The greatest fear among teachers is to be forgotten by their students.
Year after year, children come and go, each one leaving behind a piece of their teacher’s heart. When the school year ends, it often feels like an empty nest—the classroom grows quiet, and the faces that once filled it with laughter move on to new chapters.
I know that feeling deeply. I was once a teacher for ten years—a mother, guide, and cheerleader to my second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth graders. Letting go of students you’ve nurtured with so much love never gets easier.
A Tribute from the Heart
So when our high school batch decided to honor our beloved teachers with a tribute over High Tea and Dinner Celebration at Café Laguna, it felt deeply personal.
We wanted to tell them, “You are remembered.”
Despite the tremors that shook Cebu just days before the event, our CIC Batch ’95 pushed through with faith and gratitude. The celebration, titled “A Tribute for Our Teachers: Our Pearls of Wisdom”, marked our Pearl Anniversary and our way of giving back to those who once gave us so much.
A Night of Gratitude and Nostalgia
Seeing our teachers walk in—with teary-eyed smiles and laughter that filled the room. I just sat there in silence—observing their smiling eyes, and animated conversation. Then gradually those laughter and stories brought back a flood of memories.
I spent 12 wonderful years as a student and five more as a teacher within the walls of Colegio de la Inmaculada Concepción (CIC). Those walls witnessed my growth—from a shy chubby little girl into the woman I am today.
Each teacher taught me not only lessons from books but also lessons about life. Their stories, gentle corrections, and even their stern reminders shaped me into a mindful, kind, and responsible adult.
That’s why being chosen to introduce each teacher during the tribute program was such an honor. As I shared stories and fond memories, my voice trembled with emotion. I couldn’t help but shed a few tears—tears of gratitude and longing for those simpler, joyful school days.
A Feast of Filipino Flavors at Café Laguna
And what’s a Filipino gathering without food to match the warmth of the moment?
Café Laguna served a delightful spread of Filipino favorites—Lumpiang Gulay Pinirito, Crispy Kangkong, Bam-i, Binagoongan Baboy, Kare-Kare, Seafood Platter, Crispy Pata, and more.
The laughter around the tables blended beautifully with the aroma of home-cooked dishes—a true feast of love and nostalgia.
A heartfelt thank-you goes to the Café Laguna crew, especially John and Erwin, for their excellent service and for helping us set up the TV for our program presentation. We also appreciate Aila, who warmly ushered our guests and made them feel right at home. Their teamwork made our celebration smooth and memorable.
Special Thanks to Our Generous Partners
The evening wouldn’t have been as meaningful without the support of our thoughtful partners.
We extend our gratitude to Etch Unltd for the beautifully crafted plaques we presented to our dear teachers—each one a token of love and remembrance.
Our heartfelt thanks also go to The Metro Stores, Oakridge Horizons, Pizzeria Playa, Tongara Ramen, and Spa del Sur – Mandaue for their gift certificates, which added a special touch to our tokens of appreciation. To the generous angels: MG, PT, BA, and the rest of the CIC Batch 95 for all your donations.
These thoughtful contributions made the night even more special for everyone.
Singing Our CIC Hymn: A Moment That Moved Us All
One of the most unforgettable moments of the evening was when we sang the CIC College Hymn in Spanish.
As our voices rose in harmony, chills ran down my spine. The familiar melody transported me back to my childhood mornings at CIC—and I was surprised that I still remembered every word.
It was surreal. The hymn echoed everything this celebration stood for—gratitude, unity, and love for our alma mater and teachers.
Honoring Our Teachers, Our Lifelong Inspiration
Despite our busy schedules and the ongoing relief efforts after the Cebu earthquake, we knew this tribute had to happen. Our teachers deserved this moment of recognition.
Their dedication and quiet sacrifices shaped who we are today.
To our CIC teachers, thank you for your love, patience, and faith in us. You will never be forgotten.
And to the core group of CIC Batch ’95, thank you for your time, effort, and the heart you poured into making this celebration so meaningful.
Happy World Teachers’ Day to all who continue to light the way for generations to come!
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