Less than three decades after he graduated from elementary, Pangasinan State University President Dr. Elbert M. Galas sets foot in his alma mater once again, this time to serve as the Guest of Honor and Speaker.
On May 29, President Galas shared his words of wisdom and inspiration at the 65th Graduation and Moving-Up Ceremony of Anonas Elementary School (AES) Activity Center in Urdaneta City, the school that nurtured and molded him as a child and where he graduated as Class Salutatorian in 1995.
With the theme ‘Kabataang Pilipino Para sa Matatag na Kinabukasan ng Bagong Pilipinas’, the AES officials and personnel led by Principal Apollo Cachuela and PSDS Dr. Crispina Sotto welcomed their successful alumnus who is now a state university president.
During the ceremony, Dr. Galas shared his own story, remembering his days as a student at AES. “I can see myself in these graduates,” he reflected.
He recalled his experience when he was still studying. According to him, he was unable to pursue his dream school because of financial difficulties, yet this did not stop him from achieving all of his goals. Then, when he applied for a scholarship at Pangasinan State University- Urdaneta Campus, he was eventually accepted into the Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT) program.
He also shared the struggles of his college journey. One of these is how he often sleeps at school because he does not have any device that he could use to accomplish his academic requirements.
His story resonated with the audience and served as a powerful testament to the potential of each of the graduates.
In addition, Dr. Galas highlighted the importance of resilience, encouraging the students to persevere through challenges and embrace their future with confidence.
“Do not underestimate the power of resilience. Trust in your abilities, believe in yourself and you can overcome any obstacle,” he shared.
Further, he recalled his class advisers from his elementary years, expressing gratitude for their guidance and support. “Ang hindi marunong lumingon sa pinanggalingan, ay hindi makakarating sa paroroonan. It is important to remember the past and the people who have forged us into who we are right now,” Dr. Galas said.
The event was a milestone for the young graduates and pupils, celebrating the culmination of their elementary journey and the beginning of their next academic adventure. The heartfelt message and personal anecdotes of Dr. Galas, as well as his presence, served as an inspiration to all the attendees, making the ceremony even more special and unforgettable.
Story: VHS with reports from James Menard Lumandas
Photos: PRPIO Urdaneta/The Technoscope
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