May 02, 2024

FLYING TO NEW HORIZON

Wings of Success: Inaugural Control Line Program Graduation Ceremony

As the pioneers' flight landed, new captains were ready to take over the plane and chart a new course. It was a momentous occasion as Wings of Success, the Inaugural Control Line Program Graduation Ceremony, took place on May 2, 2024, at the Chairman’s Penthouse. During the event, members of the PATTS Alliance of Aeromodellers and Flyers (ALM), also known as captains, were awarded a 'wing' symbolizing their commitment to control line flying for the academic year. The event also featured a turnover ceremony for the new set of student leaders for the organization.


The event was graced by distinguished guests, including Engr. Jose Eduardo S. Valdez (College President and COO), Atty. Anna Katrina Valdez-Cruz (Board Director and VP for Administrative Affairs), Dr. Emelita I. Javier (VP for Student Affairs), Engr. Joy Cosme G. Amores, Jr. (VP for Academic Affairs), Engr. Denis S. Desolo (BS AeroE Program Chairperson), Engr. Brixvon P. Cruz (ALM Adviser and Student Affairs/SOCI Head), and most notably, Ar. Oscar B. Mapua, Jr. (Control Line Philippines Consultant) - who made control line flying at PATTS College of Aeronautics possible.


The event began with a procession of graduates, with Ar. Mapua behind them. Joy and excitement were evident on the faces of each captain as they eagerly walked. Ar. Mapua then delivered a keynote address, stating, "I look forward to seeing you receive your pilot wings, [because] you really deserve them," as he congratulated all the members of the organization. He added, "...and remember that sustainable aviation is always your key," emphasizing the importance of sustainability in control line flying. Following his speech, Engr. Valdez awarded him a plaque of appreciation.


Engr. Amores, then, presented the graduates. As each name was called, the graduates graced the stage, receiving their 'pilot wing' pin from Ar. Mapua and their Certificate of Recognition from Atty. Cruz.


Samuel John Sibul, ALM Founder and Outgoing President, then gave a heartfelt commencement speech. He thanked the Board of Directors for the opportunity to build the organization and wished the new captains the best of luck.


After that, Engr. Cruz introduced the new set of ALM Captains who will lead the organization for the academic year 2024-2025, with Engr. Desolo handing them their certificates. This was followed by a turnover ceremony, where Mr. Sibul passed the insignia of the organization to John Ansel Madanas, ALM Founding Officer and ALM President for the next academic year.


The event concluded with a closing remarks from Mr. Madanas. He expressed his commitment to advancing control line flying at the school, stating he will do his best to steer the organization to new horizons.