Yap Catholic High School and Gagil School Celebrate Class of 2025 Graduation Wednesday, May 28, 2025, /// DYCA PIO

Yap, FM- Yap Catholic High School proudly held its Twelfth Commencement Exercises on May 24, 2025, celebrating the achievements of 23 graduating seniors from the Class of 2025. The graduation ceremony took place on the school campus and marked a joyful occasion for students, families, teachers, and the broader school community.

The event opened with a welcome from Salutatorian Martin Rove Edilyong, followed by an invocation by Fr. Rich McAuliff, S.J., the school’s Director. The graduates led the crowd in singing the FSM National Anthem.

Class Speakers Ivan D. Fleangcher and Tehani A. G. Kogol shared reflections on their high school journey, while Valedictorian Aryn Keira Gilin Southwick delivered an inspiring address encouraging her classmates to keep learning, loving, and hoping.

Several awards were presented during the ceremony, including academic honors, attendance recognition, and special awards such as the Fr. Walter Ciszek, S.J. Award, the Pope Leo XIV Service Award, and the Living the Mission Award, presented by faculty member Mr. Brandon Patris.

Outgoing Student Body President Amelia Giltamngin passed on leadership responsibilities to incoming President Enerihka Yugfel. The Commencement Address was delivered by The Honorable Nicholas Figirlaarwon, Speaker of the 11th Yap State Legislature.

Principal Gilippin Pongliyab congratulated the graduates during her address before diplomas were officially conferred. The ceremony closed with a final blessing by Fr. McAuliff.

On Sunday, May 25, 2025, Gagil Community School proudly held its 78th Annual Graduation Ceremony at 2:30 P.M. The event was filled with joy, pride, and celebration as families, teachers, and community members came together to honor the hard work and achievements of this year’s graduates.

The program began with opening remarks from the Master of Ceremony, Michael Youken, followed by the introduction of honored guests and the graduates' march. Welcoming remarks were given by Youken on behalf of Chief Fithingmow of Gagil Municipality, and a special environmental song “Ruwniyol” was also performed.

Several important community leaders gave speeches, including Acting Governor, Thomas G. Tun, Senator Victor Bamog, D.O.E. Director Mr. Dominic Fanasog, and School Board Chairman Mr. Martin Ruwniyol.

Students received awards from the school board, and gifts were presented by A’s Company (24-7 Taxi, A’s Construction, ATM Store), MRCS-Yap Chapter, R-Services (123 Store), and G.P Store (Pegmer).

This year's Valedictorian was Kyshawn Saperna, who gave the heartfelt Grade 8 Farewell Speech. The Salutatorian honor went to Marie Mangelmarey.

Special Appreciation Awards were given to:

• Erymots Ken Fnouy

• Marie Mangelmarey

• Almeroph Bichey

These students were recognized for attending Gagil Community School from the earliest grades all the way to 8th grade.

(For more information, please contact the Yap Catholic High School at (691) 350-8390 and Gagil School at (691) 350-3669 thank you) #graduation #gagilschool #ychs #ceremony