Time Capsule Ceremony 2025: A Moment to Remember

The graduating students of Foundation University gathered at the Sofia Soller Sinco Hall for the much-awaited Time Capsule Ceremony on May 22, 2025. It was an occasion filled with reflection and excitement as students celebrated the memories they made throughout their academic journey.

The program began with a Eucharistic Mass celebrated by Rev. Msgr. Julius Perpetuo Heruela, who blessed the graduates and the capsule. After the mass, the capsule bearer, accompanied by guards, entered the hall carrying the capsule that will preserve the mementos of the graduating class. 

Before the capsule was sealed, a series of heartfelt speeches inspired the audience. The first speaker was Dr. Teofan C. Gallosa, a proud alumnus of the Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education major in English and Master of Arts in Education major in English programs at Foundation University. In his speech, he shared six important life lessons with the graduating class:

1. Don’t compare, you are rare. Social media often tempts us to compare achievements and possessions, which can lead to jealousy. Focus on your own potential.

2. Be real, this is the real deal. In a world full of AI and other virtual platforms, it is easy to fake anything and lose authenticity. Stay true to yourself and reach your full potential.

3. No race, set your pace. With the unprecedented spike of technology, it is easy to feel pressured to compete. Always remember that life is not a race. Just focus and move at your own pace.

4. Do your best with the rest. Globalization is unstoppable, Learn to work well with others. No one succeeds alone.

5. Work to express, not to impress. Show them what you really got. No need to pretend or put on a show. If you do not know something, it is okay. Be honest and learn from it.

6. Stay humble, you will not stumble. No matter how much you accomplish, people will respect and appreciate you more if you remain humble.

   
   

Dr. Gallosa closed his message with a quote from Dr. José Rizal, saying, “He who does not look back at where he came from will never reach his destination.” He encouraged the graduates to remain grateful to their alma mater and to carry with them the Foundation brand of passion, excellence, and enthusiasm in everything that they will do.

Three student representatives also offered their own stories and messages of inspiration.

Clarissa Rose Saradat, Outstanding Student of the Year, shared her personal story of growth, struggles, and lasting friendship. She found her place, taking on leadership roles in the FU Student Government, taking a leap of faith as a flutist of the FU Abuhuni Marching Band, and taking part in various campus organizations as well. She thanked her classmates, close friends, and mentors who helped turn her struggles into moments of growth. She reminded her fellow graduates to remember where they came from, carry the lessons they learned, and move forward with purpose.

Erian Villaflores, the Senior Student of the Year, spoke with gratitude, reflection, and hope. She shared about how Foundation University became a place of growth, opportunity, and belonging. The support of her family, mentors, and friends gave her the strength to push through challenges. Erian expressed her hope that when they return in 2050 to open the capsule, they will remember the love and strength that brought them to where they are now. She ended her message by sharing her legacy, to inspire others to keep going and believe in themselves.

Concluding the students’ sharing was Gellian Beatriz Magtortor, the Supreme Student Government president of Foundation Preparatory Academy (FPA). She began her story from Grade 7, describing how FPA became more than just a school. It became her second home. She explored her talents in dance and art, found her voice in journalism, and discovered her purpose through five years of service in the Student Government. Balancing leadership, academics, and extracurricular activities was never easy, but she managed to remain a consistent honor student and took pride in the bonds she made along the way. She expressed hope that her legacy would encourage others to lead with heart and courage.

Representatives from each department then brought their mementos and placed them inside the capsule. Once sealed, everyone made their way to the time capsule site. Lowering the capsule was led by University President Victor Vicente “Dean” Sinco together with Chancellor Dr. Charlotte V. Cariño, President Emeritus Dr. Mira D. Sinco, Dr. Gallosa, university administrators, and the student speakers.

The ceremony ended with a special community singing of "A Million Dreams," led by Abuhuni Choir alumni Dr. Felipe Sullera Jr. and Alvin Kenneth Apuado. Graduating students joined in the singing, creating a touching finale. The program concluded with the FU Hymn performed by the FU Abuhuni Marching Band.

In 25 years, the graduates will return to open the capsule and remember the journey they took together, and the place that helped shape who they are today.