By Mikee Natinga Norico
A section of Grade 10 – Mercury from the Junior High School Class of 2025 proudly poses for a group photo, celebrating their achievements and preparing to embark on the next chapter of their educational journey.
Central Philippine University held its annual Junior High School Department Commencement Exercises in three consecutive days at the Rose Memorial Auditorium. Of the dates, JHS Recognition Day commenced on April 10, 2025, followed by the Honors and Awards on April 11, and the Moving Up Ceremony on April 14.
The celebration began with the JHS Recognition Day, an event that acknowledged the unwavering dedication and diligence of students across various fields. Medals, ribbons, and certificates were awarded to students excelling in academics, literature, music, journalism, leadership, scouting, and athletics. The recognition program was a testament to the university’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals and celebrating diverse talents.
On April 11, CPU held the JHS Honors and Awards Ceremony, spotlighting excellence and perseverance. The event opened with a formal processional of honored guests and students, led by CPU JHS Principal Associate Prof. Charlett B. Dianala; Assistant Principal Mrs. Lilian Rose J. Asesor; PTA President Mrs. Joycent T. Sablon; and Engr. Dany C. Molina, Vice President for Administration and Officer in Charge of the Office of the President.
In a heartfelt keynote message delivered on behalf of CPU President Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy, Engr. Dany C. Molina, Vice President for Administration, honored the awardees’ journey and perseverance. He encouraged students to reflect on their progress and recognize the people who supported them. Drawing inspiration from Olympic gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz, Engr. Molina emphasized humility, faith, and the importance of uplifting others as hallmarks of true success.
Shanelle Ann C. Lero, Rank No. 1 with High Honors from the Special Science Class, and Roan Victor R. Lacupa, Rank No. 1 with Highest Honors from the Regular Class, receive their medals and certificates together with their supportive parents during the JHS Honors and Awards Ceremony.
One of the program’s highlights was the awarding of Academic Awards, Scholarship Awards, Cash Awards, and Special Awards to students from both the Regular and Special Science Classes. Among them, Roan Victor Reyes Lacupa made history as the first-ever completer to attain the highest average under the K-12 curriculum—ranking No. 1 in the Grade Ten Regular Class and earning the distinction With Highest Honors.
The celebration reached its pinnacle with the 10th Moving-Up Ceremony on April 14, 2025, themed “Generation of Unity: Partners for New Philippines.” The university officially conferred the completion of 351 Grade 10 students, ushering them into a new phase of their academic journey.
Certificates of completion were awarded by Dr. Florence P. Bogacia, VP for Finance and Enterprises and Officer in Charge of the Office of the President assisted by Principal Prof. Charlett B. Dianala, Assistant Principal Mrs. Lilian Rose J. Asesor, and University Registrar Ms. Charissa June G. Deocampo.
Returning to his roots, Guest Speaker Lt. Col. Jommel Ray Pagurayan Parreño, CPUHS Class of 1999 Valedictorian and Scout Ranger officer, delivered an inspiring message that moved the audience. Lt. Col. Parreño recounted his personal trials and triumphs—from losing a scholarship in high school to leading missions in Zamboanga and Marawi. He stressed that failure is not a dead end but a catalyst for growth, urging graduates to pursue dreams boldly, rise from setbacks, and keep their faith in God’s plan.
Lt. Col. Jommel Ray Pagurayan Parreño, CPUHS Class of 1999 Valedictorian and Guest Speaker, receives his certificate of recognition and token of appreciation during the 10th Junior High School Moving-Up Ceremony.
“To the Junior High School Batch of 2025, as you prepare to move up to Senior High School and beyond, remember that the road ahead will not always be easy. There will be struggles, failures, and moments of doubt. But do not be afraid to take risks and step out of your comfort zones. Hard times are not meant to break you—they are meant to mold you, refine you, and make you stronger. Loss may be painful, but it teaches you the value of what you have. Sacrifice may be difficult, but it reveals the depth of your purpose. Do not let comfort confine you, failure define you, or fate decide your destiny. Chase your dreams, but do not leave them to the mercy of chance. Forge them with your hands, shape them with your will, and let them stand as a testament to your resilience,” Lt. Col. Parreño said.
The program also featured the presentation and recognition of Special Class Research Paper by Mr. John Lord M. Agustino, and the presentation of completers by Prof. Dianala. The prayer of dedication was led by Rev. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian, while completers Shanelle Ann C. Lero (Rank No. 1, High Honors, SSC) and Roan Victor R. Lacupa (Rank No. 1, Highest Honors, Regular Class) gave heartfelt responses on behalf of the graduating batch.
Completers joined in singing “Starting Today,” an original composition by Aeon Xantie E. Pauno with lyrics by Deoziel V. Fanuga, Grade 10 – Mercury. The benediction was offered by Rev. Dr. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on, closing the momentous occasion with a blessing of purpose and hope.
As the CPU Junior High School Batch of 2025 steps into the next chapter of their lives, they carry with them not just medals or certificates—but the legacy of resilience, unity, and Centralian spirit, rooted in faith and destined for greatness.