Leadership took center stage at the Junior High School Miting de Avance held last July 11, 2025, from 2:00 to 4:00 PM at the Manresa School old gymnasium. With the theme “Sparking student voices, sustaining the flame of involvement,” the event gave aspiring officers the chance to present their platforms and answer questions from both a panel and the student body ahead of the upcoming MSGSB elections.

Two student-led parties—TAPAT, led by presidential candidate Jiannah Maica M. Santos, and PANGAKO, led by Antonio E. Quianzon—participated in the program alongside two independent candidates. Each party presented its goals and agenda for School Year 2025–2026.  The event was facilitated by Ms. Bianca R. Arce and Mr. Ferdinand Ryan L. Arroyo. The program opened with a prayer led by Samantha E. Manio from Grade 10–Generosity, followed by opening remarks from Mrs. Joana Marie S. Infanta, who reminded students to “vote wisely; choose leaders who are moved with both purpose and compassion.”

All candidates were introduced by their campaign managers, who highlighted their achievements, goals, and motivations. Both parties laid out their platforms before the panel session. TAPAT focused on cleanliness, student support through engaging activities, and social media updates via a news wall. PANGAKO proposed improved sanitary products, Athletes’ Day, inclusivity events, and the distribution of study notes. The independent candidates emphasized mental health, academics, wellness, and faith-based initiatives.

A fast talk session followed, conducted by panelists Mr. Ian Gabriel Rosales (JHS Science Coordinator), Mr. Jenno Roquero (JHS English Coordinator), and Ms. Marie Paulin Esconebra (JHS Mathematics Coordinator). The panelists asked the candidates for one-word responses to issues such as the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte, artificial intelligence, and the rising number of affluent students at the University of the Philippines. Throughout the discussions, the student leaders focused on addressing in-depth topics with clarity and purpose. 

After the panel session, the floor was opened to student questions, allowing the audience to engage directly with the candidates. This segment promoted transparency and gave students a chance to understand each candidate’s values and leadership style.

TAPAT’s Jiannah Maica M. Santos described the Miting de Avance as a meaningful experience that showcased the preparation and understanding of both parties. She highlighted the importance of staying true to Manresan values and following the example of St. Candida. PANGAKO’s Antonio E. Quianzon noted that while the event was intense, it was also marked by mutual respect and support among candidates, regardless of party affiliation.  At this Miting de Avance, the candidates demonstrated their worth and understanding of what their positions truly meant, which played a significant role in shaping the voters' decision on who to entrust with those positions.  Both candidates expressed deep appreciation for the opportunity to participate in the Miting de Avance, calling it a valuable and unforgettable experience. The event reflected not only their preparedness but also their resilience and commitment to student leadership.

The JHS Miting de Avance served as a platform for aspiring student leaders to present their plans and connect with the student body. It allowed voters to better discern who to support in the upcoming student elections, scheduled for Tuesday, July 15, 2025. The event reinforced the values of voice, unity, service, and informed decision-making for the Manresan community.

Pictures during the Room to Room Campaign

Article by Cassandra Aguilar and Marcziah Gavia, The Manresan staffers under the  tutelage of Ms. Abegail D. Bodopol

Photos by: Ms. Cristina Joy C. Sapao