A tribute to achievers
The valedictorians with officers and members of the
Rotary Club of Metro Iloilo
Recognizing the value of achievers in society, the Rotary Club of Metro Iloilo and the Rotary Club of Itako, Japan bestowed awards to valedictorians of Iloilo City schools in a program held at the Sarabia Manor Hotel and Convention Center last April 10, 2007.
"We did this to honor the valedictorians and the schools they came from. We believe that in the future, you will be leaders of our city or of the country. Remember Rotary Club of Metro Iloilo if you wish to become part of Rotary someday," said Tony Kon, RC of Metro Iloilo director.
Elsa Gabion, Michelle Angela Gabion,
Melcelyn Nalangay, Emmanuel Nalanga,
Rachel Herrera, Jenepy Jopillo, Precious
Joy Aungon and Evangelista Aungon.
The project is chaired by Dr. Paul Francia.
Christopher Millora, valedictorian of PAREF-Westbridge School, gave a response in behalf of the students. The following is an excerpt of his speech.
The formula one has to follow to be able to graduate on top of the class is simple: you only have to do what you're classmates don't want to do: study harder, devote extra time in reading, advance studying, meticulously copy notes. Things that ordinary students just hate doing. That's the formula. Simple as that. The tricky part comes in following the steps. Because during those times, you have to have something called hard work to get the top plum. And this what separates these young people present here today from the rest. We valedictorians are not just people with systemized goals, but we are individuals who wager enough time and hard work for us to reach those goals.
Keanily Dinson, Nancy Pesado, Florecito
Gelario, regina Taliva, Gloria Clavecillas
and Cristine Clavecillas.
"The 2nd Tribute to the Valedictorians" is yet another celebration of our intellectual achievements and endurance throughout those painful times of studying even until our patience seems to waver. Through this program we realize that its not only our school and our parents who value our hard work, but also a highly-accomplished set of individuals who are also advocates of youth excellence. And so, through this program, we are empowered, we are given more fuel to go further, to fly higher and to excel.
Apart from the awarding, 10 deserving valedictorians will receive scholarships after a competitive exam and interview. This is part of the Metro Iloilo Rotary Academic and Leadership Excellence Scholarship (MIRACLES).