Alfred Vargas. Image: Facebook/Alfred Vargas
Alfred Vargas has finally earned his master’s degree in public administration from the University of the Philippines National College of Public Administration and Governance.
The actor-politician, who represents Quezon City’s fifth district, announced the good news on his Facebook page yesterday, July 25. He also thanked his late mother for giving him the inspiration to finish his graduate studies.
“I am happy and proud to have graduated from UP-NCPAG with a Master of Public Administration degree,” Vargas said while wearing his sablay in his graduation photo.
He added that his mother taught him to dream and work hard to reach his ambitions, while also helping others.
“Mommy, natupad ko ang pangako ko sa inyo. I wish you lived to see this promise fulfilled,” he addressed his mother. “Maraming salamat sa inspirasyon, sa guidance at sa disiplina.” (Mommy, I fulfilled my promise to you. I wish you lived to see this promise fulfilled. Thank you very much for the inspiration, guidance and discipline.)
Vargas noted that despite not being able to attend a physical ceremony due to the pandemic, his excitement to graduate from the university did not fade.
“Excited [akong] magbihis at isuot ang sablay. Di matanggal ang aking malaking ngiti kahit ang kaharap ko ay laptop at hindi ko katabi ang aking mga kaklase,” he said, adding that the moment still had some significance to it. (I was excited to wear my sablay. I couldn’t stop smiling widely despite facing only a laptop and not being with my classmates.)
Vargas told fans that graduating amid “challenging times” was not easy for him, as he struggled to keep up with his studies and his work. Given this, he still felt a “sense of commitment” to the philosophy of Ateneo De Manila University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree.
“Being ‘a man for others’ is a mission I [embrace] with greater resolve. I want to continue to strive, with fervor, [to be] a man for my family, my community, [my] country and God,” he said.
Vargas then thanked everyone who joined him in his journey in the university, including his wife Yasmine. He congratulated his fellow graduates and hopes they will all continue to face life’s challenges and serve the people. JB
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