The recognition ceremony for the UP College of Nursing Graduating Class of 2023 was held on July 31, 2023. This was a celebration of their academic achievements and a symbolic step into the professional world as nurses and healthcare professionals.

The theme of the event, “Yugto: Tungo sa Bagong Simula: Lingkod sa Bayan ay Pagkalinga,” captured the essence of the occasion. In her opening remarks, Dean Shiela Bonito asserted that the journey of Class 2023 had been a transformational one, and they were now embarking on a new phase as compassionate and dedicated healthcare providers, ready to serve the nation.

“As you take the next steps in your journey whether it be pursuing higher education, entering the workforce hopefully at the Philippine General Hospital, and exploring a new opportunity, remember that the lessons you have learned, the relationships you have built, the friendships you have nurtured, and the experiences you have had will stay with you forever beyond these walls, beyond the halls of Sotejo Hall,” said Dean Bonito.

The class has 3 MA Nursing graduates, 1 PhD in Nursing, and 50 BS Nursing graduates of which 26 are cum laude graduates.

Recipients of special awards included Gwyn Del Rosario Sarigumba, Bienvenido Gonzales Award; Mikaela Angelika Denise Ortega, community involvement; Clea Erika Lou Abelido Dejillas, leadership; and Patricia Angelus Monton Calle, best clinical performance.

In her message to the graduating class, Chancellor Carmencita Padilla underscored the significance of embracing love for the country, the university, and their beloved college regardless of where their paths may lead them. The UP Manila chancellor urged the graduates to seize the opportunities to acquire new knowledge, confront novel obstacles, and celebrate the multitude of successes that life has in store for them.

In his keynote address, UP Faculty Regent Carl Marc Ramota remarked that in the in the pandemic years, there emerged a stark realization of the vulnerabilities within our healthcare system and educational institutions.

“Let your generation be a beacon of hope for the discouraged and inspiration for many to continue the struggle for truth, democracy, and justice – remembering that dark days do not last forever. May the call, ‘Serve the People’, forever echo through the halls of your college, in your hospitals and communities, and wherever you may be. Paglingkuran ang Sambayanan, mga Iskolar at Nars ng Bayan! Padayon sa panibagong simula!” Ramota declared.

Speaking on behalf of the graduates, valedictorian Gwyn Del Rosario Sarigumba recounted their collective experiences and shared the values of service, excellence, and compassion.

I Charmaine A. Lingdas