Mayor Khymer Olaso emphasized the vital role of education and strong character in achieving meaningful success as the Colegio de la Ciudad de Zamboanga (CCZ) celebrated its 8th Commencement Exercises at the KCC Mall East Wing Atrium Thursday morning, June 4.

Themed “CCZ Graduates: Forged by Excellence, Guided by Character, Inspired by Charity in a Dynamic and Sustainable World,” the ceremony celebrated the achievements of graduates from various academic programs, including Tourism Management, Information and Communication Technology, Food and Service Management, and English Language Studies.

Addressing the graduating class, the mayor emphasized that genuine success is built on perseverance, discipline, and dedication. He encouraged the graduates to remain steadfast in pursuing their goals and to make career decisions based not only on financial gain but also on opportunities for personal and professional growth.

“Success becomes more meaningful when it is earned through hardwork and determination,” Mayor Olaso said, urging the graduates to uphold the values they acquired throughout their academic journey.

The local chief executive likewise highlighted the city government’s continued commitment to education through its assistance programs for Zamboangueño students enrolled in the K-12 system and State Universities and Colleges (SUCs). These initiatives provide support for school uniforms, supplies, and transportation expenses to help ease the financial burden on students and their families.

Established and operated by the Zamboanga City Government, CCZ is a local higher education institution located in Barangays Ayala and Vitali that provide accessible and quality tertiary education to Zamboangueño students.

Also present during the commencement exercises were Executive Assistant and Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion Officer Rosendo Castillo III, CCZ Officer-in-Charge Felipe Vicente Freire Jr., members of the faculty and school administration, parents, graduates, and other partner education stakeholders.(Arvin Midel) (photo credits: Kathy Wee Sit)