𝑱𝑯𝑪𝑺𝑪 𝑲𝒊𝒄𝒌𝒔 𝑶𝒇𝒇 𝟐𝟒𝒕𝒉 𝑭𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑨𝒏𝒏𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒂𝒓𝒚

The J.H. Cerilles State College (JHCSC) officially marked the opening of its 24th Founding Anniversary and the Launching of ASEAN Month Celebration on August 11, 2025, at the Main Campus Gymnasium. With the theme “Carrying the Torch Forward in 24 Years: Honoring the Past, Sustaining the Present, and Committing to a Brighter Future”, the event embraced an ASEAN-inspired atmosphere. It was spearheaded by the Event Management Team (EMT) of the Main Campus under the leadership and guidance of JHCSC President, Dr. Edgardo H. Rosales.

Distinguished guests, including Provincial Vice Governor Hon. Roseller L. Ariosa and San Miguel Mayor Hon. Ex D. Ocapan, graced the opening ceremony. Members of the Board of Trustees were also in attendance, such as Alumni Trustee Hon. Glendell C. Oyo-a and Faculty and Staff Trustee Hon. Glady C. Quirante. College officials present included Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA) Dr. Vilma C. Grengia, Vice President for Research, Extension, and Resource Generation (VPRERG) Dr. Jerry B. Superales, Campus Directors from all JHCSC campuses, Office Directors, School Deans, Program Heads, faculty, staff, and students.

A highlight of the celebration was a surprise tribute honoring Dr. Rosales on his second anniversary as comeback president. A special video presentation recognized his leadership and service to the institution, to which he expressed deep gratitude. Acknowledging the pressure of his role, Dr. Rosales said he was thankful for the unwavering support from the JHCSC community. He also expressed excitement over the triple celebration that day, which included the Blessing and Ribbon Cutting of the new Tennis Court, the ASEAN Month launching, and the 24th Founding Anniversary. “The life of a president is not a show nor a publicity. The life of the President is service,” he said, underscoring his belief that service is life.

In his message, Vice Governor Ariosa lauded JHCSC for its consistent dedication to education and community development. He described the institution as a “beacon of hope and progress in Zamboanga del Sur” and emphasized that “education is the best equalizer — the bridge that connects dreams to reality.”

The opening program featured a lively lineup of performances, including a special song number by President Rosales with his band, cultural dances, and presentations from selected JHCSC students. These performances reflected the vibrant spirit of the celebration, blending academic pride with cultural appreciation.

The event set the tone for a month-long series of activities celebrating JHCSC’s 24 years of service in education and its commitment to fostering regional and ASEAN unity. Organizers expressed optimism that the celebration will continue to strengthen the institution’s legacy, deepen community partnerships, and inspire greater achievements in the years ahead.