By Mikee Natinga Norico
The light of commitment shines brightly as CPU College of Education interns and Dr. Maredil R. Ambos, COEd council adviser, take part in the candle lighting, honoring the values of resilience, integrity, and faith.
The Central Philippine University (CPU) College of Education held its 2nd Pinning and Candle Lighting Ceremony for Batch Kinaadman on October 28, 2024, at the Rose Memorial Auditorium. The event, themed “Upholding Excellence in Pre-Service Teacher Education,” formally inducted a new batch of aspiring educators into the teaching profession.
The ceremony began with a devotional led by CPU’s Praise and Worship Team, followed by an inspiring message from Pastor Louvel Edson Caspe, CPU Campus Minister. Drawing from his family’s teaching legacy, Pastor Caspe encouraged the interns to embrace a God-centered approach to their careers, emphasizing the importance of trust, obedience, and gratitude.
Dr. Merle L. Junsay, Dean of the College of Education, commended the students’ dedication and reminded them of their crucial role in shaping young minds. She highlighted the importance of compassion and professional growth, urging the interns to uphold the standards set by the Philippine Professional Standards for Teachers.
Prof. Bryan Paul Espinosa, a College of Education faculty member, delivered Words of Honor, encouraging the interns to view their pins as symbols of resilience, growth, and dedication. He emphasized the significance of Christian values, humility, and integrity in their future roles.
Dr. Welme Segovia, a CPU alumna and guest speaker, shared insights on resilience, passion, and faith. As Principal III at La Paz I Elementary School, Dr. Segovia reflected on her career journey, urging the interns to embrace challenges and opportunities. She emphasized the importance of respect, humility, and professional growth, and coined the acronym “COEDPH” to represent Commitment, Outstanding performance, Enthusiasm, Dedication, Prayer, and Humility.
“No matter where you will be someday, you will be teaching in the U.S. or other parts of the world. Just carry on and bring the central spirit within you because Centralians are outstanding teachers. Always show respect. Respect to your superiors, respect even your learners, even the parents. When they go to you in your classroom, respect them. Excellence is a continuous process and not an accident. Like your goals and aspirations in life, they do not happen overnight,” Dr. Segovia said.
The highlight of the ceremony was the Pinning and Candle Lighting, led by Dr. Maredil R. Ambos, symbolizing the interns’ commitment to teaching. The event concluded with an oath-taking ceremony and a heartfelt rendition of the Batch Kinaadman theme song, “We Are” by Carys Jones.
Dr. Maristel Decio, Outreach Coordinator of the CPU College of Education, delivered the closing remarks, emphasizing the importance of knowledge, wisdom, and ability. She reminded the students to carry their strength, patience, and gratitude into their future classrooms.
With proud families and mentors in attendance, the Batch Kinaadman 2nd Pinning and Candle Lighting Ceremony celebrated the achievements and dedication of CPU’s future educators, marking the beginning of a lifelong journey of teaching, guidance, and inspiration.