KHAZ-JP Padilla made history at Capiz State University–Pilar Satellite College as the first openly transgender woman to graduate summa cum laude, earning a degree in Social Work and delivering the class valedictory address.

But for Padilla, the achievement was about more than academic honors.

“I didn’t enter college aiming for the highest distinction,” she said. “I just wanted to prove something—to represent my community and break the stigma that keeps us from accessing education.”

Padilla discovered she was eligible for the top honors just weeks before graduation in April 2025. She embraced the opportunity not as a personal win, but as a platform.

“This is for my community—to be seen, to be heard, and to show we can achieve greatness regardless of our gender identity,” she said.

A 2023 Social Weather Stations poll indicated improving Filipino attitudes toward the LGBTQIA+ community, yet discrimination remains. Legislative efforts to protect LGBTQIA+ rights continue to face strong opposition.

Padilla, who identifies as a pre-operative transgender woman, began questioning her gender identity in junior high school. The simple discomfort of being forced to keep short hair became a catalyst for self-discovery.

“I did my research, and when I found the word ‘transgender,’ I finally felt light—I knew who I was.”

That self-assurance, she said, was made possible by her family’s unconditional love.

“Since Day One, they accepted me—through confusion, transition, everything,” she shared.

Padilla said the same acceptance extended to her time in college. “Everyone was so supportive. It was empowering.”

Her passion for advocacy led her to social work, a field she now sees as both vocation and mission.

“We’re not asking for special treatment—just equal opportunities, including access to education.”

To queer and trans youth, she offered this message: “Be patient. Change is slow but possible. Speak up. Contribute. Even slow progress is progress.”

To parents, she said: “Don’t give your children trauma as they search for themselves. Love them unconditionally. They’re not criminals—they’re just gay.”

Padilla is now preparing for the Social Work Licensure Exam, with long-term goals of serving marginalized communities.

Graduating at the top of her class, she said, is only the beginning.

“We all need one another. Let’s keep building a society where everyone is embraced—regardless of who they are.”