In 1969, Pines City Doctors Hospital School of Nursing began as a program that, four years later, became known for its strong foundation in learning and growth. Over the years, the institution expanded its academic scope and earned recognition for its specialization in allied health professions. For years, Pines City Colleges (PCC) has committed to providing holistic, quality education, shaping future health professionals who will one day change the world, one person at a time.
Today, that remains true. With “Rooted in Values: Shaping Communities and Futures,” PCC celebrates another year of excellence and history from September 30 to October 3, 2026. As PCC turns 57, faculty, employees, students, and alumni reflect on what it means to be part of PCC as they take part in activities over the three-day celebration.
57 Years as a Community
The community enjoyed a range of activities that encouraged participation, creativity, and collaboration across the PCC community. The celebration opened with a Holy Mass on September 30, followed by competitions in Action Photography and Broadcasting, E-Games Mobile Legends, Kiosk Jeopardy, Bulletin Board Competition, and Quiz Bee. The day also featured the opening of the Trade Fair and the College Exhibit, showcasing each department’s skills, products, and achievements.
Each activity not only sparked students’ competitive spirit but also reminded them of the PCC Core Values: Passion, Integrity, Nurturance, Excellence, and Service (PINES). Students were reminded and urged to incorporate these values into their efforts and ideas as they competed, ensuring the PCC values remained rooted.
The winners of this year’s competition were announced right after the events. The champions this year were Doctor of Dental Medicine (DDM) for the Quiz Bee, Dance Sport, Singing Competition (Solo), and Duet Singi/ng; School of Medicine (SOM), with its entry “ONE STEP, ONE SPIRIT,” for Action Photography; College of Nursing for the Broadcasting Competition and E-games Mobile Legends; Senior High School (SHS) for Street Dance; College of Physical Therapy for College Exhibit and Kiosk Jeopardy Game; PCC–Society of Nursing Students (SONS) for Best Food Product, Best Bulletin Board, Best Interactive Bulletin Board, and Best Student-Centered Bulletin Board; PCC–Red Cross Youth (PCC-RCY) for Best Non-Food Product; and the Organization of Future Pharmacists (OfPharm) for Best Organization Booth.
57 Years of Committed Community Service
Major highlights of the celebration include the Variety Show and Medical Mission, led by PCC Project Angels. Students and volunteers continue to uphold their commitment to helping the local community through participation and donations.
A Night of Entertainment, A Lasting Service
The festivities continued on October 1 with a Variety Show featuring two presentations, allowing students to enjoy the performances prepared by faculty members and employees. Led by Extension Coordinator Mrs. Rowena T. Acacio, faculty and employees prepared skits, songs, and dances to put on a captivating show for students.
Beyond providing an evening of entertainment, ticket sales supported the PCC-Community Engagement Services (CES) Program’s Project ANGELS (Avenues in Networking & Linkages, and Clean Environment, Education Activity, and Health Leadership Socio Civic), which spearheads initiatives focused on service and assistance, including medical missions. In this way, the event turned entertainment into an avenue for community support, linking audience participation to the college’s broader mission of extending care to those in need.
Mission Made Possible
Anchored in PCC’s CES Program and Project ANGELS’ commitment to community health and wellness, this year’s Medical Mission brought together more than 300 adults, senior citizens, and children for health and wellness checks. The initiative demonstrated the college’s dedication to extending healthcare services to the community while providing students with opportunities to apply their knowledge and develop a deeper understanding of compassionate, community-oriented care.
PCC’s Departments of Nursing, Pharmacy, Respiratory Therapy, Medical Technology, and Dentistry carried out the activity with the assistance and guidance of licensed professionals from the Paltiing United Seniors’ Organization (PUSO). Through the collective efforts of the participating departments and healthcare professionals, the mission underscored the importance of collaboration in addressing community health needs and promoting accessible healthcare services.
The activity also marked an important step toward sustained community engagement with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between PCC, represented by Dr. Marian Grace A. Gascon, and PUSO, represented by its president, Dr. Reylita Calimlim. The partnership establishes a basis for both institutions to collaborate on future community outreach and extension services, strengthening their shared commitment to public service and community well-being.
The People Behind the Success
Employees were also honored for their long-term loyalty, commitment, and dedication in bringing holistic education and quality service during the 2026 PCC Employee Service Awards (ESA). The ceremony recognized the men and women whose years of commitment keep operations running. During the annual ESA, staff members were honored for reaching key milestones, from 5 years to 25 years of long-term loyalty, commitment, and dedication. Each awardee received a certificate, a token of appreciation, and a spotlight for the impact they made. They prove that longevity is more than tenure; it’s resilience, mentorship, and value that impact the whole institution.
As the echoes of cheers fade, PCC’s 57th Foundation Anniversary leaves more than awards, performances, and memories. It reaffirms the institution’s 57-year legacy of academic excellence and community service. With 57 years now marked, PCC looks ahead with the same spirit that started it: resilience, commitment in service, and holistic education. The celebration may be over, but the mission continues. #GlynisAnneLaron
