The journey from uncertainty to triumph is rarely a straight path. For the Western Mindanao State University Class of 2025, graduation is proof of resilience, sacrifice, and unwavering hope.
Standing before her fellow graduates, Kyla Dominique B. Barredo, Magna Cum Laude from BS Biology (Medical Biology) program, told a story marked by uncertainty, quiet battles, and triumphs that weren’t always measured by grades.
“Four years ago, we arrived as strangers,” she said with steady emotion. “Each of us brought different dreams, perspectives, and uncertainties. But what united us was a shared hope: to learn, to grow, and to succeed.” Her words acknowledged the many beginnings that were both intimidating and full of promise.
Barredo’s path started from the beautiful and distant municipality of Panglima Sugala, Tawi-Tawi, The pandemic disrupted her plans and left her unsure of what lay ahead. “I never imagined I would find myself at WMSU, much less begin a new chapter in Zamboanga City,” she admitted. But fate had its own plan.
Just a week before classes began, a family of kind strangers opened their home to her. “It felt as if everything was meant to be. Their kindness gave me the courage to start.” That simple act of generosity became the foundation of a four-year journey filled with learning, struggle, and self-discovery.
Although highly regarded for her academic achievements, Barredo revealed the immense pressure she placed on herself. “Growing up, I was always the achiever, always pushing to be the best. At first, I let that pressure define me.” She pursued success relentlessly, fearing that slowing down would mean failure. But her time at WMSU changed that perspective. “I learned that growth doesn’t have to be loud. Sometimes, it is quiet, steady, and deeply personal.”
The last few semesters tested her in ways she never expected. “No rainbows, no unicorns,” she said with a touch of humor. “I faced betrayal, loss, and even questioned who I was.” Doubt often crept in. “I asked myself, ‘Am I enough? Will this be worth it?’” But through it all, she persevered, drawing strength from those around her. “My classmates, especially those in BS Bio 4A, became my peace. To the friends who stayed when times were tough, thank you.”
Her message also underscored the importance of mental health. She shared a quote from Dino of Seventeen that guided her through challenging times: “Catch your breath for a moment, and once this tiresome journey is over, we’ll be something the world has never seen.” These words reminded her to slow down, to breathe, and to find joy in simple moments, whether binge-watching shows or savoring a cup of coffee. “This is your reminder,” she told her peers, “to rest when you need to. Heal when you are hurting. Because you deserve peace.”
She took time to express gratitude to those who supported her throughout her journey especially her parents and siblings. She also thanked the Department of Biological Sciences, the College of Science and Mathematics, and the WMSU faculty for cultivating both knowledge and resilience.
She reserved special praise for University President Dr. Ma. Carla A. Ochotorena, whose unwavering and visionary leadership fostered an environment where excellence truly thrives.
She urged her fellow graduates to live out this year’s commencement theme: “Nurturing Excellence, Championing Peace, and Advancing Global Progress.” “These are not just words,” she emphasized. “They are the essence of who we are becoming.” She encouraged graduates to “choose effort over ease, growth over comfort, and purpose over perfection.” To be “quiet voices of compassion” in a world often loud with division. And most importantly, she reminded them: “Success is not just about being first; it is about being faithful to your values, your purpose, and your dreams.”
Her closing words were a call to hope and determination: “Walk forward not in fear, but in faith. Not with pride, but with passion. Let our excellence speak. Let our peace lead. And let our purpose shine.”
For the WMSU Class of 2025, this story captured something deeper than achievement. It reflected the journey they all took. It spoke of the late nights filled with doubt, the friendships that carried them through, and the quiet victories that often went unnoticed. More than anything, it was proof that despite the challenges, these Crimsons stood strong and are now ready to embrace the future. (LMP-PAO)
