The University of Northern Philippines–College of Nursing honored the perseverance, excellence, and remarkable achievement of its newest registered nurses through Pammadayaw 2026, a celebration recognizing Batch Sirmata, the College’s successful examinees in the August 2026 Philippine Nurse Licensure Examination (PNLE), held at the UNP Gymnasium on September 29, 2026.
The celebration commenced with a Thanksgiving Mass, followed by a motorcade and testimonial luncheon that set the stage for the formal recognition program. At the heart of the celebration was the exceptional performance of Batch Sirmata, led by Dianne Tacazon Tolentino, who topped the August 2026 PNLE nationwide with an outstanding 92.20 percent rating, and Josian Vince Bajet Bermio, who secured 9th place nationally with a 90.60 percent rating.
Of the 184 first-time examinees, 181 successfully passed, giving the College a 98.37 percent first-time passing rate. With two successful retakers, UNP College of Nursing achieved an overall institutional passing rate of 96.32 percent, compared with the 76.69 percent national passing rate for the August 2026 PNLE, according to the Professional Regulation Commission.
The celebration brought together key University and professional leaders who joined the College of Nursing in honoring the achievements of Batch Sirmata. Among those who graced the occasion were UNP President Dr. Erwin Cadorna, Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Rolando Navarro, Vice President for Administration and Finance Mr. Albert Tejero, and other University and College officials. Also present was Mr. Michael Rabino, President of the Philippine Nurses Association–Ilocos Sur Chapter, along with distinguished guests and institutional partners whose presence emphasized the strong support of the professional community for the University’s nursing graduates.
Beyond celebrating the board passers themselves, the event also paid tribute to the mentors, faculty members, and members of the UNP community who played vital roles in preparing Batch Sirmata for the licensure examination. Through their sustained instruction, guidance, encouragement, and support, these individuals contributed significantly to the graduates’ academic preparation and professional success, reinforcing the collective effort behind the College’s outstanding PNLE performance.
Adding significance to the celebration was the presence of nursing students from Levels 1 to 4, who witnessed the recognition of the newly registered nurses and heard their stories of perseverance. The gathering provided an opportunity for the younger students to see the journey ahead, while for the Level 4 students nearing their own PNLE, the experiences of Batch Sirmata served as a timely source of encouragement and inspiration.
A defining moment of Pammadayaw 2026 was the heartfelt sharing of testimonies from members of Batch Sirmata, including national topnotchers Dianne Tacazon Tolentino and Josian Vince Bajet Bermio, who reflected on the demanding journey that led them to the licensure examination. Their narratives offered a candid glimpse into the challenges, sacrifices, pressures, and moments of uncertainty they encountered while preparing for one of the most significant milestones in their nursing careers.
In their messages, Tolentino and Bermio emphasized that success is shaped not only by knowledge and preparation but also by perseverance, discipline, and the courage to continue despite difficulties. Addressing aspiring nurses, they encouraged them to remain steadfast in pursuing their goals, reminding them that setbacks and challenges are integral parts of the journey toward professional success. Their words carried a powerful message throughout the gymnasium: when the journey becomes difficult, do not give up—keep moving forward and remain committed to the dream.
Through Pammadayaw 2026, the College of Nursing not only honored its newest registered nurses but also celebrated the mentors, families, university community, and students who form part of the continuing journey toward excellence in nursing.
Article by Rizza Abinsay.
