of Eastern Samar continue to create meaningful progress and hope for our communities. May this special day bring you joy, good health, and renewed strength as you pursue your mission of public service.

ESSU is grateful for your continued support of education and community development.

𝑯𝒂𝒑𝒑𝒚 𝑩𝒊𝒓𝒕𝒉𝒅𝒂𝒚, 𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒈. 𝑺𝒉𝒆𝒆𝒏!🎉