The College of Arts and Sciences held a virtual recognition ceremony for 114 graduates from its nine undergraduate degree programs and 21 from its four graduate programs on Aug. 20, 2021.
UP President Danilo L. Concepcion, in his message, hoped for the translation of the students’ pandemic experiences into valuable lessons that “can help them flourish in an ever-changing world.” He also wished the graduates to have healthy minds and bodies so that they can serve the nation productively and achieve their dreams; and to become persevering, compassionate, and ethical Filipinos like what the Oblation stands for.
Chancellor Carmencita Padilla called the graduates “survivors” and expressed hope that the new graduates will use their education to formulate creative and sustainable solutions to the pandemic and other crises. “Hinubog kayo ng UP hindi para magsawalang-kibo, kundi para gamitin ang pinag-aralan para sa ikabubuti ng bayan, lalo na ng mahihirap.”
Keynote speaker Dr. Gideon Lasco who is a physician, medical anthropologist, writer, UP Department of Anthropology senior lecturer, and Ateneo De Manila University’s Development Studies Program research fellow shared his personal experiences as a UP Manila student and emphasized how a UP student should treasure his or her college memories as these could be sources of joy and laughter. He recognized the weight this pandemic has been putting on everyone, especially the students. According to him, it has divided the privileged and non-privileged, and highlighted the inequities within the world.
First, he reminded the students to not limit themselves to just one path, and to not downplay their passions and hobbies. Second, he mentioned that UP graduates are “promising and continue to be… that the achievement of UP education should not be a product, but a process of learning which will carry you to where you want yourselves to be.” Third, he emphasized that they are “powerful” – that meant UP graduates are always able to influence the environment and society around them.
“May your plurality allow you to maximize your life and realize your potentials. May your promise translate to the betterment of your families, communities, and our country; and may the power that lies in each and every one of you lead to a better, safer, and more inclusive world,” Lasco intoned.
On behalf of the graduating batch, Allison Louise Salazar, a BA Organizational Communication magna cum laude, gave a valedictory address. She challenged her fellow graduates to achieve things that will impact the marginalized, oppressed, and the discriminated; and pass on bravery and kindness to the next generations.
Students with special awards in various fields such as research, sports, and leadership were also recognized in this program.
Francis Nicole Maga
Published in UP Manila Healthscape Issue No. 32, 31 October 2021
