The University of Northern Philippines (UNP) honored its successful examinees in the recent licensure examinations for Psychometricians and Guidance Counselors through a Joint Testimonial Program on October 27, 2026 at the UNP Gymnasium.
The University celebrated the success of 107 Bachelor of Science in Psychology graduates who passed the Psychometrician Licensure Examination held on September 1–2, 2026, achieving an institutional passing rate of 92.24%—higher than the national passing rate. Further elevating the University’s performance, Marianne Michelle Pardo ranked sixth nationwide, demonstrating exceptional competence in the field of psychology.
In the Guidance Counselors Licensure Examination conducted on August 17 and 23, 2026, six graduates of the Master of Arts in Guidance and Counseling program also earned their professional credentials, giving UNP an institutional passing rate of 75%. These accomplishments reflect the graduates’ dedication and the University’s continuing efforts to prepare qualified professionals in psychology and guidance counseling.
The testimonial program opened with a motorcade around Vigan City, followed by formal proceedings that brought together University officials, faculty members, graduates, and guests to celebrate the achievements of the newly licensed Psychometricians and Guidance Counselors.
Dr. Christian Gea Florentino, Program Head of the Bachelor of Science in Psychology, delivered the opening remarks, while Dr. Marifel Acena, Program Head of the Master of Arts in Guidance and Counseling, discussed the significance of the occasion in recognizing the graduates’ perseverance, professional accomplishments, and readiness to serve their respective fields.
University President Dr. Erwin F. Cadorna congratulated the newly licensed psychometricians and guidance counselors on their professional achievements, recognizing their perseverance and dedication in overcoming the demands of their respective licensure examinations. In his inspirational message, he encouraged the new professionals to translate their academic preparation into meaningful practice by upholding competence, integrity, and accountability in their chosen fields. He also emphasized the importance of carrying the values and knowledge they gained at the University into their professional endeavors, reminding them of their responsibility to make a positive difference in the lives of others and contribute to the well-being of the communities they serve.
A highlight of the celebration was the presentation of certificates of recognition to national board examination topnotcher Marianne Michelle Pardo, and the successful licensure examination passers, honoring their dedication and achievement. The program also provided a platform for the new professionals to share their experiences and reflections on their journey toward professional qualification. Jairuz Mae Djemetzchel Castillo, Erna May Alconcel, Ana Lorraine Damullan, Abron Andrei de Leon, Shiela Quitoriano Rabanal, and Pardo recounted their personal experiences, highlighting the challenges, determination, and perseverance that shaped their success. Meanwhile, Ellaine Vertudez and Eden Ulep, Registered Guidance Concelors, delivered messages of commitment, affirming their dedication to the ethical practice of their professions and their responsibility to contribute meaningfully to individual and community well-being.
Adding a celebratory dimension to the occasion, officers and committee members of the Psychology Students Organization presented a Psych Parody and a tribute entitled “Sharpened to Succeed,” led by PSO President Elji Mae Sabado. A video presentation further captured the significance of the graduates’ achievements and the journey that led them to professional success, making the gathering both a recognition of academic excellence and a tribute to the collective efforts of the graduates, faculty members, and the University.
Dr. Grace Garcia, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, delivered the closing remarks, bringing the formal program to a close. The event proceeded a celebratory luncheon at the UNP Guestel, allowing the participants to commemorate the milestone and strengthen their sense of shared accomplishment.
Beyond honoring the successful examinees, the initiative supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 4 (Quality Education) and 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) by recognizing academic achievement, promoting professional qualification, and encouraging graduates to translate their education and expertise into meaningful contributions to society.
