FORMER DILG SECRETARY DELIVERS COMMENCEMENT SPEECH AT CCP
Former Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Rafael Alunan III was the graduation speaker at the college commencement exercises of Central Colleges of the Philippines (CCP) held at Teatro Aguinaldo (AFP Theater) last April 12.
Before his speech, the CCP Board of Trustees conferred the H.R. Reyes Academic Medallion of Honor on Alunan as recognition to his outstanding contribution to the academic and national development. The medallion was awarded by CCP president Atty. Crispino P. Reyes. Speaking before the graduates and their parents, Alunan emphasized that mistakes and failures should be used as learning tools in life.
‘‘Mistakes teach us to reflect, analyze and adjust. They teach us humility and courage to face the truth, accept reality, take responsibility and be accountable. They teach integrity and by taking corrective action, we inspire others to do the same,’’ said Alunan.
Alunan concluded speech by posing a challenge to the new graduates of engineering, business administration, tourism, hospitality management, accountancy, computer studies, psychology, education, and architecture. “Once you leave this hall as a new college graduate with all the hopes and dreams for a better life, don't forget that you're, first and foremost, citizens of the Republic of the Philippines; the sons and daughters of Inang Laya. The country's future will depend on what you do for her in the years to come,” he said.
Alunan also served as tourism secretary under President Corazon Aquino.