By Atasha Gabrielle P. Vito, BA-ELS 4, The Centralian Link Intern

On March 30, 2026, in the Rose Memorial Auditorium of the Central Philippine University, the CPU Junior High School paid tribute to its honor roll students and awardees through the Honors and Awards Program. The students and their families were invited by the Junior High School Department in the program as the students receive awards for their hard work in the academic year 2025 – 2026. All honor roll students and awardees came from all high school grade levels – from grade seven to grade ten, whether they were from the regular classes or the special science classes (SSC).

The program started with the processional led by the members of the Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts of the Philippines as student awardees from grade 7 to 10 and the staff walked in the auditorium as they made their way to the front seats. Donors and parents sat on the left seats. Their other family members sat on the back seats as they watched their loved ones bathe in the spotlight as they received their awards. Medals, ribbons, and certificates were given to the awardees.

The principal, Assoc. Prof. Charlett B. Dianala, welcomed everyone in the program with her words of welcome. She celebrated the conclusion of this academic year, readying the students for their next step to success. She also compared students to shining stars, reminding them of their reason for success: their parents and teachers. “Share in the joy of your accomplishments,” She claimed as she welcomed everyone in the program.

An inspirational message was delivered by the Vice President for Student Affairs Dr. Esther Rose A. Romarate. She congratulated the principal for the efforts given for the program to be memorable, giving gratitude. She reminded student awardees of the family who supported them and the friends who challenged them, telling them to be humble and honest. She also prayed that they strive for excellence – not only academically, but also spiritually and in terms of character. Finally, she congratulated the junior high school achievers. “May God bless you more,” was her final message.

This was followed by an inspirational message from University President Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy. He warmly welcomed the students and their families to the program and to the Junior High School Department. Emphasizing that “this is not about grades,” he commended the student awardees for their resilience and dedication, telling them, “You have made us proud.” He also reminded the learners to remain grounded, humble, and faithful as they continue striving for excellence in both character and academics.

The highlight of this program was the presentation of honors and awards. The presentation of honors and awards proceeded as students walked on stage to receive their awards – the result of their hard work for the academic year 2025 – 2026. They started with the grade seven awardees and so on until they reached grade 10. Students came from all sections, whether they came from regular or special science classes. The With Honors awards were given to students who have a general average grade of 91 up to 93 while the With High Honors awards are given to students who have a general average grade of 94 and above.

The special awards were given to students who excelled in certain subjects like English, Mathematics, Filipino, Science, and Araling Panlipunan. Some students were also given awards because of sports, whether they may be individual, in duos, or a team. There was also the Batang Genyo of the Year and the Spark Achievers, which the program paid tribute to for their academic excellence.

The program ended with the closing remarks delivered by the Assistant Principal – Mrs. Lilian Rose J. Asesor. The students also sang the CPU High School Hymn, which sparked a feeling of nostalgia and belonging amongst alumni and students alike.

The program reminded everyone that student achievements go beyond the grades earned within a school year. It also highlighted the importance of recognizing the perseverance and resilience students demonstrate as they show up and strive each day. The celebration underscored that accomplishments are not measured by grades alone, but by the commitment and passion instilled in every task they undertake. With this, the community looks forward to another successful school year as its students continue their journey toward excellence and holistic growth.