House Deputy Speaker and Las Piñas Rep. Camille Villar urged graduate students of Tagoloan Community College (TCC) in Misamis Oriental to never give up and to face the new challenges of the adulting phase head-on.
“Life is a battlefield, and you’re off to the next phase of your life called adulting, as you call it. There will be many challenges ahead – it will be exciting, challenging, and at times, scary. But I am confident that you will also discover a strength in yourselves as you begin to navigate this exciting new chapter,” Villar said.
“Utak at puso – this is something that I trust your education at TCC has instilled in each of you,” added Villar in her speech during the 18th Commencement Exercises of TCC.
Villar told graduates that “the idea of giving up should not be in your DNA.”
“Laban lang. I want all of you to remember that mistakes will happen, and they should never stop you from doing your best. Mistakes are an opportunity to learn. Learn the lesson, bounce back, and work harder than everyone else.”
“Sipag at tiyaga: these are words that my mom and dad taught us to live by. To dream, is one thing, but to make it happen – that takes a whole lot of determination, perseverance, and sipag at tiyaga,” Villar added.
The House leader also reminded graduating students that “change does not happen in an instant; it happens gradually.”
“It starts when people do good things in their own lives, from their own corner of their world. It starts within you, within your families, and within your circle. I implore all of you: be the change you want to see in this world,” she said.
Villar also expressed confidence that the graduates will be “the trailblazers of tomorrow.”
“You are our future. Find what inspires you. That spark will fuel your passion to dream and lay the path to your future. While material success is something to aspire for, remember to find your purpose and your calling. When you find it, cultivate it, nourish it, work hard for it,” Villar said.
“Our country needs you. The country needs your energy, your talents, your knowledge, your passion to move the country forward towards a path of innovation, towards a path of transformation. As our country will continue to face the challenges of today and tomorrow, we are counting on you to help your families, your communities, and your government. You are our men and women on the frontlines, the very same who will take us forward toward a better world. Huwag susuko, huwag mawawalan ng pag-asa,” she added.
Villar is the CEO of ALL Value Group and managing director of Vista Land.