By Mikee Natinga Norico
Anchored in values and driven by purpose—the 5th Pinning Ceremony marked a shared milestone as BS Social Work students were formally pinned alongside their proud parents.
On August 22, 2025, the Junior Social Workers Association of the Philippines (JSWAP) – Central Philippine University (CPU) Chapter celebrated its 5th Social Work Pinning Ceremony at the Rose Memorial Auditorium. The event marked a significant milestone for Bachelor of Science in Social Work students as they took part in a meaningful ceremony symbolizing their formal induction into the field of social work.
Guided by the theme “Stepping into the Field: Anchored in Values, Driven by Purpose,” the ceremony highlighted the transition of students from classroom learning to field practice, affirming their readiness to serve individuals, families, and communities with compassion and integrity.
The program opened with a processional and a prayer led by Almira B. Regalado, a 4th Year Social Work student, followed by the singing of the National Anthem and the CPU Alma Mater Song.
In her welcome remarks, Dr. Stella G. Fernandez, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, described the event as both a celebration of academic achievement and a sacred commitment to service, compassion, and justice. She expressed gratitude to parents, partner agencies, and faculty members for their support, reminding students that social work is not only a profession but also a calling rooted in faith. Quoting Micah 6:8, she urged them to embody justice, mercy, and humility in their future practice.
From right to left: Ma’am Divine Grace M. Sorioso, RSW, Faculty, Department of Social Work; Dr. Stella G. Fernandez, Dean, College of Arts and Sciences, present the token and certificate of appreciation to RD Arwin O. Razo, DSWD NIR Regional Director and event Guest Speaker, joined by Ma’am Karren Jay D. Lozada, RSW, MSSW, Chairperson, Department of Social Work; and Kris Anne H. Masangkay, 4th Year Social Work Student.
“Today’s ceremony is not just a rite of passage—it is a reminder of the greater calling of social work. Even Jesus Christ Himself was a social worker, ministering to the needy, the vulnerable, and the brokenhearted,” she said.
The keynote address was delivered by RD Arwin O. Razo, Regional Director of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in the Negros Island Region, who served as the event’s Guest Speaker. He congratulated the graduating students for reaching this milestone and underscored the values of integrity, service, compassion, and respect for human dignity as anchors in their chosen path.
“As you prepare to enter the field, know that this profession asks much from you. It demands not only knowledge, but compassion; not only technical skills, but a deep-rooted commitment to justice, equity, and human dignity. Your purpose is not simply to help—it is to empower. It is to restore dignity, create opportunities, uphold rights, and work with people—not in front of them, not behind them, but beside them. Let me also remind you that the field of social work is evolving. With the growing complexity of our social challenges—from climate change and mental health to urban poverty and digital exclusion—our country needs innovative and compassionate young professionals who can adapt, think critically, and advocate fiercely,” Razo said.
He further encouraged the students with these words:
“And finally, to our dear students—congratulations! The pin you will wear today is not just a symbol; it is a badge of commitment, a declaration of your readiness to stand with the marginalized, to fight for what is right, and to live a life of purpose. As you step into the field, may your hands be steady, your hearts remain open, and your spirits stay strong. The road ahead may not always be smooth, but it will always be meaningful.”
Representing the graduating class, Kris Anne H. Masangkay, a 4th Year Social Work student, delivered a heartfelt response, thanking RD Arwin Razo for his inspiring message. She emphasized that their strength as future social workers lies not only in academic knowledge but also in values such as empathy, integrity, and service.
“Today marks a significant transition from being students to becoming practitioners-in-training. It reminds us that our journey is not about prestige or recognition, but about living out our purpose—to serve and empower, walking alongside individuals, families, and communities in both their struggles and triumphs. As we wear this pin, we carry with us not only the lessons from our professors and the support from our families, but also the wisdom you shared with us today. This will surely guide us as we step into the wider world of practice—anchored in values and driven by purpose,” she said.
The highlight of the program was the pinning ceremony, where BS Social Work students, joined by their parents and guardians, received their pins as symbols of dedication to the profession. This was followed by the unity candle lighting and oath-taking led by Dianne G. Gealon, a 4th Year Social Work student, signifying solidarity and commitment to the values of social work.
The program also featured an intermission number by Khamela Jim D. Arevalo and Denzel F. Aguirre, and was concluded with closing remarks by Divine Grace M. Sorioso, RSW, faculty member of the Department of Social Work. The event ended with a prayer led by Kate Denelle D. Navarra, sealing the day with gratitude and reflection.
The 5th Pinning Ceremony stood as a solemn reminder of the enduring role of social workers as bearers of compassion, integrity, and justice—anchored in values and driven by purpose as they step into the field.