Day: May 27, 2026

The West Visayas State University (WVSU) College of Nursing recognized student achievement in academics, leadership, service, and research during its Recognition Program for Academic Year 2025-2026 held May 27 at the WVSU Cultural Center.

The event gathered students from first to fourth year levels, along with their parents, faculty members, and university officials, in a formal celebration of the accomplishments of future healthcare professionals who demonstrated excellence inside and outside the classroom.

WVSU College of Nursing Dean Dr. Madonna Palmes underscored the importance of recognizing not only academic performance but also the values formed throughout nursing education, including dedication, compassion, leadership, and commitment to service.

A wide range of awards were presented during the program, covering academic distinctions, leadership and service achievements, and research contributions in local, national, and international conferences. Both student and faculty researchers were also recognized for studies and presentations focusing on healthcare practice, public health, nursing leadership, and community-based concerns.

Among the special awards given were the Best in Related Learning Experience (RLE) Performance, Best in Clinical Performance, Best in Community Health Nursing (CHN), Leadership Award, and Most Outstanding Student Nurse of the Year.

University officials joined the awarding ceremonies, led by Vice President for Medical and Allied Sciences Dr. Victorino Salcedo III and Office of Student Affairs Dean Dr. Ma. Pilar Malata, together with faculty representatives from various divisions: Prof. Junah C. Villanueva, Guidance Facilitator; Prof. Dexter P. Cendaña of the Division of Nursing Fundamentals; Dr. Arlyn F. Salistre of the Division of Maternal and Child Health Nursing; Ms. Rhoda Mae G. Laspiñas of the Division of Adult Health Nursing; and Prof. Emily E. Robite of the Division of Professional Nursing, along with other college administrators and faculty members.

Prof. Maylin P. Habaña, chairperson of the Awards and Recognition Working Committee, delivered the closing remarks.

The recognition program reflects the university’s continuing commitment to forming competent, compassionate, and globally competitive healthcare professionals who embody WVSU’s culture of excellence and service.

Eighty-nine nursing students of the West Visayas State University College of Nursing were formally welcomed into the next stage of their professional journey during the Class of 2026 Pinning Ceremony held May 27 at the WVSU Cultural Center.

Batch Vesta participated in the traditional ceremony symbolizing their commitment to the nursing profession and their readiness for clinical training and patient care.

University President Dr. Joselito F. Villaruz delivered his inspirational message through a video presentation, reminding the students of their duty to serve with compassion, integrity and professionalism as future healthcare workers.

College of Nursing Dean Dr. Madonna S. Palmes, together with faculty members, led the donning of pins, while the students also recited the Nightingale Pledge and the Nurse’s Prayer during the ceremony.

Inspirational speaker Alfonso Noli Combong, a WVSU nursing alumnus and retired lieutenant commander of the U.S. Navy Reserve Nurse Corps, encouraged Batch Vesta to embrace the limitless possibilities ahead of them in the healthcare profession.

“Your future is limitless. You may become a leader, a provider, or an educator, or the nurse who changes someone else’s life in one single moment,” Combong said. “Class of 2026, you are ready. Ready to serve, ready to lead, ready to make a difference in ways you don’t even realize it yet. Go forward, with skill, with courage, and with purpose, and never forget lives will change because of you.”

The pinning ceremony marked a milestone for the 89 students as they move closer toward becoming professional nurses committed to service and excellence in healthcare.