The Benefactors Behind Every PATTSean’’ Success

They have been the pillars upon which the spirit of a student is built, they have devoted their passion to the development of another, and they have been the reason why PATTS College of Aeronautics has been one of the most prominent aeronautical institutions in the Philippines. During the annual PATTS Educators' Day, which took place on November 25, 2022, at The Chairman's Penthouse, the hard work that PATTS’ Instructors, Employees and Staff have put in to bring out the best in the students was honored, celebrating various accomplishments that have been achieved as a result of their efforts.

The silence was replaced with laughter and joy as the stars of the event set foot in the venue. The lights were bright, and the festive decorations had the audience in awe. The mood became even brighter with the presence of the ever-inspiring Engr. Jose Eduardo S. Valdez (College President and COO), Atty. Anna Katrina V. Cruz (VP for Administrative Affairs), Dr. Emelita I. Javier (VP for Student Affairs) and Engr. Joy Cosme G. Amores Jr. (VP for Academic Affairs). 

After the presentation of guidelines and etiquettes hosted by the most articulated Mr. Ross Jayson Basilonia and Ms. Lorelei Flamencia, they proceeded to interview the audience showcasing their wits along with representing their respective departments. The event formally began with the short but inspiring opening remarks of the President of the PATTS Faculty Association, Mr. Gerardo Navarro, thanking the Educators for their efforts each day. 

“As Educators, we make our students feel welcome despite differences,” Engr. Valdez said during his heartfelt speech that enveloped the minds and hearts of the students and instructors present. Inclusion has been the highlight of his speech, emphasizing how it is an integral part of being an Educator. He said, “But I believe we should have that kind of discussion [...] as educators, we make our students feel welcome despite differences.” As much as the audience wanted to hear more about the College President, Engr. Valdez ended his speech by saying: “This Educators’ Day, I wish to celebrate your role in society as you mold the minds of these people,  and to keep in mind that for us to communicate with them, we have to understand them.” 

PATTS Instructors are gifted with their ability to connect to their students. Aside from this, they also have the talent to sing and go wherever the grooves go as shown in the Icebreaker “Missing Lyrics”. Other games were also conducted such as the classic Jack ‘N Poy, and message relay – each unleashing the inner child that they carry even up to this very day.

The talented PATTS Vocal Harmony (PVH) also kept the momentum going when they stepped on the stage with their unparalleled talents wooing the crowd. The excitement did not stop there as raffle prizes were drawn for our educators. 

An event to celebrate hard work and victories will never be enough to thank those behind the successes of every Seahorse. Their efforts may be overlooked by some and may seem to be underappreciated. As stated by Atty. Cruz, “It was the hardest thing I had to do,” sharing her experiences when she was in their shoes. ”[...]So I do admire all of you for the work that you do,”  as she concluded the event with her eye-opening closing remarks. 

In general, teachers do not only mold the minds of their students, they also shape their values and character. From teaching the students how to solve arithmetic problems and comprehend aviation-related topics to surviving a world full of challenges, the PATTS educators did more than that -  preparing the students for the work field and the lives ahead of them. After all, they are the students’ second parents.