Time and Time Again

by Zian Capalad & Charisse Saccuan

Salt air, and the rust on one’s door linger of reverberations of a familiar lore. There were whispers of doubt, yet in spite of such tongues, the 2nd of August—a moment in time—will nevermore be lost in forgotten memories.

For Isabela National High School (INHS), this was not just a passing day nor a calendar date lost in translation; it was a historic moment in which new minds rose from the ashes, whereby unity was honored and a new generation of school servants was officially inaugurated. A melody engulfing burning hearts, to which was not just the sound of a microphone or a camera whistle—it was a song of unity, a rhythm that sparks change, and a one in a million heartbeat ready to serve. On this day, under the lights of the gymnasium, an important chapter in a book that has yet to wear was written—in which leadership was penned to leave a mark.

The SPTA General Assembly Cum Leadership Forum and Mass Induction Program for Elected Officers is more than just a “punctilio”—it is a reminder that true leadership takes root in the heart, sprouts at home, and bears fruit at school.

Home of the Champions—indeed!

Such a notion is fortified by the Isabela National High School - School Parent-Teacher Association (INHS - SPTA), which proudly marked the oathtaking ceremony with a showcase of its remarkable accomplishments. Among these fine achievements were the installation of a 98 inch smart television (TV), and macro-scaled digital learning device that initiates for a wider cognition; the approval of a mini bus for both students and teachers alike to use for events as their reliable transit vehicle; the creation of reading nooks in the Senior High School (SHS) departments to further nurture INHSeans undoubted wit within, through and through; and the riprapping of the back of the English Building, ensuring no student or staff shall befall a fate of tragedy.

Furthermore, the association also extended financial support to all candidates of the foundation celebration, and facilitated the donation of the Old Schools Division Office (SDO) office for INHS educators and staff. And, they also honored the dedication of our educators through the “Gawad Parangal” program—illuminating not just their valuable service and dedication but truly proving their diamonds in the midst of cocoa-shaded grounds that deepens with the sky’s cry.

It is no cinch to nod to one of the highlights of this event, indisputable—really—was the introduction of Bakuna Eskwela, wherein they said that one half of the school are to be vaccinated. As the saying of the nostalgic yore goes “Health is Wealth” they concluded.

Clap. Clap. Clap

Our audience’s applause grew as the moment of awarding and recognition arrived. Honorary officers stepped forward as they received their certificates showing their efforts and leaderships are honored. Then came the Oath Taking Ceremony, the heart of the event—as the students raised their right hands, vowing as they became officially recognized as student-leaders. In doing so, vowing to be role models for their peers, and you could practically feel the weight of duty in the air as they filled the occasion with pride and dedication.

What else to not be lost to time?

The SPTA President, whom greeted and acknowledged each and everyone with a heartfelt dedicated speech.

“Only through genuine collaboration and shared purpose can we truly unlock the full potential of INHS and inspire others to follow our example” —a notable piece from him.

And even though we may not have felt the physical presence of our City Vice Mayor, Jayve Diaz—Sir Ricky Laggui, the SPTA President stood tall in place of his esteemed silhouette as a voice for the entire community, his speech that was embodied ignited students, leaders, officers, and teachers to keep the fire burning as they begin to build and lead this one of a kind thoroughfare into a better state; of a road from the past to its future.

As this program came to a close, still, its newfound pages are yet to be written.

Here, the screenplay is for us to unfold.

Here, leadership shines the brightest when it comes from the heart.

As in Ilagan—Sulong Pa! Time and time again