The College of Nursing (CN) held its 30th Pin and Ring ceremonies on June 20, 2025, to celebrate and honor the 153 members of the CN Class of 2025. With the theme “Sinag: Illuminating Paths, Embracing Compassion, Becoming Everlasting Nurses of Tomorrow,” the ceremony marked the transition from students to professionals.

The event commenced with the blessing of the pins and rings officiated by Rev. Sam B. Galino, invoking faith and purpose as these emblems were prepared for the graduates. This was followed by the welcoming remarks by the Chairperson of the Department of Clinical Instruction, Dominador B. Abad Jr., who acknowledged the efforts of faculty members and the support of families.

“To our dedicated faculty members, you have not only taught them knowledge and skills, but also inspired them to lead lives of compassion and integrity,”said Abad. He emphasized that the pin and ring are not merely symbols of completion, but emblems of dedication and service and reminders of the oath that they are about to carry into the world.

BSU President Kenneth A. Laruan, in his inspirational message, reminded students that their education is a foundation, not a finish line. He urged them to uphold the virtues of a true nurse using the acronym NURSE: Nurture learning, Understand others, build Relationships, Scan their past to guide their future, and pursue Excellence in all they do.

“Doing your best is the basis of your performance, and your performance is always the basis of your promotion,” he added.

After the message of President Laruan, the students received their pins and rings from CN Dean Mark Gay-as, assisted by the Chairperson of the Department of Academic Instruction, Jocylyn W. Angeles and Keverne Jhay P. Colas, adviser of Batch Sinag.

Florence C. Cawaon, the Founding Dean of the CN, delivered her keynote address reminding students of the historic roots and present-day demands of their profession.

“Wear the ring and pin with pride. Cherish these articles and take care not to do anything malicious that will smear the honor and prestige that these objects represent,” Cawaon said.

She emphasized the core values that define the profession: commitment to caring, devotion to duty, and service to humanity, reminding graduates that it is their gentle touch, kind words, and sincere smile that truly heal.

The ceremony became even more significant when the students paid tribute to their parents and guardians, and their mentors.

A turnover and acceptance of the Key of Responsibility followed, representing the transition of leadership and legacy from the graduating class to the succeeding batch.

Maria Dimple Genon of Batch Sinag shared a message to aspiring nursing students.

“Marami talagang uncertainties, tapos maraming hirap. Pero fight lang, kase there is no gain when there is no pain, sabi nga nila. Laban lang (There are so many uncertainties and hardships. But keep fighting, because there’s no gain without pain, as they say. Just keep going).”

An adviser of Batch Sinag, Keverne Jhay P. Colas, reminded the graduates that as “rays of light” they are now bearers of hope in a world in need of compassion and courage. He emphasized that the nursing pin and ring are not just symbols of academic success but marks of honor, accountability, and lifelong commitment to healing. He urged them to serve bravely, live honorably, and let their light continue to shine in the field of healthcare.

The event ended with the singing of the batch’s graduation song titled, “Sinag”. The song is composed by Bryant L. Sarol, highlighting themes of growth, gratitude, and perseverance. Sarol is a member of Batch Sinag.//AB. Gayagay-UPAO Intern