21/09/2026
๐จ๐๐ ๐ฆ๐ฐ๐ต๐ผ๐ผ๐น ๐ผ๐ณ ๐๐ฒ๐ฎ๐น๐๐ต ๐ฆ๐ฐ๐ถ๐ฒ๐ป๐ฐ๐ฒ๐ ๐๐ฒ๐น๐ฒ๐ฏ๐ฟ๐ฎ๐๐ฒ๐ ๐ฑ๐ฎ๐ป๐ฑ ๐๐ฎ๐ฝ๐ฝ๐ถ๐ป๐ด, ๐๐ฎ๐ฑ๐ด๐ถ๐ป๐ด, ๐ฎ๐ป๐ฑ ๐๐ฎ๐ป๐ฑ๐น๐ฒ ๐๐ถ๐ด๐ต๐๐ถ๐ป๐ด ๐๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ฒ๐บ๐ผ๐ป๐
by Aaliyah Heloise Fontanilla
A significant milestone in the journey of future nurses was celebrated as the School of Health Sciences held its 52nd Capping, Badging, and Candle Lighting Ceremony on September 18, 2026, at Aureo La Union. The ceremony honored the nursing students as they embarked on another meaningful stage of their professional journey.
The program began with a processional of all 460 nursing students, accompanied by their family members. This was followed by an opening prayer through song led by Dr. Deborrah Reyes-Anno, Convener, Culture and Arts. The ceremony then continued with the singing of the Philippine National Anthem and the UCC College Song. The celebration proceeded with the Parade of Florence Nightingale, a tribute to the enduring legacy of the founder of modern nursing. The presentation served as a reminder of the values of compassion, dedication, and service that define the nursing profession.
Dr. Marilou L. Agustin, Vice President for Academic Affairs, then delivered the greetings, formally welcoming the students, faculty members, families, and distinguished guests gathered for the momentous occasion. This was followed by the introduction of the Guest of Honor and Speaker, formally presented by Level II Coordinator, Mrs. Chermaine F. Corpuz, MAN.
Delivering the inspirational message was Hon. Antonio A. Eslao, Municipal Vice Mayor of Agoo, La Union, a Batch 1981 alumnus of the College of Nursing and UCC nurse entrepreneur. During his speech, he shared his experiences as an alumnus and healthcare professional and encouraged the students to work hard and remain committed to their calling while carrying with them the values and responsibilities of the nursing profession.
His inspirational message was followed by the Awarding of the Token of Appreciation, presented by Rev. Dr. Ferdinand A. Anno, College President, in recognition of the Guest of Honor and Speakerโs meaningful participation in the ceremony.
The ceremony then moved on to a reflection on the significance of the Cap, Badge, Candle, and Bible, as selected students shared the meaning each symbol holds in their journey and commitment to the nursing profession. The items were then blessed by Rev. Dr. Cesar C. Cadam-us, School Chaplain. This was followed by the Lighting of the Lamp, led by Mrs. Cristeta E. Bagtang, MAN, and the Presentation of Candidates by Dr. Marites B. Cadam-us, Dean of the School of Health Sciences.
The ceremony proceeded with the Ceremonial Imposition of the Cap and Badge, assisted by the level coordinators: Level I Coordinator, Sir Marius F. Flores Jr., MAN; Level II Coordinator, Mrs. Chermaine F. Corpuz, MAN; Level III Coordinator, Ms. Only H. Navalta, MAN; and Level IV Coordinator, Mrs. Fatima A. Carsola.
Following the ceremonial imposition, the nursing students participated in the Singing of the Nursesโ Pledge, led by Dr. Pilar Ruby Buenaventura. The pledge symbolized the studentsโ commitment to uphold the values, responsibilities, and standards of the nursing profession, while placing the welfare of their patients at the heart of their practice.
The program then featured a tribute song for the parents, with the students singing โEverything I Ownโ by Bread as an expression of love and gratitude. The heartfelt performance honored the parentsโ sacrifices, encouragement, and unwavering support throughout their childrenโs journey toward becoming professional nurses. Following the tribute, the nursing students came together for the Batch Song, โLong Liveโ by Taylor Swift, celebrating their accomplishments, the bond they share as a batch, and the cherished memories they have created throughout their journey as nursing students.
Bringing the celebration to a close, Rev. Dr. Ferdinand A. Anno, College President, delivered the Charge and Benediction. His charge reminded the students of their responsibilities and commitment to uphold the values of the nursing profession, while his benediction offered prayers for guidance and blessings as they continue their journey toward becoming professional nurses.
Photos by Anika Pearl Dugayo, Eden Joy Acosta, and Jae Cardenas