TAGBILARAN, BOHOL, October 24, 2018 – Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Leonor Magtolis Briones prodded the graduates of the University of Bohol on the importance of self-sufficiency, global competitiveness, readiness for change, and continuous learning during their 155th commencement exercises on October 23.

“Be prepared for change, especially for those who are graduating for the first time… Importante ang self-sufficiency. You have to be globally competent,” Briones told the graduates of bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees during her keynote address.

Bracing for, and embracing change
The Education chief reminded the graduates that they will be entering a world which is facing economic challenges, including the Philippines, and that this requires them to be ready for change.

“When you go out into the world, the world is not like our university. The world is not as gentle or as kind as our teachers. The world is not as complete in knowledge or intelligence as this university. So you have to be prepared for change,” she emphasized.

She also pointed out that while they may not immediately land their desired job, readiness for change will prepare them for what lies ahead.

“You are trained in the academe to deal with change, to recognize change, to adjust to change, and not just to memorize formulae,” she added.

Briones likewise reiterated the complementarity between public and private educational institutions, and called on the graduates to also consider teaching in the private schools: “Because private schools have a contribution to make to education, whether they are non-sectarian or religious, they have specific contributions. Their faculties are equally skilled, are equally trained to impart education to our learners.”

Boholanos as scholars
They keynote speaker further lauded the Boholanos as scholars and recognized their interest in further education.

“They are continuing their studies. They are getting more degrees, so they will be more secure in the jobs that they are in right now,” she noted, referring to those who will receive their graduate degrees. “Never stop studying and learning,” she advised.

Finally, Briones expressed her admiration of the beautiful Boholano culture: “Bohol has a very rich history. It has an important place in the history of this country. Bohol made very significant contributions not only in the religiosity of its people, their kindness, their gentleness, their way with money, but also, the way they never forget that they are Filipinos.”

“Do not forget that you are Boholanos, that you are Visayans, that you are Filipinos. Kasi that’s where our soul comes from,” she concluded.

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