With the theme, “Enhancing Access to Quality Education in the Countryside”, ASCOT held its 19th Commencement Exercises under sunny skies at Zabali Campus Ground, Baler, Aurora last Monday, April 07, 2014.

His Excellency Reuben Levermore, New Zealand Ambassador to the Philippines was this year’s Guest of Honor and Commencement Speaker. He congratulated the Class of 2014 and spoke to them about the many ways on how graduates can participate and serve well in service. He mentioned the resemblance of his country to Aurora and said that he was
very impressed with its abundance. He challenged the graduates to take advantage of these consider how they can be of help in developing it.

Dr. Eusebio V. Angara, College President, conferred a total of 783 degrees from Class 2014 which is composed of 49 candidates for Master’s Degree, 480 candidates for Bachelor’s Degree and 254 candidates for Associates and Certificates. Among the notable degree recipients this year are the 17 Cum Laude and 2 With Honors Graduates who finished their Courses with flying colors of having a grade point average of not lower than 1.75.

The day was made even more special for every ASCOTIAN through the presence of Former Senator, Edgardo J. Angara, the Father and Founder of Aurora State College of Technology who was awarded with a Medallion of Honor for his unwavering support to the College.

Plaques of Appreciation were also presented to the previous ASCOT Presidents: Dr. Benny A. Palma, ASCOT’s First President, Dr. Rodolfo C. Undan who served as OIC President of ASCOT on 2002, represented by Prof. Teresita Cabanilla and Dr. Romeo S. Cabanilla, Second President of ASCOT for their significant contribution and involvement to the development and success of ASCOT. Moreover, Dir. Victor B. Mariano, Regional Director of DOST-III and Atty. Jesse P. Pimentel, Former Legal Counsel of ASCOT were also recipients of Plaques of Appreciation.

Mr. Lhor King T. Decano,the Class Valedictorian, delivered an emotional speech where he took the opportunity to thank the faculty members who served as his mentors. He gave special emphasis to his parents and family for all their hardships and sacrifices just to send them to school.Decano finished his Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering under the OTOS Scholorship Grant.

Congratulatory remarks filled the venue after the ceremony as every graduate share their success with poses and smiles with their family, friends, and mentors. As glaring as their smiles was the enthusiasm to face the upcoming challenges in the real life on their chosen field.