Xavier School’s International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) Cohort 13 held its closing ceremony at the Gotuaco-Yu Auditorium following the end of May 2024 Examination Session, May 16. 

The ceremony began with a prayer led by Joseph Banzon of 12C. This was followed by the opening remarks of Fr. Joseph Y. Haw, SJ, school president, who congratulated the cohort for their hard work and perseverance the past two years. He also encouraged the students to bring with them the learnings they received from Xavier School as they continue on to college.

A series of testimonials proceeded. Sean Isaiah Ang of 12A shared how the IB program helped him to be a better student when it comes to his academic performance. After, Kevin Ryan Co of 12B talked about his personal experiences and mentioned how the relationships he has forged with his cohort-mates became one of his strongest motivations. On behalf of the parents, Mrs. Camille Genuino thanked the school for teaching and assisting their sons for the past years. She also spoke about how the IB program molded the students and prepared them for what lies ahead.

After the first set of testimonials, Mr. Ferdinand Aguila, Mrs. Angel America, and Mr. Alfonz Chopitea, class advisers of 12A, 12B, and 12C respectively, called on the names of the Cohort 13 students to receive their certificates of completion and IB tokens from Fr. Haw and Mr. Exxon Yu, IBDP coordinator. 

Mrs. America, 12B adviser and Economics teacher, recalled the many experiences she’s had with the Cohort 13 students even when they were in Grade School. She wished the cohort all the best in their future promising that their teachers will always be their supporters. Another testimonial was from Mr. Aguila, 12A adviser and Math teacher. Using lyrics from Taylor Swift’s songs, he gave his message that dwelt on making the students not forget the many relationships, experiences, and learnings they established and received from their IB classes.

Rafael Villareal of 12C and batch representative gave his thanksgiving message on behalf of the cohort. He thanked the teachers, administrators, and their families who supported them in their IB journey. This was followed by a band performance from select IB students who performed the song “I Lived” by OneRepublic. 

To end the closing ceremony, Mr. Yu, IBDP coordinator, gave his remarks where he congratulated the cohort for pursuing the IB curriculum despite the rigor and pressure that come with it. More importantly, he reminded them about the Jesuit ideals they have learned from the school and why they need to use all these virtues in making the world a better place.

The closing ceremony ended with the singing of the Xavier School Song led by the student council officers and class presidents. The pictorial of the cohort and the fellowship organized by the parents happened at the Multi-Purpose Center right after the program.

We once again congratulate our Cohort 13 students! Luceat Lux!