Roxas, Isabela | July 8, 2026 — The 2026 Commencement Exercises of Isabela State University (ISU) Roxas Campus became even more memorable as Dr. Gina Parde-Nilo, Former Director IV, Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM), Department of Agriculture, delivered a heartfelt and inspiring commencement address before the University’s 680 graduates, faculty, parents, alumni, and distinguished guests at the Roxas Arts, Culture and Sports Complex.
Opening her message with gratitude, Dr. Nilo acknowledged the leadership of Isabela State University and commended the dedication of its administrators, faculty members, and staff in shaping future professionals. She also expressed her admiration for the vibrant academic community of ISU Roxas Campus, describing it as a home of talented and promising young achievers.
Addressing the graduating Class of 2026, Dr. Nilo reminded them that commencement is not merely the completion of academic requirements but a celebration of dreams fulfilled through years of sacrifice, perseverance, and unwavering faith.
“Every diploma represents a story of sacrifice and determination—a story of God’s miracle.”
She encouraged the graduates to value not only academic achievement but also the journey that brought them to this significant milestone.
Dr. Nilo also recognized the University’s 46 Latin Honor recipients, composed of 2 Magna Cum Laude and 44 Cum Laude, praising their discipline, perseverance, and commitment to excellence. At the same time, she emphasized that every graduate deserves recognition because every success carries a unique story of resilience and determination.
One of the most inspiring moments of her speech was the sharing of her personal journey.
Dr. Nilo recalled how she pursued higher education through a “Study Now, Pay Later” program at De La Salle Araneta University. Although becoming an agriculturist was not her first dream, she embraced the opportunity with optimism, humility, and faith.
She reflected on how what once seemed like an unexpected career path became a lifelong calling, eventually leading her to dedicate 45 years of government service to advancing Philippine agriculture and natural resource management.
Her distinguished career culminated in her retirement as Director IV of the Bureau of Soils and Water Management on June 19, 2026, after decades of promoting sustainable soil and water resource management, strengthening the country’s network of soil laboratories, and representing the Philippines in international initiatives on soil conservation and combating land degradation.
Dr. Nilo encouraged the graduates to consider careers in public service, emphasizing that serving the Filipino people is both a privilege and a noble responsibility.
She reminded the graduates that true success is measured not only by personal achievements but by the positive impact they create in the lives of others.
“Your circumstances do not define your destiny. What defines your future is your willingness to work hard, keep learning, and serve others with integrity.”
She also emphasized the vital role of agriculture, healthy soils, and water resources in sustaining life, noting that food security and national development begin with responsible stewardship of the country’s natural resources.
Recognizing the remarkable transformation of ISU Roxas Campus—from its beginnings as a fisheries institution into a multidisciplinary university—Dr. Nilo commended the University for producing graduates in fisheries, agriculture, agribusiness, education, information technology, criminology, and law enforcement administration who are prepared to meet the demands of a rapidly changing world.
She challenged the graduates to become innovators, problem-solvers, and compassionate leaders who will contribute to building stronger communities and a better nation.
Throughout her address, Dr. Nilo emphasized the importance of faith as the foundation of success.
Quoting Proverbs 3:5–6, she encouraged the graduates to trust in God’s guidance in every decision they make. She likewise cited Philippians 4:13, reminding them that strength and success come through faith in Christ.
She urged the graduates to remain humble, never stop learning, uphold integrity, and stay true to the values instilled in them by their families and the University.
As she concluded her address, Dr. Nilo left the graduates with a message of hope and optimism.
“Your diploma is not the end of your journey—it is your passport to a lifetime of learning, leadership, and service.”
She encouraged the members of the Class of 2026 to dream boldly, embrace every opportunity with courage, and use their knowledge and talents to uplift their families, strengthen their communities, and contribute to nation-building.
Her inspiring words resonated deeply with the graduates, serving as a powerful reminder that success is achieved through faith, perseverance, humility, and a genuine commitment to serving others.
As the newest graduates of Isabela State University Roxas Campus embark on their professional journeys, Dr. Nilo’s message will remain a guiding inspiration—that the best chapter of their lives is still ahead, and that with God, determination, and integrity, they can make meaningful contributions to society and become leaders who will shape the future of the Philippines.