26-06-2025
Cheers, tears as Pinoys join Int'l Migrants School grad rites in Rome
Over 50 students completed various academic levels this year at International Migrants School (IMS) in Rome, including 16 from Grade 10 and 33 from Senior High School under the K to 12 program. BOYET ABUCAY
A momentous and joyous day unfolded at the International Migrants School (IMS) in Rome as it celebrated its 2025 annual moving up ceremony and graduation rites.
The event honored more than 50 students who successfully completed various academic levels, including 16 from Grade 10 and 33 from Senior High School under the K to 12 program.
IMS, an educational institution that follows the Filipino curriculum, serves as a vital academic and cultural support system for children of Filipino migrants, as well as students from diverse nationalities.
Over 50% of its student population comes from countries such as India, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Vietnam, and even Italy—reflecting the school's commitment to multiculturalism and inclusive education.
The ceremony was led by IMS founder and directress Milagros Nabur, a proud Bicolana and a graduate of University of Santo Tomas (UST) Bicol.
She arrived in Italy in 1989 as a scholar of the Congregation of the Sisters of the Holy Spirit. She later pursued her Ph.D. as a scholar of the Salesian Don Bosco at the Pontificia Salesiana.
After completing her dissertation in the United States, she founded the International Migrants School, originally named M&L International Training Center.
Nabur pursued her Ph.D. as a scholar of Salesian Don Bosco at the Pontificia Salesiana. After completing her dissertation in the United States, she founded the International Migrants School, originally named M&L International Training Center.
Now in its eighth year, the school—alongside her dedicated team of international educators comprised of nine Filipinos, three Indians, and an Italian—has guided and mentored over 140 students toward this important milestone.
More than half of the student population of the International Migrants School (IMS) in Rome are from countries such as India, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Vietnam and Italy. BOYET ABUCAY
In her speech, Nabur expressed heartfelt gratitude to the entire IMS community—teachers, parents, and students alike.
"Establishing a school in a foreign land is never easy, but through collaboration, faith, and unity—we stand here today, stronger and more purposeful," she said.
Distinguished guests graced the occasion, including Consul General Randy Arquiza of the Philippine Embassy in Rome, Professor Flavio Rodighiero, a former parliamentarian and professor at La Sapienza University, and Don Pietro Guerini, Director of the Office for Migrants of the Vicariate of Rome. The guests of honor personally awarded diplomas, certificates of completion, and academic recognitions to the graduates in a moving and meaningful ceremony.
Dreams begin
Among the honorees was Marc Andrei Alita, who graduated with high honors.
"It's so fulfilling to finally reach the beginning of my dreams," Marc shared.
He reflected on the importance of his high school experience—not only for the academic lessons but also for the life lessons, joyful memories, and challenges that helped shape his character.
The moment was especially emotional for his mother, who said, "This isn't just the fulfillment of a dream; it represents the essence of my motherhood. I see true success in him."
Milagros Nabur, a proud Bicolana and a graduate of University of Santo Tomas (UST) Bicol, is the founder and directress of the International Migrants School (IMS) in Rome. 'Establishing a school in a foreign land is never easy, but through collaboration, faith, and unity—we stand here today, stronger and more purposeful,' Nabur said. BOYET ABUCAY
Another highlight of the day was the recognition of twin sisters Aliyah Denise and Alyanah Karise Aldana, who both received academic honors and scholarships for the upcoming school year. Their parents expressed deep gratitude:
"We worked hard to bring the twins here to Italy so our family could be whole again. We are deeply thankful to IMS for allowing them to continue their education and for the opportunities they've now received."
'Keep being curious'
Alfred Pallarca, Manager of the EU Project at EVBB (European Association of Institutes for Vocational Training) in Brussels, sought to inspire students and graduates at the event. Originally from Cabanatuan, Philippines, he migrated to the United States at age 12, later earned a master's degree in Germany, and is now based in Belgium.
In his keynote message, Pallarca shared: "Keep being curious because that's how you move forward in life. As long as you keep going, you'll discover who you really are—and become the person you are meant to be."
While Italian schools do not traditionally hold graduation ceremonies like this, the IMS celebration held deep cultural and emotional significance for many Filipino families. It was not just a formal event, but a tribute to sacrifice, resilience, and the enduring hope for a brighter future.
In the face of migration challenges, IMS continues to be a beacon of education, hope, and achievement—empowering young Filipinos in Italy to take bold steps toward fulfilling their dreams. — VDV, GMA Integrated News
