Dr. Alvarez’s inspiring ‘Magsimula Ka’ ballad

By Dr. Herman M. Lagon

THE ISUFST School of Graduate Studies Regalia Hooding and Graduation Ceremonies held on July 25 at Diversion 21 Hotel was an extraordinary event that celebrated the academic achievements of 188 doctoral and master degree graduates, each representing the epitome of excellence and perseverance. Among the event’s many highlights, one moment stood out and left a lasting impact on the hearts of those present—Dr. Raul Alvarez’s inspirational keynote address.

Dr. Alvarez, a prominent figure in the field of educational leadership and the Regional Director of CHED, graced the occasion with his presence, delivering a speech that resonated deeply with the audience of the 66-year-old Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology (ISUFST). With his characteristic wit and scholarly demeanor, he anchored his sharing with his rich and humbling journey, underscoring valuable insights on leadership, competence, and the Christian ideals guiding our lives.

In his address, Dr. Alvarez emphasized the importance of being allergic to mediocrity, encouraging the graduates to strive for excellence in all their endeavors. He reminded everyone of the duty to serve honestly, love their parents, defend the nation, and care for the environment—embodying values that inspire a purpose-driven life.

Drawing from his vast experience, Dr. Alvarez shared the secrets of professional growth, underscoring the significance of promoting one’s work, seeking feedback, and taking initiative. He playfully used a turtle-rabbit cartoon video to demonstrate that collaboration and teamwork are essential for success in any field.

Furthermore, he encouraged everyone to embody the “guiding principles” of ISUFST:

showing Industry imbued with resilience and innovation

being Steadfast in the face of challenges

radiating Uniqueness and passion for excellence

demonstrating Fortitude in actions and decisions

Serving the least and those in need

embracing Truthfulness as a way of life

However, the pinnacle of his address came as he culminated his speech with a heartfelt performance of the OPM ballad, “Magsimula Ka,” by Leo Valdez. The song’s lyrics resonated deeply with the audience, urging them to embrace each morning with optimism, pursue their dreams relentlessly, and seize life’s opportunities to find purpose and fulfillment. Dr. Alvarez’s rendition of the song was a poignant reminder of the importance of taking action and working hard to achieve one’s desires.

The song’s relevance goes beyond the personal or collective aspirations of the people in the ISUFST gathering—it holds universal significance. Dr. Raul Alvarez, the esteemed regional leader of higher education educators, recognized the power of this ballad’s message and sang it live as the grand finale of his inspirational keynote address.

Dr. Alvarez’s music choice, coupled with his pro baritone voice, carries a powerful message of inspiration and motivation that transcends time and resonates with the ISUFST audience. The lyrics remind everyone to start each day with a smile, appreciating the beauty of life and not letting happiness pass us by. Through the song, the singing RD reminds us to pursue our dreams relentlessly, using our strength to make them a reality, and not succumbing to the habit of waiting, for that might rob life of its true meaning.

Dr. Alvarez’s delivery of the refrain “Iisa lang ang buhay mo” (You only have one life) serves as a poignant reminder that we must make the most of our time on Earth. He implores us to dream big, work hard, and take action to achieve our heart’s desires. True to his person as an advocate for discovering everyone’s true calling—even if it entails facing hardships along the way knowing that the end reward will make all the effort worthwhile—Dr. Alvarez ultimately calls upon the graduates to seize the day and find purpose and fulfillment in life.

The song’s popularity is a testament to its timeless and borderless appeal. It won during The Fourth Metro Manila Popular Music Festival in 1981, became one of the longest-running original Filipino musical of all time, and remains a favorite in the hearts of many Filipinos. It was composed by Gines Tan and sung by Valdez.

As we go forth in life, let us carry Dr. Alvarez’s message, through the classic “Magsimula Ka,” in our hearts, instilling within us the courage to face challenges, the determination to pursue our dreams, and the unwavering resolve to make every moment count. By embracing the wisdom of this powerful song, we can embark on a journey of self-discovery, unleashing the limitless potential within each of us and finding meaning and purpose in our every endeavor.

Indeed, the ceremony was not just a celebration of academic accomplishments but an opus to the dedication, commitment, and restless seizing of the day for the faculty, staff, and administration who have nurtured and guided these graduates throughout their educational journey. It was an interlude of reflection, gratitude, and appreciation for the unwavering support provided by the university’s community.

As the graduates crossed the stage and donned their elegant academic regalia, their faces lit up with pride and joy. The thunderous applause from the audience acknowledged their hard work, resilience, and determination, especially in the face of challenges posed by the pandemic. The event was a fortissimo reminder of the transformative power of education. Armed with newfound knowledge and skills, each graduate is poised to embark on new chapters, ready to make a meaningful magnum opus in their respective fields, seizing every moment of the day with grace, grit, and gratitude.

As we continue our life’s journey, let us carry with us the wisdom imparted by Dr. Alvarez and the evocative message of “Magsimula Ka.” Let us embrace each morning with gratefulness and determination, pursuing our dreams with unwavering passion and making the most of life’s opportunities. In doing so, we will honor the values that guide us on our restless journey to do greater things for the greater good.

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Dr. Herman Lagon fondly describes himself as a ‘student of and for life’ who, like many others, aspires to a life-giving and why-driven world that is grounded in social justice and the pursuit of happiness. He is a professor of ISUFST, a student of USLS, a retiree of Ateneo, and an alumnus of UP, UI, and WVSU.