UDM Sends Off 2,860 Graduates at 27th Commencement Exercises, Advancing SDG 1 – No Poverty Through Education 

On July 29, 2025, Universidad De Manila (UDM) proudly hosted its 27th Commencement Exercises at the prestigious Marriott Grand Ballroom, Newport Blvd, Pasay City, marking a pivotal milestone in its mission to uplift the people of Manila through accessible and transformative public education. 

A total of 2,860 graduates from across six colleges crossed the stage: 

• 506 from the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) 

• 1,038 from the College of Business Administration (CBA) 

• 163 from the College of Criminal Justice (CCJ) 

• 419 from the College of Education (CED) 

• 550 from the College of Engineering and Technology (CET) 

• 184 from the College of Health Sciences (CHS) 

They were joined by 74 graduates from IGPS and 19 from CL, supported by 153 faculty and committee members who ensured the ceremony ran with solemnity and pride. 

Leading the celebration were University President Dr. Ma. Felma Carlos-Tria, Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Rejan L. Tadeo, and Registrar Loida J. Primavera, joined by City of Manila officials, including Mayor Francisco “Isko” Moreno Domagoso, Vice Mayor Angela Lei “Chi” Ilagan Atienza-Valdepeñas, and City Administrator Eduardo “Wardee” P. Quintos XIV. 

More than a ceremony, the event stood as a powerful manifestation of UDM’s commitment to SDG 1 – No Poverty. Every diploma awarded represented not just academic fulfillment but an opportunity for economic upliftment, equipping thousands of Manila youth to enter the workforce as teachers, engineers, healthcare professionals, entrepreneurs, social workers, scientists, accountants, and public servants. 

The grandeur of the venue reflected the magnitude of what UDM stands for: public education as a great equalizer. Many graduates were first-generation college students—proof that sustained government support, free tuition, and structured academic guidance can break the cycle of poverty across entire households. 

As the city’s intellectual capital marched across the ballroom stage, one truth echoed powerfully: a university-funded by the people must return its promise to the people—through graduates who uplift families, communities, and the nation.