'A Momentous Step in a Thousand Mile Walk' by Maphete Dianne M. Lustre

Words are not enough to express how I feel this very moment. I am sure my equally deserving fellow awardees feel the same way and I speak in behalf of them.

Today marks the momentous step in our journey as life-long learners in pursuit of academic excellence. We may be beaming with pride as we accept this prestigious award, but, we are also aware that this honor comes with challenges which we have to embrace. Emerging as the ten outstanding elementary pupils of Iloilo out of the numerous qualified aspirants is indeed a pleasure but it is one that brings duties to uphold and to live up. Now, we are not only responsible for our own self and actions but likewise we have responsibilities towards our peers in this society.

We have proven what we can do and what we can be and coupled with this, we have to make ourselves worthy of emulation and be an inspiration to our fellow students. A gigantic burden to carry but we can do it because we have the unconditional love of our parents, the unwavering support of our mentors and the firm prayers of our friends. Add to these, our faith in the Almighty God who has entrusted to us these talents and your belief in what we can be. All these are the pillars that we can lean on to whenever we are hesitant to make an even bigger step.

To all the distinguished people behind this laudable endeavor, especially the leadership of Mr. Henry Bueron Caspe, Chair of the Outstanding Students Circle of Iloilo and Dr. Japhet Gensaya-Fernandez-De Leon, who is the overall chairperson of 2008 Screening Committee, we sincerely thank you for all the efforts you have done in making this search a success.

Truly, your endeavor has inspired us to be better than ever. We will take dynamic effort to make this momentous step to go on to a thousand mile walk and hopefully reach not only the national arena but the international scene as well. It may sound ambitious, but who knows what we can do in the future? Of course, it is all in God’s time and with His Divine Providence.

There is one little promise we can make: the honor and trust you have bestowed on us today shall NEVER BE IN VAIN because young as we are, you made us believe that we can be the BEST that we can and WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE!

And so…in behalf of my fellow awardees, our parents, our teachers as well as our school officials, THANK YOU VERY MUCH FROM THE BOTTOM OF OUR HEARTS.

MAY GOD BLESS US ALL! @

'Seeing the Future' by Jo Jan Paul Peñol

Leaders of the Outstanding Students Circle of Iloilo, Department of Education Officials, guests, fellow awardees, friends, colleagues, Ladies and Gentlemen, a pleasant afternoon.

I know that all of us here are all outstanding students and leaders who have excelled in academic pursuits and Co-curricular activities. Obviously, people around here are all very smart, very intelligent and very deserving of the award as Outstanding Students and Pupils of Iloilo. For this, let us give ourselves a round of applause.

First, allow me to give you a glimpse of who I am and my convictions.

On a clear night, the stars seem so close that all we have to do is stand on our tip toes to touch them.. Yet, from an early age, my parents insisted that the stars were very far away. In fact, the light I saw took years and years to reach Earth. So, when I looked up, I saw the past.

But I am a child of Apollo and the space age, and when I looked up, I knew I was seeing the future. As the Russian leader said, "Dependence is the cradle of humanity, but one cannot live in the cradle forever."

I know it will take more than standing on my tip toes to reach the stars. It will take new and powerful rockets. It will take money, I hope not as much as I think. For me, however, what is really required to reach the stars is someone who wants to reach them.

And thanks to the Outstanding Students Circle of Iloilo, I now have an even greater opportunity to share my love of leadership to work with young people not just because of this award which was a huge surprise for me.

The Search for Ten Outstanding Secondary Students of Iloilo wasn't easy, but it was fun and challenging. The main challenge was that I had to strive more so that I can give honor and prestige not only for myself, but for the excellence of our school and the nation in general.

I owe the success of my life as a high school student to my family especially my parents and to Pavia National High School and the teachers who prepared me to take advantage of every opportunity and then urged me to keep going.

Every one of you has a unique set of experiences and knowledge to share. Your words or strategies could be just the information or inspiration that a student needs to climb out of the cradles in their life.

I am very much happy to say, that my life seems to revolve around as a prominent figure at school. I let myself learn to love the trophies, the medals, the plaques, and the certificates over and over again. The things about the genuine contentment, confidence, and optimism were light years away, a diffused blaze compared to the vivacity of awards. When people start talking about exact joy and the blah-blah-blahs that goes with it, I keep myself strong and flexible as compared to a bamboo. I must be humble.

When there were student and youth camps, congresses and conferences, I was sometimes chosen as Guest Speaker. I asked myself, “There are many leaders who can be a good speaker. Why me?” The teacher replied, “It is in YOU; just believe on your capacity as a leader, you can do it!” Such statement served as a big inspiration and a challenge to me as a young student leader to speak in public, to impart my knowledge and experiences.

As young as I am, I became the President of the Philippine Society of Youth Science Clubs Inc. and Youth for Environment in Schools Organization (YES-O). Because I was elected into position, I worked for my duty and put efforts to satisfy people. However, I cannot please everybody. That served as my bases in striving harder to attain excellence.

Sometimes, I wasn’t able to attend classes because of activities. But, with the help of God whom I always lean on, I was able to cope with all the lessons I haven’t attended. For these, I want to thank my ever-supportive classmates and schoolmates for being there for me always. Further, I also like to express my heartfelt gratitude to my parents. All awards I received were made possible because of their patient love and loving patience. To the Pavia National High School family especially to our past and present principals, Miss Nilda M. Lago and Mrs. Leonisa J. Simba respectively, my maximum appreciation and respect to you. PNHS has been good to me since my first year, opening a lot of doors to success. My coach, Miss Julieta Jancilan, who never failed to foresee what it takes to win the contest, a very big thank you.

Finally, I would like to embark upon you a more philosophical question.. I have asked you who you are and what you represent, but an equally important question is why you are here.

In other words, ladies and gentlemen, our future for better or for worse is in our hands. It is my firm belief that our future is bright. We are in capable hands and we must not disappoint our fellow achievers. Let us live up to their expectations and to God’s eyes.

Lastly if you have been asleep during my speech, it is perfectly alright. After all, I don't really want you to wake up too early from your dreams.

Just believe that “We can make a difference.” OSCI, “ang dakilang samahan.” @

10 Outstanding Elementary Pupils of Iloilo for SY 2007-2008

(L-R) Kristiana Claire Yray, Ma. Phoebe T. Subo, Aserina Yvonne Baladjay, Marc Adrian Philippe Estuche, Rumel Angelo T. Alfaro, Emma Rose O. Guanco, EJ Marie Roga, Florencio Deypalubos III, Maria T. Montelibano, and Maphete Dianne Lustre.

Maphete Dianne Lustre, MOEP 2008, before the TOEP medalion.

10 Outstanding Secondary School Students of Iloilo for SY 2007-2008

(L-R) Beverly Ann de la Vega, Quennie Lyn S. Umadhay, Stephanie Keiko Enarbia, Rose Ann Garces, Cornelius Csar Jude Salinas, Jo Jan Paul Peñol, Paul Vincent S. Bayona, Stella Mariedith Leda, and Stephen John B. Palomaria. Not in photo is Rosa Lea Baldevarona (in Metro Manila to represent Region VI in the National Biology Quiz). Her plaque and medal were received by her parents Mr. and Mrs. Rodolfo Baldevarona (photo below, 2nd and 3rd from Right).

Jo Jan Paul Peñol, MOSSS 2008, before the TOSSS medalion.

From TOSSS 2007: Congratulations to TOSSS 2008!

Congratulations to the 2008 Awardees! From us (L-R) Ray John, Victor, Ken, Frances, Ivory, Karl, Joe, Ability-Ann, Luville, and Donna.

Thank you to our 2008 sponsors/donors

Major Sponsors: Negros Navigation, Mang Inasal

Full Page: Anifel Management & General Services Corporation; Anton Betia, Miggy Abadiano, Jeelrey Batulan; BerpaFlex; Dr. Daisy Aboltivo-Altamera, Dr. Ithra Aboltivo Altamera; Mr. & Mrs. Elmer Loreno and Family; Parthenon, Inc. Custom Design Builder; Philippine College of Physicians, Panay Chapter; Plaza Libertad Medical Specialists' Center;

Half Page: Alyanna Siñel Cortum; Blue Fields; Davies/Bio-Fresh; Dr. Simplicio Capileño; Globo Resources Builders & Supply; Gyzer; Iloilo New Agri-Industrial Marketing and General Services; Jovanne Paolo Gorriceta; Mr. & Mrs. Jerome T. Gobenciong; Mr. Ruel Z. Romarate; Nuat Thai Foot & Body Massage; Preventive & Community Family Medicine c/o Dr. Henry Gonzales; Roche Philippines, Inc.; Rotary Club of Jaro Centraline;

1/4 Page: Dr. Alma Aldon; Apistar's Catering and Food Services; Ashere Nisseth Equiña; Atty. Antonio Salinas; Atty. Dennis Borgueta; Betty Aboltivo-Lianos; Carmen Latañafrancia; Dr. Caroline Arroyo; Cindy C. Uy/Astra Zeneca; Dr. Melbert Divinagracia and Dr. Ellamae D. Sorongon-Divinagracia; Engr. & Mrs. Walden Rio; Iloilo Diagnostic Ultrasound Center; Landbank Tacloban Lending Center/Eulalio G. Lagapa; Dr. Louie Tirador; Margeline Libre / MEJ Print; Mr. & Mrs. Warren French; Natalia Lizada; Dr. Peachy Salazar; C/Mate & Mrs. Victoriano L. Leda, Jr / Mr. & Mrs. Pablo C. Leda, Jr.;

Line Ads: Atty. Lino Lozañes; Brilliant Montessori Learning Center; Dr. Delma Franco; Dr. Rhoda Mae Alagban-Abdallah; Fiby Mar Marketing; Mr. Jorge Aguilar; Ma. Fe Bearneza; Ma. Lourdes Segura; Mrs Vivian Wong Losaria;New Guimaras Traders; Roel de la Cruz@

Quote, Unquote.... Elementary

Herewith are short passages from the write-ups of the TOEP awardees - short but with deep meanings, if you can fathom their young minds.

"The ability to be able to balance academics and co-curriculars, which I possess, requires a lot of hard work and dedication. And being considered one of the cream of the crop in Iloilo is something that I consider beneficial. It can bring me new privileges; and could help me become a better person." - Maria T Montelibano, SPED – Integrated School for Exceptional Children (Lilia G. Ramos – Coach)

"I never wished for this before, but destiny calls." Florencio Deypalubos III, Sta. Barbara Central Elementary School (Mrs. Jessica S. Sequito – Coach)

"I need to prove my worth." EJ Marie Roga, Iloilo Central Elementary School (Mrs Grace Ann Segovia – Coach)

"I am not only good in academics but also in sports. I don't only wear school shoes but also spike shoes. I don't only use my legs for running in the corridors of my school but also in the track. I am a good listener and I am willing to be taught new things. I am ready to learn and to excel more." - Emma Rose O. Guanco, Iloilo Scholastic Academy (May Ann B. Farillon – Coach)

" I am not Albert Eistein but I can hold my own." Rumel Angelo T. Alfaro , Cabatuan Central Elementary School (Ma. Concepcion T. Tobias – Coach)

"I know my capabilities. I know my potentials. I never took for granted any competition I joined. I make sure that I do my best always." - Marc Adrian Philippe Estuche, Children’s Integrated School of Alta Tierra (Mrs. Rechie S. Braña – Coach)

"I had tried my very best to do my responsibilities, not only in our school, but also in our society." Aserina Yvonne Baladjay, Jaro I Elementary School (Mrs. Liberty Sulit – Coach)

"I want to show people that I can compete in all fields." - Ma. Phoebe T. Subo, Barotac Nuevo Central Elementary School (Miss Elena C. Bronda – Coach)

"I have worked hard and studied hard to get here. We had also been praying hard that I can make it." - Kristiana Claire Yray, Ateneo de Iloilo – Sta. Maria Catholic School (Leonora Peregil-Lobaton – Coach)

Quote, UnQuote... Secondary

Like to get personal as regards the TOSSS awardees? Here are some Quotes from their write-ups....

"I want my school and Passi City to be proud of me. Passi National High School is a school of excellence. It is proper for me to repay it with excellence. As one of the city councilors of Passi City (SKF President), I believe that my being an Outstanding Student of Iloilo awardee will inspire and boost the morale of my fellow youth in the city." - Stephen John B. Palomaria, Passi National High School (Nescel Panes – Coach)

"Being nominated by my school in the most prestigious competition in the province is such a great honor. It makes me proud of my school and also my hard work in the academics and co-curricular activities." - Rosa Lea Baldevarona, University of the Philippines High School in Iloilo (Dominique J. Maquiran, Dolores H. Jardeleza – Coaches)

" Even if I am only sixteen, I believe that I have already achieved the greatest success in my life - and that is to stand as a leader, to inspire, and to motivate other people. It gives me a happy feeling to know that at this age, I have already discovered my purpose - to serve and to touch the lives of other people." - Stella Mariedith Leda, Lambunao National High School (Mrs. Luela L. Almeria – Coach )

" I am a religious person armed with morals and values which are strengthened by the Values Education so strictly implemented in our school." - Paul Vincent Bayona, St. Paul School, Barotac Nuevo (Venus Jasmine S. Bayona – Coach)

"I am not only academically proficient. I am also engaged in sports. I am a member of our school's Basketball Varsity Team." - Cornelius Csar Jude Salinas, Westbridge School for Boys (Mr. Laurence Soteo –Coach)

" My father has been working abroad since I was in kindergarten, so I grew up without a father beside me. But I am sure that my father is doing this for our family. I grabbed the opportunity to join this Search because of my father - for him to know that I value and I appreciate every sweat and blood he had sacrificed for us, his family." - Rose Ann Garces, Guimbal National High School (Mrs. Salvacion T. Sanggalang – Coach)

"Just a month ago, I was voted by my class as 'Class Valedictorian', a.k.a. 'Most Likely To Succeed In Life'. It was really for fun and games - a little gimmick our class adviser thought up to highlight our Christmas Party. But really, I took it seriously!" Stephanie Keiko Enarbia, Ateneo de Iloilo / Sta. Maria Catholic School (Engr. Herman Lagon – Coach)

" To be one of the 10 Outstanding Secondary School Students of Iloilo is my dream." - Quennie Lyn S. Umadhay, Sta. Barbara National Comprehensive High School (Mrs. Milagros P. Somosa – Coach)

"I have proven myself to be versatile. I was active in joining quiz bees, be it in Mathematics, Science , and History. I became a division champion this year. And I represented our division in the Regional Level." - Beverly Ann De la Vega, Lalandoni Memorial National High School (Mrs. Josefina T. Lindong – Coach)

Maphete Dianne Lustre, MOEP 2008

"Today marks the momentous step in our journey as life-long learners in pursuit of academic excellence. We may be beaming with pride as we accept this prestigious award, but, we are also aware that this honor comes with challenges which we have to embrace. Emerging as the ten outstanding elementary pupils of Iloilo out of the numerous qualified aspirants is indeed a pleasure but it is one that brings duties to uphold and to live up. Now, we are not only responsible for our own self and actions but likewise we have responsibilities towards our peers in this society." - Maphete Dianne Lustre, Most Outstanding Elementary Pupil of Iloilo for SY 2007-2008 (West Visayas State University - Integrated Laboratory School, Ruth Gelvezon – Coach)

Jo Jan Paul J. Peñol, MOSSS 2008

"The Search for Ten Outstanding Secondary Students of Iloilo wasn't easy, but it was fun and challenging. The main challenge was that I had to strive more so that I can give honor and prestige not only for myself, but for the excellence of our school and the nation in general." - Jo Jan Paul J. Peñol, Most Outstanding Secondary School Student of Iloilo for SY 2007-2008 (Pavia National High School, Julieta S. Jancilan – Coach)

Awarding Ceremony

AWARDING CEREMONY
2:00 pm, March 7, 2008
Monfort Hall, Department of Education Bldg., Lapaz, Iloilo City


I Entrance of colors/ processional .. led by the Pavia National High School Senior Scouts

II Opening Prayer ………………… Ms. Lisa Marie Sira
MOEP 2007

III National Anthem …………………. led by the Kinaadman Dance Troupe and the
Pavia National High School Band

IV Welcome Remarks ……………… Mr. Henry Bueron Caspe
TOSSS 1975; Chairman, OSCI

V Message …………………….….. Dr. Erlinda Gencaya, PhD
Schools Division Superintendent
Dept of Education, Division of Iloilo City

VI Message …………………………. Mrs. Irma Ganela
OIC, Office of the Schools Division Superintendent
Dept of Education, Division of Passi City

VII Special Number ………………… Recorder Ensemble with Maphete Dianne Lustre
Integrated Laboratory School, WVSU

VIII Introduction of the Inspirational
Speaker ………………………… Ms. Ivory June J. Cadete
TOSSS 2007

IX Inspirational Message ………… Dr. Anselmo Tronco
Valedictorian, Tigbauan Elementary School 1971
TOEP 1971

X Presentation of Awardees

A. Elementary ……………… Engr. Dimpna Castigador
Chairperson, Elementary Screening Committee
TOEP 1975

B. Secondary ……………… Dr. Japhet Gensaya – F. de Leon
Chairperson, Secondary Screening Committee
TOSSS 1975

XI Reading of Citation to Schools
And Coaches ……………………. Mrs. Lyn Madera-Bautista
TOEP 1971

XII Presentation of Awards ………… Dr. Raymundo A. Lapating, Dr. Erlinda G. Gencaya,
Mrs. Irma Ganela, and Mr. HenryB. Caspe

XIII Responses

Maphete Dianne Lustre, Most Outstanding Elementary Pupil of Iloilo for SY 2007-2008
Jo Jan Paul J. Peñol, Most Outstanding Secondary School Student of Iloilo
for SY 2007-2008

XIV Impressions on the
OSCI Awards ………………… Dr. Raymundo A. Lapating, PhD
Schools Division Superintendent
Dept of Education, Division of Iloilo

XV Closing Remarks ……………….. Dr. Japhet Gensaya – F. de Leon
Vice Chairperson, OSCI

XVI Recessional

Program Hosts : Frances Pauline B. Leda, TOSSS 2007
Karl Vincent P. Abalajon, TOSSS 2007
Dr. Diadem Pearl Sonza-Equina, TOEP 1975, TOSSS 1979
Engr. Robert David De Leon, TOEP 1979