More than a thousand job vacancies from 13 participating companies opened doors of opportunity and catered over 500 students and WMSU Alumni during the Careercon and Job Fair 2026 organized by the Western Mindanao State University Career and Job Placement Center, led by Dr. Nerlyn C. Concepcion. The event took place on April 29, 2025, at the Dr. Juanito Bruno Gymnasium, bringing together graduating students, alumni, and industry partners in one venue.

The fair served as more than just a recruitment activity. It became a space where aspirations met real-world opportunities, allowing WMSU graduates to take their first steps into professional life.

WMSU President Ma. Carla A. Ochotorena expressed strong confidence in the graduates, emphasizing the university’s long-standing legacy. She shared that for over a century, WMSU has shaped generations of students into competent and values-driven professionals. She also extended her gratitude to the participating companies and agencies for helping pave the way for students as they transition into the next chapter of their lives.

Vice President for Student Affairs Fredelino M. San Juan highlighted the significance of the event, describing it as a meaningful milestone for students. According to him, the job fair symbolizes not just employment opportunities but the beginning of new journeys beyond the university.

Dr. Fredelino M. San Juan, Vice President for Student Affairs, emphasized that the activity is an important milestone for students as it marks the beginning of a new chapter in their lives. Meanwhile, Dr. Hashim N. Alawi, Alumni Director, underscored the vital role of alumni engagement in guiding graduates as they transition from university life to the professional world.

Anchored on the theme “WMSU’s SMART Advancement for Employment Opportunities for All,” the event also featured an inspiring message from guest speaker Leirrand Christian Ochotorena. He encouraged participants to view rejection not as failure, but as redirection. He reminded them that growth comes with mistakes and that opportunities do not always come knocking. Sometimes, one must build the door.

With strong institutional support and active industry participation, the Career and Job Fair reaffirmed WMSU’s commitment to empowering its graduates, equipping them not only with academic knowledge but also with the confidence and resilience needed to succeed in the ever-evolving world of work. (AAS, PAO)