Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte-Carpio urged the younger generation to “serve, protect, and love” the country during the 49th commencement exercises of the Emilio Aguinaldo College in Dasmariñas, Cavite.
In her speech, Duterte noted that the graduating batch is the first to finish college after the K-12 curriculum was implemented in the country’s education system six years ago.
She said it was the country’s “first attempt” in producing graduates with “21st century education,” which she described as “equipped with life, career, learning and innovation, and communication, and information technology skills.”
“Hard work brought you here today, and hard work tags along with incredible opportunities that will bring pride and glory to you, your family, and your communities,” she said.
Duterte said the COVID-19 pandemic has “no match” in preventing the government in delivering quality education.
“The pandemic was no match for the collective resolve of the Philippine government and all education stakeholders in our country, who ensured that Filipino learners continue to have access to education,” she added.
“Life will never be easy. Pero when faced with a problem, you sit down and think about the options and the solutions. Never give up,” she told the students.
Her speech ended with a reflection on former President Emilio Aguinaldo, whom she said “chose to love our country” and that “choosing to love a country is an act of bravery.” –Report from Daniel Manalastas/KC-ag
