Biliran Province State University's School of Nursing and Health Sciences (SNHS) held the 16th Capping, Badge Investiture, and Candle Lighting Ceremonies for its second-year nursing students at the BiPSU Gymnasium on September 19.

Seventy-seven Level 2 nursing students proudly donned their caps and badges and lit the Nightingale lamps during the said ceremony.

The event is a significant milestone for students pursuing healthcare careers, as it marks the transition from theoretical learning to the practical application of nursing skills. Female student nurses received their caps, while male students officially pinned their badges.

In her message, Dr. Jovy Dia R. Saniel, Dean of SNHS, encouraged the student nurses to wear the cap and badge with pride, as they represent personal growth and resilience.

“There will be many more challenges ahead, but I am confident that you will rise and face them, just as you successfully navigated your freshman year,” she said.

Additionally, the lamp lighting ceremony took place, where the student nurses lit their lamps, symbolizing their acceptance of the challenges ahead in their nursing careers. This activity is inspired by Florence Nightingale, the "Lady of the Lamp," who was a British nurse, statistician, and social reformer, widely regarded as the founder of modern nursing.

Dr. Saniel, along with the faculty members of the nursing school, lit the ceremonial candle from which the student nurses received the light for their lamps.

Meanwhile, in his congratulatory message, BiPSU President Dr. Victor C. Cañezo, Jr. reminded the student nurses that the nursing profession requires a blend of knowledge and empathy, combining science with humanity.

“As you start this new journey, always remember that nursing is not only about treating illness—it is about understanding the person behind the illness, knowing their fears, hopes, and needs,” the university president said. “It is about being there in vulnerable moments and providing not just medical care, but also emotional and psychological support.”

Mr. Jetro Varona, an emergency room nurse at Ormoc Sugarcane Planters’ Association – Farmers’ Medical Center (OSPA – FMC), also addressed the inductees, reminding them that pursuing a clinical profession is not just a job, but a calling.

“By the time you receive your badge and cap today, you are now beginning to touch the lives of your patients,” Varona said. “The care that you give, and the comfort that you provide, are what make this journey—or should I say ‘calling—worthwhile.”

The program continued with a message from one of the inductees, a solemn recitation of the Nightingale Pledge, and the Nurse’s Prayer, and the performance of the batch song.

The ceremony was attended by university key officials, representatives from partner healthcare facilities, parents of the inductees, and SNHS students and faculty members.

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