LOOK | LET topnotcher inspires Argaonons, honors alma maters
Christel De Los Reyes, first placer in the September 2015 Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET) from Cebu Normal University (CNU), was honored through a “motorcade of honor” across Argao town and Carcar City in southern Cebu on Wednesday.
The motorcade began at Tulic Elementary School, De Los Reyes’ primary school, where she studied from 2009 to 2015 and graduated as class valedictorian.
Returning to the school 11 years after delivering her valedictory speech, De Los Reyes shared an inspirational message, reflecting on how the institution helped shape her academic discipline and personal values.
Emphasizing that success is built through small and consistent efforts, she encouraged pupils to “begin with the end in mind,” reminding them that daily choices form the foundation of future achievements.
She described her recognition as a shared victory and expressed pride in Tulic Elementary School as the place where her journey began.
Tulic Elementary School Principal Dr. Maribeth Mier expressed the school’s “pride and joy” over De Los Reyes’ outstanding achievement.
“We honor her dedication, perseverance, and excellence,” Mier said.
ASMA
The motorcade’s second stop was Academia de San Miguel Archangel (ASMA), where De Los Reyes completed her secondary education.
She recalled her high school years as a period of intellectual rigor, creativity, and strong friendships, noting that excellence was always intentional and rooted in sustained effort.
She credited her teachers for pushing her beyond her comfort zone and shaping not only her skills but also her character—lessons she carried into higher education and professional preparation.
ASMA Principal Sir Ariel Alberca said De Los Reyes’ achievement serves as an inspiration to students and a source of pride for educators.
“Your journey is a testament to hard work, faith, and unwavering commitment to your calling,” Alberca said.
ASMA Director Fr. Christopher Amores also expressed pride in De Los Reyes’ success as a newly licensed professional teacher.
“Your success is a gift to you, your family, and the learning community that formed you academically and professionally,” Amores said, urging her to help mold future citizens who are “well-rounded, competent, and morally upright.”
“Be the best educator you can be, with Christ as the anchor of your mission in education,” he added, noting that her name, Christel, means “Christ-bearer.”
CNU President Dr. Daniel Ariaso Sr. described De Los Reyes as the embodiment of the university’s vision, highlighting discipline as the foundation of her success.
“Discipline is more powerful than motivation. That is what Christel represents,” Ariaso said, encouraging students to discipline themselves in pursuit of their goals.
Dr. Ariaso also personally awarded De Los Reyes a ₱15,000 check, on top of the university’s ₱100,000 cash incentive for LET first placers.
LGU and SCC
The motorcade proceeded to the Argao Training Center for a recognition ceremony, where De Los Reyes received ₱50,000 from the local government of Argao. The check was presented by Vice Mayor Atty. Orvi Ortega and members of the Municipal Council.
De Los Reyes thanked the local government for its support and expressed hope that more youth-focused programs would be strengthened to provide guidance and opportunities for young Argaonons.
The motorcade concluded at St. Catherine’s College (SCC) in Carcar City, where De Los Reyes completed her Senior High School education.
Addressing Catherineans, she reflected on her pandemic-era senior high experience, recalling daily commutes, shortened face-to-face classes, and the abrupt shift to remote learning during the COVID-19 lockdown.
She credited SCC teachers for guiding students through uncertainty and instilling values beyond academic excellence, including perseverance, honesty, and compassion.
She reiterated the principle of “beginning with the end in mind,” emphasizing that small and consistent choices shape long-term success.
SCC Directress and President Sr. Catherine Edith Cruz, O.P., said De Los Reyes did more than pass the licensure examination–she excelled.
“Her achievement is clear evidence of discipline, consistency, integrity, confidence, and leadership, where intelligence is guided by empathy,” Cruz said.
De Los Reyes concluded the motorcade by thanking her schools, mentors, CNU family, and loved ones for believing in her and helping her view challenges as opportunities, reaffirming that her success is a shared triumph and a testament to the lasting impact of her alma maters.
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