Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan on Thursday, July 2, urged new college graduates to harness their knowledge and skills to serve Filipinos and become active partners in nation-building.
In his speech at National University-Baliwag’s commencement exercises, the senator congratulated the students on the significant milestone of earning their degrees but challenged them to contribute meaningfully to society.
“Sa inyong mga magiging inhinyero, negosyante, developer, counselor, lingkod-bayan: alalahanin ninyo na ang tunay na lakas ng inyong henerasyon ay nasa pagkakaisa,” he said.
“Kaya magtulungan. Gamitin ang inyong mga plataporma para sa
pagpapalaganap ng mga kuwento ng katapangan, ng kabutihan, at ng katapatan. Kapag may nakitang inhustisya, magsalita. At kapag may nakitang sinasaktan, huwag lang maawa, kumilos,” he added.
The senator encouraged graduates to use their education to address pressing national issues and the threats posed by disinformation in an ever-changing world.
Citing the graduation’s theme, “Sidlak: Shining Beyond Limits,” the lawmaker recognized the youth’s role in shaping culture, addressing societal issues, and driving innovation in business, technology, education, the arts, and government.
Pangilinan said he witnessed firsthand what the youth can do, having placed third in Baliwag in the 2025 senatorial elections
“Paalala ito na kapag nagkakaisa at malinaw ang layunin, kaya ninyo — kaya natin — maapektuhan ang pambansang pagbabago at sa pambansang pamumuno,” he added.
“I challenge you, dear graduates, that you shine brightest in this present darkness. At panatag ang loob ko na kahit na gaano kadilim ang gabi, darating din ang bukang liwayway. Darating din ang umaga. Walang bibitiw.”