By Elyssa Ysabelle P. Jimenez | The Paulinian
Photos by Audrey Gem Camaso | The Paulinian
St. Paul University Manila — On March 26, 2026, the campus came alive as students, teachers, and families gathered at the Fleur-de-lis Theater to witness the 10th SHS Commencement Exercises and first Kinder Graduation Rites, a celebration of the students’ accomplishments and hard work.
The ceremony began with the procession of graduates, led by the kindergarten students, followed by the Senior High School students from the AADT, ABM, HUMSS, and STEM strands. Faculty members from Basic Education, the Academic Council, and the Presidents’ Council also joined the procession, adding formality and significance to the occasion.
The Baccalaureate Mass commenced with an introduction by Anasthasia Johanne L. Artieda of Grade 12 ABM. The Mass was presided over by Fr. Geovanie S. Baco, whose homily emphasized the importance of gratitude for one’s achievements and recognizing God’s guidance throughout life’s journey. He encouraged the graduates to pursue new ventures with humility, loyalty, and commitment.
Following the homily, the diplomas, medals, and certificates were blessed, marking a sacred rite of sending forth the graduates into the next chapter of their lives. The segment ended with the singing of the Paulinian Mission Song.
The National Anthem and the Entrance of Colors marked the start of the official graduation ceremony. Eliyah Reyn O. Segura, a Grade 12 ABM student, delivered the Welcome Remarks, fostering a spirit of appreciation and pride. Dr. Christian Francis Prado, the K–10 Principal, formally accepted and confirmed the applicants after Ms. Macy Louise Vitangcol, the Kindergarten Adviser, presented the basic education graduates.
The Senior High School candidates were presented by Sr. Felicitas Bernardo, SPC, SHS Principal, and their completion was verified by Sr. Maria Evangeline Anastacio, SPC, University President. The program moved on to the giving of certificates and awards for outstanding work and academic achievement.
Sr. Evangeline and Sr. Felicitas, assisted by Dr. Prado and Ms. Maria Regina Cachero, OIC University Registrar, presided over the distribution of diplomas and sablay, with each strand adviser overseeing the distribution: Ms. Macy Vitangcol for Kindergarten, Ms. Shiela Habab for AADT, Dr. Maynard Cornejo for ABM, Ms. Camille Gabriel for HUMSS, and Dr. Diosdado Vinluan Jr. for STEM.
Alliah Isabelle G. Cabrera, from Grade 12 STEM, delivered the Address of Gratitude, conveying the graduating class’s sincere appreciation to their teachers, mentors, peers, and families. In her speech, she highlighted the journey they have completed and acknowledged the individuals who supported them throughout. Her remarks resonated with those present, filling the venue with a deep sense of pride, joy, and gratitude as she recalled the graduates’ collective experiences and enduring memories.
The graduates then solemnly pledged their commitment to uphold the values and ideals instilled in them by the university through the Pledge of Loyalty, led by Jeds Rhyl H. Danao from Grade 12 STEM. The graduates were inducted as members of the St. Paul Manila Alumni Foundation, Inc. (SPMAFI) by Ms. Jennifer Olivar.
A video tribute was presented, highlighting the journeys of the graduates from both Kindergarten and Senior High School. The tribute captured their memories, milestones, and accomplishments. The presentation, celebrating the achievements of both groups of graduates, evoked nostalgia, pride, and inspiration among the audience.After the video tribute, graduates from the various strands—AADT, ABM, HUMSS, and STEM—had a photo opportunity alongside their classmates and mentors. The ceremony concluded with the singing of the Paulinian Hymn, followed by the formal exit of colors, marking the graduates’ transition into a new chapter filled with pride, joy, and renewed purpose. This graduation was not merely a formal ceremony; it represented a heartfelt celebration of achievement, perseverance, and community, uniting families, faculty, and graduates in shared joy and lasting memories of St. Paul University Manila.
