the first question that popped in my head when I was asked to be an inspirational speaker. 

When Benedictine Int’l School asked me to be the guest inspirational speaker for their Recognition Day, I thought I misunderstood the message. Or I thought the message they sent me was intended for someone else. “A 21 year old like me to be an inspirational speaker?! Is this serious?” Mind-boggling questions such as these were in my head over and over. I couldn’t believe that I was chosen to be their inspirational speaker. 

In 1 Timothy 4:12, the passage says “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.” This verse spoke to me and encouraged me that my age should not set a limit on what I can do. I realized that God gave me this opportunity because He knows I would be able to glorify him through this. 

Minutes before going up to that stage, there were butterflies in my stomach and nervousness in me, worrying that I might not be able to do it well. The only thing I could do was to close my eyes and pray. After saying a short and sincere prayer, God whispered to my ears and told me to simply do it for the audience of one. I may not please everyone but pleasing God alone is more than enough for me. 

Unbelievable, overwhelming and humbling! I delivered my speech in front of these kindergarten, grade school and high school students, together with their parents and teachers. In that speech, I encouraged them by sharing my remarkable experiences, accomplishments and sensible lessons I learned during high school up until I graduated from DLSU. 2 main points I expounded, which I hope they still remember – BE Better and NEver Say Never. Acronym I used was the word BENE, the name of the school. 

With my mom’s help and support, I believe I was able to compose and deliver this inspirational speech with confidence. All the praises to God talaga! He guided me all the way! 

By the grace of God, He allowed this day to a holiday in my city. This means, He didn’t allow me to miss my everyday work. Indeed, He is my planner and He organizes my schedule. He knows what’s best for me! 🙂

Aside from being the guest inspirational speaker, I was surprised to be called back on stage to hand over the medals and certificates to the students. 🙂

Grabe, that was such a humbling experience for me. Definitely amazing too! 🙂

Thank you so much to those who believed in me, encouraged me and prayed for me. Thank you Mr. Radaza, Eric Cruz, the faculty, Mr. & Mrs. Bondoc, my family and my friends. I couldn’t stop smiling because of this amazing experience!!! 🙂 

The night of the same day, I headed to Bonifacio High Street for the launch of Mango Tree Restaurant. 

Event was attended by people from the press, celebrities like Annabelle Rama, Divine Lee, Victor Basa, Vicky Belo, Hayden Kho and more. 

Foreign looking dancers entertained us, giving us that “Thai” atmosphere through their dance. 

Unlimited Thai milk tea so quench our thirst. 

It was a buffet set-up so I wasn’t able to take so much photos. I brought my sister with me and it was a great venue for us to bond as well. I’d love to go back and dine in with my family. 

Glad to see Migs again, from Appetite Magazine. 🙂

To sum it all up, this day felt like my birthday. Unexplainable joy was in me. All I know is that this day is surely one for the books! Thank you Lord!!! 🙂

Cheers,