05 September 2025
The Benguet State University College of Nursing (CN) honored 192 Level II Nursing students during the 34th Capping, Pinning, and Candle Lighting Ceremonies with the theme “Nurturing Nurses: Stabilizing the Core of Healthy Economies and One Health for All.”
The event began with the blessing of the caps, pins, and lamps officiated by Reverend Matias C. Angiwan Jr. to prepare these symbols for the students.
CN-Department of Academic Instruction Chairperson Jocylyn W. Angeles welcomed the parents, guardians, students, faculty members, and guests. She highlighted the role of Florence Nightingale in reforming the cap during the 19th century to promote hygiene and professionalism. Angeles explained how the nurse’s cap evolved into a symbol of respect, authority, and identity in the nursing profession.
VP for Academic Affairs (VPAA) Janet P. Pablo, represented by Special Assistant to the VPAA Marvin T. Valentin, inspired nursing students by highlighting the significance of their transition into the nursing profession, a calling rooted in service, compassion, and integrity.
He acknowledged the serious challenge of nurse migration and shortages in the Philippines, urging students to see themselves as beacons of hope with responsibilities symbolized by their caps, pins, and candles. Valentin emphasized that, despite the demanding nature of nursing, it offers significant rewards and a transformational impact on lives.
“Your cap is not just a symbol of knowledge, it is a crown of responsibility. Your candle is not just a light for today’s ceremony, it is a flame that represents the compassion, the resilience, and the dedication you will carry into every ward, every patient’s room, and of course, every life you touch,” Valentin stated.
He commended their perseverance and encouraged the students to be guided by faith, wisdom, and resilience as they continue in their careers.
Afterwards, the students received their pins and caps from CN Dean Mark U. Gay-as, assisted by Angeles, Department of Clinical Instruction Chairperson Dominador B. Abad Jr., and College Information Officer Jonalyn S. Esco.
Class of 2028 member Glaiza Mae C. Binan led the Nurse’s Prayer, followed by the International Pledge for Nurses led by class of 2028 Adviser Genessa Lyn C. Willy.
Doris S. Natividad, the former dean of the CN from 2013 to 2019, delivered her address highlighting the significance of the event as a milestone and commitment to the noble nursing profession. She explained the symbolism of the cap, pin, and candle, each representing service, honor, compassion, passion, and knowledge rooted in nursing’s rich history.
She acknowledged the student’s dedication and praised their resilience amidst challenges, especially the global health crisis. Doris further talked about the nursing profession, highlighting the core values of compassion, empathy, respect for human dignity, ethical decision-making, and professional responsibility as guiding principles in their practice.
Natividad shared a story on humanity and underscored how the evolving healthcare demands call for nurses to be not only caregivers but also leaders and advocates.
“People may forget your words, but they will never forget how you made them feel,” she stated, encouraging the students to commit to lifelong learning and to always bring light, comfort, and hope to those they serve.
The ceremony became even more significant when the students paid tribute to their parents, guardians, and mentors.
In closing, Class of 2028 Adviser Maureen E. Gay-as motivated the students to see this event as the beginning of a journey in nursing. She reminded them to believe in their calling, advocate compassion and resilience, embrace responsibility, act with integrity and excellence, and be the voice of their patients.
“Nursing is about doing what is right, always advocate for patient’s well-being, and remember to be the voice when the world cannot speak,” she said.
Gay-as expressed her gratitude to the parents and mentors who supported the students. She also thanked the university for its continuous support, as well as the organizers and sponsors.//PJGadang