New college graduates from a coastal campus in northern Cebu received a message centered on resilience and gratitude when Vice President Sara Duterte addressed their commencement rites.
Duterte served as guest speaker during the 8th Commencement Exercises of Cebu Technological University–Daanbantayan Campus, Tabogon Extension, an event she recounted afterward in a post on social media. She described the role as an honor and told the graduates that finishing their degrees was a milestone worth celebrating.
Much of her message dwelt on the difficulties that lie beyond graduation. Duterte cautioned the graduates that adulthood would test them financially, emotionally, and personally, and she urged them to anchor themselves in faith and sound values while continuing to serve their communities and the nation.
The Vice President also drew attention to how extension campuses like Tabogon have widened the reach of higher education. She said that setting up such campuses has opened the door to a college diploma for students who live far from cities and might otherwise have gone without one.
Gratitude formed another thread of her remarks. Duterte told the graduates that their success was built as much on the sacrifices of parents and supporters as on their own effort, and she encouraged them to acknowledge those who helped carry them through their studies.
Beyond her role at the Office of the Vice President, Duterte also heads the Department of Education, positions she continues to hold as she faces a second impeachment case, with a Senate trial expected to open in early July 2026.
