Article by : Princess Sky T. Quinte | Photo by: Hannah Thea O. Cagas
Featuring the unique attributes of Accountancy, Business, and Management, Humanities and Social Sciences, and Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics strands of AdDU-SHS, the official Strand Days of 2024 has finally opened its doors on October 11, 2024 at Ateneo de Davao University Senior High School's admin foyer through a ribbon-cutting ceremony with the theme, "#Kaalam: Dream, Discover, Dare Launching".
Before proceeding with the celebration, an invocation regarding the earthquake safety measures was given, followed by the Catholic and Muslim opening prayers, led by Fr. Eric Anthony Escandor from The Society of Jesus and Aljabber Matabalao from SALAM, respectively. The Philippine national anthem was sung afterward.
The opening of the event was hosted by representatives from different strands and substrands, with Sean Louie Banguyan of ABM, Emmanuelle Villanueva of HUMSS, Kenchi Gamuhay of STEM Pre-Engineering and Architecture, Jonnel Glorison of STEM Pre-Computer Science, and Justin Jill Andres of STEM Pre-Science. Each managed the event's flow, hyping the students through a crowd check per strand, and giving the floor to Sir Ricardo P. Enriquez, AdDU-SHS Director, for the opening remarks.
"Today, as we celebrate the strand day, we will recognize the unique path of each of you walking through your own strand." He stated. He added that the students' decisions will blend not only their interests and talents but also their dreams in college. "Remember that because this day is more than recognizing our tracks; it is also embracing your journey. Remember that the knowledge instilled in your day on this campus are not only for your personal growth but also equip you to make you a different person after Senior High School."
After Sir Rikki's inspirational message, the ribbon-cutting ceremony began, giving the Academic Vice President, Dr. Gina L. Montalan, Ph.D.; AdDU-SHS' Director, Mr. Ricardo P. Enriquez, MPA; Assistant Director for Administration, Mr. Rodolfo R. Daguio; Jr; Assistant Director for Academics, Ms. Aujefel Amor Y. Lee; and Assistant Director for Formation, Fr. Jessel Gerard M. Gonzales, SJ the honors to lead the ceremony to officially indicate the start of the strand days celebration.
Not long after, an opening salvo entitled "Strand Talents" took place, highlighting students' singing and dancing talents from different strands.
On this day, an announcement was made as well regarding the events that will be held during the strand days, as well as the schedule for the culminating activities to be held inside the school's gymnasium.
Before officially ending the short program, Sir Rikki and the SHS trio prepared an entertaining performance with the song "Dancing Queen" by ABBA, which was immediately followed by Tyla's “Water," granting the crowd's wish for another performance.
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