“We did it.” These three words echoed in the hearts of the graduates of the Teacher Education Program (TEP) as they marched with pride and gratitude during the 20th Commencement Exercises of the Polytechnic College of the City of Meycauayan (PCCM), held on May 23, 2025, at the Meycauayan Convention Center.
With the theme “Kaalaman, Karangalan, at Paglilingkod: Tatak PCCM; Tatak Meycaueños,” the ceremony brought together proud families, faculty members, and distinguished guests to celebrate the academic milestones and service-driven spirit of the graduates. The event opened with the grand processional, followed by the Philippine National Anthem, Awit ng Meycauayan, and the PCCM Hymn. Ms. Shiena Marie France R. Orolfo, BSED Social Studies Magna Cum Laude, led the invocation.
Acting Registrar, Mr. Anjello G. Libao, formally presented the candidates for graduation: 54 from the Bachelor of Secondary Education Major in English, 23 from Mathematics, and 63 from Social Studies. Representing Batch 2024–2025, Ms. Catlyn S. Bon, BSED English 4B Magna Cum Laude, delivered the Address of Petition. The degrees were officially conferred by Dr. Reneliza C. Sta. Ana, College Dean and Acting College Administrator, followed by a moving Valedictory Address from Ms. Rhia Joyce O. Rulloda, BSED Social Studies 4B Magna Cum Laude, who reflected on the struggles of online learning, balancing work and academics, and her fulfilling journey in the College Student Government. Despite each graduate’s unique path, she highlighted their shared pursuit of knowledge and wisdom.
Afterwards, graduates received congratulatory messages from Hon. Josefina O. Violago, Vice Mayor of Meycauayan City, and Hon. Atty. Henry R. Villarica, Chairperson of the PCCM Board of Trustees and Meycauayan City Mayor. Mr. Gerard M. Gaza, Administrative Officer V, introduced the commencement speaker, Dr. Efren F. Abulencia, Education Supervisor II of CHEDRO III, who emphasized the vital role of young educators and leaders in shaping the nation’s future. He reminded the graduates that learning is a lifelong journey—beginning at birth and continuing until life’s end. He urged them to be flexible, resilient, creative, and innovative; to uphold integrity of character; to take responsibility in serving their communities and the nation; to lead with strong ethical values; to be action-oriented individuals who consider the welfare of others; and to be imbued with a missionary spirit in their pursuit of meaningful change.
The program proceeded with the presentation of academic honors and Campus Leadership Awards, led by Dr. Ma. Paz G. Contreras, SSASD Directress. This was followed by the distribution of diplomas: Prof. Shiela Aringo awarded the diplomas to English majors, Prof. Ronaldo Aquino to Mathematics majors, and Prof. Rhea Baltero to Social Studies majors. As the event neared its conclusion, Ms. Liezl Anne F. Delara, BSED Social Studies 4B Magna Cum Laude, delivered the Address of Thanks, while Ms. Kimberly Shiene Bacus, BSED English 4B Magna Cum Laude, led the Pledge of Loyalty. The Oath of PCCM was administered by Dr. Ron Jewel Avendaño, President of the Alumni Association.
The ceremony concluded with the Graduation Song, Exit of Colors, and the Recessional. Hosted by Ms. Priscila Mae D. Balangue and Mr. Joshua SF. Alaba, the 20th TEP Commencement Ceremony was not only a celebration of academic achievement, but a powerful reminder of every graduate’s calling—to serve, to honor, and to lead.