5 Cebu students make it to TOSP regional search

The Ten Outstanding Students of the Philippines (TOSP) from Central Visayas were announced in an awarding rites in Dumaguete City recently.

They are  Wilma Elizabeth Rada from St. Theresa’s College Cebu; Michael Angelo Abarcar of University of Southern Philippines-Foundation Cebu; Leslie Ann Estaniel of University of Cebu-Lapu-Lapu Mandaue, Ma. Shiril Armero from Soutwestern University, Ramon Matthew Basabe of Cebu Doctor’s University, Regina Clarina Elmaco and Joshua Eleazar Domen from St. Paul University-Dumaguete, Athena Gene Duran of Silliman University, Nesie Fe Binatero of Bohol Wisdom School and Kenneth Regene Blasco from Mater Dei College.

The top 10 awardees, who were chosen from the 20 regional finalists, will represent the region to the national search.

This year’s TOSP chair of board of judges Analou Suan of Great Physician Rehabilitation Foundation said, “It’s very tough to be an outstanding student because there are millions of students to choose from in the country.”

The qualities that make a student stand out are the ability to balance academics and the commitment, dedication and willingness to do something. Also the student addresses issues that make a difference to the people of this country, Suan added.

Before the announcement of top 10 students, the regional finalists underwent a week-long formation program.

Rolando Villamero Jr. said the regional formation week was made more meaningful because of the participation of five new schools in the search, namely, Mater Dei College and Bohol Wisdom School from Bohol; and University of Southern Philippines-Foundation, Cebu Doctor’s University and University of Cebu-Lapu Lapu and Mandaue from Cebu.

“The nominees from these institutions made it all the way to the top 10. The reason for this increased participation is the Youth Hours Workshop conducted by TOSP-Alumni Community in various venues in Region 7,” Villarmero added.