Graduates Called to Lead Mindanao’s Transformation
MANILA, Philippines — Education Secretary Sonny Angara encouraged the University of the Philippines (UP) Mindanao graduates to actively participate in the region’s transformation. He emphasized that their service will shape Mindanao’s future and play a crucial role in its rise.
“Mindanao is on the rise. And with you, it can continue to rise,” Angara declared during his commencement speech at the UP Mindanao Atrium in Davao.
In his address, he reminded the graduates that earning a diploma is more than a personal milestone—it is a commitment to serve communities where help is most needed. “This is a pledge to go where the wound is. Sadly, Mindanao has long been wounded for a long time,” he said.
Founding Vision and Continuing Duty
Angara recalled the founding of UP Mindanao through Republic Act No. 7889, authored by his father, former UP president and senator Ed Angara. The law aimed to develop local scientists, artists, and leaders to empower Mindanao.
He highlighted ongoing government efforts to improve remote areas, such as introducing solar power and satellite internet in sitios of Agusan del Norte and distributing laptops in Tawi-Tawi schools. The Department of Education (DepEd) remains focused on uplifting far-flung communities.
“This is not charity, but it is our duty,” Angara stressed. “At kayo ang magpapatuloy nito. Kasi kung hindi kayo kikilos para dito, sino pa ba [And you will continue this. Because if we do not act on this, then who will]?”
Addressing Educational Challenges in Mindanao
Acknowledging the challenges Mindanao faces, Angara cited a Philippine Statistics Authority report revealing that eight of the ten provinces with the lowest functional literacy are in Mindanao. In Tawi-Tawi, one in three residents cannot read or write functionally.
“This is not an indictment, but for us graduates of UP, it is an invitation to equity,” he stated. “When people say Mindanao is behind, you have to remind them: Hindi kami nahuli. Nauna lang kayong bigyan [They are not behind. You were just provided for first].”
Many of the graduates belonged to the first batches under the K–12 system. Angara pointed out the significant public investment in their education—about ₱300,000 per year per UP student—compared to the ₱30,000 annual spending per public school student by DepEd at its best.
Encouragement to Serve Locally
Angara urged graduates to apply their talents to benefit their home regions, whether through developing irrigation systems in Sultan Kudarat, digital innovations in Tawi-Tawi, sports programs in Basilan, or agro-enterprises in Sarangani.
“One day, if you are asked what your UP story is, don’t immediately show them your diploma. Show them how you became part of healing and rising,” he expressed in Filipino.
For more news and updates on education and Mindanao’s progress, visit Filipinokami.com.
