University of Northern Philippines–College of Medicine (UNP-CMED) Batch Gundaway donned their white coats during this year’s White Coat Ceremony held on May 28 at the UNP Gymnasium.
The symbolic rite of passage celebrated the 83 medical students’ commitment to compassion, excellence, and service as they officially stepped into the noble calling of medicine.
The ceremony formally opened with an inspiring message from Dr. Pablo Quedado, Dean of the College of Medicine, who challenged the incoming medical students to embrace the profound responsibility that comes with the profession. “You are not merely entering the halls of medicine; you are responding to the noble call of healing,” Dr. Quedado declared, stressing the commitment and compassion demanded of future physicians. Urging the students to uphold the values of service and excellence, he added, “Wear your white coat with pride and purpose.”
Addressing the aspiring physicians, Dr. Rolando Navarro, Vice President for Academic Affairs, delivered a message on the enduring values represented by the white coat. “The white coat you are wearing is a symbol of trust, responsibility, sacrifice, and hope,” he said, emphasizing that the garment signifies a solemn commitment to healing and service. He encouraged the students to uphold the nobility of the profession with character and compassion, adding, “May you wear your white coat with pride, humility, and responsibility.”
This year’s White Coat Ceremony was made even more meaningful by the presence of Dr. Rogelio Abitong, a distinguished alumnus of the College of Medicine and the event’s guest speaker, who delivered a message on the true essence of the medical profession. Addressing the future physicians, Dr. Abitong reminded them that the white coat is far more than a symbol of prestige or academic achievement—it is a solemn reminder of the immense responsibility entrusted to those who wear it. “The coat does not make you superior, it makes you accountable,” he declared.
He further urged the students to remain grounded in empathy amid the demanding realities of medical training and hospital practice. While institutions may shape them into efficient and competent practitioners, Dr. Abitong stressed that genuine healing begins with humanity and compassion. “The hospital may teach you efficiency, but you must always choose humanity,” he emphasized, leaving the audience with a powerful reminder that beyond science and skill, the heart of medicine lies in serving people with dignity, understanding, and care.
The inspiring messages delivered by the distinguished guest speaker and university officials were followed by the conferring of white coats and stethoscopes, led by the faculty members of the College of Medicine. In a deeply meaningful rite of passage, students were joined by their families for the pinning of nameplates — a symbolic moment marking their formal entry into the noble journey of medicine.
The ceremony continued with the solemn Oath of Acceptance led by Future Physicians Circle Governor Mart Louie Oamil, as student interns formally pledged their commitment to the responsibilities and ethical standards of the medical profession.
Following the oath was a video presentation featuring messages and words of wisdom from the class advisers of Batch Gundaway, offering encouragement and guidance as the students prepare to embark on a more demanding phase of their medical journey.
More than a symbolic rite, the White Coat Ceremony marked a defining milestone in the students’ transformation from learners to future healthcare professionals, signifying the beginning of their immersion into the realities, responsibilities, and humanity of the medical field.
