Celebrating our students' achievements, character, and community spirit

A group of young students in school uniforms are seated in a library or classroom setting, engaged with digital devices and books.

Jun 11 2026

Dear BSM Family,

Tomorrow, we join the nation in commemorating the Philippine Independence Day. It is a moment that allows us to honour the deep cultural heritage, resilience, and pride of our host nation. Embracing our host country, celebrating with our Filipino families, friends and colleagues is important, and so too is remembering history and acknowledging those who made independence possible.

As Jose Rizal, one of the greatest national heroes of the Philippines, said:

He who does not know how to look back at where he came from will never get to his destination.

Looking back at our own history, BSM will celebrate its 50th anniversary on 26 August 2026. Since our founding in 1976, the school has grown and flourished into the proudly diverse community we are today, with 55 nationalities represented from around the world.

Whether you are a proud Filipino celebrating your homeland, or a foreign national like me, privileged to be a temporary sojourner in the Philippines and to call this wonderful country home, Philippine Independence Day is an important and meaningful celebration for us all.

Last week's Speech Day was a fitting celebration of the many achievements, contributions and successes of our students over the past year. It reminded us that while awards recognise accomplishment, the true purpose of education extends far beyond any certificate, trophy or accolade.

We were privileged to welcome Dr Karol Mark Yee, Executive Director of EDCOM II, as our guest speaker. In a thoughtful and inspiring address, he challenged us to consider how we use our knowledge, character and compassion in service of something greater than ourselves. His message was a timely reminder that the true measure of education lies not simply in what we achieve, but in how we contribute to the world around us.

I found myself reflecting on a quotation from Lewis Carroll's Alice in Wonderland that has become increasingly meaningful to me over the years. When Alice asks the Cheshire Cat which way she ought to go, he famously replies that it depends a good deal on where she wants to get to. It is a simple exchange, yet it carries an important truth: our choices matter because our destination matters. Time and again, I have seen young people demonstrate good choices, upholding the values that define our community: showing respect for others, acting with respect and integrity and demonstrating kindness and compassion.

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The celebration was also a reminder that student success is never achieved alone.

To our parents and families, thank you. To our BSM team, a debt of gratitude is owed. A huge thank you to you!

Dr Yee challenged us to become people who are courageous, compassionate, and committed to causes beyond ourselves. As I looked across the Main Hall on Saturday, I realised that those qualities were already visible throughout our community. They were present in our students, our staff and our families.

Speech Day is therefore more than a celebration of achievement. It is a celebration of character, purpose and possibility. It was a reminder that while success may be measured in many ways, the values we carry with us and the impact we have on others are what truly endure.

Congratulations to all of our award recipients, and thank you to everyone who contributed to making this such a memorable and inspiring evening.

Enjoy a family-filled weekend.

Martin van der Linde

Head of School

School Bus Service Updates for SY 2026–2027

In line with our commitment to providing an efficient and improved school bus service, Philkor Dynamics Solution is offering the following services starting SY 2026-2027:

With the Metro Manila Subway project set to begin construction in BGC this October, road closures and heavier traffic are expected in the area. The school bus offers a practical and more sustainable alternative, minimising traffic and contributing to faster travel times through the affected areas.

Due to inflation and increases in diesel and operating costs, however, there will be a 10% increase in school bus service rates for the next school year. Detailed rates per route can be found in the School Bus Service Agreement for School Year 2026-2027.

REGISTER FOR THE SCHOOL BUS SERVICE

For inquiries regarding routes, the Service Agreement, or any other questions, please contact our Bus Service Coordinator:

Ms Mercy Salmo
Bus Office Coordinator
Finance Office, Main Building, Level 1
Tel Number: 8860-4800 local 1118
Email: busservice@britishschoolmanila.org
Mobile Number: 0907-278-3229

ID Card/FoodiE Wallet Balances

We encourage all students and parents to use up any remaining balances on their ID cards or FoodiE wallets. Please be reminded that top-ups are no longer accepted as of Monday, 01 June.

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