Student leaders of Centro Escolar Integrated School had their induction and oath-taking ceremony last November 11, 2022 at the CEU Centrodome, with the theme “Escolarian Student Leaders: Journeying Together Towards Empowerment and Excellence.”

The ceremony was formally opened by Dr. Teresa R. Perez, the Vice President of Centro Escolar Integrated School. In her opening remarks, Dr. Perez left Escolarians with a message, “Let us not be contented with only windows open, let us open our doors too,” inspiring students to be passionate about striving for excellence every day, rather than being complacent with what they have learned today.

After the insightful opening remarks, a heartwarming intermission was performed by Nhar Kenjie de Jesus and Raphaella Erika Victoria, the Kwerdas members who sang “How Deep is Your Love” by Bee Gees. It was then followed by an inspirational speech from Mr. Raymond Carlo Mendoza, a Senior High School teacher at CEIS.

Mr. Mendoza explained that student leaders must know how they would work side by side in order to achieve their goals, “That is what journeying together means,” Mr. Mendoza mentioned, highlighting the importance of helping each other and at the same time being a companion, a friend, and a listener to others.

“Empowering is not simply saying ’you can do it!’ [kaya mo ‘yan!], unless you translate it into action, the words you ‘can do it’ are just words,” Mr. Mendoza added, as he shared that empowering does not end with words, but by also believing, trusting, and working together.

He then stated that journeying together and at the same time empowering each other, student leaders will find their way towards excellence, by means of celebrating victories, assessing how you made it and how you can make it better in the future, and lastly, by breathingー to take a rest before achieving another success as student leaders. Mr. Mendoza ended his speech as Escolarian leaders were left motivated by his inspirational message. 

The event then proceeded with the acknowledgement of the elected officers of Centro Escolar Integrated School. Afterwards, Kohjiro B. Iwaki, the current SSC President, pledged and accepted the responsibility and duties with an impactful speech.

“It was a pleasure to be selected and a privilege to serve our institution with humility and commitment, to strive for its betterment,” Iwaki stated as he looked back during the moment he decided to run and win the position for president. 

He also mentioned that the SSC will be serving the Escolarians with utmost efficiency and integrity, therefore, the promises and trust during the election would not be wasted as the Student Council will try their best to create and provide services for the benefit of the institution’s student body.

In his speech, Iwaki accepted the key of responsibility acknowledging the duties vested upon him, “As your Supreme Student Council President, I'll do all in my power to keep the promises I've made and make them into reality. While ensuring that this academic year will be enjoyable and fulfilling to everyone.”

Ms. Abigail DC. Espineda, the principal, concluded the event with a message for the student leaders to find motivation, “Be our bridge and we should work hand in hand in accomplishing the goals of the institution,” she said while emphasizing the big responsibility that the Escolarian leaders will face this academic year. She also assured the student leaders that the admins will be by their side as they walk together towards the betterment of the institution.