Achieving Excellence: ACC-SHS Graduates Celebrate Milestones at 7th Commencement Exercises
by Careyl Pedrera
The Abuyog Community College Senior High School (ACC-SHS) held its 7th Commencement Exercises on May 24, 2024, marking a significant milestone for the graduating class. The event, held at the ACC evacuation gymnasium, was a celebration of the students’ hard work, dedication, and achievements throughout their senior high school journey.
A total of 194 graduands proudly marched down the aisle escorted by their parents. It consists of 56 graduates from the Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS), 77 from the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) and 28 from the Accountancy, Business, and Management (ABM).
Furthermore, in the Technical Vocational Track were 10 graduates oComputer Systems Servicing (CSS), 13 from the Cookery Strand, and 11 graduates of Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW).
With the theme, “Filipino Youth: Building a Stronger Future for a New Philippines”, underscoring the importance of investing in the youth, their pivotal role as catalysts for change, empowering them with education, opportunities, and resources to lead the country towards a new era of growth and development.
In her keynote address, pioneering alumna of ACC-SHS, Ms. Nova Magne Gandolfos, and now a registered social worker praised the graduates for their resilience and adaptability.
Gandolfos also highlighted the importance of the celebration, for its not just their academic achievements but their leadership character and spirit.
“Take a lead to yourself, sail and sail until you reach your final destination.”, Gandolfos stated. “I say to you, build a stronger future, fulfill yourself first so you can help others fill themselves, and also help them do the same to others as well. That’s a new Philippines that anyone can inspire on.”, Gandolfos added.
Class valedictorian Phoebe Lenie Ruiz delivered an inspiring speech, highlighting the support from family, friends, and faculty that helped the graduates reach this pivotal moment.
“On behalf of the grade 12 graduates of the school year 2023-2024, I would like to thank Abuyog Community College Senior high school for embracing our potential, molding us into better version of ourselves, and harnessing our hidden skills.” Ruiz uttered.
The ceremony also featured the presentation of special awards to outstanding students in various disciplines, recognizing their excellence in academics, leadership, and extracurricular activities. Among the awardees were Joshua Lee, who received the Academic Excellence Award, and Sarah Ahmed, who was honored with the Leadership Award.
“We have grown not just as students but as individuals ready to take on the world,” she stated. “Our time at ACC-SHS has prepared us for the next chapter, and we are eager to embrace the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.”
The ceremony also featured the presentation of special awards to outstanding students in various disciplines, recognizing their excellence in academics, leadership, and extracurricular activities. Among the awardees were Butch Jervoso, STEM graduate and Aliyah Fatima M. Serat, ABM graduate who shared his most memorable moments in ACC-SHS.
“It akon diri makakalimtan sa akon senior high school journey is an akon mga teachers, the faculty and staff kay grabe an ira pag welcome ha amon despite knowing nga waray na upcoming Grade 11 next year kay mag end naman ang SHS dinhi sa ACC.” Jervoso said.
“Damo gad tak mamimiss especially tak mga friends, mga boardmates sa boarding house, mga chikahan, snackan, tapos usual bonding sa classroom.” Serat said. “With all of my experiences in senior high school, the very first person that came into my mind when it comes to gratitude are my parents. Because they help me way more than what I expected. Like financially, emotionally, physically, and mentally, all of those things they supported me.”, Serat added.
Formally concluding the event was Vice-President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Edita D. Vale who extended her warmest congratulations and encouragement to the graduates.
“My dear graduates, importante an maupay nga pamatasan, always always be honest and always uphold the school moral principle. Never say no to a challenge because doing so will make you more progressive.”, Dr. Vale stated.
As the Class of 2024 turned their tassels and jubilantly tossed their caps, signifying the graduates’ transition from senior high school to the next phase of their lives. As the new alumni of ACC-SHS, the graduates are now poised to pursue higher education and careers, equipped with the knowledge, skills, and values fostered during their time at the school.
The 7th Commencement Exercises of ACC-SHS will be remembered not only for the accolades and celebrations but also for the shared sense of accomplishment and community among the graduates and their supporters.
Congratulations to the Class of 2024!