Paulinian Scribe

𝗛𝗜𝗚𝗛𝗟𝗜𝗚𝗛𝗧𝗦: Saint Paul School of Professional Studies (SPSPS) officially conferred degrees on Bachelor of Science in Accountancy (BSA), Bachelor of Science in Accounting Information System (BSAIS), Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA), Bachelor of Science in Real Estate Management (BSREM) students, and diplomas to Senior High School graduates during the 81st Commencement Exercises at the Leyte Convention Complex, Palo, Leyte on April 24.

Photos by Mika Froilan and Cheinzy Olmida

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𝗚𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗚𝗿𝗶𝘁 𝗧𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗖𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗮𝘁 𝗦𝗣𝗦𝗣𝗦 𝟴𝟭𝘀𝘁 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁

In a ceremony marked by pride, gratitude, and the celebration of academic achievement, Saint Paul School of Professional Studies (SPSPS) held its 81st Commencement Exercises at the Leyte Convention Complex on April 24, bringing together students, faculty members, administrators, and families.

The program opened with the processional of graduates, followed by members of the administration, faculty, and the SPSPS Board of Trustees, with the entrance of the presidential mace and the colors formally signaling the start of the proceedings. To officially open the rites, the invocation, led by Senior High School (SHS) Valedictorian Isaiah Timothy O. Lacaba, and singing of the Philippine National Anthem followed.

A highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of the Plaque of Merit to distinguished honoree Atty. Marwin A. Baldevia, MBA, CPA, followed by his address, where

he emphasized that while hard work and sacrifice are crucial, maintaining a sense of gratitude is equally important, especially during uncertain times.

“When life calls you to sacrifice, to be patient, and to only hope—practice gratitude. Sacrifice, hard work, and grit are all non-negotiable; but so is gratitude,” he stressed.

This sentiment resonated with the top graduates, who reflected on their journeys to academic success. Jomari Jess Sacendoncillo Abellar, Summa Cum Laude from the Bachelor of Science in Real Estate Management (BSREM), spoke about the importance of humility and perseverance, especially in the face of rejection.

“I experienced several rejections, those rejections humbled me and taught me valuable lessons, which I summarized using the mnemonic SPSPS,” Abellar reflected. “S stands for someone is always better than you; P stands for pray and have faith that can move mountains; and S stands for strategy guides hard work and determination. May we continue to strive, persevere and serve with purpose.”

Serenity Jade Chua Ching, also a Summa Cum Laude, from the Bachelor of Science in Accountancy (BSA), reminded her classmates to stay grounded in the Paulinian values that have shaped them, despite the uncertainties ahead.

“What lies ahead is uncertain, and perhaps even intimidating… but wherever we may go, may we remember the Paulinian lessons and values that have shaped us here,” she encouraged.

Amid the celebrations, the theme of transitioning from student life to new beginnings was evident. Magna Cum Laude graduate Lance Marco M. Villegas reflected on the journey through years of academic challenges, describing graduation as both a pause and a turning point.

“At last, we are given what we’ve all been waiting for—a moment to breathe. Today, it isn’t just an ending; it marks the beginning of a new chapter,” Villegas noted.

The ceremony brought together graduates, faculty, administrators, and families to formally recognize academic achievements, with degrees conferred and special awards presented to those who excelled in academics, leadership, extracurricular involvement, and loyalty.

The event concluded with the formal induction of graduates into the alumni community, symbolizing their transition from students to professionals. The alumni oath-taking was led by Lowe S. Taña, LPT, Dean of Student Affairs, followed by the pledge of loyalty delivered by Student Loyalty Awardee Princess Jemina Animos Pontillas, CMMS. Together, these rites embodied the graduates’ commitment to uphold the enduring values of gratitude, perseverance, and service as they embark on their professional journeys.

via Katrina Buñales
Publicity Material by Zeah Ibo
Photo by Mika Froilan and Cheinzy Olmida

𝗔 𝗦𝗘𝗡𝗗-𝗢𝗙𝗙 𝗜𝗡 𝗙𝗔𝗜𝗧𝗛. Graduating students of SPSPS offered prayers of gratitude for the successful completion of their academic programs during the Baccalaureate Mass at the Palo Metropolitan Cathedral in Palo, Leyte, on April 23.

Presiding over the celebration, Rev. Fr. Virgilio C. Manaog emphasized that true transformation begins with consistency rather than intensity. He reminded graduates that professional success is rooted in integrity in the small things—the honesty of keeping promises and remaining the same person at home, at work, and online.

The Mass served as a meaningful spiritual send-off as graduates prepare to enter a new chapter beyond school.

via Joeby Macasusi
Photos by Mika Froilan