The University of the Cordilleras – College of Nursing conducted its 21st Capping, Pinning, and Candle Lighting Ceremony on July 28, 2025, at the UC Auditorium. Bearing the theme “Crown of Compassion and Healing Hands: A Journey Begins,” the event celebrated a significant academic and professional milestone for BSN Level II students (Batch 2027) as they formally transition from theoretical instruction to hands-on clinical practice.
This traditional rite of passage symbolizes a nursing student’s commitment to the core values of the profession—compassion, service, integrity, and excellence. The cap and pin represent the honor and responsibility that come with the role of a nurse, while the candle lighting signifies the light of knowledge and care that nurses carry forward, echoing the legacy of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing. The event serves as a solemn affirmation of the student’s dedication to patient-centered care and professional ethics.
Morning Program
The morning ceremony commenced with a processional of Nightingales, students, faculty, level coordinators, the Dean, and the guest speaker. The Invocation was led by Ms. Jovilyn R. Dolosa, RN, MNE, followed by AVP presentations of the Philippine National Anthem and the UC Hymn.
Dr. Judith Odanee G. Magwilang, RN, PhD, Dean of the College of Nursing, welcomed attendees and emphasized the symbolic importance of the ceremony in shaping students’ identities as future healthcare providers. Ms. Sheila Maria G. Batoon, RN, PhDNS, Level 4 Program Chair, introduced the guest speaker, Mr. Rommel S. Lorenzana, RN, MAN, Supervisor Nurse III at Tagudin District Hospital. In his message, Mr. Lorenzana reminded the students that nursing is not only a science but also a calling that demands compassion, critical thinking, and resilience.
The Capping, Pinning, and Candle Lighting Ceremony followed, with students receiving their nursing caps and pins, and lighting candles as a sign of their readiness to serve. Ms. Odeth C. Licpaen, RN led the Nurse’s Prayer, and Ms. Lisa Danielle R. Quiniones, RN led the Nightingale’s Pledge. The students also performed their Batch Song, expressing gratitude and unity.
Ms. Nasper P. Anod, RN, MAN, Level II Program Chair, closed the program with remarks encouraging students to uphold the values they symbolically embraced. The session was hosted by Ms. Marie Agnes N. Baniwas, RN, MAN, Ms. Deksi D. Lawangen, RN, MAN, and Mr. Gilbert D. Bernardino Jr., RN, MPH.
Afternoon Program
The afternoon session followed a similar structure, beginning with the processional and Invocation by Ms. Nora M. Mongolnon, RN, MAN, followed by the national anthem and hymn via AVP.
Dean Magwilang reiterated in her opening message the importance of reflection and accountability as students enter the clinical phase. Ms. Judith A. Layao, RN, MAN, Program Chair and Quality Assurance Officer, introduced the guest speaker, Dr. Mark Dave O. Rodrigo, RN, MAN, PhD, CHA, DipHLM, Chief Nurse and Nurse VI at Conrado F. Estrella Regional Medical and Trauma Center. Dr. Rodrigo underscored leadership in healthcare, the importance of ethical practice, and the evolving role of nurses in public health.
The ceremonial portion was then conducted, with Ms. Iris Marie C. Dela Cruz, RN leading the Nurse’s Prayer, and Ms. Eunice Tania Q. Lumibao, RN leading the Nightingale’s Pledge. The afternoon batch also performed their Batch Song before closing remarks were delivered once again by Mrs. Anod.
Masters of Ceremony for the afternoon were Mr. Jonathan H. Ilagan, RN, Mr. Heston M. Sial, RN, MNE, and Ms. Sonia C. Olnanigon, RN, MNE.
