#candlelightingceremony

CPUCN Batch 2023 holds virtual Capping, Pinning and Candle Lighting Ceremony

The first three-in-one virtual ceremony for CPU College of Nursing batch 2023 was held on February 5, 2022 at 10:00AM on CPUTV Facebook Live. The ceremony included the Capping, Pinning and Candle Lighting.

The program started with a prelude- a musical rendition by Prof. Rona L. Idemne, Faculty-CPU College of Nursing. The Host, Prof Analie D. Gelongos welcomed everyone, before the candidates marched in from different entrances. Rev. Roger T. Quimpo, University Church Associate Pastor led the Invocation. The CPU hymn, Central, My Central followed the playing of the Pambansang Awit ng Pilipinas.

University President Dr. Teodoro C. Robles in his Welcome Address recognized the dedication and commitment of the level three nursing students. He congratulated the parents and the families for their unending support to their students. Dr. Robles pointed out the significance of the ceremony. He encouraged the candidates to “embrace it as a milestone in your career.” He added that “You will not be just a nurse, but a Centralian Nurse. Nurses have always been at the forefront of health care, as CPU nurses remain one of the best in the country.”

Atty Salex E. Alibogha, LLM, MAN – Dean CPU College of Nursing introduced the Guest Speaker, CPU Grand Alumni Homecoming Queen Ms. Edna Pelopero (BSN Class 1978) as a woman with substance, ranging from local, national and international settings. Pelopero undergone the mandatory government service at St. Lukes Hospital before migrating to the U.S. in 1982. The speaker is “pride of CPU College of Nursing.” Alibogha said. He added that “Pelopero is hardworking, diligent with admirable leadership and management skills. From 2008 to 2012, she was Director of a 20-bed capacity Intensive Care Unit of a Hospital she was working in the U.S. She retired in 2012.

In working for their dreams, Pelopero reminded the students to “Focus- always expect darkness before dawn.” She enlightened them with insights like, “There is light at the end of the tunnel”; “Treat yourself well”, “Treasure your family, loved ones and friends, and educate your children to be happy”. She challenged them to be advocates of healthcare, adding that, “To succeed and realize your dreams, you must be headed to the right direction.”

Pelopero thanked Central Philippine University and the College of Nursing for the foundation of her career. She also expressed admiration of Dean Salex E. Alibogha, for the initiatives in the developments of the CPU College of Nursing. Alibogha was instrumental in procuring modern equipment (including maniquins for the Nursing Laboratory).

Weni Marie V. Braza, MAN – (Level 1) Coordinator read the History of the Country’s First Nursing School- Iloilo Mission Hospital. It was opened in 1906 with a rich cultural heritage. The history involved the Florence Nightingale of Iloilo City – Loreto D. Tupaz whose name is embedded in the CPU College of Nursing Building.

Prof. Rita Penaso, MAN (Level 2 Coordinator) read the significance of the Nursing Cap, Pin and Lamp. Dean Alibogha then conferred upon the students their caps and pins – with all the rights and privileges thereto appertaining.

Dr. Charlie D. Baldon (Academic Coordinator) led the students in reciting the Florence Nightingale Pledge. It was followed by the Nurse’s Prayer led by Prof. Joy B. Lacson, MAN (Level 4 Coordinator). Mrs. Regina G. Coniza, MAN, RN (Director NSO /IMH) extended a warm welcome in behalf of Iloilo Mission Hospital.

Rev. Roger T. Quimpo, Associate Pastor-University Church delivered the benediction. The recession followed.