11/07/2026
The ASCOT School of Information Technology welcomed 387 graduates on the morning of July 9th, 2026, at the Senador Edgardo J. Angara Convention Center in Brgy. Reserva, Baler, Aurora.
The graduates included 242 Bachelor of Science in Information Technology and 145 Associates in Computer Technology.
This momentous occasion was joined by Sir Oliver F. Candelario, DBA, Manager, Analytix Sdn. Bhd., Malaysia. In his speech, Sir Oliver reminded the graduates that these achievements are not theirs alone, but also to their families, especially their parents, who have supported and guided them to cross the finish line.
"Convergence is just a fancy tech-word for teamwork, collaboration. It is what happens when knowledge, innovation, and purpose hangout together."
He spoke of what convergence truly means and how true progress never happens in isolation. Reminding everyone the importance of working together and how breakthroughs always happen when you start working as a team.
"As you step into the real world, you are entering a space filled with massive opportunities and equally massive responsibilities."
He shared his experiences along with his professional journey way back in 2003. How he had felt many uncertainties and setbacks. How he overcame these difficulties and eventually arrived to where he is today.
"But through every twist and turn, I realized one thing. Your degree is not just a piece of paper to hang on your wall. It is a tool to solve real world bugs and problems."
He reminded the graduates that what they received is not just any ordinary piece of paper, but a tool. A tool which they can use to make a positive change, to make a difference.
"Dream beyond a paycheck."
He encouraged the graduates that a paycheck should not be the sole purpose of your hard work and dedication. Seek more than just the paycheck and make a lasting impact with what you can do.
"Go forward with courage. Go forward with purpose. Go forward with absolute confidence that you have exactly what it takes to code a better world."
One of the more memorable highlights of the ceremony was the conferral of hoods and presentation of diplomas, marking the graduates' remarkable achievements and the responsibilities they now embrace as they embark on new paths in their journeys ahead.
On behalf of the graduating class, Jean Reyel S. Lorenzo, Class Valedictorian, Magna Cum Laude from the Bachelor of Science in Information Technology program, delivered her word of thanks. Her speech encapsulated the shared experiences of a class. Emphasizing the adversities they have overcome that led to that very moment.
"For the School of Information Technology students, our journey started with something many of us will never forgetโthe long uphill walk to the ICTC."
The very first introduction for many of the students in the School of Information Technology was the long, uphill road they take everyday to get to class. A literal and metaphoric hike to reach your goals.
"But looking back now, maybe it was preparing us for what life really was. Every step uphill reminded us that nothing worth having comes easy."
A reminder how hard work can make achievements make them that much more rewarding. It symbolizes the efforts that were made and the resilience it takes to achieve your dreams.
"The road to ICTC taught us how to climb. Our capstone taught us how to persevere. The people who loved us taught us how to believe. And the people who doubted us taught us just how far we could go."
She acknowledged the many adversities they have faced and used them as fuel to keep persevering.
"May we never lose our curiosity to learn, our courage to dream, and our willingness to serve."
As the ceremony came to its conclusion, the graduates left the convention hall with diplomas in hand, a redefined purpose, and their chins up, ready to face what's up ahead.
May your expertise create solutions that improve lives, empower communities, and inspire meaningful change wherever your journey leads.
