Greetings and a pleasant morning to everyone. And congratulations to all graduates!

You've
encountered a lot of challenges and overcame them with your own perseverance and courage. I am well
aware that you guys are under a lot of pressure as graduation draws near. All of you desired to graduate,
and you did! You have already shown that you are capable and accountable enough to carry your own
weight by doing that.

After all, I've been in your position. As a student, I was likewise innocent. What adversity was, I had no
idea. I was care-free. I didn’t pay that much importance in my study. I was enjoying my life as a kid living
like a spoil brat. I am the precious princess in our household and still am actually. I grew up surrounded
by everyone who follow my whims as a child. I was a over spender and impulsive buyer as a high school
student. Money doesn’t last in my hands. However, everything changes when I go to college. From a
stress-free student to a stressed college student. Deadline after deadline. There were too much
expenses. I have projects to work on with and activities needed to be passed on time. It was exhausting
trying to balance everything. Even I was wondering if I had made the appropriate college course choice.

However, I persisted despite that. I have a dream to realise and goals to achieve. I have to graduate and
dedicate my diploma to my family, who have been my staunchest supporters despite the fact that I
might failed.

You see, I didn't have that much confidence in me. I was an introvert kind of person. I always love
silence and serendipity. But I soon realized that it wasn't enough. I ought to achieve more than I should
be given and I previously had high dreams as a student, and now here I am fulfilling those dreams. My
family and I are both pleased that I complete my schooling. Landed a job. And achieved success. Of
course, it was difficult. I was initially lost. I wasn't sure which direction I should go in as it might affect my
future. But I didn't let the uncertainty overwhelm me.

I made the decision to study medicine and surgery at Southwestern University in Cebu. I was torn
between going and staying because I would have to leave my family behind, but I persisted and finished
my studies keeping them in mind. It was not easy, I also encounter trouble while studying in Cebu. My
performance was that of an average person. I experience failure and learned from that failure. I am not
talented and intelligent like other people. But I was thankful for all of the help I receive while studying. I
wasn't alone. I have my friends and family, whom support me wholeheartedly. I am so grateful to have
such wonderful friends. Therefore, you should all be pleased with your family. They serve as a pillar of
your success. Through thick and thin, they will remain by your side. They persisted in encouraging your
accomplishment and didn't give up on you. Not only should you be proud of your accomplishments, but
also of your family.

One of the essential ingredients for success is perseverance. And you, you should be proud of what
you've accomplished. Never stop learning, developing, or pursuing your dreams. Your graduation is
evidence of your perseverance, effort, and dedication. You can only enjoy and thrive in life when you are
aware of and passionate about the future you want to create. Once again, congratulations!