Roxas, Isabela | July 7, 2026 — Isabela State University (ISU) Roxas Campus proudly celebrated the accomplishments of its outstanding students during the 2026 Recognition Rites held at the Roxas Arts, Culture and Sports Complex. The event recognized the academic excellence, leadership, and dedication of graduating and non-graduating students who have demonstrated exceptional performance throughout the academic year.
The ceremony gathered university officials, faculty members, staff, parents, guardians, and distinguished guests in honoring the awardees whose achievements reflect the University’s commitment to producing competent, innovative, and socially responsible graduates.
The program formally commenced with the singing of the Philippine National Anthem and the ISU Hymn, followed by an invocation and welcome remarks delivered by Ms. Cristine P. Valdez, BS Education Major in Mathematics , who warmly welcomed everyone to the celebration of excellence.
In his inspirational message, Campus Administrator Atty. Romano P. Cammayo, DPA, congratulated the awardees for reaching another significant milestone in their academic journey. He reminded the students that while the recognition they received was a personal achievement, it was also the result of the collective support of their parents, teachers, mentors, friends, and the entire University community.
Describing the awards as proof of the students’ perseverance, dedication, and determination, Atty. Cammayo emphasized that every sleepless night, every challenge, and every sacrifice they endured had led them to this moment of success. He encouraged the awardees to remember that academic excellence is only one part of becoming successful individuals.
Drawing from his experience in the legal profession and as Campus Administrator, he shared that true success is achieved through the balance of competence and character. He urged the students to pursue excellence with integrity, humility, compassion, and a strong sense of responsibility. More importantly, he challenged them to use their education not only for personal success but also to create opportunities for others, contribute to the development of their communities, and become future leaders and changemakers who will make a positive impact on society.
In a heartfelt tribute, Atty. Cammayo also recognized the invaluable sacrifices of parents and families. He invited all parents to stand as they received a warm round of applause from the audience, acknowledging that every award earned by the students is also a testament to the love, sacrifices, and unwavering support of their families.
The ceremony continued with the Awarding of Medals and Certificates to Graduating Students, recognizing students who excelled in academics, leadership, research, extension, sports, socio-cultural activities, campus journalism, and other areas of achievement. Awards were likewise presented to deserving non-graduating students, recognizing their outstanding academic performance and active participation in various university programs.
Adding inspiration to the celebration, Mr. Mark Alvin M. Navarro, MSc, Director for Environment and Quality Division of HVC FD Foods Corporation, delivered the Recognition Message. Returning to ISU Roxas Campus after fourteen years, he expressed his joy in seeing his former professors and mentors once again, extending his sincere gratitude to those who became part of his journey as a student.
Addressing the graduates, Mr. Navarro encouraged them to cherish the significance of the occasion and appreciate the people who stood beside them throughout their academic journey. In one of the most touching moments of the ceremony, he asked the graduates to bow before their parents as a symbol of gratitude for the countless sacrifices, unconditional love, and unwavering support they had received.
Speaking as an older brother rather than merely a guest speaker, Mr. Navarro reminded the students that graduation is not the end of their journey but the beginning of a new chapter filled with greater responsibilities. He shared that life after college will present numerous challenges, uncertainties, and obstacles, but these experiences should never discourage them. Instead, he encouraged the graduates to face every challenge with resilience, determination, and confidence, assuring them that success is built through perseverance and continuous learning.
Representing the graduating class, Ms. Jamaica M. Gilo, Magna Cum Laude graduate of the Bachelor of Science in Information Technology – Web and Mobile Application Development (BSIT-WMAD) program, delivered the Response from an Awardee.
In her heartfelt message, Ms. Gilo reflected on a personality assessment she once took that measured a person’s “grit”—the ability to persevere despite difficulties. At that time, she questioned whether she truly possessed such resilience. Looking back, she realized that life itself became the greatest test of her determination.
She shared that while many had recently congratulated her for graduating with honors, her achievement was built upon unseen struggles, sacrifices, disappointments, and countless moments of uncertainty. She reminded her fellow graduates that success is not determined solely by intelligence or talent but by the courage to continue despite failures and setbacks. She encouraged everyone to embrace life’s challenges with faith, resilience, and determination, knowing that every obstacle presents an opportunity for growth.
She concluded by expressing her heartfelt gratitude to God, her parents, family, professors, mentors, classmates, and everyone who became part of her academic journey, emphasizing that every achievement is made possible through collective support, unwavering faith, and the courage to keep moving forward.
The ceremony also featured the Response from the Parent delivered by Mrs. Catherine A. David, who expressed her gratitude to the University for providing quality education and nurturing the students into responsible individuals. She also conveyed the pride and joy shared by all parents as they witnessed the accomplishments of their children.
In her closing remarks, Assoc. Prof. Charibel R. Sarte, MST, Director for Academic Affairs and Quality Assurance, extended her heartfelt congratulations to all the awardees for their outstanding achievements. She reminded the students that while medals, certificates, and academic honors symbolize excellence, the values they have developed throughout their journey—perseverance, resilience, integrity, humility, and compassion—are the qualities that will truly define their success in life.
Reflecting on the messages shared during the ceremony, Assoc. Prof. Sarte encouraged the students to carry with them the lessons imparted by the Campus Administrator and the Recognition Speaker. She emphasized that success is not measured solely by academic accomplishments but also by one’s character, commitment to lifelong learning, and willingness to serve others. She urged the awardees to remain grateful to their parents, families, mentors, and teachers whose unwavering guidance, sacrifices, and support made their achievements possible.
As they move forward to the next chapter of their lives, she challenged the students to face every opportunity and challenge with courage, determination, and integrity. She encouraged them to become compassionate leaders, responsible professionals, and individuals who will use their knowledge and skills to create positive change in their communities and beyond.
The 2026 Recognition Rites served not only as a celebration of academic excellence but also as a reminder that every achievement is the result of hard work, perseverance, faith, and the support of the people who believe in us. As Isabela State University Roxas Campus continues its mission of producing globally competitive and socially responsible graduates, it proudly celebrates the success of its students and looks forward to the meaningful contributions they will make to society.
Congratulations to all the awardees and honorees of the 2026 Recognition Rites! May this milestone inspire you to continue pursuing excellence, lead with integrity, and serve with purpose as you create a brighter future for yourselves, your families, and the communities you will one day transform.
