As the sun hangs low and the lights shine bright, the Saint Joseph College Junior High School Acquaintance Party begins—where young students take the stage by storm, bringing a wave of creativity, talent, and a burning passion to learn. With the orange sun slowly disappearing below the horizon and the voices of Nywerei Weiynn G. Laroa and Laurel Mathea F. Dueñas leading the charge, the stage was set for an awe-inspiring night filled with excitement, laughter, and memorable moments with friends.

The young Josephinians arrived at the Msgr. Mandia Gym between 2:00 and 3:00 p.m. on July 17, wearing bright smiles and eyes full of excitement. The staff, along with the Junior High School Supreme Student Government (JHSSG), prepared to deliver a show that everyone would remember throughout the year. To officially commence the program, all students and staff rose to feel the presence of the Lord through a prayer led by Rob Gabriel Gaviola, followed by the singing of the Philippine National Anthem and the school hymn.

The students settled into their seats, relaxed and ready to enjoy the show as the program finally set in motion. The evening began with a loud bang as cheerful music and energetic dance moves from the MAPEH Club filled the air with an explosive energy that would carry throughout the program. Next came the induction of the Grade 7 and Grade 8 class officers, called by JHSSG officers Reann Zoe S. Cua and Philline Angela P. Paloma, while Mr. Jerome S. Malinao read the citations—solidifying these students' places as future leaders who will wear their positions with humility and responsibility.

What followed was an exciting vocal solo by Philline Angela P. Paloma, who delivered a beautiful rendition of So Easy (To Fall in Love) by Olivia Dean. Following that jaw-dropping performance was the induction of the Grade 9 and Grade 10 class officers, called by JHSSG officers Justin Jake L. Calapre and Jazmine Beatrice C. Cabahug. Mrs. Ernalin G. Saratan was then invited to lead the ceremony and read the citations, encouraging these students to extend their leadership skills and potential beyond the department. After that came another exciting vocal solo by Xhyri Ayn Ellice T. Paco, who captivated the audience with a breathtaking rendition of Reflection by Lea Salonga.

With that inspiring performance concluded, the induction of the DepEd-mandated and institutional club officers followed. They were called on stage while the principal, Rev. Fr. Danilo Jr. S. Rabe, read the citations, encouraging them to continue growing alongside their respective clubs and fellow members. As the induction of the club officers came to an end, another energetic dance performance was presented by the students of Grade 8–St. Ann, maintaining the explosive energy with which the evening had begun. More remarkable performances followed, including a stunning vocal solo by Maria Jojaine Aquisha C. Alipio and a stellar harmonic trio performance by Jaira Ozon, Alyna Palaca, and Maria Glenn Igao.

With a final heartfelt message from the JHSSG Vice President, Mr. Justin Jake L. Calapre, the party had only just begun as students headed to their respective rooms to enjoy the rest of the evening with their classmates and strengthen the sense of community among them. As the Bishop of the Diocese of Maasin, Most Rev. Precioso D. Cantillas, SDB, D.D., once said:

“A school is not simply a place where minds are formed; it is a community—a family. Here, as a community and a family, our hearts are formed, not just our minds; relationships are nurtured, and lives are transformed in Christ.”

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Words: Justin Nickolas Judilla | The Josephinian

Photos: Adrian Cedric Mancera | The Josephinian