By : Ms. Justin Gabriella A. Paculanang | The Chronicles Staff Writer
LEON B. POSTIGO, ZN — The air inside the Leon B. Postigo Gymnasium was thick with a mixture of solemnity and triumph as Helping Hands College and Wellness Center Inc. (HHCWCI) officially convened its 2nd Commencement Exercises. The ceremony honored the Batch Paragons of 2026, marking a milestone that extended far beyond the simple distribution of diplomas.
The event served as a profound tribute to the collective journey of the graduates. For the Paragons, the day was not merely a celebration of academic merit but a public recognition of the immense sacrifices made behind the scenes.
The gymnasium resonated with gratitude for the parents and guardians whose unwavering support served as the foundation for every success achieved. Adding to the prestige of the occasion, the institution welcomed Sir Richard White, a major benefactor and donor who traveled from the United States to witness the milestone. In his keynote address, Sir Richard shared a message rooted in global perspective and generosity, urging the graduates to use their education as a tool for uplifting others, just as the school’s mission intends.
The local community also stood in solidarity with the graduates, represented by the Honorable Mayor Runie O. Jamora. The Mayor delivered a stirring message that reinforced the importance of the youth’s role in the progress of the municipality, emphasizing that the Batch Paragons are the future leaders and professionals who will drive Zamboanga del Norte forward.
However, the most resonant theme of the afternoon remained the acknowledgment of the “silent battles.” Beyond the grades and the gala, the graduates were commended for the personal hurdles they navigated in private—the moments of doubt, the sleepless nights, and the internal resilience required to reach this finish line.
As the tassels were turned, the atmosphere shifted from reflection to anticipation. The graduation concluded with a call to action: that the Paragons carry the same resilience they displayed within the college walls into the professional world. While the ceremony at Leon B. Postigo Gymnasium has ended, the true work of the Batch of 2026 begins now. Armed with the wisdom of their instructors, the inspiration of world-class benefactors, and the support of local leadership, these new alumni depart not just as graduates, but as symbols of perseverance, ready to serve as beacons of excellence in their respective fields.