By Mikee Natinga Norico

Batch Sinagtala of the CPU College of Nursing during their Pinning Ceremony at the Rose Memorial Auditorium, capturing the solemn moment as they transition from students to future professional nurses.

On June 27, the Central Philippine University College of Nursing (CPU-CON) Class of 2025, proudly known as Batch Sinagtala, marked a significant milestone through their Pinning Ceremony held at the Rose Memorial Auditorium. With 219 candidates eligible for pinning, the event signified their transition from academic learning to clinical practice—a rite of passage that affirmed their readiness to serve with compassion, excellence, and integrity as future professional nurses.

The pinning ceremony, a revered tradition in the nursing profession, symbolizes the transition of nursing students from academic life to clinical practice. More than a decorative emblem, the Centralian nurse pin represents knowledge, compassion, and commitment—core values that align with CPU’s enduring mission of Scientia et Fides (Knowledge and Faith).

Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy, University President, warmly welcomed attendees with a message that underscored the significance of the occasion.’

“What we are witnessing today is a long-standing tradition at the Central Philippine University College of Nursing. The Pinning Ceremony serves as a rite of passage for graduating students, bringing them closer to the realization of their dreams of becoming professional nurses.”

He lauded Batch Sinagtala’s perseverance and reminded the graduates to rely on faith, quoting Proverbs 3:5–6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.”

Dr. Jonathan A. Gapilango, Administrative Director of Oncology Performance Measures & Accreditation at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital and the event’s guest speaker, shared insights from his professional journey.

“[The nursing] practice taught me the profound impact I could make in the lives of others, transforming me into the nurse I was meant to be. I began to understand that serving others wasn’t just a job—it was a calling. Being a nurse is a calling.”

Dr. Jonathan A. Gapilango, guest speaker and Administrative Director of Oncology Performance Measures & Accreditation at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, receives a plaque of appreciation from Prof. Melba C. Sale, Dean of the College of Nursing, in recognition of his inspiring message during the Pinning Ceremony.

The highlight of the program was the pinning of the 219 candidates—a solemn and heartfelt gesture that symbolized the students’ official welcome into the nursing profession. Each pin affixed to their uniform carried the legacy of Central Philippine University and the enduring values it upholds: service, integrity, and excellence. This was followed by the recitation of the International Code of Ethics for Nurses, led by Clinical Instructor Novie Joy C. Soledad. This act served as a public affirmation of the graduates’ commitment to uphold the highest ethical and professional standards in their future roles.

To conclude the ceremonial proceedings, The Nurses’ Prayer was led by Clinical Instructor Lian D. Celo, followed by the presentation of scholarships and special awards facilitated by Academic Coordinator Michael M. Tatoy, recognizing exemplary academic and leadership achievements.

In her response, Hannah Angela Grace E. Neri, College of Nursing Student Council Governor, delivered heartfelt reflections on behalf of the class.

“As bearers of light and healing, our mission extends beyond merely alleviating suffering and promoting health. We also carry the responsibility to keep trying for those who are never given the chance to fail,” she emphasized.

Hannah Angela Grace E. Neri (center), College of Nursing Student Council Governor, receives her leadership award in recognition of her exemplary service and dedication.

The event concluded with a performance of their batch song, “Beam of Hope and Light,” and a benediction by Rev. Franz Hestia Lovejoy Q. Leysa, Associate Minister for the Youth, University Church.

With the Pinning Ceremony marking a pivotal moment in their journey, the CPU College of Nursing Class of 2025 now steps into the nursing profession ready to serve with competence, compassion, and a heart for humanity.