By: CCJE College Student Council
The College of Criminal Justice Education (CCJE) proudly congratulates Mario Oriana III, a Forensic Science student, for being conferred the Gold – Inspirational Student of the Year during the Silew Awards 2026 at the University of the Cordilleras.
Presented by the Student Affairs and Services – Student Development Welfare Center (SAS-SDWC), the award recognizes students who exemplify outstanding leadership, resilience, service, and commitment to the university community.
As the Training and Development Director of the University of the Cordilleras Speech and Debate Society, Mario has championed initiatives that created meaningful impact beyond the university. He spearheaded a debate tournament that raised over ₱30,000 for the Philippine Animal Rescue Team, mobilized more than 350 individuals and 30+ debate organizations in support of accountability and advocacy, and mentored aspiring debaters through community outreach programs.
Beyond leadership, Mario has consistently represented the University of the Cordilleras in national debate tournaments as a speaker, judge, and tournament official, helping strengthen the University’s presence in the Philippine debate community while earning recognition across major debate circuits.
Living with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD), and despite being academically delayed, Mario continues to pursue his degree in Forensic Science while remaining steadfast in his passion for leadership, debate, and service. His journey reminds us that not all disabilities are visible, and that resilience, purpose, and determination can create meaningful impact.
The entire CCJE community celebrates this well-deserved recognition and commends Mario for exemplifying the values of excellence, integrity, perseverance, and service.
Congratulations, Mario! Your CCJE family is immensely proud of you. May you continue to inspire others and show that true leadership is measured not only by the awards received, but by the lives touched and the positive change created.
This achievement aligns with SDG 4 (Quality Education) by recognizing student leadership, holistic development, and excellence beyond the classroom; SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) by promoting inclusion and raising awareness that individuals with both visible and non-visible disabilities can thrive and make meaningful contributions; and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions) by fostering leadership, civic engagement, advocacy, and community service that contribute to a more inclusive, accountable, and socially responsible society.
