Atom Araullo flexes a pic of him with sablay; finally takes his long-delayed grad march with parents

• Broadcast journalist Atom Araullo finally experienced a graduation march, wearing the symbolic "sablay" alongside his parents at UP Cebu's 2025 commencement, two decades after skipping his own

• Araullo openly admitted missing his 2005 UP graduation due to being "lazy," later realizing the profound significance of the ceremony for his sacrificing parents

• Invited as the keynote speaker for UP Cebu's 2025 graduates, Araullo used the opportunity to honor his esteemed parents, Mike and Carol Araullo, by having them present

• In his address, Araullo delivered a powerful message to the new graduates, urging them to "Serve the country!" – a principle consistent with his own advocacy as a journalist

Atom Araullo, twenty years after forgoing his own college commencement exercises, finally experienced his emotional "sablay" moment, sharing the special occasion with his proud parents at the University of the Philippines Cebu's 2025 graduation ceremonies.

The poignant event, held on Saturday, July 5, 2025, saw Araullo return to his alma mater's tradition, this time as a keynote speaker.

Atom, a respected broadcast journalist and a familiar face in Philippine news, revealed on social media the candid reason he missed his original graduation march in 2005 after completing his Bachelor of Science in Applied Physics at UP Diliman.

"Tinatamad lang talaga ako," (I was just truly lazy) he confessed, admitting his youthful oversight. He reflected on his past decision, acknowledging a crucial realization that came with maturity: "Ang hindi ko naisip noon, para rin sana ang araw na 'yon sa mga magulang nating ilang taon nagsakripisyo para maitawid ang pag-aaral natin." (What I didn't realize then was that day was also for our parents, who sacrificed for years to see us through our studies.)

Two decades later, the opportunity for a meaningful make-up arose. Invited to serve as the keynote speaker for UP Cebu's graduating class of 2025, Atom seized the chance to honor his parents, Mike and Carol Araullo, both esteemed journalists and activists in their own right, by bringing them along.

His parents, pillars in the field of independent journalism and human rights advocacy, undoubtedly witnessed this moment with immense pride.

For the first time, Atom donned the iconic "sablay," the official academic costume of the University of the Philippines.

Unlike traditional graduation gowns, the sablay is a sash intricately embroidered with indigenous motifs, symbolizing academic excellence, honor, and service to the nation, worn from the right shoulder to the left.

"First time ko rin magsuot ng sablay," he shared, adding lightheartedly, "O 'di ba, parang nag-march na rin ako… 20 years delayed nga lang!" (It was also my first time to wear the sablay… See, it's like I also marched… just 20 years delayed!)

In his address to the new graduates, the broadcast journalist delivered a powerful message that resonates with his own journalistic mission.

He concluded his social media post with profound gratitude to the university: "Daghang salamat, University of the Philippines Cebu, sa pagkakataon," (Thank you very much, University of the Philippines Cebu, for the opportunity) and a compelling call to action for the graduating class: "At isang taos-pusong pagpupugay sa lahat ng nagsipagtapos. Paglingkuran ang bayan!" (And a heartfelt salute to all graduates. Serve the country!).

This aligns with Atom’s consistent advocacy for the underprivileged and marginalized communities through his reporting, a purpose he frequently emphasizes.

This year's UP commencement ceremonies saw several prominent alumni addressing graduates.

Notably, fellow Kapuso journalist Jessica Soho also served as a keynote speaker at the 114th General Commencement Exercises of the University of the Philippines Diliman on Sunday, July 6, 2025.

Both Atom and Jessica were recently among the guest speakers at an industry roundtable organized by the Asian Academy of Creative Arts, where they discussed the vital role of journalism in storytelling and public service.

Atom’s participation in UP Cebu's graduation not only provided a personal full-circle moment but also served as an inspiring example for the new generation of UP alumni, highlighting the enduring value of education, family, and commitment to serving the nation.

Atom Araullo is a Pinoy journo, TV presenter, and radio host. He is also an environmental conservation advocate, mainly on marine ecosystems.

Last year, Atom was invited over at Karmina Constantino's "KC After Hours." During his interview with Karmina, the latter asked him about his relationship. The famous TV anchor then got candid about his relationship with his special someone. It is worth noting that Atom is rumored to be in a relationship with Zen Hernandez.

Meanwhile, two years ago, Atom filed a ₱2 million damage suit against SMNI hosts Lorraine Badoy-Partosa and Jeffrey "Ka Eric" Celiz. The legal action was sought after Badoy and Celiz's red-tagging allegations against Araullo on national television and social media platforms. Araullo decided to file the complaint to protect his family and defend press freedom. In July, Araullo's mom, Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) Chair Emeritus Dr. Carol Pagaduan Araullo, also filed a similar complaint against Badoy and Celiz.

Source: KAMI.com.gh