MANILA - In two graduation ceremonies on Friday, Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte underscored her belief in the Filipino youth.

Speaking in separate graduation ceremonies at the Universidad de Dagupan in Dagupan City and at the Polytechnic University in Navotas City, Duterte said she hoped the graduates “will soon recognize the impact that you can possibly make in your community and our country.”

“I genuinely believe that the future is bright for the Filipino youth, especially for those of you who are committed to making a difference in this world,” she added.

She also encouraged the graduates to work tirelessly to ensure peace, security and stability for all when they become leaders and builders of the nation.

But Duterte also told the graduates that “life will not be easy.”

“Kahit na hindi ito magiging madali, magiging puno ito ng mga oportunidad kung matuto kayo tumingin sa positibong aspeto sa buhay ninyo and always look at the brighter side of things,” she said.

She also reminded the graduates to thank the people who helped them.

“Today’s celebration is for you — our graduates. But it’s also for your parents, and loved ones who deserved to be eternally honored, appreciated, and loved,” she said.

Universidad de Dagupan had 588 college graduates while Polytechnic of Navotas had 911 college graduates.

Universidad de Dagupan is a private, non-sectarian research college while Navotas Polytechnic College is a public, non-sectarian, coeducational higher education operated by the City Government of Navotas.