With the theme “Stepping into the field: Empowering the future Biologist through practice”, Kalinga State University- Bachelor of Science in Biology fourth year students at the College of Health and Natural Sciences (CHNS) conducted its 2nd Pinning and Candle Lighting Ceremony. The event was held today, February 11, 2025, at the Teatro Kalinga, main campus and witnessed by the University officials, the Program Chair, faculty members, parents and guardians.

The pinning ceremony is not only a tradition, but a significant occasion that symbolizes the dedication, compassion and commitment of the students into their soon to be profession. The celebration commenced with a thanksgiving mass officiated by Fr. Jeorge Daliyong Manisem.

In her welcome remarks, Dr. Marlita E. Quesada, CHNS Dean, said that the event is a transition and recognition, a time to honor not only the hard work and dedication but also their commitment to the field of biology and the natural sciences. It is a deep commitment to the realms of science, exploration, and discovery.

Director for Student Services, Admission, and Placement Services, Mr. Ronald Bulwayan, explained that the pin they received is not just an emblem but a representation of everything that they have encountered and will be encountering, the knowledge, the challenges, the promise and the responsibly they will be carrying when they will become professionals. “Let the flame of your candles light the darkest space of your life. May you wear your pin with pride and let your candles shine brightly in everything you do,” he added.

Dr. Divina A. Balocnit, Director for Extension, highlighted the significance of the pin and candle lighting. The pin is a symbol of unity that represents the hardest years of schooling followed by the commitment to spend the rest of one’s life providing holistic care to humans and an oath to commit providing care with compassion and embedding humanism in their work as professionals. Dr. Balocnit further explained that the candle represents a beacon of hope and guidance for future biologists and the flame of the candle represents the light of knowledge, guiding students on their path of learning.

In her inspirational message, Dr. Joy Grace P. Doctor, University President, represented by Dr. Marilou Adora, Vice President for Academics and Student Development, emphasized the importance of the ceremony that marks the beginning of their journey as emerging professionals in a world brimming with challenges and opportunities within the realm of life sciences. She encouraged the students to embrace the challenges as opportunities for growth and discovery. They must engage in hands-on experiences and carry with them the principles of integrity, perseverance and empathy.

Ms. Alessandra A. Niemo, Biology student, in her response reminisced her experiences from the day she was admitted to the university filled with excitement, anxiety, and an overwhelming fear of the unknown. The sight of thick biology books, the intimidating names of biological processes, and the first dissection of a specimen made her wonder if she had chosen the right path. But as the days turned into months and the months into years, she realized that every struggle was shaping her into something greater.

“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to each one of you, may your journey as future biologists be filled with purpose, passion and commitment to making a positive difference in our world”, Ms. Lourdes A. Angalao said in her closing remarks.