On November 28, 2024, Sorsogon State University Castilla Campus celebrated a significant milestone with the success of its 23 graduates in the recent Agriculturist Licensure Examination. The university achieved an impressive 65.63% passing rate for first-time takers and an overall campus passing rate of 60.53%, both of which surpassed the national average of 50.78%.
The celebration was marked by a heartfelt Thanksgiving and Testimonial Ceremony held at the FTC AV Hall to honor the remarkable achievements of the newly-licensed agriculturists.
The event commenced with a thanksgiving mass officiated by Rev. Fr. Elizer Digngalan Jr., House Minister of The Balay Padi Inc. In his homily, Fr. Digngalan highlighted the importance of putting God at the center of life’s challenges, including taking board exams.
Following the mass, the formal thanksgiving and testimonial program began, attended by key University and Campus officials:
- Dr. Geraldine F. De Jesus, SUC President III
- Dr. Johnner D. Ricafort, Vice President for Academic Affairs
- Prof. Andrew F. Detera, Castilla Campus Director
- Dr. Rochele N. Aragon, Dean of the College of Agriculture
Prof. Andrew F. Detera, Campus Director, opened the program with a message of pride and gratitude. He emphasized that this milestone brings immense honor to the university and serves as an inspiration for current students to pursue similar success in their future endeavors.
Dr. Rochele N. Aragon, Dean of the College of Agriculture, delivered a heartfelt message of thanks, acknowledging the efforts of the technical working group behind the campus’ ALE review program. She commended the passers for their dedication and success, before introducing the newly-licensed agriculturists.
Applause filled the hall as the passers were recognized for their accomplishments.
Dr. Geraldine F. De Jesus, SorSU President, delivered an inspiring speech before leading the ceremonial toast. She reflected on her earlier meetings with the passers and emphasized the value of prayer, faith, and hard work in achieving success. The ceremonial toast was a joyous moment, with attendees raising their glasses to honor the passers.
Six representatives among the passers shared their journeys, shedding light on their preparation, rigorous reviews, and the unwavering mentorship of their SorSU Castilla professors. They expressed their heartfelt gratitude for the guidance and support they received, which were instrumental in their success.
Certificates of recognition and pins were then awarded to the passers by Dr. De Jesus, Dr. Ricafort, Prof. Detera, and Dr. Aragon.
The event concluded with closing remarks from Dr. Jhonner D. Ricafort, Vice President for Academic Affairs. He expressed gratitude to the mentors, technical working group, and all those who supported the graduates. He also commended the passers for their hard work and for bringing pride to SorSU. The program ended with a unison performance of the SorSU Hymn, a fitting tribute to the passers and their beloved alma mater.
The leadership, faculty, and staff of SorSU Castilla Campus extend their warmest congratulations to the newly-licensed agriculturists, recognizing their dedication and commitment to the field of agriculture. The university remains steadfast in its mission to nurture future generations of skilled and passionate agriculturists who will contribute to the development of the agricultural sector.
Sorsogon State University-Castilla Campus
