# data[].attributes.body
Sir Gerardo "Gerry" Betonio,

It is under your tutelage where we realized our voices were a tool, one of empowerment and grit. Perhaps we should have mentioned that on the day where, one way or another, we've all volunteered to speak our minds.

This is no 60-word reflection, or 2-3 minutes' worth of a speech: this is our sentiment, verbatim.

Sincerely, 16-016A.

# data[].attributes.body
Hello and Magis Day, Sir Betonio!

You’ve probably heard this opening from me many times, especially during my turns in speeches, but it feels right to use it one more time.

Sir, you have been an incredible PurpComm teacher. Your thoughtful feedback and comments have helped me become more aware of my mannerisms and habits—things I didn’t even realize before. Time and time again, you’ve motivated us to push ourselves further, to strive for excellence, and to embrace being more.

You’ve never doubted our potential, even when we asked for retakes (a lot of them). This semester with you has been nothing short of amazing. Each class was filled with insightful discussions and meaningful sharing that made every session memorable. Because of you, our class grew closer and bonded in ways we’ll always cherish.

Before I end, I want to express my deepest gratitude. No words can fully convey how thankful I am for everything you’ve done for us. You’ve played your part in shaping us, and I truly hope we’ve made you proud.

See you around campus, Sir! I’ll miss the MW 12:25-1:55 PM, F201 schedule with you and the rest of the class.

Thank you for everything. 🥹❤️

Sincerely,

Sam Gaebryle A. Montejo

Class Beadle / Favorite Student 😝

# data[].attributes.body
I hope our messages find you well!

Thanks to you and your class, I managed to reignite my passion for speech. Because of the environment that you fostered, I was able to talk about matters and topics that truly mattered to me while also providing me with valid criticism that helped me improve.

I was completely afraid of your class at first, but thanks to you, I managed to become a proud student of yours. I may proclaim myself as your best student, but I believe that all the Purposive Communication students under you are all outstanding in their own right.

I hope you never forget what you did for us. You managed to turn a group of wary and nervous students into students who were fighting to participate and volunteer to do our speeches. Always remember the positive impact you left on us.

Sincerely,

Christian A. Sitoy - CAS

Forever 3rd presentor

# data[].attributes.body
Despite my obvious fear and my ability (or lack thereof) to speak in front of a crowd , I am thankful that you never fail to be understanding and be patient with me and the rest of the class. I am grateful to have had such a gentle individual hone and guide us through this course especially since this is something that I have always considered to be one of my weaknesses.

- Uy

# data[].attributes.body
Purposive Communication taught me a lot in terms of speaking in front. It taught me valuable lessons such as forming my own speech on the spot and being really confident on it.

I really love the dynamic of the class. Everyone was so welcoming and no one would laugh at me even if I made a mistake. It’s such a blessing to be in 16-016A.

Your class also taught me how to listen well when someone is speaking. Even if sometimes I am very sleepy because of sleep deprivation, your class is something I look forward to everyday.

The adrenaline paired up with affirming feedbacks helps me get through the day and I would dare even say throughout the whole first semester.

If given a choice, I would still pick you over and over again for Purp. Com (or for any other class course you handle).

Because of your class, I met my new friends and I formed a bond with them that only 16-016A would understand.

Once again, I am thankful that you are my teacher and I am grateful for your existence.

You are the embodiment of a chill guy.

From always a volunteer,

Stiffany Sayson

# data[].attributes.body
Hello, Sir!! I hope this message expresses how much I appreciate the Purposive Communication class. At first, I was really anxious about public speaking in front of an audience. But later on, I gained confidence in expressing myself. Your feedback helps us know what to do better in public speaking, as we know that this skill will help us in the future. Thank you for reminding us that standing in front in the center of a crowd is not something to be afraid of but rather seeing this as a spotlight to let ourselves be. You have guided us through the semester, and because of that, we are molded by the knowledge you have shared,

I hope you never forget how we really appreciate you, Sir. Your teaching skill is unique and a fun way to gain insight from our classmates. Thank you for teaching me that making mistakes is a way of improving.

See you around the campus, Sir.

Sincerely,

Helaena Necesito (Class 16-016A)

# data[].attributes.body
The content here is said with bias and with fond memorabilia. May this find you well, Sir Betonio.

This course, lasting until the twenty-seventh of November, reminds me of how I bask in the ideas and highs of speech. Truth be told, that would have been a topic I'd pursue for my TedTalk, but the outlining process hinged toward closure as my best bet. Speaking of closure and such, I hope my classmates' messages, along with mine, can sate that very thought.

I may not recall the exact comments from the index cards, both my classmates' and my own, but let me take the time to indicate what I did learn from what I remember.

812 - "energy. too much movements."

I've been noted for my energetic, if not jittery movement- or tendency for movement, at the very least. That gave me, among many things, awareness and initiative to observe my own mannerisms: some I myself was unaware of, until discussed.

SooL, Modulation VG, B&F, v1, 20/20.

For all it's worth, Sir, I'm grateful for your meticulous guidance and supervision, in my journey. I mean this not just as a student: I mean this as a writer, communicator, a person: all that comes in between. I've reconciled with my excitement for speaking, and confidence to step up to the plate: I owe that to you.

May we greet each other in the halls, with cordial smiles. 😊👋

Of sincerity despite countless run-on sentences,

Denise-Ysabella T. Merontos (12:25 MW, 16-016A)

# data[].attributes.body
A magis day, Sir Betonio! Today, I will be presenting my speech entitled Why I Am Thankful To You.

Sir, at the start of our semester, I felt like I wouldn't do well in this class, as I knew that public talking wasn't my forte. However, I found myself loving this class, as over time, I noticed that I had improved a lot in my talking skills.

I loved how much things changed from the prelims to the finals! At first, everyone was a bit nervous, and it felt really quiet in the room. But by the time we reached midterms and finals, it was amazing to see everyone getting involved and having fun. The energy picked up so much, and it made the whole experience a lot better for us all.

I just wanted to say that not only did I improve my skills, but everyone in the class really did too. I’ve heard the same from my friends in your other classes. It’s all thanks to you, sir!

Just wanted to let you know that I've been recommending you as a professor to my friends who haven't taken purposive communication yet. I really believe you can help them just like you've helped us.

Thank you for a wonderful experience and learning, Sir!

All the love,

Kensheen Abellana

From always being called first to a volunteer

# data[].attributes.body
Hi Sir Betonio, Good Day!

And for the last time, I am Franjshesca Katheera S. Calinga, standing before you not to deliver another speech, but to present to you this heartfelt letter of appreciation. I want to take this opportunity to express my sincerest gratitude for everything you have taught me, not through lectures or notes, but through the experiences you made us live in your class.

When I first stood in front of the class, I felt nervous, vulnerable, and unsure of myself. But you believed in us, even when we didn’t believe in ourselves. You didn’t just teach us how to speak, you taught us how to stand tall, face our fears, and trust that our voices matter. That was something I didn’t know I needed, and for that, I am forever grateful.

I remember the day I shared my motto: “carpe diem.” on the first day. At that moment, those words felt more like a goal than a reality. Yet, through every speech, every story, and every moment in your class, I began to truly live by it. You inspired us to seize every opportunity, to speak even when it felt hard, and to embrace the power of being authentic.

Sir, I admire you not just as a teacher but as a role model. You have this rare ability to see potential in people, to challenge them to be better, and to do it all with patience and kindness. I look up to you for the way you create a safe space for growth and for how you empower your students to believe in themselves.

Because of your class, I’ve grown more than I ever thought possible. I’ve gained confidence, not only in my ability to communicate but also in myself as a person. You’ve shown me that words have power not just to convey messages but to connect, inspire, and transform.

Thank you, Sir Betonio, for being a mentor who cares deeply about his students. Your encouragement and belief in me are things I will carry with me for the rest of my life. I am deeply grateful to have had the chance to learn and grow under your guidance.

With all my respect and gratitude,

Franjshesca Katheera S. Calinga

AB Psychology 1-L

# data[].attributes.body
To Sir Gerry,

Thank you for being our professor in purposive communication. It has taught us to speak freely in front of the class, and deliver our own voice to the class. My speech may not be perfect but it has improved me and everyone of us to speak with confidence and freely express our opinions and emotions in the class.

Despite that some do not appreciate your work and your passion of being a professor in your, majority of class are always with you and we are here to support your work and your passion of being a professor in Ateneo. I hope this issue may not affect you, and I hope you continue to be the light ✨️ of your students and to your future students as well. Continue to be the best professor and give your passion to your work.

May Godbless you, Sir Gerry🙏 ✨️

Leighton Luy

# data[].attributes.headline
To the Chill Guy, Sir Gerry "Goated" Betonio

# data[].attributes.subject
To the Chill Guy, Sir Gerry "Goated" Betonio

# data[].attributes.body
Hello Sir Betonio!

Throughout this subject, Purposive Communication has been a rollercoaster of emotions. From painstakingly writing exactly 60 words to then presenting them in front of the class. Throughout my life, I have thought of myself as an exellent public speaker. I now know that I still have many obstacles to power through.

This subject has helped me to power through those obstacles. The feedback that you gave me were engraved into my mind. From always standing at my left or right leg during speeches, to now standing on two legs(most of the time). I know I was not really the best out there, but this subject showed me the possibilities that I can achieve, and I can say for myself that I have achieved most of them.

I often complain why must we write our works in exactly 60 words, but now I know that it was to condition us. To help us get to our point as short as possible. You have been a great teacher. You were always the chill guy. I, we will never forget you.

Love, Class 16-016A

- Hilario, Prince Carl Benedict O.

BS Computer Science

# data[].attributes.body
Hi, Sir Gerry!

Back in high school, I had a challenging experience with public speaking, which led to me labeling myself as weak in that area. I still recall the first week of Purposive Communication, where my mind was filled with doubts and uncertainties. I remember feeling anxious about delivering a 3-minute speech in front of the class. You reassured the class by telling us that to be good at something, we must practice and practice.

Fast forward to now, I can't believe how much ease and confidence I gained while preparing and presenting my midterm speech and, most notably, the 7-minute TED Talk.

I never thought I could do it. But with your constant guidance and insightful feedback, I saw myself grow in such a short period. This subject and your support allowed me to comfort my younger self, who was insecure about speaking in front of a crowd.

My midterm ARP with my partner, Kensheen Abellana, which focused on the benefits of performance-based learning, was inspired by you. We both embraced the idea that "In doing comes learning" due to our remarkable improvements in just one semester.

I'm genuinely grateful to have started my college journey with you as my Purposive Communication professor. The skills and confidence I've gained will undoubtedly help me in the years to come.

Thank you is not enough to express my deepest gratitude for you and this subject. I'll definitely miss the 1-2 minute speeches and the 60-word essays.

See you around, Sir Betonio!

Much love,

Ariane Yzabelle Boiser

# data[].attributes.body
🐻Hello po Sir Betonio!!!🐻

At first, doing our speeches in purcom always intimidated me because it reminded me of the time after the pandemic, the first reporting that I did, my hands were subconsciously shaking. I can't accept the fact that what I have seen as my "forte" before is now one of the things that I'm hesitant and scared to do. But because of our activities, it pushed me to acknowledge my fears but also to move forward, to do it scared. Time passed by, and I've observed that EVERYONE in the classroom has improved in public speaking. We may have some mishaps along the way, but we were definitely better than our first day.

Your method of teaching us through making us speak in front in every session, having the chance to perform even when we are not at our best; you Sir waiting patiently for us to have a moment for ourselves, continue or doing our speeches later and for you to rate us objectively, gave us an efficient and practical lessons for us to learn public speaking by applying what you commented and suggested to us in our index cards. It made us aware of our flaws, errors, and habits that made us more conscious about how people will see us in stage. For us to be more self-aware of what we do and say in public speaking. Also on how to perform and speak in front appropriately and in mannerly ways. Because of this journey, somehow it gave me confidence, to believe more in what I can do and to bring up my lost and broken "forte" from the past.

Thank you very much for the comments and suggestions. Thank you for how calm and gentle you are treating us po Sir. I hope and pray that your next students will appreciate your calm personality, your teaching methods, and the subjects that you will teach them just like how we 16-016A class appreciates you (kung kaya po nilang tapatan Sir hehehe😅😁).

Don't worry po Sir, we all learned something about purcom and rest assured that all of us will always bring the lessons that was taught by you, by the subject and by the class up until we graduate hoping also beyond that (makakalimutin po yung iba sa amin including me Sir). Thank you very much po Sir Gerry!!! God bless you and your family po!!! Wishing a very good and happy holidays to you and to your love ones po.

Sincerely, your student,

Paraguya, Alexandra Uriel (AU)

"the GLOVES girl"

🧤🥰🧤

# data[].attributes.body
Hello, Sir Gerry!!🧸

First of all, I would like to say thank you for being the best Purposive Communication teacher ever! At the start of the semester, I was very anxious because I had to speak in front of many new faces and would be graded for every speaking activity. However, after the first few activities, my anxiousness died down and it was replaced with relief and happiness knowing that I had classmates and a teacher who would listen to any topic I would talk about in front without judgment. Throughout the entire semester, you helped me improve my writing and speaking skills. I will never forget this amazing experience and I will cherish the moments we had as a class. Thank you so much, Sir! See you around campus and may God bless you always.

All the love,

Jois Alleiah Nerona❤️

# data[].attributes.headline
with all the love in the world, thank you sir!

# data[].attributes.subject
with all the love in the world, thank you sir!

# data[].attributes.body
Dear Sir Betonio,

I hope this message finds you well. I'd just like to say thank you so much for being my Purposive Communication teacher this semester. At first I was nervous going to these classes because years of online classes had degraded my public speaking skills, but I found myself appreciating your subject more and more over time as I enjoyed doing speeches and recitations for you and classmates to enjoy.

The environment and atmosphere our class gave was so warm, welcoming and supportive, and we, from class code 16 - 16-016 A all love you and all your hard work taking care of us.

There really isn't any other way we would have been able to improve our skills without your help and guidance. God bless and thank you again for all you've done for us as our Purposive Communication professor.

- With love, sincerity and eternal gratefulness, Maxene Lozada. (AKA the girl who always wears the same three sweaters)

# data[].attributes.body
Dear sir Gerry thank you so much for this semester, I will always pray for u. And thank you for all the memorable moments to be kind, thoughtful, patient with us everyday. I admit I feel more confident, because I get to learn what it feels like to speak in the hear rather than memorize a speech. At the end of the day being impromptu and speaking with all your heart is the best thing to conversate with the audience. I do admit in your class I remember, I remember I want to be a TedEd speaker one day, and now going back you give me hope and support that my dream to share my story and to you will happen sonly, sir Gerry thank you for everything!!!!

# data[].attributes.body
Where do I even begin? Sir Betonio is undoubtedly one of the most considerate professors I've ever had. Reading through the heartfelt letters my classmates have written, I couldn't help but tear up. It's a testament to the impact you had on all of us — a change we didn't even realize we so badly needed.

When I started PurpComm, all I had was confidence and a dream (really!), but I also had a tendency to just yap. Under your guidance, I learned to channel that energy into something meaningful. Speaking my truth in front of the class transformed me into a more eloquent and versatile speaker. Sir Gerry redefined public speaking for me — it stopped being something to fear and instead became a powerful tool for connection

He made us feel heard, no matter the topic, context, or idea. Not once did he get mad or scold us for struggling to perform well. Instead, he provided thoughtful feedback, taking the time to write detailed notes on how we could improve whether it was in modulation, presentation, or delivery. Through his mentorship, I learned that in life, we have a voice a voice that can inspire, influence, and bring about change.

Sir Betonio is truly one of a kind, and I'm incredibly lucky to have had him as a mentor this semester. Looking back, we've come so farfrom nervously delivering forced speeches to eagerly volunteering for our next turn. The friendships we've built and the bonds we've created all stem from this subject and the way Sir Betonio cultivated a space for growth and collaboration.

Sir, you showed us that our purpose is to use our voice not just for ourselves, but to make the world a better place. You taught us to stand firm, even after setbacks, and to always give ourselves a chance to redeem and improve. For that, I'll always be grateful.🫀⭐️

Love,

Sam Gaebryle A. Montejo

# data[].attributes.body
Everytime I attend your session, I've felt nothing but comfort and eagerness to hear from my classmates and especially to you sir. You are a great teacher and don't let anything tell you otherwise. :3 <3

labyu sir!!!!

# data[].attributes.body
I still remember when I first saw my class schedule and you were one of my professors, Sir Gerry. August 6 (Wednesday), was supposed to be the first day of your class. But there was a scheduled orientation during that day, so I emailed you about the class. When you replied to my email, I felt the assurance that you will be an approachable teacher and is willing to answer all the questions of your students. And I wasn’t wrong, because everytime I send you an email, you always respond to me po. As well as in the classroom, whenever I have questions about my assignments, you always answer. With that, I want you to know Sir Gerry, that you’re one of my unforgettable professors.

You acknowledge all the efforts that we do in class and make this subject a safe place for me to express my thoughts and myself. I am thankful to be one of your students, because I can really see that as time goes by, my writing and speaking skills are getting better. I am not that good with speaking in front of others, but when it comes to this class, it does not feel threatening at all. The words that I speak and thoughts that I share feel accepted and valid. I feel free whenever I get to speak and I feel proud with my scores.

Thank you sir. See you around po!