Senator-Elect Bam Aquino Inspires 2,062 Graduates at CNSC’s 33rd Commencement Exercises

Daet, Camarines Norte – Senator-elect Paolo Benigno “Bam” Aquino delivered an inspiring message as the guest of honor and commencement speaker at the 33rd Graduation Rites of Camarines Norte State College (CNSC), held at the Open Grounds of the Main Campus.

Addressing the 2,062 graduates from various CNSC campuses and programs, Senator Aquino paid tribute to the sacrifices of parents and teachers and underscored the power of education in transforming lives.

Midway through his speech, rain began to pour—fittingly, on the feast day of Saint John the Baptist. Undeterred, Senator Aquino shared a light-hearted remark about the timing and cheerfully posed for photos with graduates in the rain. CNSC officials, led by President Dr. Marlo Dela Cruz and members of the Board of Regents, also joined in the moment, showing their solidarity with the students.

Aquino, principal author of the Free College Tuition Law, noted that many of the graduates were direct beneficiaries of this landmark legislation. He emphasized that his top priority when he assumes office on July 1 will be ensuring employment opportunities for new graduates.

Most attendees came prepared for the rainy weather, opening maroon umbrellas as the downpour began. A brief update on infrastructure was also shared during the ceremony, mentioning the upcoming Eming Panotes Colosseum, a new gymnasium within the CNSC Main Campus. The facility, funded through the efforts of the late Congresswoman Toots Panotes and current Representative Rosemarie Panotes, is nearing completion but has yet to be officially turned over to the college.

In his message, Senator Aquino encouraged the graduates to stay involved in nation-building, highlighting the importance of youth participation, integrity, and good governance.

Among the graduates, CNSC recognized 2 Summa Cum Laude, 110 Magna Cum Laude, and 35 Cum Laudehonorees. Due to the number of graduates and awardees, the program—which began at 12:30 PM—concluded past 9:00 PM.