FEATURE
Balbalan, Kalinga – In the quiet mountain municipality of Balbalan, success is measured not only by achievements but by the determination to overcome challenges and pursue dreams.
This year, the municipality has another reason to celebrate as 10 sons and daughters of Balbalan graduated from college with Latin honors, proving that perseverance, discipline, and hard work can open doors to a brighter future.
For the Local Government Unit of Balbalan, the achievement is more than an academic milestone—it is a testament to the potential of the municipality's youth and a source of pride for the entire community.
Under the leadership of Mayor Almar Malannag, the local government continues to champion youth empowerment by supporting programs that encourage young people to develop their talents, pursue higher education, and become future leaders of the municipality.
Among this year's top achievers are Vashti Nicole Fuentes Saboy of Balbalasang, who graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science in Human Ecology major in Social Technology from the University of the Philippines Los Baños; Zenna Ellaine Malaga of Maling and Dao-angan, who earned Magna Cum Laude honors with a Bachelor of Multimedia Arts from Saint Louis University; and Apple Cuaresma Anggaboy of Buaya, who graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Elementary Education from Tarlac State University.
Completing the list of honorees are Cum Laude graduates Renson Dakiwag of Poblacion (Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering, Saint Louis University); John Cyrus Rubio of Poblacion and Gawaan (Bachelor of Science in Accountancy, Saint Louis University); Josiah Fuentes Saboy of Balbalasang (Bachelor of Science in Political Science, Saint Louis University); Josiah Caleb Dongui-is Magollado of Dao-angan and Poswoy (Bachelor of Science in Biology major in Cell and Molecular Biology, University of the Philippines Los Baños); Imee Jerelyn Balinggao Santos of Poswoy (Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering, Saint Louis University); Maridel Gasagas of Tawang (Bachelor of Elementary Education, Ifugao State University); and Caroline Bunagan Batalao of Balbalan Proper (Bachelor of Science in Nursing, St. Tonis College).
For Mayor Malannag, the graduates' accomplishments are not defined solely by medals or academic distinctions but by the character they have developed throughout their educational journey.
"Your Latin honors are a testament to your intelligence, but your character will define your legacy. Carry the values of Balbalan—humility, resilience, and respect—wherever your careers take you. Congratulations! Balbalan is your home, and we will always be your biggest cheerleaders," he said.
The mayor also encouraged the youth of Balbalan to look up to the new graduates as proof that dedication and perseverance can overcome obstacles and lead to success.
As these 10 young achievers begin new chapters in their lives, they carry with them not only diplomas and honors but also the hopes of a municipality that believes education remains one of the strongest foundations for progress. Their success is a reminder that every achievement by an iBalbalan inspires countless others to dream bigger, work harder, and one day bring honor back to the community they proudly call home.
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