Columban College, Inc. (CCI) honored 426 graduates during its 63rd Commencement Exercises on June 20, 2024, at the SMX Convention Center, SM Olongapo Central. Among the graduates, 36 earned Latin honors, including one Magna Cum Laude and 35 Cum Laudes. Rev. Fr. Raymann G. Catindig, President of Columban College, conferred the degrees.

Commencement Speaker and alumnus Dr. Carmelo De Jesus Cabornida shared his personal journey and encouraged the graduates. "Yes, I was wounded. Yes, I have lost many battles, but I failed strongly to believe that I won the war, and that victory brought me here this afternoon as your commencement speaker,” he said. Dr. Cabornida also shared his post-graduation experience, noting, “Akala ko kapag Cum Laude ka, mabilis ka nang makakahanap ng trabaho. Six months na akong graduate, wala pa akong trabaho,” referring to his struggle to find employment after graduating with Latin honors in 1987.

This year's Magna Cum Laude, John Ray M. Avelino, BSED-F, expressed gratitude and emphasized self-belief and faith in achieving success. “Patuloy tayong mangarap, magtiwala sa ating mga sarili, at higit sa lahat – sa ating Poong Maykapal,” he said. Avelino encouraged his fellow graduates, saying, “Padayon. Isang simpleng salita, ngunit sapat na para mabuhayan tayo ng loob,” highlighting their perseverance throughout their journey. Avelino concluded by stating that graduation marks the beginning of a new chapter.

“Sa lahat ng mga isinakripisyo, masasabi kong ngayong araw ang simula ng pagbubukas ng panibagong kabanata sa ating buhay,” he added. The ceremony closed with cheers and applause, celebrating the graduates' achievements.

✏ Edwin Padiernos III | Staff Writer
📷 Arjay Rejano | Head Photojournalist