The University of Northern Philippines College of Nursing marked a defining milestone in the professional formation of its future nurses as 214 nursing candidates took part in the 57th Capping, Pinning, and Candle Lighting Ceremonies on September 4, 2026, at the UNP Gymnasium.
The solemn observance opened with a Holy Mass, setting a reflective tone for a ceremony that formally marked the candidates’ entry into clinical nursing practice. This was followed by the Capping, Pinning, and Candle Lighting Ceremony where University officials, faculty members, families, and guests gathered to witness the students take an important step toward the responsibilities and demands of the nursing profession.
The capping and pinning rites symbolized the candidates’ readiness to embrace the responsibilities and ethical standards of the nursing profession. The nursing cap and pin served as tangible reminders of their commitment to excellence, service, and patient-centered care.
The highlight of the ceremony was the recitation of the Florence Nightingale Pledge, during which the 214 nursing candidates collectively affirmed their commitment to uphold the principles and values of nursing. Adding significance to the occasion, Karen Tabrilla portrayed Florence Nightingale, bringing to life the legacy of the pioneer of modern nursing, and reminding the candidates of the profession’s enduring commitment to compassionate service.
UNP President Dr. Erwin Cadorna inspired the nursing candidates to approach their professional journey with a commitment to excellence, service, and lifelong learning. In his message, Dr. Cadorna stressed that becoming a competent nurse goes beyond mastering clinical knowledge and technical skills, emphasizing that the profession demands compassion, resilience, integrity, and a genuine commitment to the welfare of others.
He challenged the candidates to carry these values with them as they move from the classroom into clinical practice, reminding them that every patient interaction is an opportunity to demonstrate not only competence but also empathy and professionalism. His message reinforced the College of Nursing’s role in preparing future nurses who are equipped not only to meet the technical demands of healthcare but also to serve with character, dedication, and a deep sense of responsibility.
The ceremony drew to a meaningful close with closing remarks from College of Nursing Dean Dr. Francis Don Nero, who left the nursing candidates with a guiding principle for their professional journey—the 3 C’s of Nursing: Competence, Compassion, and Character.
Dr. Nero emphasized that competence provides the foundation for delivering safe, effective, and evidence-based patient care; compassion enables nurses to understand and respond to patients with empathy, dignity, and humanity; while character anchors them in integrity, accountability, ethical conduct, and professional responsibility. Together, he highlighted, these three qualities shape nurses who are not only capable healthcare professionals but also trusted and caring advocates for their patients.
His message reinforced the deeper meaning of the capping, pinning, and candle lighting rites, reminding the candidates that the nursing profession calls for more than technical proficiency. As they move into clinical practice, they are expected to embody the values that inspire trust, uphold the dignity of every patient, and place service at the heart of their professional commitment.
As the 214 candidates raised their candles and affirmed their pledge, the ceremony became more than a celebration of academic achievement—it became a solemn commitment to carry the values of nursing into every patient, family, and community they will serve.
Article by Rizza Abinsay
