“Ang lumalakad ng matulin may deadline na hahabulin. Sa hinaba-haba ng prusisyon, graduation pa rin ang tuloy.” These were among the memorable words shared by Engr. Jude S. Soliman, the esteemed guest of honor and commencement speaker at ASCOT’s 38th Commencement Exercises held at Baler Convention Center, July 19, 2024.

Engr. Soliman, an ASEAN Engineer and President/CEO of Hytec Power Incorporated, delivered an inspiring speech to the 1,536 graduates.

With 29 years of experience as the founder of Hytec Power and serving as the Vice President for Mechatronics at the Mechatronics and Robotics Society of the Philippines, Engr. Soliman is a respected figure in his field. He was even nominated for the International Who’s Who of Professionals in 2013.

Engr. Soliman emphasized the transformative power of education and its critical role in building a better future. He encouraged the graduates to pursue their dreams with dedication and honesty. “There’s no shortcut to success,” he stated. “Through my years of experience, I’ve learned that the true key to success lies within you, in your heart. Your heart is your guide to achieving success. Follow it.”

He also stressed the importance of commitment to one’s dreams, saying, “Go and make sure that you are committed to your dream and make it happen, no matter what.”

“Today is not about me,” he reminded the audience. “It’s about you graduates, your families, your school, and instructors, and all the people who have been essential parts of your journey. As we honor your achievements, it is fitting to reflect on the team that has guided your journey at Aurora State College of Technology.”

Engr. Soliman elaborated on ASCOT’s mission, “To the World, In the World, For the World.” He spoke of how ASCOT has prepared its graduates to reach beyond borders, engage with diverse communities, and apply their education to create sustainable, just, and compassionate solutions. He underscored the responsibility of graduates to use their education for the greater good and to promote partnerships that advance education, economic development, and environmental stewardship.

In his closing remarks, he advised the graduates to be diligent and overcome laziness. “Dapat maging graduate na kayo sa katamaran at excuses. Kapag nag-apply kayo ng trabaho, you are a solution to the company, hindi ninyo sasabihin na ‘I am willing to learn.’ Gasgas na po iyon,” he said.

Engr. Soliman’s words left a lasting impression, inspiring the graduates and filling the ceremony with a sense of pride and hope for the future.

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