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With hearts full of gratitude, Holy Angel University (HAU) commenced the graduation ceremony of batch 2025 of the School of Computing, recognizing the milestone of 232 graduates at the University Theater on April 30.

The ceremony includes 80 graduates in BS Information Technology – Web Development, 57 in BS Computer Science, 57 in BS Entertainment and Multimedia Computing, 22 in Information Technology – Network Administration, and 16 in BS Cybersecurity.

A total of 22 students graduated with highest distinction — Summa Cum laude — and another 22 graduates earned the honor of Magna Cum laude in batch 2025.

Behind every smile was a story. Behind every medal, a mountain is climbed. These students endured long nights, quiet breakdowns, pressure that felt too heavy, and still, they rose. They didn’t just finish their degrees. They proved to themselves that they could make it through.

Angelite speaker Gloria Faith “Gravity” Baruelo shared her journey from Manila to Pampanga, carrying the weight of unfamiliar surroundings, culture shock, and the ache of being far from home. 

Baruelo struggled with loneliness, the pressure to stay strong, and the grief of losing her dear friend Francesca “Chi” Bondoc. And yet, she stood stronger, growing, and grateful. She thanked her grandparents, her mother, and her hero.

Valedictorian Mark Joseph Buduan opened up about his own battles — with mental health, with eating, with the quiet moments that felt too heavy. But he made it through, thanks to the unwavering love of his friends, his teachers, and especially his mother. 

“The most powerful thing we can do is check on each other,”  Buduan said — a truth that resonated far beyond the stage. He ended his speech with thanks to his mom and dad, the heroes who helped him become who he is today.

With fellow speakers Ana Beatriz Maliwal (Petition Address), Railly Mallari (Class Pledge), and Mr. Bernard Chua (Alumni Pledge), the ceremony didn’t just honor excellence — it honored resilience.

All student speakers graduated Summa Cum Laude but more than the medals, they brought messages that spoke to every student who ever felt like giving up.

More than an academic milestone, the ceremony emphasized the perseverance and determination of the students to overcome challenges in their academic journey.

By Calvin Ochoco