At the 35th commencement ceremony of Tarlac State University (TSU), Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah “Mina” F. Pangandaman delivered an inspiring speech as guest speaker to the Class of 2024, encouraging them to stay hopeful in these challenging times.
Secretary Mina underscored the core values of TSU – truth in words, action, and character; service with excellence and compassion; and unity in diversity – as guiding principles for the graduates as they navigate their futures.
“Life is never easy, and it won't become any easier once you step out of this gymnasium. There will be times when everything feels overwhelming. In those moments, it's crucial to have faith. Trust in someone, remember that God is close, or believe in yourself that everything will eventually work out in the end,” Sec. Mina advised.
Highlighting the importance of community and family values, she also shared her personal connection with Tarlac, noting that her mother is from the province.
“One of my biggest inspirations in life, my mom, hails from the beautiful province of Tarlac. Her roots in 'the Melting Pot of Luzon' have influenced her values and character, which she has lovingly passed on to me,” Secretary Pangandaman intimates.
The theme of the graduation ceremony, “Navigating Tomorrow: A Journey in Futures Thinking,” set the stage for the address, emphasizing the need for adaptability and proactive thinking in an ever-changing world.
Sec. Pangandaman spoke about the challenges posed by fluctuating markets, rapid technological advancements, the pandemic, and climate crisis. Parallel to this, she cited the Bagong Pilipinas transformative vision of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. as one of the government's key tools for future-proofing the Philippines.
Also underscored was the government's commitment to education, with the substantial allocation of ₱983.5 billion for the Education, Culture, and Manpower Development sector in the National Budget.
“Out of this [₱983.5 billion] ₱132.929 billion is specifically allotted for State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) across the country,” the DBM Secretary explained, reinforcing education as a means to combat poverty and drive national progress.
She concluded her talk with a powerful message, urging the graduates to be trailblazers and change-makers, and to embrace their unique qualities to make a difference in society.
“Seize this moment, and step forward with confidence, knowing that you have the power to make a profound impact on our world,” the Budget Secretary ended.
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Photo: TSU Office of Public Affairs
