Recognized as a center of excellence in health professions education in the Asia-Pacific Region, the National Teacher Training Center for the Health Professions (NTTCHP) celebrated its 8th College Recognition Ceremony on August 5, 2023 at the Citystate Tower Hotel in Manila.

Newly awarded degrees were given to six (6) graduates of the Master of Health Professions and seven graduates of the Master of Health Professions Education (MHPEd). Alongside the graduates, the event was attended by esteemed faculty and staff of the center.

During her keynote speech, UP Manila Chancellor Carmencita D. Padilla stated that graduates of the NTTCHP pursued further studies not only to thrive in their professions but also to contribute and effect change in their respective institutions and learning areas.

“Those who graduate from NTTCHP do not come here for themselves – they bring home the knowledge and what they have learned to [ensure] that their colleagues and peers become better educators for the next generation,” Chancellor Padilla expounded.

Professor and Dean Melflor A. Atienza also graced the ceremony with her message to the graduates about the importance of being open to possibilities in the midst of fast-paced changes in people and in the environment.

As the recipient of this year’s NTTCHP Academic Excellence Award, MHPEd graduate Dr. Mary Ann A. Abacan reminded her fellow graduates to live by the principles and honor embedded in the sablay.

“Nais kong ipangako sa ating mga propesor na bukod sa pagiging mabuting mga guro, mananatili tayong mabubuting tao. Magiging bahagi tayo ng pag-angat ng kalidad ng edukasyon sa Pilipinas… [S]a pagiging mahusay, marangal, mapagkumbaba, at makabayan, tunay ngang tayo ay mapagkakatiwalaan at karapat-dapat na magsuot ng sablay,” Dr. Abacan said as she concluded her speech with a bold pledge of commitment to continue serving the people with integrity.

(Ehcel Hurna)