As thousands of graduates celebrated a major milestone in their academic journey, the University of the Philippines Visayas (UPV) welcomed a voice deeply rooted in the country's fishing communities to deliver this year's commencement address.
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| Photo courtesy: University of the Philippines Visayas (UPV) |
Fisherfolk leader Pablo Rosales, popularly known as "Ka Pabs," served as the commencement speaker during the UP Visayas' 47th Commencement Exercises held on Friday, July 10, 2026, at the university's Miagao campus.
For many, Rosales represents more than leadership—he embodies the struggles, resilience, and aspirations of ordinary Filipinos whose livelihoods depend on the country's coastal and marine resources.
A founding member of PANGISDA-Pilipinas (Pagkakaisa ng mga Samahan ng Mangingisda sa Pilipinas), Rosales has spent decades advocating for the rights and welfare of artisanal and small-scale fisherfolk.
Since assuming the role of National President in 2016, he has become one of the country's most recognized grassroots leaders, championing the protection of municipal waters, sustainable fisheries, food security, and the empowerment of fishing communities.
His selection as commencement speaker reflected UP Visayas' commitment to highlighting voices from sectors that play a vital role in nation-building yet are often underrepresented in national conversations.
Addressing the graduates, Rosales urged them to use their education in the service of the Filipino people, reminding them that true success is measured not by personal achievements but by the lives they help uplift.
"Ang edukasyon ay may saysay lamang kung ito ay naglilingkod sa sambayanan."
He also emphasized the responsibility that comes with education and nation-building, drawing a powerful parallel between caring for the country's seas and caring for the nation itself.
"Ang dagat ay hindi lang minamana, ito ay ipinagkatiwala. Ganoon din ang ating bayan. Hindi natin ito pag-aari. Pinagkakatiwala lang ito sa atin upang higit natin itong paunlarin at pagandahin para sa mga susunod na salin-lahi."
Rosales concluded with a message that resonated with the graduating class, encouraging them to define success through service to others.
"Ang pinakamalaking sukatan ng edukasyon ay hindi kung gaano kataas ang inyong narating, kundi kung gaano karaming tao ang inyong itinindig."
For the members of the UPV Class of 2026, his address offered a unique perspective on leadership, responsibility, and creating lasting social impact.
In an interview with The Summit Express ahead of the ceremony, PANGISDA said they were extremely proud of Ka Pabs' achievement.
"Isa itong makasaysayang pagkilala para sa sektor ng pangisdaan. Binabati namin si Ka Pabs Pablo Rosales. Nawa'y magsilbi itong inspirasyon sa patuloy na pagsusulong ng karapatan, kabuhayan, at seguridad sa pagkain ng sambayanang Pilipino! Mabuhay ang mga maliliit na mangingisdang Pilipino," they said.
The commencement exercises were also livestreamed on the official Facebook page of UP Visayas, allowing alumni, families, and supporters from across the country to witness the historic occasion.
— Noel Ed Richards, The Summit Express
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