By Kyla Marie Cañonaso, BA Comm-4, Centralian Link Intern
The 121 students of College of Pharmacy Batch Amariah are ready to serve, ready to heal, and ready to take the science of pharmacy and turn it into service for others.
The Central Philippine University College of Pharmacy Batch Amariah held its White Coat Ceremony at Rose Memorial Auditorium last May 12, 2026, with a theme, “Amariah: From Promise to Purpose, Blooming through Courage in the Sacred Calling of Pharmacy”, marking a big step for students moving from the classroom to the world of healthcare. The event was not just a ceremony, but a special moment that showed how much the students have grown.
The program began with an Invocation by Rev. Dr. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian, Senior Pastor of the University Church followed by the Philippine National Anthem led by Ms. Alden Joy D. Espedion, and a warm welcome from Asst. Prof. Xenia Louise Joy B. Assin, RPh, MSPharm the Acting Dean of the College of Pharmacy who described the day as a meaningful milestone for the 121 students. This was followed by a special message from Dr. Esther Rose A. Romarate, Vice President for Student Affairs, who reminded the students that being a pharmacist is a “sacred calling.” Using the verse from Jeremiah 29:11, Dr. Romarate encouraged the future pharmacists to serve with courage and purpose, reminding them that by serving others, they are also serving God.
Ms. Jean Poral had the honor to introduce the keynote speaker, Josue P. Felipe, RPh and President of Pharmacy Preceptors Guild of the Philippines Inc. The ceremony turned its focus to the deeper meaning of the profession. Sir Felipe explained that the white coat is more than just a uniform; it is a symbol of trust, responsibility, and moral accountability. Also, Sir Felipe reminded the students of the university’s goal: “To produce globally competitive pharmacists grounded with knowledge, skills, and value.”
Sir Felipe challenged the students to “bloom through courage.” He shared that just as a flower must push through the dirt to grow, a pharmacist must push through challenges like self-doubt and tough choices. “Blooming is not about being comfortable,” he said. “It is about growing even when things are hard.” He urged the students to be Competent: Master the science because lives depend on your accuracy. Compassionate: Never treat patients like just another piece of paper; see them as human beings. Ethical: Do what is right even when no one is watching. He continued to encourage the students and as he ends his speech, he welcomed them to the sacred calling of pharmacy.
The event continued with the formal presentation of the candidates. A Plaque of Appreciation was given to the speaker for inspiring the students. Then, the most important moment arrived: the 121 students put on their white coats and took the Pharmacy Student’s Oath, led by Mylene Poral, Rph and Faculty of the College of Pharmacy.
The batch response was given by Kathleen Seth Farillon, followed by a batch song and a special performance that showed the students’ joy and unity. The ceremony ended with a benediction by Rev. Dr. Sian, the singing of the Pharmacy Hymn, and CPU Alma Mater Song.
As the students left the hall, they carried a new mission: to turn their promise into purpose and to stand firm in the values they learned at Central Philippine University.