The 56th Ten Outstanding Students of the Philippines are Ronald M. Calamba of University of Bohol, Brian Adam S. Anay of Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan, Jerric R. Delfin of Central Mindanao University, Mark Lorenzo D. Permalino of Saint Louis University, Katherine Adrielle R. Bersola of University of the Philippines Diliman, Mark Anthony P. Baliuag of Saint Paul University Philippines, Kevin U. Facun of Bulacan State University, Brendan Jansen L. Tangan of Saint Paul University Philippines, Alexander Lacerna B. Bajarias of University of San Carlos, and Zedrick F. Laqui of De La Salle University – Manila. Also in photo: TOSP Foundation President Marie Concepcion-Young; Presidential Adviser for Entrepreneurship and Go Negosyo Founder Joey Concepcion; Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque; Inang Lupa Movement President and TOSP Chair of the Board of Judges Dr. William Dar; and TOSP Alumni Community President Pamela Asis-Layugan.

Last April 23, I attended the awarding ceremony of the 56th Ten Outstanding Students of the Philippines at the Presidential Museum and Library.

It was a great honor to once again recognize the TOSP this year. Distinguishing the brightest minds of young Filipinos has been its mission for more than 50 years. Being part of the roster, whether 30 or 10, is already a big achievement for the students.

As a parent, I also want to commend their parents and mentors for shaping them to become the persons they are now. Mentoring your children today, in my experience, is pretty challenging especially with the advent of technology.

My advice to the students is, no matter what they’ve accomplished, no matter what degree or honor they get, their right place has already started. What’s important is what they do with what they’re blessed with.

Like Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said, they are the exemplary instruments of social change in the country. I truly hope that they continue to do exceptional work in supporting their advocacies and be the future leaders of this generation.

The 30 finalists of the 56th Ten Outstanding Students of the Philippines together with the TOSP founder Jose Concepcion Jr. and wife Marivic Concepcion. Also in photo are TOSP Foundation President Marie Concepcion-Young; Presidential Adviser for Entrepreneurship and Go Negosyo Founder Joey Concepcion; Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque; Inang Lupa Movement President and TOSP Chair of the Board of Judges Dr. William Dar; and TOSP Alumni Community President Pamela Asis-Layugan.