Published May 14, 2026 by Campus Information Office
Candidates for graduation of Cagayan State University-Gonzaga Campus gathered for the Baccalaureate Mass officiated by Fr. Yves Gabriel M. Lanzon on May 11 at the Campus Ground.
The solemn celebration was attended by the graduating students from the six colleges of the campus together with their parents, faculty members, and staff, headed by Campus Executive Officer Dr. Froilan A. Pacris, Jr. The gathering served as a moment of thanksgiving and spiritual reflection before the 48th Academic Convocation for the Conferment of Degrees and Titles.
In his homily, Fr. Lanzon reminded the graduates to always remember the grace and mercy of God, emphasizing that without God’s guidance and blessings, they would not have reached this important milestone in their lives.
He also shared that some of life’s greatest lessons are learned not during moments of victory, but during times of hardship, humiliation, pain, and defeat. According to him, people often discover the true value of prayer and faith when they feel alone and have no one else to turn to but God.
Fr. Lanzon described graduation as “a celebration of transformation,” stressing that education is more than simply earning a degree. While the world often measures success through wealth, titles, prestige, and power, he emphasized that true success for Christians is measured by becoming good and morally upright individuals.
“Education can open doors, but character will keep the door open. Intelligence may bring you far, but integrity will bring you higher,” he said.
He further challenged the graduates to reflect on the kind of people they have become throughout their academic journey, noting that society does not only need competent professionals but also kind, honest, compassionate, and God-fearing individuals. He particularly mentioned the need for truthful public servants, responsible police officers, compassionate nurses, and dedicated teachers who genuinely care for others.
Fr. Lanzon also warned the graduates about the temptations they may encounter in the future, including choosing money over honesty, ambition over compassion, and success over service. He encouraged them not to lose their conscience in pursuit of worldly achievements.
“The world does not just need successful people, but people who are conscientious and courageous,” he emphasized, urging the graduates to use their knowledge and skills not only to gain wealth but to serve others, fight for truth, uplift the poor, and become instruments of hope in society.
He concluded his message by encouraging the graduates to always keep God at the center of their lives, reminding them that while diplomas and careers may change, God remains faithful forever.
Photos: Campus Planning Office