Text by Charmaine A. Lingdas
Photo by Ligaya Films
The University of the Philippines Manila College of Nursing (UPCN) celebrated the achievements of its graduates during the 2025 Recognition Day held on July 18, 2025, at Cine Adarna, University of the Philippines Diliman. With the theme “Talaghay: Tapang at Tibay, Dangal at Husay,” the ceremony honored the academic accomplishments and unwavering commitment of nursing graduates to serve the Filipino people with compassion, competence, and integrity.
A total of 69 students with the degree Bachelor of Science in Nursing, with 39 earning the distinction of Cum Laude students were recognized. In addition, eight graduates completed the Master of Nursing Education program, while three graduates earned their degrees under the Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing program.
In her message, Dean Shiela Bonito reminded the graduates of their crucial role in the country’s healthcare system. “Kilala ang mga Filipinong nurse sa buong mundo sa katangiang ito – mahusay na pagkalinga,” she said. “Ngunit bago pa man kayo kilalanin sa ibang bansa, kailangan muna kayo ng ating bayan — ng ating mga pamayanan, ng ating mga pasyente, at ng ating health system.”
The ceremony also featured former Commission on Audit Commissioner Heidi Mendoza as the guest of honor, who shared an inspiring message on public service and integrity, drawing from her own experiences in government.
The event also recognized outstanding individuals for their exemplary contributions throughout their academic journey. Trisha Denise T. Siy received the Valedictorian Award, while Christian M. Gartalla was honored with the Leadership Award. The Community Involvement Award was given to Alamina D. Solaiman, and Jesse Cyrille C. Magno received the Best in Clinical Performance Award.
In her valedictory address, Trisha Denise T. Siy reflected on the collective journey of their batch, which began amid the uncertainty of the pandemic. She recalled how they navigated remote learning, clinical duties, and moments of self-doubt, yet continued to persevere. Siy highlighted the values that carried them through—tapang (courage) in facing the unknown, tibay (grit) in overcoming sleepless nights and imposter syndrome, and dangal (honor) in serving patients with compassion despite the challenges of the healthcare system. She also spoke about the setbacks some students faced, emphasizing that failure does not define them, but rather strengthens their character. “We are not defined by how we fall, but by how we rise,” she said. For Siy, husay (excellence) is not found in medals or grades, but in the quiet, consistent effort to do what is right—even when no one is watching.
She added that as they step into the world beyond those halls, may they never forget: “The courage to begin in uncertainty. The resilience to brave challenges and keep going when it gets hard. The honor of serving with our whole selves. And the excellence of giving our best, even when it feels like it’s not enough.”
Christopher M. Padua delivered a speech on behalf of Class 2025 offering a heartfelt reflection on the shared journey of the nursing batch that began during the height of the pandemic. He recalled how their connections started online—through group chats, profile photos, and virtual discussions—and eventually deepened through real-world clinical and community experiences.
Padua traced their evolution from students learning with pillows and family members as mock patients at home, to confidently navigating the wards of PGH, communities in Cavite, and high-pressure hospital duties. He acknowledged the hardships—academic pressure, personal struggles, grief, self-doubt—and the strength found in camaraderie, compassion, and quiet endurance. He paid tribute to their instructors, peers, communities, and especially their families, whose unseen sacrifices made their success possible.
“Ngayon, malapit na nating makamit ang dalawang titik na pinangarap natin: RN. Pero higit sa anumang titulong iyon, natamo natin ang mas mahalaga: Pagkatao. Malasakit. Tapang. At Puso,” he said, underscoring that beyond credentials, it is their humanity that defines them.
In his closing remarks, Asst. Prof. Earl Francis Sumile said that earning a bachelor’s degree marks a significant achievement that brings pride to the entire community. It reflects the effort, energy, and emotion students have poured into their journey—both within and beyond the esteemed walls of Sotejo Hall. Throughout this journey, they were fortunate to be guided not only by dedicated faculty, but also by the patients who became their teachers.
“Remember the shared lessons and use them to guide you in your next steps. Find time for prayer and trust God, our creator. Commit to our ideals of “Manus, Caput, and Cor”. Manus – Hands with a caring touch that builds people up. Caput – a mind that is sharp, scientific, and seeks the common good. Cor – a heart full of joy, courage, and kindness, willing to serve the people in ways above and beyond,” he added.
The event reaffirmed UPCN’s commitment to nurturing excellence, leadership, and service in nursing education. It served as both a celebration and a formal send-off for the graduates as they prepare to enter or continue their professional journeys in local and global healthcare systems.
