Atty. Benjamin “Benhur” D. Abalos, Jr., the Secretary of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) addressed the graduates of Isabela State University (ISU) on August 7, 2024 at the ISU Echague Amphitheater.
With an extensive career and commitment to public service, Secretary Abalos was invited to inspire the graduates with him starting his message by saying that the future of the Province of Isabela and the country is promising as the graduates carry the torch of excellence set to being a proactive member of society.
He stated the idea that since the University’s establishment, ISU has been set in providing quality education in the arts, agriculture, and natural sciences to be a university for people, nature, entrepreneurship, and innovation. This is supported when he recognized ISU’s efforts in research and development through the establishment of research centers which are vital in laying the foundation for evidence-based development in the region, which according to Secretary Abalos is a feat that only ISU has sustained among the state universities and colleges (SUCs) in the Philippines.
“Such milestones cement the assurance that every Isabela State University graduate is destined to be a valuable member of society after immersing themselves in quality academic offerings, civic-oriented undertakings, and progress-driven culture during your stay,” he added.
As Secretary Abalos continued, he further emphasized that the graduates are already facing the reality and the real world.
“As I stand in front of you, the next generation’s movers and shakers, I am fully-cognizant that academic institutions like Isabela State University are pivotal in birthing great leaders in steering the various sectors of our society towards positive transformation,” he expressed when he asked the graduates about their future.
Nearing the end of his message, Secretary Abalos also opened the realities of facing various challenges after graduation. Nevertheless, he assured the graduates that success can be found in education which they are now holding from a good University.
“You face the future with pride, heads high but never forget one thing. Intelligence that’s given, but what is important is the heart – empathy. Character defines you – the choices that you make. Always choose right over wrong. Always choose what is better for everyone, not only yourself, but selflessness,” he ended.
