By: Manuel Ferdinand Ramirez de Erio

AOUTSTANDING, they are! Yet, amidst the accolades and achievements that painted their young lives as thriving individuals, these young Boholanos have maintained humility and idealism to fuel their enthusiasm and optimism as they continue to aspire for and envision a greater Philippines. From the 24 deserving finalists in the search for the Ten Outstanding Students of the Philippines – Central Visayas (TOSP Region VII), three of the ten winners were Boholano students. They are epitome of sterling academic performance, admirable community service and exemplary values.

Meet Bohol's fantastic three: Metodio “John” Maraguinot Jr. of the Holy Name University (HNU) who just graduated with a degree of Bachelor of Arts in Political Science; Narsheen Artiaga of Talibon town who shall graduate this April 26 in the University of the Philippines – Cebu College with the degree on Bachelor of Science in Mass Communications; and, Lord B. Salas of the University of Bohol (UB) who had just recently finished Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering. At first glance, Metodio “John” Maraguinot Jr. may appear timid and shy. But watch out when this handsome young man is given the floor and the chance to speak his mind. He definitely exudes power and strength to hold the crowd and share his wisdom.

John emphasized that the finalists and the winners of the TOSP Region VII were merely simple young people who shared a common vision—to serve and further seek for greater service not for personal gains but for the betterment of the people and the glory of God. The only lady of the three Boholano winners, Narsheen “Jin-jin” Artiaga is a definite charmer. Her pleasing personality and superb academic performance and community service strongly affirmed that the women of today are competent partners and stakeholders in significant social activities in nation-building.

Jin-jin is greatly elated for being among the ten students to vie for the national level of the TOSP. She believes and understands that this opportunity would mean greater and bigger responsibility and challenges. While preparing for her graduation this April 26, Jin-jin confessed that she look forward to spending a fun and enjoyable summer as she plans to take summer classes on dancing. Silent and reserved type of guy, Lord B. Salas of University of Bohol this city, completes the Bohol 's fantastic three. He is the shy and conservative type with an exceptional gift in mathematics and sciences. Lord believes that everyone is evenly given enough talents and skills, it only differs on how one harnessed and developed these in order to cause greater developments and achieve for greater things.

Governor Erico B. Aumentado who supported the TOSP Region VII encouraged the finalists of the TOSP Region VII with the words of wisdom of the Philippine national hero, Dr. Jose P. Rizal. “Do not just be future leaders, be at the forefront. Involve yourselves in pushing the country forward, to neutralize those who are in politics only for personal ambition and seeking to destroy the fundamental democracy of the land,” Governor Aumentado further encouraged. Indeed, the youth is the fair hopes of this thriving nation. These three young Boholanos have incessantly made ripples in society. Enliv wishes for these three youths and the rest of the youths of Bohol to continue the blazing idealism and wisely utilize the overflowing energy to further the development of this country.

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