There was no political rally, movement for a cause or grand parade of a certain advocacy; yet, the university's newly registered nurses proved they could be united not only in celebrating and thanksgiving but also in commemorating two of the most significant people in the history of the Philippines in their fight for democracy.
Wearing yellow garments of distinct hues that symbolized their participation in honoring and commemorating the late President Corazon Aquino and her late husband Sen. Benigno Aquino, Jr. whose 26th death anniversary would be celebrated the next day, Our Lady of Fatima University's board passers of the June 2009 Nursing Licensure Examination (NLE) celebrated a victory party held at the 5th floor of Pope John Paul Building, on August 20, 2009 at 10ᛆ a.m.
The event was a depiction of "solidarity, oneness, and unity" as told by Fr. Angelito Caliwag, University Chaplain, in his Mass. "When we know how to give thanks, we know how to remember, we know how to recall," Fr. Caliwag added, reminding the victors that it was not only their success, but also the success of the people who have been part of their lives, especially their loved ones. He also stressed that it's all for the Lord and that "life is a continuous process; we can never run out of reasons to be thankful for."
After the Mass, the administrators, faculty members, reviewers, and other key officials of the university gave their messages for the board passers.
Dr. Caroline Santos Enriquez, University President, reminded the students not to forget to give back and remember those who helped them reach where they are now especially their professors, reviewers, and family. Dr. Remigia Nathanielsz, Vice-President for Academic Affairs, seconded that "no matter where you (the graduates) are, don't forget Fatima." Furthermore, Dean Nelia Capulong of the College of Nursing in Lagro said "Today is your day. Whatever success you may have in life, you give it back to Fatima." College of Nursing Dean Lurceli Santos of the Valenzuela Campus also expressed how proud she was of the passers and that Fatimanians are indeed achievers.
As for the mentors of the board passers, Mr. Francis Vasquez, Nursing Care Management (NCM) 101 coordinator, encouraged the students to continue studying and learning, to aspire for higher goals like passing the NCLEX, and reminded the graduates to visit their alma mater once in a while. "The world is waiting for you, conquer the world, and remember that with great power comes great responsibility," Dr. Rodrigo Clemente remarked. Mr. Jay-Ar Sta. Ana, and Mr. Lester Javier, resident reviewers of OLFU were one in telling them that "this is just the start of your journey; give your best, your 100 percent always because you'll be carrying your name and Fatima's."
Furthermore, Lalaine Perlas, 5th placer of the nursing boards, also gave her message to her batchmates and fellow registered nurses. "One of our dreams has finally been realized. This will not be possible without the help and support of those people who encouraged us from the very start: our school administrators, teachers, coaches and family who pushed us to our best and of course to God who trusted us," said Perlas. She also put forth the need to "bring back to God whatever blessing we have received today, because everything would not have been possible without Him."
During the celebration, Mr. Ronald Callo, NCM 103 Coordinator, revealed that 74% passed the boards from the 1,400 graduates who successfully hurdled the Qualifying Exam. On the national level, 32,617 out of 77,901 or 41.87% examinees passed the board exam
Cash prizes were given away during the raffle draw while OLFU bags and umbrellas were given to the winners of the games which were hosted by Mr. Callo and Co-Curricular Affairs Coordinator Mrs. Dolor Cajucom, emcees of the event.
A lunch buffet sponsored by the university and picture taking among the passers concluded the celebration.
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