Last December 13, 2008, the PAIDE community held its annual Culminating program and Christmas party at Angels Institute of Learning Social Hall, 4th floor. The event was full of fun filled activities and surprises for the audience. The program started with a prayer service, which was facilitated by Ms. Nemz Abiday and interpreted by Priscilla Roxas and Anthony Albay. The audience paid attention to Ms. Rosalynn Garcia as she welcomed everyone in her opening remarks.
The line up of activities begun with a song interpretation by Ms. Mary Hope Sumabong from the Basic 1 class entitled “For You I Will” and by Zenaida Rabina’s “Wheel of the Wind” ( Great performance ladies!). The Basic 1 class also showed harmony as they performed for their group presentation. Everyone started to get more excited when Ms. Joy Timbol’s version of “Remember Me This Way” and Mariza Illinon’s “Hero” paved their way on stage (Way to go!). Not only were they able to perform well, but they also gave an indication of how future interpreters would be with their performance of “Rock Around The Christmas Tree”. It was good to see how each of them showed their best to give meaning to their songs. Of course let me give recognition to their mentors Mr. Mike Potian and Ms. Sonia Lodado for their never ending vigor and spirit.
Towards the latter part of the program, we saw the regular faces of PAIDE’s Performing Artists. It started with the sexy interpretation of “Giling-Giling” by the hot and captivating Ms. Emelie Gentalian (Great job Ate Melai!). After that energetic performance, Mr. Joffrey Ortanez serenaded the audience with a lovely song “Ikaw Ang Buhay Ko”. His voice soothed the ears of everyone present there.
Meanwhile, the mini concert was cut short by our Masters of Ceremony for the awarding of Certificates to the student trainees of SL interpreting (Basic 1 and Basic 2 classes), of which the highlight was the recognition of PAIDE’s Batch 17 S-L interpreters namely Anthony Albay, Carlito Anonuevo, Rosalynn Garcia and Priscilla Roxas (Congratulations!) who were under the supervision and care of Ms. Nemia Abiday.
After the awarding of certificates, Mr. Fernan Baquing’s appealing looks charmed the viewers with his interpretation of the song “The Gift”. It was followed with my own interpretation of the song “Just Another New Year’s Eve”. It was a vey mellow song with beautiful lyrics. The next performers were none other than the handsome and beautiful teachers of Angeli Dei Schools and Angels Institute of Learning namely Joffrey, Fernan, Belle, and Cynthia of Batch 16. They interpreted the song “I’ll Be Home For Christmas”. The energy in the room rose to the next level as Ms. Nemz Abiday interpreted the song “Perfect Christmas”. Before the culminating program ended, the audience waited for the performance of PAIDE’S Sign Language Training Officer, Mr. Michael Potian. He interpreted the song “Christmas Is”. And lastly, what the 17th Batch of interpreters had in store for us? They performed a “Christmas Medley” with a heartfelt and touching Powerpoint presentation. This ended the delightful 1st part of the program.
But wait! I think I missed on something. Isn’t that every Christmas program our CEO performs with the interpreters? Of course, this year is not different from the rest. However, this last culminating program he rendered a song interpretation entitled “The Road of Our Lives” to all. The interpreters and the audience sat and watched in awe as he moved his skilled hands gracefully. To Sir Jun, a simple thank you is not enough for all the encouragement and support you have for us! The interpreters will not forget their moments with you. Ms. Leticia V. Uy, the Chairman of the Board of PAIDE ended the program with a closing remark.
A Christmas Culminating Program will never be complete without a party. All the students and interpreters present were involved in this event. Guests from the Deaf community of Antipolo, EDSA Shrine and College of St. Benilde – La Salle were also invited and present to celebrate with us too. Everybody participated and was challenged with the different games in stored for them. Almost everyone was exhilarated looking at the dynamic faces of everyone as they battle and fight for their team. Certainly, these games and battle would not be complete without the fabulous and “bonggacious” prizes from our generous sponsors! The exciting exchanging of gifts followed after the games. And for the finale, we as one family interpreted the song “Christmas in Our Hearts”.
Everybody felt wonderful with peace and joy in their hearts as they once again proved that “PAIDE IS AN EXTRAORDINARY COMMUNITY FOR EXTRAORDINARY INTERPRETERS!!!” (Are you one of us?)
NOW TELL ME, ISN’T THIS YOUR MOST FAVORITE TIME OF THE YEAR, TOO?
By Maria Antonette U. Padilla