St. John Colleges of Calamba Celebrates Commencement Exercises

Date: June 11, 2024

Venue: SJC Hall Quadrangle

Theme: “Filipino Youth: Building a Stronger Future for a New Philippines”

The commencement exercises of the St. John Colleges of Calamba for the Senior High School and College Department were held with great pomp and circumstance at the SJC Hall Quadrangle on June 11, 2024. The ceremony was a celebration of academic achievement and the promising future of the graduating students.

The program began with a grand processional, led by the candidates for graduation, esteemed faculty, administration, staff, board of trustees, and honored guests. The entrance of colors, accompanied by the national anthem, set a patriotic tone for the event, followed by renditions of the SJC Hymn and the Calamba Hymn.

Highlights of the Event:

• Invocation: Judith Fortes, a distinguished member of the College faculty, delivered a solemn invocation, seeking blessings for the graduating class.
• Welcome Address: Eunice Tabernilla, BSA Magna Cum Laude, delivered an inspiring welcome address, setting the stage for the commencement ceremony.
• Academic Achievement Awards: Outstanding students from both the College and Senior High School were honored with academic achievement awards, recognizing their exceptional performance.
• Words of Gratitude: Alfred Kenji Palanas, SHS Valedictorian with highest honors, expressed heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the Senior High School graduates.
• Guest Speaker Introduction: Portia Egken, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Principal, introduced the esteemed guest speaker, Teresa Juta Sanchez, Valedictorian of Class ’74, with eloquence and grace.
• Guest Speaker’s Message: Teresa Juta Sanchez delivered a poignant message, reflecting on her journey and imparting wisdom to the graduating class, followed by the presentation of a plaque of appreciation.
• Jubilarian Recognition: Members of the Silver (Class 1999) and Golden (Class 1974) Jubilee Classes were recognized with certificates of appreciation for their enduring commitment to the institution.
• Confirmation of Graduates: Cynthia Meneses, SJC President confirmed the graduates, marking the culmination of their academic journey.
• Distribution of Certificates: Cynthia Meneses, SJC President, and Ms. Adrienne Aguilar, Vice President for Administration, awarded certificates and special academic honors to deserving graduates.
• Appointment and Turnover of Duties: Cynthia Meneses appointed Dr Portia Egken as the new Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dr Maria Dedumo as Dean of Colleges, formally acknowledging their responsibilities. Dr. Aliw Aldea, the former Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of Colleges, was honored with a service award.
• Alumni Foundation Induction: Newly elected officers of the SJC Alumni Foundation were inducted into their roles, symbolizing continuity and support for the institution.
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• Pledge of Loyalty: Gen Magtanggol Gatdula, President of the SJC of Calamba Alumni Foundation, led the graduates in a pledge of loyalty, underscoring their commitment to alma mater.
• Closing: The ceremony concluded with the heartfelt strains of the graduation song, “A Million Dreams,” as faculty, administration, staff, board of trustees, and honored guests recessed from the quadrangle.
• Master of Ceremony: Marcedes De Los Reyes and Mr. Alipon Elec skillfully orchestrated the proceedings, ensuring a seamless and memorable event.

The commencement exercises of the St. John Colleges of Calamba were a testament to the dedication, hard work, and achievements of the graduating students, faculty, and staff. As they embark on new journeys, they carry with them the values instilled by SJC, ready to make a positive impact on society and build a brighter future for the Philippines