Two cum laude lead latest batch of new UE graduates

The University of the East (UE) has conferred academic degrees on more than 500 graduates in
its midyear commencement exercises held Thursday, Feb. 6, at the Plenary Hall of the
Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City.

Leading UE's latest midyear batch were two cum laude graduates, Janela Kim Vasquez of the
College of Business Administration-Manila and Marvelie Anne Ramos of the College of Fine
Arts, Architecture and Design.

“This milestone is just the beginning. As we step into the real world, we will carry with us the
lessons we’ve learned and remain deeply grateful to our mentors, families and friends who have
supported us every step of the way,” said Vasquez, who earned the degree of Bachelor of
Science in Management Accounting.

Meantime, Ramos, who graduated with the degree of Bachelor of Science in Interior Design,
said, "Our education has equipped us with the tools to dream big and think outside the box. We
shall explore new horizons, push the boundaries of innovation, and use our unique perspectives
to make a positive impact."

The new UE graduates were from the Colleges of Arts and Sciences, Business Administration,
Computer Studies and Systems, Dentistry, Education, Engineering, and Fine Arts, Architecture
and Design, and the Graduate School.

Commencement speaker UE alumnus and certified public accountant and lawyer Lamberto
Tagayuna encouraged the graduates to embrace constant change, remain adaptable and
commit to lifelong learning and growth.

"The world is evolving, and continuous learning is key to staying ahead. Technology is
reshaping industries at an unprecedented pace. Whether you enter business, law, medicine, the
arts, or tech, adaptability will define your success. You hold the power to shape your own
success story," reminded Tagayuna, who is president and chairman of Beta Epsilon Sigma-
Hiyas ng Silangan Foundation Inc., which has supported over 400 UE scholars.

"You are not just fulfilling your own dreams—you carry the hopes of your families and the future
of our nation. This country is rich in talent and potential, and each of you has the power to drive
change and uplift communities. In your journey ahead, believe in yourself, in the people who
support you, and in the purpose that drives you. See the good in every challenge, the lesson in
every setback, and the opportunity in every new beginning," added the corporate secretary and
director of Silicon Valley HQ Philippines Inc.

The company has been providing UE students with cybersecurity and emerging technology skills based on its accord with the private university.

The latest commencement rites continue UE’s 78-year tradition of producing graduates who
excel in various fields in the Philippines and abroad.

UE’s College of Dentistry (CDent) is the top performing school per its performance in the recent
successive Board Licensure Examinations for Dentists (BLED), attaining a 93.10% passing
percentage in the November to December 2024 BLED conducted by the Professional
Regulation Commission.

The UE CDent yielded 1st-place and 4th-place examinees in the November 2023 to January 2024 BLED and 4th-place and 10th-place takers in the June 2024 BLED.

In the Architect Licensure Exam, the UE College of Fine Arts, Architecture and Design recently
produced two topnotchers: the 1st-place examinee in January 2024 and a 10th-place taker in
June 2024.

The Commission on Higher Education recently retained the autonomous status of UE Manila
and granted deregulated status to UE Caloocan, both effective until Sept. 15, 2027.