Franciscan College of the Immaculate Conception recently marked a significant milestone, celebrating the Basic Education Graduation and Moving Up Ceremony for the Class of 2026. Centered on the theme, “Filipino Graduates: Prepared to Lead with Competence and Character,” the event honored the academic transitions of students from Grade 6, Grade 10, and Grade 12.
The day’s celebration began with a Holy Mass at the FCIC Holy Trinity Chapel. This was followed by the formal ceremony at the FCIC Gymnasium, which opened with a solemn academic procession.
The ceremony featured powerful addresses from the batch’s top students. Gian Jose E. Castil (Grade 10, High Honors) welcomed the assembly, followed by a moving Completer’s Speech by Chad Mauchly O. Paraiso (Grade 10, Highest Honors). Representing the Senior High School graduates, Mark Lester C. Arcena (Grade 12 STEM, High Honors) delivered a valedictory Graduation Speech.
Moreover, in her official address, Sister Mary Michael G. Bactong, OSF, PhD. framed education as a “dress rehearsal” for the real world. She emphasized that her message to the Class of 2026 is one of empowerment, urging graduates to view their school years as a foundation of resilience and to take full ownership of their future with integrity. Ultimately, she challenged them to treat their lives as a lifelong “masterpiece”, a journey she believes should be defined not just by personal success, but by the positive impact they leave on others.
In a display of creative identity, the Class of 2026 performed their original graduation song, “A Story to Succeed,” with lyrics by the students and music composed by Mr. Lance Axl Metran.
The event also held special historical weight, as it coincided with the Franciscan Jubilee Year, commemorating the 800th Anniversary of the Transitus of Saint Francis of Assisi. This served to further ground the students’ academic success in the institution’s deep-rooted spiritual traditions.
The ceremony concluded with the Pledge of Loyalty, led by Mae Francheska G. Gojoco, and was officially closed by Sister Maria Isabel Arnaiz, OSF, as the new graduates stepped out to begin their journey beyond the classroom.
