Las Piñas City lone district Rep. Camille Villar (Facebook)

House Deputy Speaker Las Piñas City lone district Rep. Camille Villar has imparted an important life lesson to the graduating students of Eastern Samar State University (ESSU)--one that can help them as they try to make their mark in the real world. 

“My dear graduates, our country needs you. You are our future. The country needs your energy, your talents, your knowledge, your passion to move the country forward," Villar said in a pep talk for the students during the university's recent 61st commencement exercises. 

"As we face many challenges, we rely on you to help your families, your communities, your government, to move forward and help this world become a better one," added the lady solon, who attended as the guest speaker. 

What's important according to Nacionalista Party (NP) is for the students to never give up. She said the idea of giving up “should not be in your DNA". 

"Never let a failure, a flop, or a mistake deter you from doing your best. There will definitely be a lot of challenges ahead. Laban lang (Keep fighting). 

"Learn the lesson, bounce back, and work harder than everyone else… To dream, is one thing, but to make it happen, that takes a whole lot of determination, perseverance, and sipag at tiyaga (industriousness and perseverance," Villar said. 

Villar went on to share her experience in the private sector. 

“In my own experience, in business and now in public service, there is one important lesson that I have learned: Change does not happen in one earth-shaking moment; it happens gradually. It happens when good people do good in every corner of their world. It starts within you, within your families, within your circle,” added Villar, who is the chief executive officer (CEO) of ALL Value Group and managing director of Vista Land. 

To stay the course, survive and succeed, the deputy speaker rallied the graduates to “find what inspires you” and use this to “fuel your passion to dream and lay the path to your destiny". 

“While material success is something to aspire for, remember to find your purpose and your destiny. When you find it, cultivate it, nourish it, work hard for it. Magsisimula ‘yan sa inyo. Huwag kayo susuko, kayong huwag mawawalan ng pag-asa,” she added. 

(It will come from you. Never give up, and don't give up.)