Rizal model student finalists bared

Four outstanding college students from Metro Manila, six from Luzon, four from the Visayas and three from Mindanao comprised the 17 finalists in this year’s search for Jose Rizal Model Students of the Philippines.

Announced by Mr. Pablo S. Trillana III, supreme commander of the Order of the Knights of Rizal which is a non-political, non-sectarian organization created by the 1951 law to propagate Rizalian ideals and teachings throughout the country.

The 17 student finalists were :

Jordan Cabandong – Far Eastern University, Manila

Suzette Plegaria – University of Rizal System, Morong, Rizal

Louie Charles Rañola – South Philippines Adventist College, Davao del Sur

Dion Lorenz Romano – Universidad de Sta Isabel, Naga City

Ruby Grace Delos Reyes Rosale – Wesleyan University, Nueva Ecija

Archer Segovia Urbano – Polytechnic University of the Philippines, Manila;

Reighner Guinto Manuel – Angeles University Foundation, Pampanga;

Geminn Louis Carace Apostol – Ateneo de Manila University, Quezon City

Dan Lester Suelto Mendoza – FEU East Asia College, Manila

Louie Lapiñas – Misamis Oriental State College of Agriculture and Technology

Arlyn Festijo de Mesa – De La Salle Lipa, Batangas

Jake Mengote Marasigan – Eastern Samar State University

Monica Palomares – Ateneo de Naga University, Naga City

David Doncillo – University of Eastern Philippines, Catarman, Northern Samar

Mark Anthony Alagos – University of Antique, Sibalom, Antique

Jerald Pelayo – Mountain View College, Valencia City, Bukidnon

Rey Emmanuelle M. – Colegio de San Agustin, Bacolod City

All the finalists were evaluated based on the following criteria: academic excellence 35%, student leadership in local school and community activities 15% and student leadership in regional, national and international area 20%.

The search which was initiated in 1988 has honored the Filipino youth each year who has exemplified the Rizalian qualities of academic excellence and leadership in campus, community and  virtues of love of country and people.

The final interview of the 17 finalists to select the ten winners will be held on December 29 at the Knights of Rizal International Headquarters, Port Area, Manila and they will be honored in appropriate awarding ceremonies in the morning of Rizal Day, December 30 at the ceremonial hall at the same venue.