Mr. Ronnie Bughao, a former University of Cebu–Banilad working scholar now teaching at Doong Island in Bantayan, returned to the campus to inspire fellow scholars during the annual UC-BANS Victory Party on August 1, 2026, a celebration of the Working Scholars Organization’s milestones and wins throughout the year.
Bringing together working scholars from first year to graduating seniors, the celebration became an opportunity for the organization to recognize not only academic milestones but also the work, service, and perseverance that come with being a working scholar.
For Bughao, standing before the scholars was a moment that brought his own journey full circle.
Years ago, he was among the students balancing classroom responsibilities with work and service as a UC-Banilad working scholar. Today, he stands on the other side of that experience as a teacher, bringing with him the lessons he gained from his years at the University.
Now teaching in Doong Island, Bughao shared his experience with the graduating scholars and younger members of UC-BANS, offering a glimpse of what lies beyond their years as working scholars.
His story resonated because it was familiar. He, too, had once managed academic demands alongside responsibilities in the University. The discipline required to report for work, fulfill duties, meet academic requirements, and continue despite challenges became part of the foundation that eventually led him to the teaching profession.
For the graduating scholars, Bughao’s presence offered more than encouragement. It showed them that the end of their working-scholar journey can also mark the beginning of another kind of service.
For the younger scholars, meanwhile, his story offered a picture of what their own journey could become.
The Victory Party carried its usual spirit of celebration, with games, laughter, performances, and shared moments among members of UC-BANS. But beneath the festivities was a recognition of the collective effort behind every accomplishment—of scholars who continue to study, work, serve, and support one another throughout their University journey.
As the graduating scholars prepare to leave UC-Banilad and the younger scholars continue the work they have begun, Bughao’s return served as a reminder that the experience of being a working scholar does not end with graduation.
It can follow them into their professions, their communities, and the lives they will eventually touch.
From a working scholar at UC-Banilad to a teacher serving learners on an island in Bantayan, Bughao’s journey showed that sometimes, the greatest victory is not simply finishing the work—but carrying its lessons forward.
