On the morning of September 19, 2025, the VOCTRAC-TESDA Healthcare Services had their Graduation and Candle Lighting Ceremony at the Cantabo Canticum Novum Mini Theatre. A mark of resilience, courage, and excellence.
A Thanksgiving mass presided over by Rev. Fr. Danilo Rabe was held first thing in the morning for this grand event at the Saint Joseph Chapel. The soon-to-be graduates offered to God the sacrifices and challenges they had conquered during their journey. A solemn start, a reminder to always put God first in everything.
As the mass concluded, the graduates, along with their parents, moved to the Mini Theatre, where the graduation rites and candle lighting ceremony will be held.
The program started with a march of the students, faculty, and administration. Loved ones who attended the event watched teary-eyed as the healthcare students marched with firmness and dignity. Then, a prayer was led by Redmari R. Mercado, followed by the singing of the National Anthem and SJC Hymn.
Mrs. Leticia O. Tan, RN, Ph.D., gave her warmest welcome to the students, parents, guardians, faculty, and administration during her welcome talk, which was then followed by an inspirational message from Mr. Rolando V. Bade, which lifted the spirits of the audience.
After the message, the formal presentation of clinical graduates was inaugurated by Mrs. Almira L. Miras, RN, Ed. D, the head of TESDA Health Qualification. She announced that a total of 3 males and 17 females have successfully completed the requirements set forth by the TESDA and that of SJC. Applause erupted and echoed throughout the Mini Theatre, a gesture of acknowledgement and recognition.
Then, the certificates and awards were given to the graduates one by one alongside their loved ones. The Candle Lighting Ceremony commenced; each graduate lit their candle sequentially. A burning flame of healing, hope, and compassion. A shared light of unity and commitment. A graduateโs transition from student to now a professional.
Thereafter, the Florence Nightingale Pledge was administered by Mr. Lyndo Salvador Calva, Chief Nurse of Salvacion Oppus Yรฑiguez Memorial Provincial Hospital. The graduates recite the pledge, formally committing to uphold the high ethical standards and responsibilities of healthcare.
The event concluded with a word of gratitude from one of the graduates, Ms. Thea Mae M. Bermoy, followed by the singing of the graduation song.
โYou have taught us not only the skills we needed but also the values of compassion, dedication, and integrity, ready to serve others. Together, we have overcome challenges and celebrated victories. Lastly, to Saint Joseph College and TESDA, thank you so much for giving us the opportunity to learn and grow in an environment that prepared us for real-life service,โ an excerpt from Ms. Thea Mae M. Bermoy during her words of gratitude.
#TESDAHealthcareServicesGraduation
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Words & Additional Photos: Manuel Francis Corollo | The Josephinian
