Dr. Bernard S. Pantonilla, Teacher Education Supervisor II of the Commission on Higher Education Region VII (CHEDRO VII), served as the guest speaker during the 45th Pinning and Candle Lighting Ceremony of the University of Bohol Education Department held on January 20, 2025, at the university gymnasium.
During the ceremony, a total of 83 teacher interns were formally recognized as candidates for internship by Dr. Janice Aurora T. Namoc, Dean of the College of Arts, Sciences, and Education (CASE). The interns are enrolled in the Bachelor of Elementary Education, Special Needs Education, Culture and Arts Education, Physical Education, and Secondary Education programs, with majors in English, Filipino, Mathematics, and Social Studies. They were formally presented for the Teaching Internship Program by Dr. Jelinda R. Fortich, Program Chairperson for Elementary Education, and Mr. Vidal L. Platino Jr., Program Chairperson, Secondary Education.
Meanwhile, Dr. Charito B. Sapong, Department Chairperson of Arts and Sciences, emphasized the significance of the pins, which was followed by the ceremonial lighting of the torch led by UB President Dr. Victoriano B. Tirol III. The teacher interns, together with their parents, then took part in the actual pinning and candle lighting ceremony.
Anchored on the theme “Lighting the Path to Lifelong Learning,” University President Tirol, in his inspirational message, reminded the student interns that as future educators, the learning they pursue beyond the university will shape their classrooms, their students, their values, and ultimately, their legacy. He emphasized that in a rapidly changing world, teachers who thrive are those who continuously seek knowledge, reflect on their practice, and strive for improvement. “Your teachers and mentors light your path today so that tomorrow, you may light the way for others—your future students, your communities, your workplaces, and even those you may never meet,” he added.
The program formally concluded with a closing statement delivered by Dr. Jerome M. Magallen, CASE Faculty President.
(Leo Armando B. Boncales)
