A year after the COVID-19 pandemic started, UP High School Cebu finally held its 44th Commencement Exercises via Zoom and which was livestreamed on Facebook on August 12, 2021.
The 38 graduates Class 2020 and 39 candidates of Class 2021 attended their virtual graduation wearing their sablitos.
Atty. Melina Almase-Martinez, Class Valedictorian of Class 1982, was the Commencement Speaker. “It is my hope that our beloved country and you, the graduates, who are now facing one of the greatest challenges ever faced by mankind, will stand firm, strong, and prevail,” she said.
Ericka Monique Miranda, Class 2020 valedictorian, reflected on her journey in UP. “One day, you might seek to change the world into a better place, or even when facing the harshness of reality, your GWA will only be a fist fighting against guns,” said Miranda.
Alexandra Nicole C. Cañete, Class 2021 valedictorian, congratulated her batch in her speech. “Even if we part ways, let us remain united in realizing the true purpose of our UP education- to give back to our communities and tirelessly serve the people.”
Both also extended their gratitude towards the parents, guardians, teachers, and benefactors for supporting them throughout their high school journey and molded them to become the best versions of themselves.
Class 2020’s graduation song “What I Want to Remember,” composed by Chine Britney F. Malaque, Allysa Marie A. Antipala, and Leonabelle Batobalonos, and Class 2021’s song “For The Best People I’ve Met,” composed by Cañete concluded the graduates’ six-year high school journey.
Promotion Rites
A day earlier, UP Cebu Chancellor Liza D. Corro officially confirmed the promotion to Grade 11 of 76 completers from Class 2020 and Class 2021.
“Despite being overdue, this ceremony is a great manifestation of the hard work, sweat, and tears we have invested in our education,” Rafaela Zyun R. Canonigo, Class 2020 First Honors, said in her words of commitment.
Ma. Cassandra G. Aballe, Class 2021 First Honors, in her words of commitment, remembered what she learned from her discussion group, “Passion is inadequate to pursue something. Your passion should continue burning but in order to make it last and keep you on track, you must stay committed.”
Recognition Ceremonies
Held in the morning of the same day was the virtual Recognition Ceremonies. Honorees and awardees of AY 2019-2020 and AY 2020-2021 were given recognition for their exemplary performance in their studies and for their accomplishments in interschool competitions.
In response, the honorees paid tribute to their parents, guardians, teachers, and benefactors for their guidance and unwavering support.
Marvie Kyle Carlos and Shaira Tiu Satinitigan | UP Tambuli