"The fireworks begin today. Each diploma is a lighted match.

Each one of you is a fuse," a

famous quote by Edward Koch. Everyday challenges are a part of our lives. Whether big and
small, few or many, it is important to reflect on the essence of these challenges. A prominent
person once said, "A gem cannot be polished without friction, nor a man perfected without
trials."

To our honorable guest and speaker, Dr. Visitacion Dimalanta Despogado, our Schools
Division Superintendent, Dr. Ely S. Ubaldo, our respected school principal, PTA president,
faculty club president, alumni president, to all Barangay Officials who are present today,
teachers and headteachers, distinguished guests, our dear parents, fellow graduates, ladies
and gentlemen, good afternoon.

Our senior year of high school was a roller coaster ride, not because we had our fair share of
ups and downs, but because of the plot twists we encountered. We tried failing exams, we
had tiring days of work immersion, we cried over research, we faced numerous challenges
and overcame them all because we were determined to succeed.

We considered giving up in the midst of the storm, but our dreams were bigger than our
problems. We say ayoko na, but our actions scream laban pa. Our resilience is what
distinguishes us as Filipinos. We can easily recover from any mishap: we get back up after
falling into difficulties, bringing new lessons with us. We emerge from challenges stronger
than before. Why is this the case? Because we see failures as stepping stones to become a
better version of ourselves.

And it never fails to amaze me that the same people I'm referring to are here today, sitting
right in front of me, ready to embark on the next chapter of their lives, still fighting on the
battlefield. My peers, you should be proud of yourselves.

Unfortunately, this COVID-19 outbreak has forced us to quarantine, but it has helped us all
grow in ways we never imagined.

There may be misfortunes and adversities in the future, but there is no reason to be afraid. We
should be motivated by our loved ones and inspired by God's timeless counsel. My fellow
graduates, there are only two things I want you to remember. Soar high and relish the
sweetness of our triumph. As we progress, we will not only soar high, but also higher,
towards the greater heights of our dreams.

This is the beginning of our story. This is the time to take up the pen of opportunity and
begin writing the book of our lives.

This graduation ceremony is a fitting tribute to all of our hard work, sweat, and tears invested
in our education.

New chances, opportunities, and seemingly limitless possibilities. All of these wonderful
things await us as we turn the page and begin a new chapter in our lives. Everyone fails, but
not everyone who fails is a failure, because failures only exist for those who lack the courage
to get back up after falling.
Fellow graduates, be brave, and never stop dreaming. Inspire others, and investigate new
ways to challenge yourself.

Gratuliere alles! Congratulations! Good afternoon and Godspeed to a new beginning.