63rd Commencement Exercises
March 23, 2011

First, decision I made after I decided to join West Negros College, then a University on February 12, 1991 as your President, was  to be myself, compassionately concerned for people, with an understanding of their real needs, sensitivity and keen awareness to you – for whom GOD has given me the responsibility I knew then that my job will consist of pleasant and challenging experiences, maybe sometimes broken by disappointments but that is part of the job -   It may or may not have worked with others –  I called my tenure then a new beginning – it gratified some,  astonished the rest, displeased a lot.  I set goals with deadlines – 1998 – I chose to go big - & best – Quality in what I will do – which is never an accident – I believed that it is the result of my high intentions, sincere effort and wise choice of many alternatives – other Presidents before me had struggled despite odds and difficulties – other Presidents faithfully watered and watched the seed of  vision grow – when it became a tree, another President carefully and tenderly transplanted it into a bigger field where it would have enough space to grow, stretched its branches and bear fruit. You – students, teachers, parents, friends put their efforts   together to protect  this tree from strong winds and adversity.  GOD gave me a discerning heart to govern this University – to distinguish between right and wrong and with  GOD’s wisdom and spirit of  revelation and understanding,  I asked GOD’S help – that  I  may be equal to the task and to carry out with integrity of heart  – nobility of spirit,  all the duties and responsibilities  expected of me – that GOD may be glorified and never put to shame during my term – and as I serve, I may be found faithful by GOD’s grace.  I didn’t lose sight of the vision University -  My life as President is too short not to be fun and meaningful.    Rather than live with reluctance, I was exuberant -  instead  of fearing what’s ahead – I  faced my life at West Negros University head on with enthusiasm. I long for my life to count for something and someone in the end – to bloom where GOD planted HE will fertilize anyway.  Some few steps were behind me – following me with confidence – that I  do what  I do – I take responsibility seriously  - I keep my promise.  The years I have been with you were wonderful years for me – I am grateful for my long relationship with you.  The many  landmark acts of dedication, commitment and generosity of time and talents are deeply appreciated.  Now, I understand that your dreams which I made  my own are blueprints of  our achievements now.  Thank you for giving me the courage to pursue these dreams – and the opportunities to be with those,  whose dreams were shared.   Each of us shared meaningful experiences with me  - my life with you was full of   roads – that I traveled on – some I try to forget and some I wish I never  passed.

            You have inspired  me to lead and lead well.  All I owe the Wesnecan community is my best performance.  I don’t owe the Wesnecan community or with anyone, my personal life.  I realized that a lot of people are only interested in what’s behind that person stuff -  but frankly, that comes and goes –I think what people really want from the President is his or her best performance on his or her job.  I have always tried to do that . I’m never reluctant to seek advice .  I’ve always appreciated being recognized – but always hoped that I’m recognized for the right reasons and that  the Wesnecan community like what I do. 

            Candles lose nothing when it lights another.  No person was ever honored for what he received but honor has been the reason for what he gave.  You will be in my memories tomorrow because you have been in my life for 20 years.  Time to think back over memories and a time to say thank you for so many little things that mean so much.  For each every way you have touched my heart. My life – thank you. 

            Honesty, courage, loyalty, commitment, integrity, discipline, patience, perseverance, hard work, faith in GOD.  These are the qualities that will sustain and guide you to succeed.  These are qualities that never fade in style.  Never go out in style.  Never change its appeal.  They are what good jobs are looking for.

            Your achievements are never your own, people who loved you and supported you put meaning to who you are now.  I encourage you to be generous in  your expression of gratitude to your parents, teachers, and loved ones.  Love and honor our country the Philippines.  Give distinct prestige to the only country we can call our own.  Live up to the  true image of a Filipino,   his worth, his essence.  Respect and honor our flag.  Choose to do right. 

            May GOD find a place in your life where He can direct you lovingly.  Guide you safely and bless you abundantly.

            What I believed I became and what I became.  I can now go – my real legacy is my life – my testimonies, my conduct , my conviction , my life is an expression of who GOD is and the way I live, how I live – has a compelling – impact on people whose chose to give me a little space in their life – my new beginning is over.  You’re my Wesnecan family start at this ending.

• Faculty Summer Camp Out at Don Salvador Benedicto (May 29-30, 2010)
• HM Facility Launching (February 12, 2010)
• University President Inaugural Address (July 01, 2008)
• 59th Commencement Exercises (March 25, 2007)