By Mikee Natinga Norico

Batch Zahari of the College of Medical Laboratory Science poses for a group photo with guest speaker Dr. Farwell Dan N. Madalag, LPT, RMT, MD, DPPS, along with CPU faculty and staff, during the 3rd White Coat and Pinning Ceremony at the Rose Memorial Auditorium.

With hearts full of gratitude and excitement, 118 third-year Medical Laboratory Science students of Central Philippine University (CPU) College of Medical Laboratory Science (CMLS), collectively known as Batch Zahari, donned their white coats and received their pins during the 3rd White Coat and Pinning Ceremony held at the Rose Memorial Auditorium on May 13, 2025. Themed “Behind the Scenes, Beyond the Science: Honoring Profession, Passion, and Purpose,” the event was a celebration of dedication, transformation, and professional readiness.

The solemn yet celebratory occasion began with a processional march of the interns, faculty, and program participants, followed by the entrance of colors by CPU ROTC cadets. Rev. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian, Senior Pastor of the University Church, led the invocation, while Benjamin Jash L. Braña conducted the Philippine National Anthem.

University President Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy delivers his opening remarks, commending Batch Zahari for their perseverance and encouraging them to pursue their dreams with competence, character, and Christian commitment.

In his warm welcome remarks, University President Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy commended the students for their dedication and perseverance. “You have persevered through the academic rigors and clinical requirements that have brought you to this moment. Your discipline, hard work, and steadfast faith in God have carried you this far. You are now a step closer to achieving your dreams—whether that is becoming a registered medical technologist or continuing your journey toward a Doctor of Medicine degree,” he said. Rev. Dr. Dagohoy also welcomed guest speaker Dr. Farwell Dan Madalag, LPT, RMT, MD, DPPS, along with representatives from partner medical institutions, expressing gratitude for their continued support. He reminded the students that the path they are on is one of competence, character, and Christian commitment.

Dr. Joy G. Raso, Director of the University Research Ethics Review Board, introduced the keynote speaker, Dr. Falwell Dan N. Madalag, LPT, RMT, MD, DPPS.

Dr. Madalag delivered an inspirational address, drawing parallels between the students’ journey and the metamorphosis of a caterpillar into a butterfly. “Struggles are essential in our lives; they shape us, strengthen us, and prepare us for what lies ahead,” he shared. His acronym EXCEL—Embrace God, Exceed Expectations, Cultivate Compassion, Establish Your Support System, and Live in Gratitude—encapsulated practical advice and spiritual encouragement for the soon-to-be interns. His heartfelt recollections of his own internship experiences at Western Visayas Medical Center resonated deeply with the audience.

From right to left: Farwell Dan N. Madalag, LPT, RMT, MD, DPPS, inspirational speaker, receives his certificate of appreciation alongside University President Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy; Dr. Ma. Corazon P. Porras, Dean of the College of Medical Laboratory Science; and Prof. Annalie D. Gilongos, BSN, MN, CPU Head of the Work-Study Program and Coordinator of the National Training Service Program, during the 3rd White Coat and Pinning Ceremony.

“There will be dark and gloomy days. There will be lonely days. Remember, the sun will come out tomorrow and there’s a light at the end of the tunnel,” he said.

Following his message, Dr. Madalag was awarded a Plaque of Appreciation, and CPU CMLS’s partner training institutions received tokens of gratitude for their continued support.

Dr. Maria Corazon P. Porras, Dean of the College of Medical Laboratory Science, presented a brief history of CMLS, celebrating the college’s enduring commitment to academic excellence and service. Arje T. Salarda, RMT, then enlightened the interns on the symbolic significance of the white coat and pin—both emblems of integrity, dedication, and readiness to serve in the medical field.

Nicole Joie S. Matutina, RMT, formally presented the candidates for gowning and pinning, followed by the highlight of the ceremony—the Gowning and Pinning Proper. As each student was robed and pinned, the auditorium filled with cheers, proud smiles, and emotional tears from families and friends.

Delivering the student’s response was Jann Patrick V. Camdillo, who spoke on behalf of Batch Zahari. “It is in moments like these that we truly see how far we have come together,” he said, as he recounted the challenges, growth, and shared experiences of their academic journey. From online classes and nerve-wracking moving exams to the excitement of hands-on laboratory work, Camdillo highlighted how resilience, camaraderie, and purpose carried them forward. “To be pinned today is not just a formality—it is a reminder of the journey, of how far we’ve come, and how far we can go. We’ve learned to accept imperfections and keep going, and today, we stand stronger, together,” he added.

As Batch Zahari prepares to enter their 365-day internship in hospital laboratories throughout Iloilo City and beyond, they carry with them the knowledge, skills, and values instilled at CPU—ready to serve behind the scenes, always with a heart for others and a purpose greater than themselves.