Education for Real Life: Graduation Message

Almost six months ago I came to know some - if not most of you NOT from the confides of our Institution but from a less expected external resource person, and he is Police Officer II Bongon of Naga City’s Elite Force together with reporters from Bombo Radyo, DWAR, DWNX, and some others stations I can barely recall. Some may have left that incident at the corners of their minds but it remained lucid to me until this day, NOT because it has brought me sleepless nights but rather it made me appreciate more our National Bird, the Philippine EAGLE, or is it EAGLES? And that makes this batch so special for me.

The Philippine Eagle is the 2nd largest bird on the planet. And over the decade, this distinction had made our own eagle unique and special. The challenge of making a distinction for yourself like the eagle begun when you were born and continues until the moment you took your diplomas and it doesn’t end there. Today you have just conquered STI, tomorrow I’d like you to strive for the world. You have grown to be your own man and woman, willing to take risks and willing to stand for what you believe is right. May the spirit of the Eagle guide you in your quest to define your identity and your individuality.

Today I bid you Godspeed and urge you to dedicate yourselves to continue working for your aspirations and for that brighter future of your dreams. Although the period of your formal education may have ended, your education certainly has not. Education is at the core of life. Life is a journey of discovery and education.

Be open to the lessons of the world around you. Every person you encounter is potentially a teacher. For 2-years I’m sure Chief had taught you the value of self-discipline. Every situation is potentially a subject. This may vary in meaning for some may say every subject is a potential situation to copy from my classmates. Accord every person and each situation with your full attention, and you will discover new insights in familiar situations. From insights gleaned from the great classroom that is the world, you will discover aspects of yourself that have been here to fore hidden from you.

Do not be afraid to take prudent risks. Take the less traveled road. There are no recitations, quizzes, homework, long tests, promissory notes, no id no entry, and departmental exams in the classroom of life. In the end, the verdict on your life will be between you and the divine.

In behalf of the faculty, staff and administration, permit me to thank your parents for the trust they have reposed in all of us at STI NAGA. They have sacrificed much to provide you with opportunities they themselves may not have had. Always give them the honor they deserve.

Graduates, STI NAGA will always be your second home. Do not hesitate to visit the school or our website if you can manage the time. Write if you can. You have your STI email with you and that’s yours eternally. PROMISE we’ll also keep in touch – especially for few who may still have to pay their Tuition Fee. See how succeeding graduating classes build on the paths you have blazed in the same way that the class of 2008 had built on the trails left by past graduates.

Fly high like an Eagle! Go and show the world the meaning of Education for Real Life.

Maraming salamat po at Mabuhay kayong lahat!