24/07/2026
𝐏𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐤𝐢𝐥𝐚𝐥𝐚 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔 𝐎𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐬 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐊𝐒𝐔 𝐏𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐜𝐲 𝐅𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐡𝐦𝐞𝐧💊
TABUK CITY, Kalinga — The Department of Pharmacy of Kalinga State University (KSU) formally welcomed its newest batch of pharmacy students through "𝐏𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐤𝐢𝐥𝐚𝐥𝐚 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔: 𝐑𝐱 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲, 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐆𝐫𝐨𝐰𝐭𝐡,"an orientation program designed to acquaint freshmen with the department's curriculum, policies, faculty, and student community while fostering camaraderie through engaging activities that marked the beginning of their academic journey.
The event opened with a lighthearted welcoming tradition that served as an icebreaker for incoming students. Participants, who were blindfolded, answered pharmacy-related and general questions. Those who were unable to respond selected from a list of playful and harmless challenges, creating an atmosphere of laughter while encouraging students to step outside their comfort zones and begin forming connections with their new classmates.
Setting the tone for the program, Beverlyn B. Banawag, the newly appointed Program Chair of the Department of Pharmacy, delivered the welcome remarks. She warmly received the freshmen into the department and reminded them that pharmacy is more than an academic pursuit—it is a profession founded on compassion, integrity, and service. She encouraged students to embrace every learning opportunity as they prepare for the responsibility of safeguarding the health and well-being of future patients.
Representing College of Health and Natural Sciences Dean Marlita E. Quesada, former CHNS Dean Christina L. Ammakiw delivered an inspirational message that challenged students to remain committed to their chosen profession despite its demands. She emphasized that while the Pharmacy program is rigorous and requires discipline and perseverance, genuine passion for the course and a constant drive for excellence will enable students to overcome every challenge they encounter.
A highlight of the orientation was the faculty introduction led by Emogine L. Silip, who transformed what is traditionally a formal presentation into an interactive guessing game. Students identified faculty members through clues based on their personalities, favorite expressions, and unique characteristics, allowing the incoming class to become familiar with their instructors in an enjoyable and memorable way.
Silip later proceeded with the department orientation, providing an overview of the Pharmacy curriculum, academic requirements, departmental policies, and student expectations. She emphasized the importance of professionalism, discipline, and adherence to university regulations, reminding students that these standards are essential in preparing competent and ethical future pharmacists.
The program was punctuated by lively intermission performances from students across different year levels, showcasing the creativity and talent within the department while giving freshmen a glimpse of the vibrant student life that awaits them.
Student leadership also took center stage as outgoing KSU Farmaceutica Society (KFS) President Genesis Ivee Miguel presented an accomplishment report highlighting the organization's initiatives, activities, and milestones during the previous academic year. The report reflected the department's active student engagement and continued commitment to academic excellence, community outreach, and professional development.
Following the presentation, Miguel formally turned over the leadership of the organization to the newly elected officers. Incoming KFS President Anthony Bumacas Jr. immediately recognized the dedication and service of the outgoing officers by presenting them with awards in appreciation of their contributions to the organization and the department.
The celebration concluded with a community dance that brought together students, faculty members, and student leaders, symbolizing unity and the beginning of a shared journey toward academic and professional growth.
Through Pharmakilala 2026, the KSU Department of Pharmacy reaffirmed its commitment to cultivating not only academically prepared pharmacy students but also compassionate, disciplined, and service-oriented future healthcare professionals. By combining informative discussions with interactive activities and student engagement, the orientation provided freshmen with a strong foundation for their university life, helping them better understand the expectations of the program while fostering a sense of belonging within the Pharmacy community.
As the new academic year begins, the department continues to strengthen its mission of guiding students toward excellence, leadership, and meaningful service in the pharmaceutical profession.🌟
