The Zamboanga State College of Marine Sciences and Technology (ZSCMST) held its 58th Commencement Exercises on May 23, 2025, at the MCLL Gymnasium.

Dr. Rachel D. Lauriaga, Vice President for Academic Affairs, formally presented the candidates for graduation, followed by the acceptance and conferment of degrees by Dr. Roy L. Valesco, the College President. In his opening remarks, Dr. Valesco also introduced the guest speaker, Dr. Carl E. Balita, who delivered a resonant and inspiring commencement message

Dr. Balita spoke directly to the hearts of the graduates, saying, “Sa araw na ito, hindi lamang kayo ang pinakamasayang tao dahil kayo ay magtatapos. Ang tunay na dahilan ng tagumpay na ito — ang inyong mga magulang at mga mahal sa buhay — ang siyang tunay na pinakamasaya.”

He emphasized that for many parents who had once dreamed of finishing school but were not able to, their children’s graduation is also their fulfillment: “Huwag ninyong kalimutan na sa likod ng inyong tagumpay, may mga kabataang tulad ninyo noon na nangarap ding makasuot ng inyong kasuotan, subalit hindi sila pinalad. Ngunit sa araw na ito, naabot din nila ang kanilang pangarap — sa pamamagitan ninyo.”

This was followed by a video message from Senator Bong Go, who offered his congratulations and encouragement to the graduates, while paying tribute to the educators and parents. “To the parents and teachers, thank you for being the guiding light and support system behind every successful student. Your role in shaping the future of these young minds is truly invaluable.”

Furthermore, he emphasized his continued support for education as a cornerstone of national development: “As your public servant, I remain committed to making quality education more accessible to every Filipino. I believe that through education, we empower the next generation of leaders, innovators, and nation builders. Congratulations once again, and may you continue to sail toward your dreams with courage and purpose.”

The Class Valedictorian, EJ B. Ibnohajan, challenged his fellow graduates to step boldly into the unknown: “Staying in our comfort zones is risky because it conditions our minds to believe that the best version of ourselves can be found within our familiar domains. It makes us complacent, leading us to think we already know everything. But once we step outside our comfort zones, we begin to realize how big the world is, how much we still do not know, and how much more we can still grow. Going out of our comfort zones means starting from conquering our small fears into conquering the world.”

The ceremony closed with the singing of the ZSCMST Hymn and farewell songs, followed by the ceremonial exit of the colors—marking not an end, but a beginning.

The 58th Commencement Exercises of ZSCMST were more than a recognition of academic success. They were a tribute to sacrifice, a celebration of dreams fulfilled through the next generation.