06/09/2025
Sta. Maria National High School–Senior High School Showcases Research and Skills at Senior High School Congress
Sta. Maria National High School–Senior High School showcased its students’ research and skills during the Senior High School Congress held at the Lagawe Central Gymnasium, Lagawe, Ifugao, on August 28-29, 2025.
With the theme “Dream Big. Achieve Bigger,” the congress provided learners an avenue to present research proposals, innovations, and completed works, while promoting critical thinking, creativity, and innovation among students.
Hon. Jaweh D. Habbiling, Board Member of District 1, Province of Ifugao, graced the event as guest speaker. He urged students to pursue their dreams with courage and determination. “Dream big and pursue your goals while you are young. Do not be afraid to fail, because it is through failure that we truly learn and grow,” he said, adding that “there is money in skills.”
Success stories of senior high school alumni across Ifugao also highlighted the event. Sta. Maria NHS–SHS alumnus Marvin Valdez, Class of 2018, inspired learners by sharing his journey. Though unable to fulfill his dream of becoming a veterinarian due to financial challenges, he achieved another milestone by completing his doctorate degree. “If one door closes, find the window that opens and take that chance,” Valdez said.
The school likewise showcased the talents of its current students. Jade Vine Carnate, Mary Carol Dela Cruz, Czarina Grace Rufino, and Hazel Peddiao of Grade 12 Accountancy, Business, and Administration (Section 2), under the guidance of their research adviser, Joen Mica D. Kimayong, presented their research proposal. Meanwhile, Dan James Ngitit, Judy Ann Carabacan, Claire Singapan, and Thyrell Hapchayan, all from Grade 12 Technical-Vocational majoring in Agriculture, mentored by their agriculture teacher, Minerva Abrojena, demonstrated the production of organic fertilizers, specifically Bokashi and fermented plant juice.
The event concluded with a message from SHS Congress coordinator Brenda Ducusin, who thanked all participants for sharing their outputs and encouraged them to continue dreaming big.
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