Hon. Sherwin “Win” T. Gatchalian, Senator of the Republic of the Philippines, served as the esteemed Guest of Honor and Speaker of the 73rd Commencement Exercises with the theme “Charting New Horizons: Embracing the Future of Learning in a Changing World,” held today, July 25 at the University Auditorium.
During his speech, he began by congratulating the graduates and their parents and guardians.
“Congratulations, Batch 2025. Alam kong mahalaga ang araw na ito, hindi lang sa inyo kundi na din sa inyong mga magulang. Sa loob ng ilang taon ninyong pagsisikap ay narito na tayo sa wakas, maraming gabi ang lumipas kung saan kayo ay napuyat at napagod ngunit sa paggising nyo ngayong umaga alam natin na isa sa mga pangarap natin ay natupad na,” he shared as he acknowledged their hard work and dedication.
The core of his speech revolved around five personal life lessons he imparted to the "Golden Grains":
• Maging handa sa pagbabago (Be ready for change).
• Maging bahagi tayo ng solusyon (Let's be part of the solution).
• Tandaan natin na walang shortcut sa tagumpay (Remember there's no shortcut to success).
• Hindi natin maiiwasan ang kabiguan (We cannot avoid disappointment).
• Huwag nating kalimutan ang tumulong sa mga nangangailangan (Let's not forget to help those in need).
He emphasized a holistic view of success, stating, “Hindi lamang nasusukat ang tagumpay sa kung gaano kalayo ang narating natin, kundi sa kung paano natin ginagamit ang ating tagumpay upang iangat ang ating kapwa.”
Senator Gatchalian concluded by encouraging the CLSU graduates to continue contributing good things to their lives and the nation.
