Leyte Normal University’s (LNU) graduation rites have come under fire over an alleged discriminatory ticketing scheme with only graduates with Latin honors and their parents allowed in the main venue, forcing many students and parents to watch the event from outside or through live-streaming.

The university held the two-day ceremony on June 13 and 14 in Alba Hall, which had limited seating capacity. The remaining students and parents were left to watch the event on a LED panel in a multipurpose hall or listen to it through a single speaker outside, according to a report by An Lantawan, LNU’s official student publication. 

This is not the first time LNU received backlash over a similar setup. Last year’s graduation rites, also received criticism with attendees saying that the ticketing schem “unfairly diminishes graduates’ achievements and disrespects their families’ sacrifices.”

LNU President Dr. Evelyn Aguirre defended the decision, citing the need to maintain the solemnity of the occasion. She recalled a previous graduation held at the Tacloban Astrodome, where parents left immediately after the ceremony, and the event was chaotic. 

Aguirre emphasized that holding the graduation within the university promotes a sense of belonging.

Dr. Evangeline Sanchez, dean of the College of Management and Entrepreneurship, praised Alba Hall for its seating capacity of 1,260 and its appealing aesthetic, comfort, and ambiance, making it an ideal venue.

Ticketing system and accommodation

Tickets were distributed by the Management Committee based on graduates’ honors status. Those without Latin honors received one white ticket for the Multipurpose Hall, accommodating one parent. Graduates with Latin honors received two tickets: one white for the multipurpose hall and one blue for the Alba Hall. 

Dr. Cleofe Lajara, dean of LNU’s College of Arts and Sciences, confirmed that only Latin honor graduates could be accompanied by parents on stage, adhering to university tradition.

However, many students and parents still felt excluded. One social media user criticized reducing years of parental sacrifice to LED panel views. Another parent suggested it would have been better not to invite them at all under these circumstances. 

Netizen Jan Lim defended LNU, acknowledging venue challenges due to a growing student population. He emphasized the university’s careful planning for the graduation despite its limitations.

The controversy highlights the importance of considering all stakeholders in graduation planning. Netizens called on higher education institutions to prioritize community support and inclusivity.