The University of San Jose–Recoletos (USJ-R) celebrated a momentous occasion as it conferred degrees upon 930 graduates during its 119th Commencement Exercises, recognizing the culmination of years of hard work, perseverance, and academic excellence.
Leading the academic honorees was Summa Cum Laude Suzanne Anne Kirshinne A. Susas, who earned her Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering degree. In her commencement address, she reflected on the values that shaped her university journey—gratitude, perseverance, excellence, faith in God's plan, and belief in oneself.
She encouraged her fellow graduates to pursue excellence for God's greater glory, remain steadfast in the face of life's challenges, trust the process even amid uncertainty, and use their education to serve others. She likewise reminded the graduating class to uphold the University's core values of Interiority, Nationalism, Service, Pioneerism, Integrity, Reliability, and Excellence as they begin their respective careers.
As the newest members of the USJ-R alumni community, the graduates were challenged to embody the Augustinian Recollect spirit beyond the University by becoming competent professionals, ethical leaders, and compassionate servants of society.
The commencement exercises also served as a venue to recognize exceptional performances in recent professional licensure examinations. Cash incentives were awarded to Bernardito Jose P. Laurente, who placed Top 10 in the March 2026 Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET); Blas Miguel V. Escarro, who placed Top 4 in the May 2026 Certified Public Accountant Licensure Examination (CPALE); Joan Alliah M. Carilimdiliman, who secured Top 10 in the same examination; and Enuario R. Tesio, who ranked first in the June 2025 Electronics Engineers Special Professional Licensure Examination.
Addressing the graduating class, Engr. Tesio, a graduate of the Expanded Tertiary Education Equivalency and Accreditation Program (ETEEAP), shared his inspiring journey from humble beginnings to becoming a board topnotcher while working abroad. He encouraged the graduates to persevere despite setbacks, reminding them that where they begin does not determine where they can go. Through determination, discipline, and unwavering faith, he said, extraordinary achievements are within reach.
The 119th Commencement Exercises celebrated not only the academic accomplishments of the Class of 2026 but also the values that define a Recoletos education. Equipped with knowledge, character, and the Augustinian Recollect spirit, the graduates now leave the University prepared to make meaningful contributions to their professions, communities, and the nation.
