The University of the Philippines Diliman (UPD) celebrated its 115th commencement exercises on July 5, 2026, honoring 154 summa cum laude, 927 magna cum laude, and 914 cum laude graduates. The event showcased inspiring speeches from graduates, highlighting their stories of resilience and hope.
Voices of Change: Graduate Reflections
We have a duty not to let our education serve the interests of the powerful, but to be of use to marginalized communities.
Janine Sofia Marie Umiten, Class Representative
- Janine Sofia Marie Umiten emphasized humility and service in her role as a social worker.
- Samuel Jaime A. Acabado shared his commitment to community empowerment and social justice.
- Mike Aaron O. Capsuyen aims to promote health and cultural preservation through sports science.
- Vanessa Ryanne G. Julio highlighted the importance of discipline and relationships in overcoming challenges.
- Gabrielle Frances G. Oco focused on cultural sensitivity in addressing health disparities.
- Zyrus Vander F. Rico discussed mental health awareness and his journey towards becoming a doctor.
- Colene Anne R. Santos advocated for educational rights and gender equality based on her own struggles.
Janine Sofia Marie Umiten, a summa cum laude graduate in Social Work, addressed the audience with a powerful message about the responsibility of students. She reflected on her fieldwork experience with farmers in La Union, stating that her education should empower marginalized communities rather than serve the elite.
Similarly, Samuel Jaime A. Acabado, who graduated in Community Development, shared how his upbringing inspired him to serve. He expressed a belief in the capacity of communities to identify their solutions, emphasizing that development is about agency and empowerment, not just aid.
Zyrus Vander F. Rico’s journey in Psychology was marked by personal challenges, including a diagnosis of bipolar disorder. His story highlights the importance of mental health support and the need for structural changes in addressing these issues in society.
The graduates' narratives collectively underscore a commitment to social justice and community service, aligning with UP's longstanding tradition of producing leaders who advocate for the marginalized. Their experiences reflect the university’s mission to foster critical thinkers who are not only academically accomplished but also socially responsible.