Let Struggles Strengthen You: The Lone Summa Cum Laude Who Never Gave Up

Gracefully walking in a crisply pressed toga and graduation cap, ready to receive the long-awaited diploma on stage. This is the moment every student at Siquijor State College (SSC) dreams of as they take their first step into campus life.

On June 19, 2025, that long-envisioned moment turned into reality as Siquijor State College held its 92nd Commencement Exercises at the Queengate Center in Larena, Siquijor. What was once a hopeful dream becoming a proud milestone, as graduates, especially those earning distinctions took the stage with honor, pride, and a sense of accomplishment written across their faces.

Among those who shone brightest that day was Pia Mourie Orogo Diaz, Bachelor of Elementary Education, the lone Summa Cum Laude of Siquijor State College for the academic year 2025. Celebrated for her outstanding academic achievements and meaningful contributions to the institution and to the community, Pia stood as a symbol of excellence, determination, and the college’s enduring commitment to student success.

“Wearing this medal of Summa Cum Laude is not just a personal triumph it is a shared victory. This honor belongs to all of us. Every tear, every late-night review, every heartbreak we pushed through, and every time we chose to rise after a fall, it all brought us to this moment.” A range of mixed emotions is reflected in her eyes as she started to utter these words during her speech. 

With pride in her voice, Pia Mourie Orogo Diaz shared the bittersweet journey that shaped her years at Siquijor State College. In her heartfelt speech, she reminded the audience that sacrifice is rarely glamorous. It’s tough, unrelenting work. Yet, it is one of life’s most powerful teachers, revealing one’s inner strength, clarifying priorities, and fueling long-held dreams.

While many students spent their Sundays unwinding or catching up with friends, Pia’s weekends told a different story. With her family facing financial hardships, she transformed her rest days into workdays and taking on tutoring gigs and project-based jobs just to keep her education afloat. It wasn’t glamorous, and it certainly wasn’t easy. But Pia pushed on, not because she had to but because she believed she must.

In fact, she even stepped onto stages for singing competitions, not to showcase vocal prowess, but in quiet hope of winning a consolation prize. For some, that may have looked desperate. For Pia, it was determination with a purpose. She didn’t care about the stares or the whispers. What mattered most was that every peso earned brought her closer to her dreams.

What she lacked in resources, she made up for with relentless drive and unwavering faith. She believed that success isn’t always loud or dazzling but sometimes, it’s built in silence, one humble effort at a time. Despite the odds stacked high, Pia never folded. Instead, she rose steadily, quietly, and with a heart full of hope.

Born on January 4, 2003, in the bustling heart of Metro Manila, Pia Mourie Orogo Diaz grew up as the second daughter in a humble yet deeply loving family. Her mother is a former OFW, and his father, who had already entered into God’s care, also worked abroad as a seafarer. When he passed, their world turned upside down. Her perseverance was put to the test by persistent financial difficulties.

From a young age, her thirst for learning was evident. Her mother taught her to read at the age of four, and she was already showing promise. Her father, meanwhile, nurtured her creativity and curiosity, especially in the fields of art and mathematics. Pia has always had a deep passion for reading, painting, and watching documentary films. In the classroom, she stood out not just for her academic performance but for her inquisitive nature, often asking thoughtful questions that made class discussions more engaging and meaningful.

Growing up in a close-knit community, Pia was inspired to look beyond herself and serve others. She strives to be a voice of leadership and inspiration among her peers, someone who turns obstacles into stepping stones. Grounded in perseverance and guided by her faith in God, Pia firmly believes that no hardship is too great and with dedication and purpose, any dream can be turned into reality.

Pia’s passion for education goes beyond personal ambition. It is deeply rooted in the unwavering support of those who believe in her. Their trust and encouragement have given meaning to every step of her journey. She sees education not just as a means to success, but as a powerful tool for change. One she was honored to pursue freely at Siquijor State College. For Pia, every milestone is more than a personal triumph; it is a shared victory with her family, her community, and everyone who has continued to uplift and inspire her along the way. 

To her fellow students, Pia highlighted a heartfelt message in her commencement speech:

“As we step into the world beyond these walls, remember this: the impact we make is not measured by titles, medals, or fame. It’s measured by the kindness we give, the lives we touch, and the courage we show when the odds are against us.”

She lives by a simple yet powerful quote that continues to guide her journey:
 “If there’s an opportunity, grab it and don’t leave it behind.”

Pia added that Siquijor State College taught her that greatness begins in the heart. It is not just what we know, but how we use it to serve, to uplift, and to make others believe in themselves too. With wisdom beyond her years and a spirit grounded in perseverance, Pia Mourie Orogo Diaz leaves not only with honors but with a legacy of hope, courage, and inspiration for the next generation of Siquijor State College students.