Under the golden afternoon skies at the Montevista Sports Complex, Davao de Oro State College–Montevista Branch opened the College’s 2026 graduation season with the conferment of degrees to 362 graduates during its 9th Commencement Exercises on June 22, 2026.

Anchored on the theme, “Resilient Foundation, Expanding Horizons: Empowering Graduates for Sustainable Development,” the ceremony celebrated the graduates’ perseverance, dreams, and readiness to take on greater responsibilities beyond the walls of the College.

Serving as the main highlight, DdOSC President Dr. Lilybeth M. Matunhay formally conferred the degrees upon the graduating class, composed of 267 graduates from the Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship, 39 from the Bachelor of Secondary Education major in English, 23 from the Bachelor of Secondary Education major in Filipino, nine from the Bachelor of Secondary Education major in Mathematics, and 24 from the Bachelor of Elementary Education.

In her message, Dr. Matunhay congratulated the graduates and their families, recognizing the sacrifices, hard work, and collective support that made the milestone possible.

She also reminded the graduates to carry with them the institution’s core values—excellence, integrity, and solidarity—as they begin a new chapter in their personal and professional journeys.

Serving as Commencement Speaker was Dr. Leo D. Rayon Jr., Associate Professor V of Davao del Norte State College, who shared a message of hope, perseverance, and purpose.

Recalling how DdOSC was among the first institutions to trust his ability as an instructor, Dr. Rayon expressed gratitude to the College and used his own life story to inspire the graduates.

Coming from a humble background, he encouraged the graduating class to look beyond poverty and present limitations, emphasizing that success remains within reach for those who continue to strive, learn, and believe in their own capacity to rise.

One of the highlights of the ceremony was the address of Luwella W. Baron, Magna Cum Laude and Class Valedictorian, who led the 13 academic excellence awardees.

In her speech, Baron expressed gratitude to her parents, mentors, classmates, and all those who supported her throughout her academic journey. She also urged her fellow graduates to step into the wider world with courage, compassion, and the commitment to create positive change in their communities.

Meanwhile, the commencement exercises also featured the congratulatory message of Davao de Oro Governor Hon. Raul G. Mabanglo, who expressed pride in the graduates, describing them as among the shining hopes and future leaders of the province.

As a gesture of support and recognition, Governor Mabanglo pledged a P10,000 incentive to each academic excellence awardee.

Capping off the evening was a grand fireworks display, lighting up the Montevista sky and symbolizing the bright beginnings awaiting the graduates of DdOSC Montevista.

With the first commencement ceremony concluded, Davao de Oro State College officially set in motion its 2026 graduation season, with DdOSC New Bataan and Maragusan slated later this week.