Breaking the Silent

by
Princess Mae Edlay

April 11, 2024

Blk 4 Lot 22 Salinas Ville 3,

Salinas 1, Bacoor City, Cavite
(+63) 981 670 0923
edlayprinces@gmail.com
Lea Alcantara Luisa Alba/ Hazel Murcia
Ramon Alcantara Dhwyne Tresvalles
Antonio Vibar Jhaylord Roberto
Julie Villanueva Juaymah Trinidad
Josepina Santos Dareine Bardaje
Christian Santos Luis Manano
Alejandro Dela Cruz Ivann Kalinga
Maya Alcantara Maya Kitazume
Crisanto Degavera Vincent Tabuyan
Nanny Paulene Ugabang
Psychologist Summer Dela Cruz
Analyn Bea Alajar
Isa
Dean Derk Ratilla
Announcer
 Act 1
Scene 1: Carinderia

NARRATOR:
Inside a bustling carinderia where the aroma of
sizzling dishes fills the air. One table remains
unoccupied amidst the crowd of diners. People are
eating, chatting, and enjoying their meals, while the
ambiance hums with the sounds of clinking utensils and
lively conversation.

(A group of people entered the scene

pulling Ramon on to the unoccupied table)

JULIE:
Come on Ramon... let's eat here, their food here is
delicious.

JOSEPINA:
It's true, I've eaten here once, their adobo was so
delicious, and especially when you eat it with rice, and
also their sinigang and the.....

CHRISTIAN:
Ok, stop now, all you have on your mind is food, that's
why you can't take care of our children at home

JOSEPINA:
How dare you say that to me, when you can't even make
time for us because you're busy with your work……

RAMON:
Okay okay, let's eat here. I didn't say that I don't
agree with eating here.

ALEJANDRO:
Come on, don't bring your life problems here. We should
be enjoying ourselves this time. Right Ramon?

RAMON:
Yeah. I think we should already order?

JULIE:
I'll go ahead and order. What do you guys want?
 *While the colleges are busy arguing what food they should order, a little peasant girl Lea enters
the scene, approaching random people in the carinderia, pleading for food

LEA:
Food… I want to eat… I can't take this anymore…. I'm so hungry….
Food please… Give me some food… I need…..

*Lea fainted

*Ramon was shocked, and tried to go near Lea. His friends also came. Ramon called 911 to take
the girl to a nearby hospital.

SCENE 2

SETTING: Hospital Emergency room

AT RISE: Lea was lying on the bed in the ER while Ramon and his friends were talking on
the side

ALEJANDRO:
I felt sorry for the girl, she had no family and was just living on the streets.

CHRISTIAN:
And passed out from hunger. If only I could adopt her…

JOSEPINA:
Shut up. Your salary is not even enough for our expenses!

RAMON:
I’ll adopt her

JULIE:
Are you sure about that?

CHRISTIAN:
Raising a child is difficult. Well, you already experienced raising a child but.....

JOSEPINA:
Hey!
ALEJANDRO:
If that's what you want, just don't forget that we're always here for you.

RAMON:
Thank you, guys.

JOSEPINA:
We're already leaving, Ramon. Our children might already set a fire in the house this time. Just let
us know about the child when you get her home.

JULIE:
I will leave too, Ramon.

ALEJANDRO:
Same here. Thank you for joining us in the reunion. Until next time.

RAMON:
Goodbye, take care, guys. Thank you very much for inviting me to the reunion.

NARRATOR

As Ramon's friends bid their farewells and depart the hospital, a heavy silence settles in the room.
Alone now, Ramon sinks into the chair beside Lea's bedside, his movements weighted with a
somber gravity. With a sigh, he retrieves a weathered photograph from his pocket, a relic of happier
times now tinged with sorrow.

Gazing at the image of his late daughter, a wave of bittersweet memories washes over him, flooding
his senses with the echoes of her laughter and the warmth of her embrace. But intertwined with the
fond recollections is a gnawing ache of remorse and guilt that twists in his chest.

SCENE 3

SETTING: Living room in the mansion of Ramon.

AT RISE: Maya dancing. A second later, Ramon enters the scene

RAMON:
Maya! What are you doing? What is this nonsense! I told you to focus on your studies! How will
you become a businesswoman? How will you continue the success of our family!?
MAYA:
But Papa, dancing is my passion! It's what makes me feel alive! I don't want to spend my life stuck
behind a desk, crunching numbers and attending meetings.

RAMON:
You will do as I say! Business is your future, and I won't allow you to throw it all away for some
foolish dream!

MAYA:
Why are you always like that? Why do you always think about yourself? It’s always about the
business. I don't care about your business!
RAMON:
I don't care about you either. If you don't do what I want. Leave!!

SCENE 4
SETTING: Maya’s room.

AT RISE: Maya is laying on the ground

(Ramon is knocking on the door)

RAMON:
Maya? Are you still asleep? Wake up already, you might get late for the class.

(Ramon continues to knock on the door but no

one is responding. Then he decided to open the door. He sees Maya’s hand is covered in blood. He
rushed toward Maya)

RAMON:
Maya! What have you done!?

*Ramon cried

NARRATOR

Years have passed since Ramon adopted Lea. She thrived under Ramon's loving guidance, soaking
in not just his wisdom but also his affection. To Ramon, Lea was family, cherished, and nurtured
like his own.

As Ramon's company grew, so did his stress. The once manageable workload rose, burdening him
with pressure. Despite his success, Ramon grappled with the strain of managing it all, struggling to
find balance amid the demands of his expanding business.

SCENE 5

SETTING: Dinner table on Ramon’s mansion

AT RISE: Lea is preparing plates and utensils for the breakfast

LEA:
Dad! Breakfast is ready!

(No one responded. Lea went to Ramon’s room to check if he was there. Upon walking through the
room, she saw a photograph of a girl)
 LEA:
Maya?

(Lea hears a noise, she finds the source of the noise. There she sees Ramon, arguing with someone
in the phone)

RAMON:
What do you mean that our sales decrease again! It's always like this. Why can't you do your job
properly!

(Ramon slammed his phone to the ground)

LEA:
Dad? Is there something wrong?

RAMON:
No, why would there be. Have you already eaten?

LEA:
No. I'm waiting for you. Let's eat together!

RAMON:
Lea, are you sure you want to pursue business? You know… Business is stressful, there is so much
to do.

LEA:
There is also a lot of work in other jobs, also stressful. Don't worry dad, I can do it. I'll continue the
success of our business.

RAMON:
Lea, you don’t have to.

LEA:
Why? don't you trust me? Do you think I can't handle our business? I'm just doing this for you dad.
To make you proud.

RAMON:
Lea, you don't need to get yourself into something, just to have others praise you. Do what you want
and what is good for yourself. I had a daughter. She likes to dance but I forced her to study for
business. I regret it with all my heart.

LEA
Where is she now?

RAMON:
She is in heaven. Two years after that, I saw you. You remind me of her, that's why I adopted you. I
promised myself that I would never put you through what Maya experienced.

LEA:
Is that so…But it’s different now dad, I’m the one who wants to pursue business…

RAMON:
Okay okay, let's stop talking about this. You might get late for your class. Wait for me in the car,
I'm just going to get something from my room.

LEA:
Okay, Dad…

SCENE 6

[The stage is dimly lit, with a single spotlight shining on Lea, who stands center stage. She wears a
troubled expression as she observes Ramon's behavior.]

NARRATOR: [Narrating, with a somber tone]

Lea noticed the small changes in Ramon's attitude day after day. It's as if he's always swallowed in
dissatisfaction when he talks on the phone; his mood seems to be stuck in a constant state of anger
and impatience.

(As Lea speaks, Ramon enters from stage

left, engaged in a phone conversation.
His gestures are tense, his voice strained)

NARRATOR: [Continuing narration]

Lea can feel the pressure in Ramon even if he tries not to show it to her.

(Ramon briefly glances at Lea,

then returns his focus to the phone
call, his frustration palpable)

NARRATOR: [Continuing narration]

\Lea carries an intense emotional burden from her father's stressful job. She feels and listens,
unable to release herself from his emotional suffering.

(Lea's expression softens, reflecting

the weight of her empathy)

NARRATOR: [Continuing narration]

She is firm about her decision and refuses to get involved because she thinks it will make Ramon
worse.

(Lea turns away from Ramon, her

resolve evident as she braces herself against
 the emotional turmoil unfolding before her)

[The spotlight slowly fades, leaving Lea standing alone in the dimly lit space, her internal struggle
illuminated by the faint glow.]

SCENE 7

SETTING: Lea's room in Ramon's mansion.

AT RISE: Lea went to her bed to sleep

(Lea closed her eyes. When she fell asleep, she suddenly heard a loud gunshot. Lea suddenly woke
up and was filled with fear)

LEA:
What was that? Dad!?

(Lea rushed to Ramon's room. He saw Ramon's body lying on the floor, covered in blood. Lea
shouted in fear)

LEA:
Dad, what have you done?

(Lea continued to cry)

SCENE 8

NARRATOR
After Ramon passed away, Lea was left in a deep state of grief. Tears were her constant companion
because she didn't know how to handle it. She was unable to eat because her father had passed away
and was always on her mind, watching over her. She fell into a depressive state as a result of the
weight of her grief. Lea tried to live her life despite the agony she endured, but every day was an
exhausting struggle. She had no family, no hope, and no love left, so she put a lot of pressure on
herself and threw herself into her studies to avoid the unbearable sadness that had overwhelmed her.

SCENE 9
SETTING: Therapist Room
AT RISE: Psychologist talking to Lea

PSYCHOLOGIST:
I understand, Lea. Losing a father is very difficult. How have you been coping with your feelings?

LEA:
I've been trying to keep myself busy, you know, doing schoolworks, it always feels like there's this
heavy weight on my chest all the time.

PSYCHOLOGIST:
 It's completely normal to feel that way, Lea. Grief can manifest itself in so many different ways.
Have you been able to talk about your dad with anyone?

LEA:
Not really... I've been avoiding those conversations. I'm afraid if I start talking about him, I won't
be able to stop crying.

PSYCHOLOGIST:
It's okay to cry, Lea. It's important to allow yourself to grieve. Bottling up your emotions can make
it even harder to cope in the long run. Would you like to share a memory of your dad with me?

LEA
There are so many... But one that stands out is when she adopted me. I still remember when he let
me live in his house, I felt so welcomed. He is so kind and caring. I never felt that he was not a
family member because he would consider me his own child. I feel so loved and cared for. I want
to see him again, and I want to hug my dad again…

NARRATOR

SCENE 10

SETTING: Inside Ramon's mansion, where the warmth of home contrasts with the cold, harsh
reality of the streets. Ramon stands in the doorway of Lea's new room, filled with toys, books, and a
cozy bed.

RAMON:
Welcome home, Lea.

(Lea, still adjusting to her new surroundings, gazes

around the room in awe, her eyes wide with wonder)

LEA:
It's beautiful... Thank you, Papa.

(Ramon's heart swells with affection as he watches

Lea explores her new space. He kneels down beside her, a reassuring presence)

RAMON:
From now on, you're a part of this family, Lea. And I promise to take care of you, just like I would
have taken care of Maya.
 (Lea's eyes brim with tears, overwhelmed by
Ramon's kindness and generosity)

LEA:
Thank you, Papa. I'll do my best to make you proud.

(Ramon enfolds Lea in a comforting embrace, a silent

vow to be the father figure she never had)

RAMON:
You already have, Lea. You've brought light back into my life in ways I never thought possible.

(With a sense of belonging and security, Lea settles into

her new home, knowing that she is loved and cared for
by the man who has become her father in every sense of the word)

SCENE 11

NARRATOR
It's been 2 years since Ramon died. The tragedy caused Lea great grief and sorrow. Just like her
promise to her father, she continued pursuing business. Her studies were not easy because of the
heavy feelings she was carrying. After a while, Lea lost hope to continue her studies. As much as
she wants to force herself into the business, there is something that prevents her from continuing.
Is it because of sadness and grief or because the thing she is pursuing is not for her?

SCENE 12

SETTING: Classroom
AT RISE: The teacher just finished lecturing the class

SIR DEGAVERA:
And this ends our discussion today, I hope everyone learned something.

(The teacher said goodbye to the class.

The students stood up and said goodbye to the teacher.
The teacher left the class and the students left their seats to chat with their friends)
 SARAH:
Hey, Lea! Mind if I join you?

LEA:
Oh, hey. Yeah, sure!

[Sarah sits down, noticing Lea's troubled expression.

SARAH:
Did you hear about that student who commit suicide lately? They don't tell us the reason but it's
obviously because of academic stress and pressure.

LEA:
Oh, yeah, It's easy to get caught up in the rat race, especially in a competitive environment like ours.
I just hope they find a way to manage their stress and remember to take care of themselves. No
grade is worth sacrificing your mental health for.

SARAH:
Yeah, you’re right but how about you? How have you been? You look stressed lately…

LEA:
You mean, “Why do I always look like this”?

SARAH:
Come on, then tell me why you are like that

LEA:
I don't know, it just doesn't feel right. Should I continue this?

SARAH:
Continue what?

LEA:
Business

SARAH:

That's tough of you, well if you think that it isn't for you then go for the thing you want. Have you
thought about what else you might be interested in?

LEA:
No.

SARAH:
Oh, you know what, maybe you just need to give it some time and keep exploring your interests.
 LEA:
Yeah, you're probably right.

SARAH:
Is it just me or are you always limited in what you say when we talk about yourself. You are
concerned with others, what about yourself? If your father sees you like that now, he will be very
sad.

LEA:
Nah, I‘m fine

SARAH:
I know you're not. How about we hang out after school?

LEA:
I can’t, I will go to the cemetery later, to visit my father.

SARAH:
Is that so? Do you want me to accompany you?

LEA:
No, I'm fine, Sorry, I just want to be alone

SARAH:
Well then, be careful

LEA:
I will, thank you Sarah.

SCENE 13
SETTING: Cemetery
AT RISE: Lea is in front of her father’s grave

*Lea put a flower in the vase besides the grave

LEA:
I hope you're happy wherever you are, Dad. Don't worry about me; I'm doing fine. I'll admit that the
amount of schoolwork I have is overwhelming, but I'm holding on. To be honest, I don’t know if I
should continue.
DAVID:
If that's what your heart says, follow it
 LEA:
Who are you?

DAVID:
I'm sorry if I unintentionally overheard your frustrations. I think you should take a look into other
things that interest you.. I take it that you expressed doubt about carrying on with the business? If
you are starting to have doubts about it, consider whether this is the right choice for you.

LEA:
Huh?... I..I’m so sorry, but who exactly are you Mr?

DAVID:
Didn’t your father tell you?

LEA:
Do you know my father? I’m so sorry my father didn’t tell me he has a friend.

DAVID:
Your dad wasn’t my friend you know… more than that…

LEA:
You’re his brother?

DAVID:
Isn’t your father a businessman? Of course he has some sort of secretary and that’s me!!

LEA:
You don’t look like one…

DAVID:
What a silly girl you are… You know what, you have potential. It might be not in business but I
know that you can find where you truly are for

LEA:
Do you think so?

DAVID:
Yes, you don’t have to deny yourself. Do what you like and there you will find happiness. Oh! I
forgot, I have a meeting this afternoon, I have to go, see you next time, Lea.

LEA:
Bye, Mr... Oh, he didn't tell me his name.
 SCENE 14

SETTING: Lea's room

AT RISE: Lea is in her desk doing homework

NANNY:
Here’s your tea, Madam.

LEA:
Ms. Reyes

NANNY:
Yes, Madam?

LEA:
What do you do when you are sad?

NANNY:
Um… I… I don’t know, I often make myself busy so that I don’t feel sad.

LEA:
Does it help? What if it became worse? Who do you go to to tell your feelings?

NANNY:
I don’t have someone to go to when I'm feeling down. I have to keep it to myself because who
would even care?

LEA:
. Reyes, you donMs’t have to hide your sadness and that painful thing in your heart. I know you
miss your family and that's the reason for your sadness. Just for you to know, I’m always right here
by your side, always ready to listen for you.

NANNY:
Thank you so much, Madam. I know that you also feel pain and sadness up until now but i'm also
always here to listen to you.

LEA:
Thank you very much for everything ms. Reyes. I now know what path I will take
.
NANNY:
What is it madam?

LEA:
I want to be a psychologist! I want to help people who are struggling in their lives. I want to help
them cope with their sadness, stress, or anything that keeps them from being good. I'll do my best to
help them, I won't let them go through what happened to my father.

NANNY:
Looks like you are so certain about it, then go for it. Pursue what you want and there you will find
yourself.

LEA:
Thank you very much for everything ms. Reyes.

SCENE 15
Lea chose to pursue a career in psychology with an admirable aim of ending the stigma that
surrounds mental health conditions in society. Their goal is to give people the confidence to talk
openly about the traumas and hidden struggles they have experienced. Relying on their own
experiences, Lea noticed that, following the death of their father, people would frequently ignore
their feelings or cover them up with excessive work or other distractions. Motivated by this
realization, Lea is resolved to help others overcome life's challenges and emphasize the importance
of putting one's mental health first.

SCENE 16

SETTING: Psychology lab at the university

AT RISE: Students are engrossed in a lively debate about their most recent assignment while Lea
sits at her desk in the psychology lab. But Lea seems like she's lost in contemplation, her forehead
wrinkled in focus.

The murmur of chatter fills the room as students work on projects and share ideas.

Ana, Lea's friend, approaches her after noticing her concerned appearance.

ANA:
Lea, how are you doing? You appear to be thinking a lot.

LEA:
*A little smile appears as she looks up.*
Oh, hi Ana. Yes, I'm simply... having some difficulty with this homework. Understanding every
theory and topic we're studying in class is difficult.

ANA:
I understand. Psychology can be challenging, particularly when you're delving into intricate
subjects like deviant behavior or cognitive psychology. You're not alone, so don't worry. All of us
are involved in this.
 LEA:
Regards, Ana. Thank you for your support. Simply put... I sometimes think I'm not intelligent
enough for this line of work. As if I'm always catching up to everyone else.

ANA:
Hey, that's simply the talk of imposter syndrome. Lea, you're really smart and talented. Never
allow self-doubt to stop you. Recall that your first motivation for selecting psychology was your
strong want to comprehend and assist others.

LEA:
Indeed. I shouldn't let my fears overcome me. I constantly have to tell myself that it's acceptable to
have difficulties. Isn't that how we develop and learn?

ANA:
Just that! Remember that we also have a wonderful educator who is constantly available to help
and advise. Moreover, we have one another. Together, as a team, we can overcome this.

LEA:
Regards, Ana. I needed that encouragement. Let's take on this task head-on and demonstrate to
everyone our abilities. Moreover, we have one another. Together, as a team, we can overcome this.

*Lea and Ana exchange determined smiles before getting back to work, ready to face the
challenges of studying psychology with newfound confidence and resolve.

SCENE 17

NARRATOR

SCENE 18

SETTINGS: Ramon's Company Main Office

AT RISE: A number of employees are gathered in the conference room while David, sporting a
menacing smile, speaks to them. The atmosphere in the company headquarters is tense. Lea listens
to David's news from behind, her face displaying a mix of amazement and bewilderment.

The staff members whisper to one another and exchange anxious looks.

DAVID:
 I must make a very significant statement, Ladies and Gentlemen. As many of you are aware, Mr.
Ramon Alcantara, our cherished founder, sadly passed away not too long ago. I am taking over as
the company's new CEO in light of this.

The staff members respond to David's audacious statement

LEA:
*Giggling to herself in disbelief*
No... This cannot be happening.

DAVID:
I know some of you may be surprised by this news, but don't worry, I have a lot of experience and
a clear idea of where I want to see this firm go. We will work together to preserve Mr. Alcantara's
innovative and successful legacy.

A few staff members nod reluctantly, while others exchange doubtful looks.

LEA:
*Arrogantly stepping forward, her voice quivering*

Pardon me, David, but who gave you the go-ahead to take over my father's business? You were
only his personal assistant!

*David smiles, but he straightens out a little too soon.*

DAVID
Oh, my dear Lea. Even though I was Mr. Alcantara's secretary at first, I developed a close working
relationship with him over the years and earned his trust. Indeed, prior to his tragic passing, he
assigned me the duty of running the business while he was away.

LEA:
That's a lie! Struggles to control her rage. My father would never have given you command of his
business! You're just taking advantage of his passing to gain control for yourself!

*The staff watches, divided between doubting David's assertions and remaining loyal to their late
founder.*

DAVID
Grinning smugly, Believe whatever you want, Lea. Nevertheless, the truth remains that I am this
company's CEO, and I count on your complete cooperation. Those who cannot come to terms with
this new reality might want to reevaluate where they stand.

*Frustrated, Lea clenches her hands, her mind racing as she tries to come to accept the unexpected
course of events.*
 LEA:
Gritting teeth Alright, David, we'll see about that. This isn't the end.

*With the injustice she has seen strengthening her resolve, Lea bursts out of the meeting room,
determination burning in her eyes.*

SCENE 19

SETTING: The office of Lea

AT RISE: With a determined look on her face, Lea sits at her desk surrounded by piles of
paperwork. Hunched over her computer, she is typing frantically to come up with a plan to take
back her father's business from David.

*Lea's keyboard noise fills the room, broken occasionally by a frustrated sigh

LEA:
*Talking to herself*
Alright, Lea, this is manageable. You're not going to allow David to get away with taking Dad's
business. It's time to demonstrate your commercial knowledge.

*Lea painstakingly pieces together evidence to support her position by combing through corporate
records, legal papers, and financial reports.

LEA:
*Muttering to herself David has another thing coming if he believes he can outwit me. I'll
demonstrate I want him to know that I'm more than simply my father's daughter and that I'm a
formidable individual.*

*As Lea continues her investigation, she starts to plan a course of action by utilizing her
understanding of corporate strategies and court cases.*

LEA:
*Narrowing her eyes determinedly*
Okay, so the first stage is to collect as much proof as you can of David's dishonest behavior. Step
two is to mobilize important firm stakeholders who are devoted to Dad's legacy. The third step is to
act decisively to recover what is truly ours.

*As her strategy begins to take shape, Lea experiences a spike in confidence. Although she is
aware that it won't be simple, she is willing to battle valiantly to preserve her father's legacy.

LEA:
*Gesturing David may believe he has won this war, but he hasn't seen the last of me as I stare
steely-eyed at the television. I will stop at nothing to bring glory to my father's name and make
sure Alcantara Enterprises stays loyal to its principles.
 *Driven by a fierce desire to make amends and take back leadership of her family business, Lea
returns to work with a newfound sense of resolve*

SCENE 20

SETTING: Alcantara Enterprises Main Office

AT RISE: Lea is surrounded by devoted staff members and supporters as she stands in front of
the conference room, creating an electrifying environment in the company's headquarters. David
sits at the other end of the table, his arrogance replaced by a look of incredulity and anxiety.

*As Lea speaks to the assembled crowd, the room is charged with excitement; her voice is firm
and unwavering.*

LEA:
Addressing the crowd Ladies and gentlemen, I am the legitimate successor to Ramon Alcantara's
inheritance. I am pleased to declare that Alcantara Enterprises has been recaptured from the grip of
corruption and dishonesty.

*As Lea's words register, the audience erupts in cheers and ovation, the win a monument to their
combined efforts.*

LEA:
As a team, we have revealed the truth and made those accountable for their deeds. But this is not
where our trip ends. Let us continue to uphold the honesty, compassion, and excellence that have
always characterized our organization in order to commemorate the legacy of my father.

*The staff nods in accord, their dedication to the company's principles greater than before.*

LEA:
*With an unyielding look, she turns to face David and says,*
"Your reign of deception ends here, David."
Though your treachery may have created brief unrest, justice has been served, and you will answer
for your deeds.

*David changes positions squirming in his chair, knowing that his plots have finally come back to
haunt him.*

LEA:
Speaking to the crowd again. But even in the middle of our triumph, let's not lose sight of the
deeper goal that binds us: the dedication to changing the world for the better. For this reason, I'm
happy to declare that the Ramon Alcantara Mental Health Center will be opened in the Philippines
using the funds that were obtained from David's wrongdoings.
 *As Lea's news dawns on everyone, there are gasps of surprise and appreciation that reverberate
throughout the room, giving them a sense of purpose and pride in their newly discovered goal.*

LEA:
With a strong sense of resolve My father thought that understanding and compassion could mend
mental traumas. Additionally, as of late, with this institution, we will carry on his legacy by giving
those in need encouragement and assistance.

*As the cheers intensify, Lea rises to her feet, her heart full with resolve and thankfulness. She is
confident that together, with the business restored and her father's memory preserved, they will
positively impact the lives of countless people.*

SCENE 21

SETTING: Commencement Ceremony for University

AT RISE: As graduates and their family assemble for the commencement ceremony, the big
auditorium is buzzing with excitement and anticipation. With pride and achievement in her heart,
Lea stands among her fellow graduates, decked out in her cap and gown.

As guests locate their seats, the sound of discussion and rustling programs fills the air.

ANNOUNCER:
Exclamation points raised graduates, distinguished instructors, Ladies and Gentlemen, welcome to
the university graduation ceremony! We honor our graduates' accomplishments today and their
path to a better future.

*The auditorium erupts in applause as the announcer continues.*

ANNOUNCER:
Continuing Let me now extend a warm welcome to our 2023 graduating class!

*The crowd bursts into booming cheers as the graduates stand forward, their proud expressions
beaming.*

LEA:
*She gets a rush of feeling and stands up straight, her eyes gleaming with thanks and excitement.*

*Lea strides on the platform with pride as her name is called, her heart racing with excitement*

DEAN
Lea, congratulations! smiles warmly We are quite proud of all that you have accomplished; you
have worked incredibly hard to get to this point. I hope you will always aim for greatness in
everything you do in the future.
 LEA:
*She collects her diploma with shaky hands, beaming with pride and feeling a wave of fulfillment
pass over her.*

*As Lea raises her diploma and beams with happiness, the audience lets out cheers and applauds.*

LEA:
*In her thoughts*
Dad, this is the moment for you. I appreciate your confidence in me and your encouragement to
pursue my goals no matter what.

*A deep sense of thankfulness and hope for the future fills Lea as she surveys the sea of faces in
front of her. She knows that the road ahead will be full of limitless opportunities because she is
carrying her diploma and is being guided by her father's spirit.*

SCENE 22

SETTING: Philippines' Ramon Alcantara Mental Health Center

AT RISE: Lea stands in front of the recently built mental health facility under a brilliant sun, her
heart bursting with pride and satisfaction. She is surrounded by a group of people who are excited
to see the facility open, including fans, community leaders, and local government representatives

*As guests take in the center's contemporary architecture and warm ambiance, the sound of
conversation and excitement permeates the space.*

LEA:
*Speaking to the assembly with emotion in her voice*
Ladies and Gentlemen, distinguished visitors, and community members, it is a great honor and a
great humility for me to be here with you on this historic day.

As Lea keeps talking, there is a round of applause, her words genuine. and fervor.

LEA:
We are here today to celebrate the opening of the Ramon Alcantara Mental Health Center after a
long and difficult road made possible by the unflinching support of so many kind people.

*The audience bursts into cheers and applause, demonstrating the importance of this milestone with
their enthusiasm.*

LEA:
With a spirit of resolve This facility is more than simply a structure; it is a refuge of safety and
hope for people dealing with mental illness. They can get the resources, support, and
compassionate care they need here to aid in their healing and rehabilitation.
 *There is a feeling of excitement as Lea cuts the ribbon, signifying the center's official opening.
and there is an aura of optimism.*

LEA:
Grateful, looking out at the crowd. Without the vision and generosity of my late father, Ramon
Alcantara, none of this would have been possible. His faith in the ability of empathy and
understanding motivated us to transform tragedy into victory and do something genuinely
significant for our neighborhood.

*Lea observes with pride as guests take in the facilities, knowing that her father's legacy will endure
via the innumerable lives that the center's services will touch and change.*

LEA:
In her heart We are only getting started on the path to improving mental health in the Philippines in
the future. Together, let's keep dismantling obstacles, combating stigma, and advancing wellbeing
for everything.

*Lea moves forward to welcome the first guests to the center, filled with optimism and resolve as
she starts her new chapter with a newfound sense of purpose.*

END