My Message to Tondol Learning Center Family

Last March 21, I was invited to speak before the community of Tondol Learning Center. I used to study in the said school sixteen years ago. Now, I returned to my Alma Mater as the guest of honor and speaker for their Moving Up Ceremony 2016. Here is my speech to the participants of the special event:

               To the competent teacher of Tondol Learning Center, Ma’am Dioly Joy Cardano, to all concerned officials of Parent- Teacher Fellowship led by Mrs. Samcy Garibay, to the workers of God present here, Rev. Elias Caido and Pastor June Rey Cacho, to the public officials of our barangay, to the supportive chairman of kindergarten board, Mrs. Rebecca Abar, industrious parents and guardians, visitors, friends and to the stars of this occasion, the kind and intelligent pupils of Tondol Learning Center, a victorious morning to all.

                Before, I was only child who studied here and grew up. Now, I am here to give inspiration to the children and their parents around. I am very grateful to God and to all of you for the trust you have bestowed to me to be the guest speaker of this affair. I am given the task to tackle the theme “Little Voices are Sources of Hope Too.”

                Before that, all pupils stand. Children, have you given thanks to your parents/ family? Remember that you are here because of them. Even that you are unruly, they did not give up just to ensure that you can study in school. Because of their sacrifices like waking up early to prepare you for schooling and giving you allowance, all of you succeed. With that, go near them, kiss, hug and thank them.

                Our national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal said that “The youths are the hope of the Fatherland.” He is absolutely right because children like you will be our future leaders. Did you know that you are now the hope of the country at your young age? This is right because even you are small, you can now do anything good. By saying truths, obeying elders’ orders and doing the right thing, you are carrying hope. If you make your family smile, you bring hope in your home.

                To strengthen your characteristics as hope of the nation, the school became your training ground. The teachings under the tutelage of Teacher Dioly Joy are very useful in moving up to the next level of studies. So, say thank you to your teacher. 

                To all parents and guardians of these children, I salute you because of your unwavering support and dedication. Thank you because you still believe that education is very important to your children. I hope that you are going to continue this tradition up to the college studies of your children to make them maintain their status as hope of your family.

Children, who wants to become a teacher? Who are dreaming to become a police officer? Soldier? Doctor? Nurse? If you say, “Yes, I am,” your voice is recognized by God and it will come true. But, prayers should be accompanied with actions. Study well. Hopefully, you will study continuously so that you are not only hope of your family but also the hope of our country. As you have your job, the labor force is waiting for you to become builders of hope for country. 

            God bless us all.

There was a happy atmosphere in the occasion. The pupils prepared song and dance numbers that brought smiles to me and to the audiences. I remembered my days in Tondol Learning Center as a pupil. The learning there was pure fun. No pressures. Just enjoying things with my classmates. 

I pray that the children studying there will be successful in their endeavors. I am hoping that someday, I will meet them with smile on their faces showing how  triumphant they are in their chosen field.