Beyond the Diploma: Living an Educated Life

LOOK: Commissioner Desiderio R. Apag III delivered an inspiring message to the Graduating Class of 2026 of Bataan Peninsula State University, reminding them that graduation is not the end of education, but the beginning of a lifetime of learning, growth, and service.

Commissioner Apag challenged the graduates to reflect on one important question: What is the most expensive mistake an educated person can make? He shared that it is believing that education is proof that one is already educated. For him, true education extends far beyond classrooms, grades, and diplomas; it is continuously shaped by life's experiences, challenges, relationships, and the choices we make.

He also reminded the graduates that while technology and Artificial Intelligence can make them more efficient, they cannot replace integrity, character, and ethical judgment. As they enter a rapidly changing world, he encouraged them to remain curious, humble, and courageous enough to keep learning.

Drawing inspiration from the simple image of a candle, Commissioner Apag emphasized that education finds its greatest value when knowledge, kindness, and integrity are used to bring light to the lives of others. True success, he stressed, is not simply about titles, recognition, or achievements, but about becoming useful, serving others, and making a meaningful difference in one's community.

Commissioner Apag likewise recognized the parents and families, as well as the Board of Regents, administrators, faculty, staff, and officials of Bataan Peninsula State University, whose collective efforts continue to shape competent professionals and responsible citizens.

As BPSU celebrates its achievements, including the establishment of the first College of Medicine in the Province of Bataan, Commissioner Apag reaffirmed CHED's commitment to supporting the university in creating greater opportunities for learners and in producing more professionals and leaders who will serve the nation.

Carrying the theme, “ACHIEVE: Excellence Beyond Graduation, Service Beyond Self,” Commissioner Apag left the Class of 2026 with a lasting reminder: excellence should become a daily habit, service should become a motivation, and education should be revealed through the way we live, serve, and uplift others.

Congratulations, Class of 2026! May your education become a lifelong journey of excellence, integrity, compassion, and service.

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