“In the course of history, there comes a time when humanity is called to shift to a new level of consciousness, to reach a moral high ground, a time when we have to shed fears and give hope to each other. That time is NOW!”

Organizers and sponsors of this year’s TOSP, esteemed school administrators, parents, guests and fellow TOSPians, the evening is good!

The TOSP, for several years, has existed to recognize graduates with exemplary academic performance, a proven leadership track record and inspiring community involvement. Today, the 13 regional finalists stand not only to accept such a humble recognition but are continually challenged to lead the youth, enabling ourselves and others to continue the process of nation building, while at the same time cultivating friendships and strengthening bonds.

At this juncture, we would like to be bold in thanking the people who have been a source of inspiration to our worthwhile endeavors:

• Our parents and guardians, for inculcating in us the values that we so firmly hold on to, which initially defined our individuality;

• Our school administrators, faculty members and mentors, who painstakingly guided us in our quest for our greater purpose in life;

• Our colleagues and friends, with whom we have shared our aspirations.

To you all, our heartfelt gratitude.

But even as we take, we give back, we give back to the nation that cultivated our dreams, to the nation which we believe must be inclusive, empowering and self-sustaining; to the nation which transcends any political or geographical boundaries; for at the end of the day, we are not just ordinary citizens, we are ONE COMMUNITY sharing ONE VISION.

Being outstanding students of the Philippines, we are committed to nation building, to pursue excellence in our respective fields, rooted on values which are not just spoken but lived, leading to the promotion of a culture of change, starting within ourselves, our families and our future families. Our commitment is not only to a specific action but to a way of life. We are here not because we are better than others, but because we haven’t and will never lose hope in our nation.

We fervently hope that someday TOSP will not just stand to mean the Ten Outstanding Students of the Philippines, but we could proudly say to the rest of the world, after we accomplish our pristine mission, that the TOSP would also mean: Tol, Ok Sa Pinas!