The Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP) Graduate School of Public and Development Management celebrated the remarkable achievements of the Third Batch of the Master in Public Management (MPM) Online Program, fondly known as Batch Hiraya, during their Commencement Exercises held on February 15, 2024, at the Leonides Virata Hall, DAP, Pasig City.

Amidst a backdrop of academic excellence and scholarly accomplishment, eight graduates, each recipient of full (100%) scholarships from the General Appropriations Act of 2022, were conferred with the esteemed degree in Master in Public Management. This momentous occasion marked not only the culmination of their academic journey but also the beginning of their promising careers as future leaders in public management.

Dr. Majah-Leah V. Ravago, President and Chief Executive Officer of DAP, extended a warm welcome to the graduates and guests, underscoring the significance of their achievements in advancing the principles of good governance and public service. Reflecting on the occasion, Dr. Ravago remarked, “Today is a momentous occasion that signifies the culmination of a remarkable journey. It is both an honor and a privilege to stand before you as we celebrate your academic achievements and resilience.”

“Beyond the individual success represented by your diplomas,” Dr. Ravago continued, “let us not lose sight of the broader context in which your education unfolds—the pursuit of our nation’s development goals and the vision of a Bagong Pilipinas. Dr. Jose Rizal believed in the transformative power of education, stating that ‘education is the weapon for the future.’ As you apply the knowledge and skills acquired during your time at the DAP, I challenge you to be catalysts for positive change in your respective fields and communities.”

The Commencement Exercises were graced by the presence of Ms. Fe Karen M. Lamorena, Director IV of the Office of the Chairperson of the Civil Service Commission and an MPM Online Batch 1 Alumna, who served as the Commencement Speaker. Ms. Lamorena’s words of wisdom and encouragement resonated deeply with the graduating class, inspiring them to uphold the values of integrity, excellence, and service as they embark on their professional journey.

The solemnity of the occasion was further enriched by the administration of the Public Manager’s Oath and the Alumni Oath, led respectively by representatives of the DAP Alumni Association, Inc., Ms. Milajoy J. Tapao, MPM Online Batch 2 Alumna, and Atty. Maria Salve R. Adamos, MPM Online Batch 1 Alumna. These symbolic rites underscored the graduates’ commitment to upholding the highest standards of ethical conduct and lifelong learning in their chosen field.

In recognition of their exemplary achievements, three graduates were awarded the Dean’s Special Citation, while two received the Academic Excellence Awards. Mr. Emanuel T. Balajadia was honored with the Best Master’s Thesis Award, while Mr. Jeremiah C. Reyes was bestowed with the Leadership Award, further exemplifying the caliber of excellence fostered within the MPM Online Program.

Mr. Earl Ryan A. Losito, Class Valedictorian, delivered the Class Response, expressing gratitude for the unwavering support and mentorship received throughout their academic journey. His heartfelt remarks encapsulated the spirit of camaraderie and resilience that defined the Batch Hiraya experience.

As the newest cohort of MPM alumni, the graduates of Batch Hiraya embark on a journey fueled by knowledge, passion, and a steadfast commitment to effecting positive change in their respective spheres of influence. Their achievements stand as a testament to the transformative power of education and serve as a beacon of hope for a brighter future in public management.