A consistent achiever and an honor student, a walking dictionary and a human calculator – these are how the people perceived the four Summa Cum Laude of the Graduating Class of 2025. Naturally, there's curiosity about their methods, including their study habits and daily routines. But behind those achievements and successes lies a story of sleepless nights, constant pressure, quiet sacrifices, moments of regret, and silent prayers.
The Central Luzon State University (CLSU), in its upcoming 73rd Commencement Exercises, will honor the hard work and accomplishments of 2,403 graduates, including the 1,006 students who achieved Latin Honors. Beyond these numbers is the human story of the four Summa Cum Laude who will stand as the vanguards of the Class of 2025, embodying the spirit of this year’s graduating class.
ANTHONY V. AQUINO
From a Humble Roots to a Victorious Valedictorian: Anthony’s Journey of Resilience and Success
First on the list is Mr. Anthony V. Aquino, a Bachelor of Secondary Education who came from a humble background, where he faced hardships and financial struggles, yet still managed to excel in his classes. He will lead the graduating class as valedictorian, achieving an outstanding Grade Point Average (GPA) of 1.16.
Anthony recalls the struggles that defined his early life. His father, Mr. Alexander Aquino, tirelessly tended to their mallard ducks, providing their sole source of income. Meanwhile, his mother, Ms. Lara Aquino, made the difficult decision to seek opportunities abroad, hoping to alleviate their financial burdens. Yet, fate had other plans, and her venture proved unsuccessful, forcing her to return home, leaving the family still entangled in debt.
“Yung mga magulang ko po ay hindi nakapagtapos ng pag-aaral, kaya nakita ko talaga yung hirap ng buhay namin noong bata pa lang ako. Two years old na ko nuong nagkaroon kami ng sariling bahay, kaya sabi ko sa sarili ko nuong High School palang ako na mag aaral akong mabuti para matulungan ko sila mama at papa sa buhay,” Anthony exclaimed.
As Anthony excelled in his studies, a pivotal shift occurred at home. His father, seeing an opportunity for greater stability, made the courageous decision to sell their mallard ducks and venture into the buy-and-sell onion business.
He shared that during the pandemic, they were borrowing a vehicle as they sold onions on the streets. “Nag oonline class din po ako dati habang tumutulong kay papa and may time po na nag pa open ng camera yung teacher namin tapos nakita nya ko na nagbebenta ng sibuyas,” he added.
With his resiliency, drive for success, and strategy in life, Anthony’s commitment to his studies paid off. He coveted a spot as a Gender and Development (GAD) Scholar, which became a lifeline that consistently supported him from his first year through his fourth year.
Despite being top-tier students in their class, Anthony faced various criticisms from the people who didn’t believe in him. But growing up in a family that always pushed him to be kind, he found the strength to fight and overcome adversity in life.
“My experiences taught me to remain strong through adversity. No matter what life throws my way, I'm determined not to be defeated by anyone or any challenge. Even as an achiever, external pressures are inevitable, but we must remember never to be defeated. Keep pushing forward, because with every person who believes in you, you have a powerful reason to persist," Anthony expressed.
His journey from a humble beginning to a victorious valedictorian stands as a testament to perseverance, resilience, and the enduring strength found in family and self-belief.
LORRAINE L. FABROS
The Well-loved Literary Lumiere
A 21-year-old who loves reading books, Ms. Lorraine Fabros is also a Summa Cum Laude from the College of Arts and Social Sciences, who garnered a 1.17 GPA. For the first time in the history of CASS, a Bachelor of Arts in Literature raised the flag of the College.
Lorraine's passion for reading blossomed in her childhood, nurtured by her parents, Mr. Renato Fabros, a farmer, and Mrs. Nancy Fabros, a full-time mother. Growing up in a loving and supportive environment, her parents encouraged her academic pursuits, fostering a drive for excellence. Even in high school, Lorraine's path was clear; she knew she was destined for a career in literature.
According to her, “Hindi ako prinepressure ng mga magulang ko, in fact sobra sobra yung suporta na ibinibigay nila sa akin, ako mismo yung nagpressure sa sarili ko. Noong first year and second year ako, talagang sa pag-aaral lang umikot yung mundo ko.”
Lorraine's pursuit of a college degree wasn't hers alone; it was a dream shared with her parents, as she is the first in their family to achieve an academic degree. Witnessing their tireless efforts to provide for her education, she firmly believes her diploma is also their diploma.
“Knowing my parents’ personal histories, life has been tough and rough for them. But they worked together to give us a better life, and the least I can do is to achieve all these things. Everything I do, every dream I chase, isn't just for me; it's a testament to their sacrifice, a way to give them the easy life they deserve. My dreams are our family's dreams," she shared.
This deep-seated motivation, combined with her innate passion for literature, fueled her consistent achievement as a University Scholar and ultimately earned her the prestigious Presidential Award. Despite these achievements, Lorraine remains grounded as she reflects on the knowledge and character instilled in her by her experiences at the university. For Lorraine, CLSU did not just cultivate her mind but also taught her to acknowledge limitations, weaknesses, and mistakes.
For her, “Knowledge means nothing without humility…And I think that captures the defining qualities of every CLSUan. Being firmly rooted, always looking back at where we came from. Katulad ng palay na yumuyuko kapag hinog na ang butil nito, manatili tayong mapagkumbaba”
Ms. Fabros indeed embodies the very essence of a literary luminary – not only brilliant and accomplished in her own right, but also deeply empathetic and profoundly humble, forever mindful of the roots that nourish her soaring dreams.
JOSE EMMANUEL C. MICO
Beyond the Comfort Zone: The Versatile Summa Cum Laude
The Department of English and Humanities proudly celebrates not one, but two Summa cum laude graduates, and among them is Mr. Jose Emmanuel Mico also known as Jemuel to his friends and colleagues, who hails from Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija.
He personifies the power of passion, focus, and unwavering dedication, showcasing academic brilliance intertwined with a vibrant array of extracurricular pursuits.
Jemuel expressed that "You dictate what you feel. Go after the things you believe are best for you, even if the journey feels daunting and scary, because we don't grow in places where we're comfortable. It is only when we dare to be uncomfortable that we truly gain wider experiences and valuable lessons.”
Having a strong background in STEM during high school, Jemuel embarked on a courageous path of stepping outside his comfort zone, charting a course away from his family's traditional pursuits to embrace his true calling in the arts and humanities. It was during his senior years in high school that he discovered a profound talent and affinity for these subjects, ultimately leading him to pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Literature. This decision marked the beginning of an extraordinary academic adventure.
“Naramdaman ko yung full support nila sa akin, kahit na hindi sila sure kung tama ba na pinayagan nila akong mag BA Lit. Kaya gusto kong patunayan yung sarili ko sa kanila, I to have to prove na worthy ako sa suportang binibigay nila,” Jemuel shared.
He is much more than just a dedicated student; he is versatile, spontaneous, and talented, and juggles a multitude of passions. As an active member of the Student Publication, he honed skills in the art of sports writing, embraced the dynamic world of broadcasting, and developed a keen eye for story angles. Amidst these commitments, Jemuel consistently remained a university scholar, a remarkable feat that speaks volumes about his exceptional time management, focus, and discipline.
The road to academic excellence was not without its challenges. Jemuel openly admits to the struggle of balancing his rigorous studies with his numerous extracurricular activities. Yet, through it all, a guiding principle remained firmly etched in his mind: prioritizing his academics above all else.
“Take on roles outside the classroom that you know na hindi macococompromise kung ano talaga ang ipinunta mo dito sa university. Kasi at the end of the day, although you're a student performer, you're a student journalist, you're a student leader, ang nauna talaga ay pagiging student. So, you have to be open to the idea that if you need to choose, you have to let go of the other stuff because we came here for that very purpose,” Jemuel conveyed.
His dedication never wavered, and his commitment to being present-minded in every endeavor allowed him to fully engage with his studies and extracurriculars.
Jemuel’s journey is truly an inspiring testament to following one's passion, embracing versatility, and demonstrating unwavering perseverance. He is a shining example for aspiring students, proving that with focus and heart, any dream is within reach.
ROMMEL O. ROSALES
More than a Viral Sensation: Rommel's Story of True Inspiration
Last but not least is Mr. Rommel O. Rosales, a 22-year-old BS Statistics student from Sto. Domingo, Nueva Ecija, whose viral TikTok video about candidly informing his mother of his Latin honor has captivated the hearts of the netizens. Rommel is among CLSU’s brightest minds, achieving an exceptional GPA of 1.19.
Growing up in a family where he witnessed the sacrifices of his parents, his mother, Mrs. Imelda Rosales, worked as a helper while his father, Mr. Rodrigo Rosales, a construction worker, faced inconsistent income. Rommel vividly remembers their struggles, particularly how they often borrowed money just to provide for their needs.
Rommel recalled “Kaya ang taas kong mangarap kasi bata palang ako alam ko na ang hirap ng buhay, nakita ko na yung parents ko binibigay yung mga needs ko pero hindi yun mula sa ipon nila kung hindi ipinang uutang nila ako ng baon, at hindi ko kinakahiya yun. Proud ako sa kanila kasi despite ng kalagayan namin, ginagawa nila lahat para ibigay yung mga pangangailangan ko. Kaya lahat ng achievement ko at medalya, ay para lahat sa kanila.”
Beyond his academic pursuits, Rommel is also a dedicated athlete. He was invited to join the CLSU Volleyball Team, representing the university in regional meets. Initially, he feared that his athletic commitments might compromise his studies. However, he embraced the challenge, committing to balance both, even if it meant late nights, missed study opportunities due to exhaustion, and sacrificing rest.
“Tinanggap ko yung pagiging athlete at the same time tinanggap ko din lahat ng kaakibat na roles and responsibilities ng pagiging student-athlete. Nahati yung priority ko, nakakapagod sya pero kaylangan ko mag sacrifice kasi ginusto kong irepresent yung CLSU as athlete, gusto ko mag excel sa sports at sa studies ko,” said Rommel.
Despite his achievements, Rommel faced significant mental health challenges as financial burdens became his constant struggle, especially in his second year of college when he almost gave up his studies due to poverty, burnout, pressure, and self-doubt.
According to him, people only see what is on the outside – the side of him who portrays he is okay or one without struggles, “pero dumating na sa point na nagpatong patong na. Yung laptop na gamit ko noon, wala na kaming pang hulog kaya hindi ko na alam yung gagawin ko.”
“Buti nalang yung Tita ko, na tinulungan ng Mama ko dati, sya yung tumulong sa amin na bayaran yung laptop na gamit ko,” he silently expressed.
With the help of his family, guidance counselors, and the realization of his parents' sacrifices, he found the strength to persevere, believing that his current struggles would be worth it in the future, refusing to let his story end there.
“When feeling weak, I look at my parents as my inspiration, thinking I have no room for giving up. Narealize ko na yung mga current struggles ko ay magiging worth it naman sa future kaya kailangan kong lumaban ng lumaban dahil yung story ko alam ko na hindi dito hihinto,” Rommel emotionally shared.
Rommel diligently applied for various scholarships throughout his college career but faced repeated rejections despite his impressive qualifications. However, these setbacks ultimately paved the way for a significant opportunity in his fourth year. He was chosen as an Estatistikular scholar, a program by the Commission on Higher Education specifically designed for aspiring statisticians.
“Sobrang saya ko, kasi those rejections on scholarship na inaplyan ko became a redirection, ” he shared with a glimmer of hope in his face. Indeed, his story is a reminder that rejection is not the end of the road, but rather a detour towards something better and greater.
Rommel's journey is a powerful testament to not letting one's background define their future. He urges others to embrace challenges and failures as integral parts of their journey, but never to let them dictate their destiny.
“Remember why you started and who you are striving for, letting those reasons guide you through tough times. Surround yourself with supportive people and never underestimate the power of faith, purpose, and a grateful heart. Your background doesn't limit your future, but rather makes your success more powerful,” he concluded.
These are the inspiring story bites of four A-listers of this year’s graduating class, with each one marked by hardship, perseverance, and resilience. Despite the odds, they emerged victorious, proving that with determination, perseverance, and heart, success is always within reach. Anthony, Lorraine, Jimuel, and Rommel didn’t just finish college; they conquered it with pride.
These are the inspiring story bites of four A-listers of this year’s graduating class, with each one marked by hardship, perseverance, and resilience. Despite the odds, they emerged victorious, proving that with determination, perseverance, and heart, success is always within reach. Anthony, Lorraine, Jemuel, and Rommel didn’t just finish college; they conquered it with pride.
