Lessons from the Past, Hope for the Future: 19 RRCY Residents celebrate new beginning at DSWD FO VIII, TSAT Graduation and Moving-Up Ceremony
Nineteen (19) residents of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office VIII’s Regional Rehabilitation Center for the Youth (RRCY) reached a significant milestone on April 15 as they celebrated their Graduation and Moving-Up Ceremony.
The event was held in partnership with the Tanauan School of Arts and Trade (TSAT), a key ally in the children’s continuing education while under rehabilitation. More than a ceremony, the event marked a turning point in the lives of these young individuals. It was a celebration of growth, redemption, and the power of second chances.
Three residents graduated from Senior High School, three completed Junior High School, and 13 others moved up, while also receiving academic honors, conduct awards, and special citations for their perseverance.
Despite their past mistakes as children in conflict with the law (CICLs), these residents stood proud in their caps and gowns, demonstrating that transformation is possible with the right support and belief.
In her message of challenge, DSWD Field Office VIII Regional Director Grace Subong emphasized the importance of education and the Center’s role in guiding these children toward a better future.
“It was once a dream, now a reality. At sana makita ninyo na ginagawa namin ito para sa inyo [CICLs]. Kaya naman pagbutihan ninyo dahil mahirap maging mahirap, ngunit mas mahirap kung walang pangarap at walang katuwang para maabot ang pangarap,” she said.
Responding on behalf of the graduates, the class valedictorian pledged to make up for past mistakes and lead a better life. He thanked the RRCY staff, TSAT educators, and everyone who stood by them in their journey toward change.
One of the graduates, 17-year-old “Jim” (not his real name), shared how the program turned his life around. “Waray ak nag-expect na makakapadayon pa ako pag-eskuyla pag-abot ko ngadi ha center, dako akon pasalamat ha mga tawo na bumulig ha amon and naniwala bisan ha amon sala” he said.
He added that he wanted to become a chef and continue his dreams once his rehabilitation ends.
The ceremony was also graced by key education stakeholders and local officials, including Dr. Edgardo E. Alizar, Public School District Supervisor of Tanauan I; Dr. Mariza S. Magan, Schools Division Superintendent; Mrs. Genelyn Cornejo, current TSAT Principal; Dr. Dorcas Mejia, retired TSAT Principal and the person who pioneered the special classes at RRCY; and Joselita Retaga, PESO Manager representing the Local Government Unit of Tanauan.
The event served as a stirring reminder that with compassion, support, and access to education; children, despite their past mistakes, can build a future filled with hope.
