50 Years of Timeless Bonds and Brotherhood: HCDC High School Class of 1975 Celebrates Golden Jubilee

Nothing feels more nostalgic than stepping back into your alma mater after decades of grappling with life, made even more beautiful by seeing old friends with whom you once shared the ripe years of your youth with. With reminiscing and warm hugs, the Holy Cross of Davao College (HCDC) High School Class of 1975 celebrated their Golden Jubilee last August 25, 2025, with a visit to the institution they once called home—marking not only their 50th year since graduating, but also five decades of enduring friendship and brotherhood.

The day started with a holy mass at Sta. Ana Shrine Parish Church followed by a brief tour of the campus. While taking photos along the way, they recalled how different the school looked in their time with only a few old buildings left.

From the campus, the celebration continued at Malagos Garden, Matina Aplaya, where they brought up favorite memories and stories from their school days. Amid the joy, there was also solemn remembrance. The batch, composed of three high school sections, paused for a prayer and a moment of silence to honor departed classmates, keeping them alive in memory and spirit.

For Dr. Christopher Gonzaga, valedictorian of the High School Class of 1975 and currently a medical doctor in New Mexico, United States of America, the gathering was both a homecoming and a success.

“All of us come from different walks of life, and now we’re given this opportunity to come together and enjoy the times that we have because these are the people that somehow helped me into becoming who I am,” Dr. Gonzaga said.

She also left a message for HCDC students reminding them of the importance of hardwork and perseverance.

“I’m not bright, but I am hardworking. You just have to be diligent. Aim all your dreams and goals, lay them down to the Lord, and then pray. Do 100%, and He does 100%, not 50-50.”

As part of the program and a way of recognizing their invaluable contribution to the institution, the alumni were also presented with a token of gratitude from the Center for Social Communications and Alumni Affairs represented by the Alumni Affairs Officer Mr. Romil Torrejos and Alumni Affairs Assistant Ms. Karylle Jane Bernabe.

Adding to the day’s significance was the presence of some of the batch’s elementary and high school teachers, whose presence evoked a deep sense of nostalgia and brought back memories of high school days.

“The event of meeting our previous students is worth keeping, because it can recall some of the experiences that we were part of,” Ms. Minerva Fabros, one of the elementary teachers who attended, expressed.

As the day ended with lingering embraces, the Class of 1975 stood as living proof that while the campus and its people may have changed, the friendships, lessons, and values that HCDC instilled in them remain timeless. For them, the gathering was not just a mere reunion, but a cherished opportunity to relive old ties that molded their values and sense of belonging — a true homecoming and a celebration of bonds strengthened by time. (CrossTV)