West Visayas State University (WVSU) celebrated advanced academic achievement as it conferred degrees upon 405 graduates during its 2026 Graduate School Commencement Exercises held June 5 at the WVSU Cultural Center.

The graduating class consisted of 262 graduates from the Graduate School and 143 graduates from the University Distance Education program, reflecting the university’s continuing efforts to expand access to advanced and flexible learning opportunities for professionals and lifelong learners.

Among the colleges offering graduate programs, the College of Education produced the largest number of graduates with 353, accounting for nearly four-fifths of all Graduate School graduates. The College of Business and Management followed with 23 graduates, while the College of Arts and Sciences produced 15. The College of Physical Education, Sports, Culture, Arts, and Recreation graduated eight students, the College of Nursing had five graduates, and the College of Communication produced one graduate.

Serving as commencement speaker was Hon. Regent Atty. Jobert A. Peñaflorida, private sector representative to the WVSU Board of Regents. Addressing the graduates, he challenged them to view their degrees not merely as academic credentials but as tools for meaningful leadership, innovation and service in their respective professions and communities.

A plaque of appreciation was presented to Peñaflorida by WVSU President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz, assisted by Dr. Ma. Asuncion Christine V. Dequilla, vice president for Academic Affairs, and Aarcel Vinz D. Agudo, chair of the University Senior Curriculum Council.

The candidates for graduation were formally presented by their respective deans before Hon. Chair Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis, chair of the WVSU Board of Regents and chairperson of the Commission on Higher Education, formally conferred the degrees. Master’s and doctoral graduates were likewise hooded by the vice presidents and their thesis advisers during the ceremony, signifying the completion of their advanced academic training and entry into a community of scholars and professionals. Diplomas were subsequently distributed by Villaruz and the University vice presidents, assisted by University Registrar Mardy A. Ledesma.

The graduates were subsequently inducted into the WVSU Federated Alumni Association by its president, Hon. Regent Dr. Bonifacio P. Gaverza, formally welcoming them into the university’s network of alumni and professionals.

Representing the graduating class, Dr. Gemma Quintana, Doctor of Philosophy in Science Education major in Mathematics, delivered the graduates’ prayer, offering gratitude for the academic journey and the support that enabled the graduates to reach this milestone.

The commencement exercises marked the culmination of years of advanced study, research and professional development. For the graduates, the ceremony signified not only the completion of postgraduate education but also a renewed purpose to applying their expertise in service of their professions, communities and society.