Rizal Technological University (RTU) honored the academic excellence and milestones of  114 Grade 10 completers as they marched to celebrate the completion of their academic journey in junior high school at the College of Education-Laboratory School’s (CEd-LS) during the 9th Moving Up Ceremony under the theme “Pilipinong Handang Mamuno nang May Kakayahan at Mabuting Pagkatao” last April 15, 2026, at the RTU Quadrangle.

Dr. Wendelyn A. Samarita, the Dean of CEd, commenced the ceremony saying that true achievement transcends academic accolades. While acknowledging the completers’ drive for excellence, she reminded them, saying “…sa mundong puno ng competition, tagumpay, at paghahangad na maging magaling, nawa’y huwag natin kalimutan maging mabuti”.

She emphasized that the true measure of success lies not in raw intelligence or skill, but in the ability to lead with integrity, discipline, and genuine compassion for others. By anchoring themselves in the RTU Core Values, she noted that a resilient character and a positive outlook would be their most reliable guides in the journey ahead.

University President Dr. Ma. Eugenia M. Yangco echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that a true leader is measured by the depth of their heart, the strength of their principles, and their compassion for others.

She also introduced the completers to the Japanese concept of Ikigai—the “reason for being.” By finding the intersection of what they love, what they are good at, what the world needs, and where they can be of service, Dr. Yangco believes that the completers will find a direction that transcends a mere career.

Dr. Yangco ultimately challenged them to embody nationalism by aligning their personal talents with the country’s needs, reminding them that integrity strengthens their conviction while mastery of their craft leads to professional excellence.

The commencement speaker, Dr. Reymond John L. Beltran, a Batch 2011 Alumnus of CEd-LS and expert in Internal Medicine, emphasized three important lessons: have the courage to try, take responsibility in creating one’s own destiny, and to never expect that life gets easier. His words echoed relevant encouragement to help the completers face the new chapters of their lives.

The CEd-LS Principal, Dr. Milany M. Averilla, concluded the ceremony with a powerful message on the synergy of skill and soul, saying, “You need both competence and character.” She defined true education as the intersection of intelligence and character, warning that knowledge can be dangerous without a strong moral compass.

Concluding her address, she described the completers as the school’s greatest contribution to the nation, describing them as living testaments to a nurturing environment that fosters discipline, humility, and compassion.

As the ceremony came to its end, the 114 young Rizalianos closed their journey at the Laboratory School not just as scholars, but as compassionate leaders ready to find their Ikigai and serve the nation with both competence and a heart for others.

Congratulations, CEd-LS Batch 2026!