May 25, 2026
Tzu Chi Great Love Preschool Philippines marks its first Moving Up Ceremony of the toddler class
By Thania Florendo
To celebrate the toddlers’ growth, confidence, and meaningful journey throughout the school year, families, teachers, and students gathered for a heartwarming Moving p Ceremony at Tzu Chi Great Love Preschool Philippines in Agno, Quezon City.
The event became a joyful gathering filled with laughter, pride, and touching memories as parents celebrated their little balls of sunshine, who brought energy and happiness into the classroom throughout the year.
The program opened with a video presentation featuring the toddlers’ classroom moments and interviews with parents, who shared heartfelt testimonials about their children’s development and experiences in school.
Jerome Sy, Jasmine's father, shared how the school helped his daughter grow emotionally, socially, and academically.
“She now explains more about how she feels. Academically, she has gained a wider vocabulary and uses more words. She also interacts more with other children and no longer feels shy around adults,” he said.
Jerome expressed his gratitude to the teachers and staff for the patience and kindness shown to his daughter. “Jasmine seems very happy here. She likes the teachers and enjoys interacting with them. I hope that next school year, she will continue to love going to school and grow even more in life and academics.”
Aaron Lee, father of Audee Moses, shared his hopes for his child, saying, “Keep on improving, and may you continue to be kind, generous, thoughtful, and happy.”
The awarding ceremony was filled with applause, smiles, and photo opportunities as the toddlers proudly received their recognition. Some children also opened their coin cans and joyfully offered their savings into the large bamboo coin bank, reflecting the values of generosity and kindness taught in school.
After the awarding, the celebration continued with games and lively dance performances. The hall echoed with laughter, cheers, and excitement as everyone enthusiastically participated in the activities.
Before closing the program, school directress Jane Sy delivered a heartfelt message of gratitude to the parents and families.
“Today is indeed a joyful and wonderful celebration as we honor our toddlers. Throughout this school year, our classroom has been filled with love. Each child brought unique personalities that made every day fun, meaningful, and exciting in their own little ways,” she said.
She reflected on how many of the toddlers entered the preschool at only 1 year old, and expressed appreciation for the trust and support given by the families to the entire Tzu Chi faculty and staff.
“To the parents, grandparents, and family members, thank you for entrusting your children to us. You left them in our care, trusted us to guide them, participated in school programs, and continuously supported us throughout the year,” she added.
The program concluded with a final video presentation reliving the toddlers’ memorable moments and milestones throughout the school year, followed by a shared lunch among families, teachers, and guests.
Jefferson Wang, father of Jacobson, shared that although their son is the youngest in the class, they are happy to see him continue growing, learning, and enjoying his preschool journey.
A lively dance performance brightened the celebration and showcased the toddlers’ growing confidence.
Cameras were everywhere as families captured every moment of the memorable celebration.
Parents Aaron and Mary Rose Lee guide their son Audee in opening his coin can. At a young age, toddlers are taught that kindness in giving begins with small acts that grow into powerful help for others.
Shazia Jolie Ong receives her Kind Hearted Award for being a great friend to her classmates, and Brave Explorer Award for overcoming shyness and trying new things.
Jerome Sy and his family made the event a meaningful occasion as they attended Jasmine’s Moving Up Ceremony together with his wife, relatives, and two cousins who are also Jasmine’s best friends.
Parents Philip and Stephanie Camille Chua smile as their son Morris receives his awards: Big Kid Growth and Groovy Dancer.
Parents Ryan and Erin Cochan have been supportive throughout their sons Bryce and Brent's early education. Bryce, the older child, recently graduated from the pre-kindergarten program.
With two of their three daughters enrolled at Tzu Chi Great Love Preschool Philippines, Jemison and Germaine Go proudly support their children’s education.
With pride, Jackson and Charmeuse Lee received their daughter Chloe’s award.
Proud father Johann Kristoffer Lim joined his son Caiden Kristoff in receiving the Brave Explorer and Cutest Little Learner awards.
While waiting for the program to commence, parents look through their child’s photo album to see their journey.
Teachers enthusiastically cheered as the children participated in the “Bring Me” challenge.
Jacobson Wang earned a snack reward after winning a category in the “Bring Me” activity.
Another dance number followed, with energy at full throttle.
Tzu Chi Great Love Preschool Philippines Directress Jane Sy shared how the children matured over the months and demonstrated the remarkable potential hidden within their tiny hands, which will one day help shape the future of society.
A group photo closed the program, along with hopes that the children will come back as braver learners.