Vice Ganda shared her observation about some graduates and honor students today, stressing that earning a diploma does not necessarily mean a person has truly learned from their education.
The ‘It’s Showtime’ host made the remark during a recent episode of the noontime show after a ‘Ms. Q & A’ contestant opened up about putting her studies on hold because of financial difficulties.
The contestant explained that she could not manage working and studying at the same time but still hopes to eventually return to school and earn a degree.
“Kaya gusto ko rin pong makapagtapos ng pag-aaral kasi ayaw ko pong sinisino-sino lang po ako. Kasi ‘pag di ka po nakapag-aral mamaliitin ka ng ibang tao,” the contestant said.
She also shared that she draws inspiration from her circle of friends.
“Also na-inspire po ako sa circle ko. Lahat po sila degree holder. Lahat po sila transwoman,” she added.
Vice, however, told the contestant that her motivation to pursue an education should not simply come from how other people might perceive her.
“Kasi puwede kang makapag-aral tapos gusto mong makatapos. May diploma ka. Hindi ka nila sisinuhin, pero wala ka talagang natutunan,” Vice explained.
The comedian then shared a pointed observation about some graduates, including students who excel academically.
“Aminin n’yo ang daming graduates ngayon na parang walang alam,” Vice said.
“Ang daming honor students pero parang aanga-anga kapag kinausap mo,” she added.
Vice’s comments touched on the distinction between academic credentials and actually developing knowledge and understanding through education.
Her remarks also come amid continuing concerns over the country’s education system and Filipino students’ learning outcomes.
Just last month, Vice addressed education from a different perspective when she spoke before graduates of the University of the Philippines Diliman College of Media and Communication.
During the July 5 recognition rites, Vice challenged the graduates to use their education and platforms to help combat misinformation, corruption and injustice.
Vice, who did not finish college herself, also spoke about the significance of being invited to address university graduates, recalling her mother’s dream of seeing her experience a college graduation.
“Simula’t sapul, pangarap ng nanay ko na makaranas ako ng college graduation. Kaya naman Nay, heto na… I made it. I made it, Nay, at sa UP pa!” she said.
“Kapag nga naman naglaro ang tadhana, hindi ako nag-UPCAT, wala akong student number, pero tingnan mo nandito ako ngayon na parang ako pa ang summa cum laude. Pero hindi man ako ang cum laude, at least kasing yaman ko naman si Small Laude,” Vice quipped.
