By Louise Vinzy Bon A. Ramos, BA ELS-4, Centralian Link Intern
On January 31, 1025, with hearts full of passion and pins of honor, BS Nursing Batch 2027 moves forward toward their calling. A proud and emotional moment shared with their ever-supportive parents!
A proud milestone was unlocked on January 31, 2025, as the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Class of 2027 of Central Philippine University gathered at the iconic Rose Memorial Auditorium for their highly anticipated Capping, Pinning, and Candle Lighting Ceremony.
The atmosphere was charged with excitement, pride, and heartfelt emotions as students, faculty, family, and friends witnessed this significant rite of passage. Dressed in pristine white uniforms symbolizing purity and dedication to the nursing profession, the future nurses stood tall, glowing not just with the flicker of candles but with the passion burning within them.
The ceremony commenced with inspiring opening remarks from CPU President Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagahoy, who set the tone of the event with heartfelt words: “As your president, I want to let you know how proud I am of what you have collectively accomplished.” His message resonated deeply, reminding the students that their journey thus far is a testament to their hard work, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to the noble field of nursing.
Adding to the prestige of the event was the introduction of the distinguished guest speaker, Dr. Omar Z. Monteho, Nurse Director of the Nursing Service Division at Asia Pacific Medical Center in Iloilo City. Introduced with great admiration by Prof. Melba C. Sale, Dean of the CPU-College of Nursing, Dr. Monteho delivered an empowering speech that captured the hearts of everyone present.
“Ang paglalakbay ninyo para maging isang magaling na Nurse ay nangangailangan ng dedikasyon at perseverance,” he emphasized, urging the students to embrace both the challenges and triumphs that come with the profession. His 4 M’s principle—Maging Matatag (Be Resilient), Matapang (Be Brave), Magaling (Be Excellent), and Matalino (Be Wise)—served as guiding pillars for the future nurses to carry throughout their careers.
The highlight of the ceremony was the solemn candle lighting, a symbolic gesture representing the light that nurses bring into the lives of their patients. As the auditorium dimmed, the soft glow of candles illuminated the faces of the nursing students, creating an awe-inspiring scene that embodied hope, compassion, and dedication. Each flickering flame reflected their dreams, their commitment to serve, and the promise to uphold the values of the nursing profession. The pinning, equally meaningful, symbolized the transition from student to future nurse—a badge of honor they will wear with pride.
The Capping, Pinning, and Candle Lighting Ceremony of the BSN Class of 2027 was more than just an event; it was a celebration of resilience, purpose, and unwavering spirit. As the ceremony concluded, the students carried with them not just pins and candles, but the powerful lessons imparted by their mentors and the unbreakable bond they share as future healthcare heroes. With their hearts full of gratitude and determination, these future nurses are now ready to face the world, armed with knowledge, compassion, and the unwavering flame of service.