by: Christine V. Ordinario

Edrian Paul S. Liao aced and led Batch Silaksarinlan in the 20th Commencement Exercises of Philippine Science High School – Cagayan Valley Campus (PSHS–CVC) in a virtual ceremony streamed online last March 26, 2021.

Enthemed “A Toolbox of Talents, A Think Tank for Tomorrow,” the program was a culmination to the six-year high school journey of Batch 2021.

Liao, a native of Cauayan City, Isabela, was awarded with Highest Honors, Proficiency Awards in Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science, English, PEHM, the DOST Secretary Award for Model Science Scholar and the PSHS Leadership Award.

The Duke University-bound and Karsh Scholarship grantee Liao emphasized in his speech the essences of learn and unlearning, exceeding one’s expectations and serving the communities where people are part of.

“Find your niche in this society. We are destined to be a toolbox of talents. And the think tank for tomorrow”, he stated.

Of the 86 scholars, Luis Jerard Salum, was also awarded with Highest Honors, the highest academic title given to graduating students and 35 students were also awarded “With Honors” title.

The different Excellence Awards were given to the following: Richard Francis T. Agcaoili – Biology; Luis Jerard Salum – Chemistry and Filipino; Judel I. Lozada – Research and Filipino Journalism; Lynelle Daryl S. Ringor – English and Social Science; Percival C. Carpio III, English Journalism; Louela Bless B. Madayag – Arts.

Mr. Erick John H. Marmol, the PSHS-CVC Campus Director, commended Batch 2021 for their achievements, and for being inspiration to others to work for the best.

Hon. Fortunato T. de la Peña, the Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST); Ms. Lilia T. Habacon, the Executive Director of PSHS System, and Dr. Renato U. Solidum, Jr., DOST Undersecretary, also graced the 2nd virtual graduation of the school.

The three DOST top brass underscored the challenges the Covid-19 pandemic has caused that changed the landscape of education and they also emphasized the role of the PSHS graduates in bringing hope for the country.

“As Pisay graduates, be brave to face challenges you will encounter in the future. You are built to excel, you are an agent of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, you can help shape the future and make it a sustainable experience for humanity”, said Sec. de la Peña in his Commencement speech.

Exec. Dir. Habacon expressed her gratitude to the graduates and their parents for choosing Pisay for their education, as she said, “We hope that you will carry the values that you gained and developed from your Pisay education as you work to achieve your dreams and aspirations. You are a Pisay scholar. You are important. And you will always be,” In his closing remarks, Usec. Solidum said, “Young people like you are the country’s future frontliners in key roles needed to maintain a humane, free, and peaceful society.”

The 20th Commencement Exercises of PSHS–CVC Silaksarinlan was aired at 3PM on May 26 via YouTube.

Silaksarinlan, the batch name of this year’s graduating class, is derived from the phrase Silakbo tungong Kasarinlan.#