By Mikee Natinga Norico

The Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy students of Batch Vaera gather for a commemorative group photo with CPU administrators, faculty, staff, and invited guests following the successful 1st Pinning and Candle Lighting Ceremony held at the Rose Memorial Auditorium.

On June 15, 2026, Central Philippine University (CPU) marked a significant milestone in its health sciences programs as the Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy under the College of Medicine held its 1st Pinning and Candle Lighting Ceremony at the Rose Memorial Auditorium.

With the theme “Breathing Life into Service, Excellence, and Compassion,” the event formally honored 78 Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy students of Batch Vaera as they transitioned into their clinical journey and professional formation.

The ceremony commenced with the Entrance of Colors led by CPU ROTC Cadets, followed by the processional of Batch 2027, faculty members, staff, invited guests, and participants.

Rev. Dr. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian, Senior Pastor of the University Church, led the invocation, followed by the singing of the Philippine National Anthem and the CPU Alma Mater Song.

In her welcome remarks, Dr. Esther Rose A. Romarate, Vice President for Student Affairs and Officer-in-Charge of the Office of the President, emphasized the symbolic importance of the Respiratory Therapy pin as a reminder of gratitude, courage, and determination. She encouraged the students to remain steadfast in faith and commitment as they complete their degree and eventually serve as compassionate healthcare professionals. She also extended appreciation to the faculty, staff, parents, and guardians for their support and guidance throughout the students’ academic journey.

An inspirational message was delivered by Precious Ira C. Diamante, RTRP, part-time faculty member of the CPU College of Medicine, encouraging the pioneering BS Respiratory Therapy students to embrace their profession with integrity, compassion, and a commitment to serving others.

An inspirational message was delivered by Precious Ira C. Diamante, RTRP, a part-time faculty member of the CPU College of Medicine, who shared her personal journey from being an uncertain college applicant to becoming a registered respiratory therapist, educator, and mentor. She also reflected on the challenges she and her classmates faced throughout their education, including demanding coursework, long clinical duties, homesickness, financial sacrifices, and the emotional and physical exhaustion of training.

“Looking back, CPU gave me far more than academic excellence. It became the turning point of my life. It was here that I truly learned, grew, and was transformed. This institution did not only teach me the science of healthcare—it taught me purpose. In the midst of all these struggles, I realized something important: Respiratory Therapy is not just a profession. It is a calling. There is no greater fulfillment than seeing a patient regain strength, lift their arms again, and use their voice once more. In those moments, I knew I was not just doing a job—I was serving a purpose,” she shared.

Addressing the pioneering batch of Respiratory Therapy students, she reminded them that the Pinning and Candle Lighting Ceremony symbolizes not only the knowledge they have acquired but also their responsibility to become a source of hope, compassion, and healing for future patients. She urged them to uphold the values of integrity, humility, conscientiousness, and compassion, and to always treat every patient as they would their own family.

“As you take part in this Pinning and Candle Lighting Ceremony, remember this: the candle loses nothing by lighting another candle. Instead, it spreads light and dispels darkness. Your light represents the knowledge you have gained, the compassion you must extend, and the dedication required to serve your patients with dignity and love,” she emphasized.

The program also featured the reading of the History of Respiratory Therapy by Crissa Mae H. Cangrejo, RTRP, and the Rationale of the Ceremony by Yedda Khalel T. Villavicencio, RTRP, both of whom emphasized the event as a rite of passage marking students’ transition toward clinical competence and professional responsibility.

Adrianne Zoffane B. Elisan, RTRP, highlighted the significance of the Pinning and Candle Lighting rites as symbols of perseverance, professional identity, and compassionate care, underscoring the values essential to the practice of respiratory therapy.

The highlight of the ceremony was the Pinning and Candle Lighting rites, where students formally embraced their roles as future healthcare professionals. This was followed by the Student’s Pledge and Response led by Batch Coordinator Grashiel Ann P. Garcia, and a musical presentation of the batch song “Believe.”

The ceremony concluded with the Dedicatory Prayer and Benediction led by Rev. Sian, marking the formal close of the meaningful occasion.

The event stands as a testament to CPU’s commitment to forming competent, compassionate, and service-driven healthcare professionals dedicated to excellence in patient care.