With the theme, “Batch 2025 Graduates: Life Champions and Future-Ready Professionals of the 21st Century,” Sorsogon State University-Laboratory High School (SorSU-LHS) successfully held its 8th Commencement Exercises on May 15, 2025, at the SorSU Audio-Visual Hall, Sorsogon City Campus.
The ceremony commenced with the processional of the graduating class alongside their parents, faculty members, non-teaching staff, and university officials. The event opened with a prayer led by Shayne B. Frilles (With High Honors), followed by the singing of the Philippine National Anthem, conducted by Mr. Tomas M. Encinares Jr.
Aimeh A. Gonzales (With High Honors) delivered the Words of Welcome, and Dr. Telesforo D. Escoto formally presented the candidates for graduation. The program proceeded with the confirmation of Senior High School graduates by the University President. Subsequently, medals and certificates were awarded to honor students in recognition of their academic performance and achievements.
Among the ceremony’s highlights was when SUC President III, Dr. Geraldine F. De Jesus introduced her husband, Atty. Charles P. De Jesus (Security Supervisor, Bacman Geothermal Project, Energy Development Corporation) as the commencement speaker. In a rare and profoundly meaningful moment, the couple, both proud alumni of the institution, shared the stage: she as the university president, and he as the honored speaker. Their joint presence reflected a deep connection to their alma mater.
In his commencement address, Atty. De Jesus encouraged the graduates to pursue their goals with determination, regardless of the obstacles. He urged them to strive to become future-ready professionals by following three principles: First, champion yourself – stay optimistic and never consider giving up. Second, champion others – support and positively influence those around you. Third, let God be the Champion of all champions. To become a life champion and a future-ready professional, he said, one must walk in step with God.
The awarding of diplomas was facilitated by SorSU President De Jesus, Atty. Charles P. De Jesus, and Dr. Jhonner D. Ricafort (Vice President for Academic Affairs), with assistance from Dr. Telesforo D. Escoto (Campus Director, Sorsogon City Campus), Dr. Alfonso L. Garcia, Jr. (Dean, College of Teacher Education), and Prof. Maria Flora J. Renovalles (Department Head, SorSU-LHS).
Words of Gratitude were delivered by Kiarra Marife D. Despuig (With High Honors). This was followed by the Pledge of Loyalty to the Alma Mater and the Pledge to the SorSU Alumni Association, led by Maxine G. Espineda (With Honors, SSLG President) and Dr. Ricafort (President, Alumni Association), respectively. The ceremony concluded with the Batch 2025 graduates singing Home of My Years and the SorSU Hymn. (SorSU PIO)
