By Narvacarolyne Tan
Pagasa School Publication

On 28 March 2025, the newly elected student body officers for AY 2025-2026 officially pledged themselves to their responsibilities as incoming Student Government (SG) leaders during the Oath Taking ceremony at the Xavier University Junior High School (XUJHS) Multi-Purpose Room.

To commence this special ceremony, Ms Ma Fevic Geromie Estroga (OSASI Coordinator) expressed her heartfelt gratitude to all organizations involved in facilitating the elections, including Botar Atenista Electoral Committee, the Light Cavalry Leadership Community (LCLC), the formators, and of course, the official candidates.

The event featured select speakers who delivered messages of congratulations, inspiration, and advice for the candidates. The SG leaders listened attentively as the speakers shared insights grounded in their experiences, offering both encouragement and wisdom.

Mr Ameer Macud opened his speech by clarifying that he was not simply a leader passing on authority, but rather a fellow student sharing his thoughts. “I am just a graduating senior, just a student, speaking his mind,” he said.

His address underscored the importance of taking initiative at all times. Although he was not part of the SG, he emphasized the necessity of stepping up and taking responsibility when needed. Mr Macud concluded with an optimistic outlook for the officers’ leadership, urging them to always serve with the best interests of their peers in mind.

Nicole Jance Tion, a former student government presidential candidate, offered her insights with the reminder that while the candidates had overcome a significant challenge, more obstacles lay ahead. “You have overcome a huge obstacles, unfortunately, there’s more to come,” she indicated.

While congratulating them on their electoral success, Nicole Tion warned that this new responsibility would entail even greater challenges. She concluded her speech by advising the new leaders to “expect the unexpected,” encouraging them to remain resilient on their journey ahead.

Dr Samuel Macagba III, Assistant Principal of Formation, reminded the candidates that they are students first, prior to taking on their leadership roles. “How can you give, if you have nothing left to give?” He emphasized the importance of prioritizing academic success, as they are models of excellence. “Never forsake yourselves in pursuit of others,” he advised.

Dr Macagba III highlighted the significance of each vote that was cast, stating, “Each vote was not just a name on the ballot; it was a student placing their faith in you.” He stressed the solemnity of their oath, encouraging them to honor, nurture, and acknowledge the commitment they are making.

The outgoing “Big Three” of AY 2024-2025 SG LCLC also shared their thoughts with the new batch of student leaders.

“Leadership is not about wielding power; it is about fulfilling a purpose,” stated Joe Nicholas Asuncion, Executive President.

Blessie Kyla De Gracia, Executive Vice President, also echoed this sentiment: “Leadership is an ongoing process of learning.”

Tish Mary Fay Cabigas, Secretary General, added, “I’ve always believed that to lead is to learn.”

Their messages served as not merely farewells as they move up to Senior High but as enduring encouragements, reminding the new leaders of their potential as they anticipate the upcoming school year.

Led by Ms Rheicynel Pakino, Electoral Chief Commissioner, the SG Leaders of AY 2025-2026 took the oath as they raised their right hands, every word uttered serving as a promise of dedication to their responsibilities.

Upon completing their oath, the new SG LCLC Executive President, Joseph Raphael Jamero, affirmed his readiness and willingness to serve not only the student body but the entire XUJHS community. “To our administrators, teachers, faculty, staff, and fellow students, I am ready to serve as your [AY] 2025-2026 Executive President,” Mr. Jamero declared.

In her closing remarks, Ms Pakino shared a Bible verse from Galatians 6:9, “Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary.”

The ceremony concluded with the dawn of a new chapter, led by leaders that the XUJHS community eagerly anticipates to exemplify integrity, dedication, and overall positive impact on the school community.