On January 15, 2025, Teacher Education Week culminated the 3rd Pinning and Send-Off Rites for pre-service teachers known as Batch SIKLAB (Stellar Illuminator that Kindles the Learners’ Ability and Brilliance) 2025. This year’s theme, “TEP: Strengthening Pathways for Redirection,” was celebrated at Christ the King College’s Mother Ignacia del Espiritu Santo Gymnasium (MIDES GYM).
The event commenced with a Holy Eucharistic Celebration led by Reverend Father Nicolas S. Basadre, SSJV. In his homily. Father Basadre emphasized. “You are not an ordinary teacher, you are entrusted by the Christ the King College Community to fulfill your mission in teaching and helping your students.” His words prompted the candidates to reflect on their purpose and commitment to the teaching profession.
Following the Mass, the honor guards from the Criminology Department led a ceremonial procession featuring the candidates alongside their parents, siblings, and guardians. Mr. Pericles G. Aninion, MPM, formally opened the Pinning and Send-Off Rites, signifying a momentous occasion for the pre-service teachers. Subsequently, Dr. Carmelita C. Labadan, PhD presented the 38 pre-service teacher candidates: 14 from the Bachelor of Elementary Education, 13 from the Bachelor of Secondary Education Major in English, 5 from the Bachelor of Secondary Education Major in Filipino, and 6 from the Bachelor of Secondary Education Major in Mathematics. The school president, S. Ma. Anecita C. Navaja, RVM, confirmed the candidates while their parents and loved ones pinned them.
The batch’s distinguished speaker, Mr. Rico E. Pajo, LPT, delivered an inspiring address, sharing his personal journey and underscoring the resilience required of pre-service teachers. He highlighted the importance of continuous learning and how investing in education creates opportunities for personal growth, career advancement, and meaningful contributions to society.
Additionally, Mrs. Mary Grace M. Mortejo led a prayer for the parents, followed by Vera Carnille M. Mortejo, who expressed gratitude on behalf of the pre-service teachers. The ceremony featured a heartfelt tribute song entitled, “At the Beginning” by Donna Lewis and Richard Marx, performed by the official teaching interns, which was followed by a rose presentation to their loved ones. The pre-service teachers also showcased their talents with a short intermission dance.
This event was not merely an academic ceremony but a celebration of familial bonds, as parents and guardians were invited to receive pins in honor of their accomplished children. The ceremony concluded with post-ceremony refreshments, fostering a spirit of camaraderie and celebration.
𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒈𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒖𝒍𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒔, 𝑪𝑲𝑪𝒊𝒂𝒏𝒔!
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Words by Julie Mae Sapanta
Photos from Arisa Martirez and Alexis Daguit