Kara David Lights Up MSU-IIT Graduation: A Celebration of New Beginnings!

COURTESY: Mindanao State University - Iligan Institute of Technology 

IMAGE CREDITS: Mindanao State University - Iligan Institute of Technology 

Hey there, future trailblazers! So, picture this: a gym packed with 2,163 eager graduates, all buzzing with excitement and maybe a tiny bit of anxiety. That was the scene at the MSU-IIT Second Semester Graduation of the 55th Commencement on June 27, 2025. And guess who graced the stage as the guest speaker? None other than the multi-awarded broadcast journalist, Kara David! Now, if you’re wondering what wisdom she dropped that day, grab your coffee and settle in because we’re diving into it!

Life Lessons with a Dash of Humor

Kara kicked off her speech with a few lighthearted jokes and some Gen-Z references, instantly creating a cozy vibe. But let’s be real; she didn’t just come to crack jokes. With her presentation titled “Ang Pagtatapos ay Isang Pagsisimula,” she delivered some seriously impactful life lessons. You know how everyone says graduation is the end? Well, she flipped that narrative, reminding us that it’s really just the beginning of many new adventures.

Her first lesson hit home: it’s all about giving to others. She passionately said, “Kung gusto mong humaba ang buhay ng iyong talento, ang buhay ng iyong kaalaman, matuto kang magturo sa mga tao.” Translation? If you want your talents and knowledge to live on, teach others! It’s such a beautiful thought, right? David emphasized that our lives should be about more than just ourselves; it’s about sharing what we have with others. It’s a powerful reminder that our impact can live on through those we help.

Dreams, Community, and the Light in the Dark

Moving on to her second lesson, Kara tackled the topic of dreams. She stated, “Makapangyarihan po ang ating mga pangarap,” which means our dreams are powerful enough to change our lives and communities. How inspiring is that? She urged graduates to hold on to their dreams tightly and never let go. Education, according to her, is a transformative force that can create waves of change in society. And honestly, who wouldn’t want to be part of something that profound?

But wait, there’s more! Her final lesson revolved around the importance of community. “Ang mabigat ay gumagaan, kapag marami ang pumapasan,” she said, sharing wisdom gleaned from the Mangyan people of Mindoro. Her experiences in storytelling from some of the most challenging areas of the Philippines have taught her that even in the darkest corners, there’s always a glimmer of hope. It’s a beautiful, hopeful message that encourages everyone to come together and support each other. 

Kara wrapped up her speech with a heartfelt reminder: Graduates, it’s vital to devote some of your time to serving the community. After all, when we share the load, it becomes lighter for everyone involved. As she put it, “Hindi po ito pagtatapos kung hindi simula.” Graduation isn’t an end; it’s a fresh start.

So, as you step into this new chapter, remember Kara’s words. Embrace the challenges ahead, share your gifts, chase your dreams, and uplift those around you. Here’s to new beginnings!

Anchors Aweigh: KC Abigail Chin-Sood's Inspiring Voyage

IMAGE CREDIT: LINKEDIN 

Ahoy, fellow dreamers and adventurers! As we celebrate World Seafarers’ Day, let’s dive into the incredible journey of KC Abigail Chin-Sood—a woman who’s not just breaking the waves but also shattering stereotypes. At 36 years old, Abigail is a second officer on a product or crude oil tanker, and she’s been riding the tides of the maritime world for nearly 11 years. Let’s explore how this remarkable woman went from dreaming of the courtroom and cockpit to navigating the high seas.

From Dreams to Reality: A Journey of Transformation

Growing up in the vibrant city of Cagayan de Oro in Mindanao, KC Abigail never pictured herself in a seafaring role. Instead, she had aspirations of becoming a lawyer or even a pilot! But life has a funny way of steering us in unexpected directions. Due to financial hurdles, she explored alternative paths, ultimately following in her father’s footsteps—a chief officer who inspired her to chase her nautical dreams. With his guidance, KC Abigail embarked on a journey that would take her across the globe, confronting challenges and discovering her true calling.

However, the waters weren’t always smooth sailing. “I faced bullying and discrimination when I started out,” she recalls, reflecting on those early days. “People doubted me, saying I’d get pregnant and quit.” But instead of letting those harsh words sink her spirit, she used them as fuel for her fire. With an unwavering determination, she pushed beyond her limits, proving that she was here to stay. Today, she’s not just surviving; she’s thriving as a seasoned seafarer, managing navigation, medical care, and even cybersecurity on board her vessel. Talk about multitasking!

Navigating Life at Sea and Beyond

Now, let’s talk about the reality of life at sea. KC Abigail’s work schedule is a whirlwind, with rotations that can keep her away from home for months at a time. “When we’re in port, my schedule stays the same, but our focus shifts to cargo operations,” she explains. From handling crude oil to traversing vast routes—from America to Europe and beyond—her days are anything but boring! Yet, amidst the chaos, she finds ways to stay connected with her loved ones. “It’s not always easy, but even a short message can bring comfort on tough days,” she shares, echoing the sentiment that distance doesn’t have to separate hearts.

Speaking of distance, KC Abigail has been married for three years to another seafarer—a master mariner! “One of the major challenges we face is the long-distance relationship, but we manage to keep it healthy,” she says with a smile. Their shared passion for the sea helps them navigate the stormy waters of marriage and work life. As she looks to the future, Abigail aims to advance her career and mentor aspiring seafarers. Currently, she’s pursuing a management-level course to obtain her higher license, proving that the horizon is just the beginning.

KC Abigail's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance. “Life at sea is tough—you need to be strong mentally, emotionally, and spiritually,” she advises. “Keep learning, and never settle for less.” With her passion and dedication, she’s not just a role model for women everywhere but a beacon of inspiration for anyone daring to chase their dreams. So, let’s raise our anchors and set sail towards our own adventures, inspired by KC Abigail’s incredible story!