On June 17, 2026, Pines City Colleges proudly held its 56th Commencement Exercises at the CAP Convention Center, Camp John Hay, Baguio City. The event marked excellence in allied health education and celebrated the academic achievements, perseverance, and dedication of the Class of 2026. They were joined by non-teaching personnel, academic administrators, distinguished guests, and members of the Board of Directors. The ceremony culminated in the recognition of 365 graduates from various healthcare programs: 41 graduates from the Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science, 183 from the Bachelor of Science in Nursing, 58 from the Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy, 10 from the Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy, 36 from the Doctor of Dental Medicine program, and 37 from the Doctor of Medicine program.
A Warm Welcome and Words of Encouragement
The program officially commenced with a heartfelt welcome from Dr. Marian Grace Gascon, Vice President for Academic Affairs. In her address, she extended her sincere congratulations to the graduates and their families, acknowledging the sacrifices, unwavering support, and dedication of parents who played a vital role in their children’s success.
Dr. Gascon also commended the graduates for their perseverance and commitment throughout their academic journey at PCC. She emphasized that their accomplishments have contributed to the institution’s enduring legacy of excellence. More importantly, she reminded them that graduation is not merely the culmination of years of study but the beginning of their journey as professionals who will make meaningful contributions to society.
Inspiring Graduates to Learn, Lead, and Serve
The commencement speaker, Mr. Clark Dizon, a proud alumna of Pines City Colleges and Nurse V at the Department of Health–Cordillera Center for Health Development, delivered an inspiring message to the graduates.
Drawing from his personal experiences and professional journey, Mr. Dizon shared three guiding principles for success. First, he encouraged the graduates to never stop learning, emphasizing that graduation is not the end of education but the beginning of continuous growth and transformation. Second, he urged them to lead with passion, reminding them that integrity is built through everyday choices, even when no one is watching. Lastly, he challenged them to serve with integrity and purpose, recognizing that healthcare professionals have the unique privilege and responsibility of making a difference in the lives of others.
He also reflected on Mahatma Gandhi’s famous quote: “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” Through his message, he encouraged the graduates to take risks, challenge limitations, and pursue their aspirations with courage and determination. His story served as a powerful reminder that perseverance, humility, and faith can transform 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 address that highlighted PCC’s rich heritage and unwavering commitment to producing competent, compassionate, and lifelong learners.
In her message, she encouraged the graduates to continue growing professionally and personally as they embark on the next chapter of their lives. One statement from her speech resonated deeply with the audience: “When a problem arises, don’t look around for someone else to fix it. Look in the mirror. You are the problem solvers now”. Madam Baltao expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the graduates for choosing a path dedicated to service and purpose.
Valedictory Address: A Message of Hope and Resilience
One of the most memorable moments of the ceremony was the valedictory address delivered by Ms. Jhahina Aphrodite Million B. Barredo, a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy graduate and Cum Laude of Batch 2026. In addition to her academic distinction, Ms. Barredo was recognized as a recipient of the Philippine Association of Colleges of Pharmacy Award, the Gawad NRC Distinguished Leadership Award, and the Eugenio S. Baltao Scholarship Grant.
In her address, she reflected on the challenges, sacrifices, and triumphs that shaped the graduates’ journey. She emphasized that as future healthcare professionals, their knowledge, skills, and compassion would become a source of hope and healing for the communities they will serve. She also shared her perspective on leadership, emphasizing that true leadership is not measured by recognition or status but by one’s ability to fulfill responsibilities, meet challenges with resilience, and create meaningful impact in the lives of others.
A particularly moving moment came when she shared a message that had guided her since childhood: “A difficult season doesn’t define your destiny. People may misunderstand you, life may challenge you, and you may even lose confidence in yourself. But never stop becoming, never stop trying, and never stop proving to yourself that growth is possible. Your reputation may be questioned, and your path may be difficult, but your response to hardship will always matter more than the hardship itself.” Her words resonated deeply with fellow graduates and attendees, serving as a reminder that resilience, growth, and perseverance remain essential in both personal and professional life.
A New Chapter Begins
As Pines City Colleges celebrates another year of academic excellence, the 56th Commencement Exercises stand as a testament to the dedication, sacrifice, and resilience of the graduating class. Beyond the diplomas and honors received, the ceremony honored the determination and commitment that brought each graduate to this significant moment.
While the event marked the conclusion of one chapter, it also signified the beginning of another, one filled with purpose, promise, and endless possibilities. As the graduates’ step into the world as healthcare professionals, may the knowledge, values, and experiences gained at Pines City Colleges continue to guide them in their pursuit of excellence and service to humanity.
Congratulations, PCC Batch 2026! Your journey of making a difference has only just begun. #ICA
