“God has called you to be a teacher.” — Dr. Lucille C. Hilario

Ninety-two pre-service teachers were officially pinned during the College of Education (COEd) Pinning and Candle Lighting Ceremony under the theme “Upholding the Torch of Education with Integrity and Service,” held on December 9, 2025, at the JJDG Auditorium, marking their formal entry into the teaching profession.

In her opening remarks, COEd Dean Hillario reflected on John 12:26 and reminded the students of their calling.
“We are bondservants, and now you will be experiencing the same thing. An ordinary teacher teaches. A good teacher explains. An expert teacher demonstrates, but an excellent teacher inspires. Be an excellent teacher; be a servant. Welcome to the world of teachers,” she said, welcoming the students to the world of teaching.

The ceremony recognized 18 Bachelor of Elementary Education students, 12 BSED-English, 8 BSED-Science, 12 BSED-Filipino, 7 BSED-Social Studies, 13 Bachelor of Physical Education, and one student each from BSED-Values Education and BSED-Mathematics. Each pre-service teacher walked on stage with their parents to receive their pin.

Representing University President Dr. Irineo G. Alvaro Jr. was the University Registrar, Atty. Lyndon John S. De Leon, who emphasized the moral responsibility of teachers.

“Kayo ang hahawak sa mga estudyante na susunod na magiging lingkod-bayan. Hahawakan ninyo sila, at ang ituturo ninyo sa kanila ang gagabay sa kanila sa oras na pipili sila kung tatahak ba sila sa tuwid na daan—kahit na bako-bako—o pipiliin ba nila ang madaling daan dahil nandoon ang pera,” he said, underscoring that teachers will help guide future public servants in choosing integrity over convenience.

Additionally, Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Wilfredo C. Ramos, represented by Dr. Marietta B. Agustin, described the pin as “a symbol of monumental commitment and stewardship,” officially recognizing the students’ calling as teachers.

Meanwhile, Office of Student Affairs Director, Ms. Crystalyn Galindo, commended the pre-service teachers’ perseverance, saying, “Your journey to this moment wasn’t easy—your resilience is inspiring. You showed up, kept going, and strengthened yourself in ways that truly mattered.”

Furthermore, guest speaker Dr. John Alvin Valdez Seradoy reminded the students of the weight of their new responsibility. “Look at the pin you are about to receive. It is small, but the weight of the responsibility it carries is immense. It is a profound symbol of commitment and consecration—your lifelong dedication to shaping the future,” he reminded.

“You have accepted the mission of upholding the torch of education with integrity and service,” he added.

The ceremony also featured the entrance of symbols representing the four pillars of education, followed by the candle lighting ceremony led by Prof. Hazel May L. Balera and Prof. Karl Leugim B. Bernarte.

The program concluded with a special song performance by the pinned pre-service teachers, highlighting their commitment to service, integrity, and the future of education.

Article by Ayumi San Cai Valerio (PIO)
Photos courtesy of the College of Education
Sources: CoEd holds Pinning and Candlelighting Ceremony for Pre-Service Teachers, Maestra Chronicles, https://www.facebook.com/share/p/14Qa7cUHxgZ/
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