On June 18, 2025, Pines City Colleges held its 55th Commencement Exercises at the Baguio Cordillera Convention Hall, Baguio Country Club—a celebration of over five decades of excellence in allied health education—beginning with a solemn Baccalaureate Mass and followed by a formal academic procession led by proud parents and graduates, then joined by non-teaching staff, academic administrators, distinguished guests, and members of the Board of Directors, culminating in the recognition of 211 graduates: 16 from Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science, 110 from Bachelor of Science in Nursing, 18 from Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy, 3 from Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy, 29 from Doctor of Dental Medicine, 10 from the Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy and 25 from Doctor of Medicine, in an event filled with pride, gratitude, and hope for the future.
The event was officially opened with a warm and heartfelt welcome by the Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Marian Grace Gascon. She extended her sincere congratulations to all the proud parents, recognizing that their unwavering support and sacrifices for their children have finally borne fruit. Dr. Gascon also expressed her deep appreciation to the graduates for their dedication and perseverance throughout their nearly four-year journey at PCC. She highlighted that their efforts have built a lasting legacy within the institution. This milestone, she said, not only marks the culmination of their academic journey but also the beginning of their path as future professionals, ready to make meaningful contributions to their chosen fields and to society as a whole.
Inspirational Message for the Graduates
The guest speaker for the 55th Commencement Exercises was Dr. Leonida B. Cartas, a proud alumna of Pines City Colleges. She earned her degree in Doctor of Dental Medicine and is now a licensed dentist, specializing as an Orthodontist and Periodontist at BlueSpa Dental in Australia. Dr. Cartas shared her inspiring journey with the graduates. As the daughter of a market vendor mother and a cargo loader father, she reminded everyone that humble beginnings should never limit one’s dreams. For her, “Education is the key to breaking the cycle,” and with unwavering faith in God and strong determination, she pursued her degree, passed the board exam, and built a successful career abroad.
In her message, Dr. Cartas emphasized that “Success is not just about achieving a goal—it’s about the journey, the people you meet, and the lessons you learn along the way.” She encouraged the graduates to take risks, challenge the status quo, and boldly pursue their dreams. Her story served as a powerful reminder that perseverance, humility, and faith can turn even the most modest beginnings into extraordinary achievements.
A Message from the President
Madam Rocio P. Baltao, President of Pines City Colleges, delivered an inspiring message to the graduates of Batch 2025. In her address, Madam Baltao reflected on the institution’s proud legacy, stating that for over half a century, PCC has stood as a beacon of learning, healing, and hope. She warmly welcomed the newest graduates into a growing community of alumni who now serve in clinics, hospitals, schools, and communities across the globe.
A notable statement from her speech resonated deeply with the audience: “May you carry the legacy of this institution not just in your credentials, but in your compassion, conduct, and commitment.” Madam Baltao expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the graduates for choosing this path, embracing a life of purpose, and becoming part of the continuing story of Pines City Colleges.
Valedictory Address
At the 55th Commencement Exercises, Mr. Aerhofre Ford B. Libag, from the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, delivered the valedictory address as the Cum Laude of Batch 2025.
In his heartfelt speech, Mr. Libag shared his personal journey as a student at PCC. Humbly, he admitted that he did not consider himself the smartest or brightest in his class, but he revealed what he called his “cheat codes” that guided him through exams, quizzes, presentations, and many challenges throughout college life. These cheat codes were Bible verses that gave him strength and focus: Proverbs 2:5, Philippians 4:6, Matthew 11:28, Joshua 1:9, Proverbs 16:18, and Philippians 4:7. He referred to these verses as his “secret weapons”—free, powerful, and always accessible.
One particularly touching moment in his speech was when he shared a verse that deeply shaped his values from a young age: “Honor your father and your mother so you may live long.” He explained that this became his guiding principle as both a person and a student, drawing inspiration from it to persevere and succeed. Mr. Libag’s message was a powerful reminder of the strength found in faith, humility, and purpose—leaving a lasting impression on everyone in attendance.
As we celebrate not just the achievements of our graduates, but also the dedication, sacrifice, and resilience that bring them here, we mark the close of the 55th Commencement Exercises. Today marks the beginning of a new chapter—one filled with purpose, promise, and potential. May the lessons learned at Pines City Colleges continue to guide them as they step into the world as compassionate and committed professionals.
Congratulations, Batch 2025—your journey is just beginning.
#Collin Jaye Laguinday
