THE road to graduation is never easy, and I can attest to that with my experience in college, but these strong and grounded children fought their way just to receive their recognition on stage during their moving up and graduation ceremonies.
Trials did not hinder and were never an excuse for the students of Hospital-Bound Educational Program of House of Hope at the Southern Philippines Medical Center to achieve the goal of learning even within the four corners of the hospital – a courage and determination we should be proud of.
Last April 1, 2019, 26 pupils undergoing treatment for cancer were given recognition in a ceremony inside the hospital, producing applause and tears.
On the other hand, tribulations from war have forced Lumad from the hinterlands of Davao Del Norte and other nearby provinces to seek refuge away from the crossfire of the rebels and the government, a gamble that the Lumad did not bother to take.
Driven by the desire to empower, the Lumad continue to fight their right for education behind the walls of UCCP Haran in Davao City through various non-government organizations supporting the education of the youth.
On Friday, April 5, 22 grade six students graduated from the Bakwit School in UCCP Haran in a moving up and graduation ceremony held at the Redemptorist Church gym in J.P Laurel Avenue, Davao City while 200 are moving up for the next school year.
Fighting their different struggles, the students have broken the barrier of ignorance and overcame the negativity with determination.
Triumph can only be achieved with sheer willpower and these children are winning their different battles physically and socially with their display of courage to fend off oppressive forces.