CTED’s Future Educators Receive Pins, Light Their Path Forward
Published August 07, 2025 by Campus Information Officer

Marking a significant milestone in their journey as future educators, fourth-year students of the College of Teacher Education (CTED) at Cagayan State University Lasam Campus received their pins during the 2nd Pinning and Candle Lighting Ceremonies held today at the DARP Hall.

The symbolic rite was organized by the Office of the Campus Executive Officer and attended by faculty members from the three colleges, parents, and guests, signifying the students' formal transition into the practice teaching phase of their academic journey.

𝐋𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐅𝐥𝐚𝐦𝐞
Setting the tone for the solemn event was Prof. Florante Victor M. Balatico, Campus Executive Officer, who emphasized the deeper meaning of the candles each student held.

“Ang kandilang nasa inyong mga kamay ay hindi lamang ilaw — ito’y simbolo ng inyong paninindigan. Sa bawat sindi nito, sumisiklab ang inyong pangako: na maging tanglaw sa gitna ng dilim, maging apoy ng pag-asa, at maging gabay sa mga susunod na henerasyon.”

He reminded the students that the pin and candle they received represent more than ceremony—they are signs of duty, service, and hope.

𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐲𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐓𝐨𝐫𝐜𝐡
In her inspirational message, Public Schools District Supervisor Merly Tolentino, PhD, focused on the symbolic flame as a metaphor for the enduring mission of educators.

"As you gather here today, the candles you hold are more than symbols of life. They are the emblems of the timeless way of knowledge you are now called to carry. Each flicker represents the curiosity, passion, and wisdom you will ignite in the minds of your future students. This flame is not yours alone," Tolentino said.

She also reminded them that challenges and detours are part of the journey toward becoming a teacher.

“If you feel like life has abandoned you, a path that\'s different from what you have imagined, don\'t be discouraged,” the PSDS added.

𝐎𝐚𝐭𝐡 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐢𝐭𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭
Following the highlight of the pinning and candle lighting rites, Lesther A. Alejo, a Bachelor of Secondary Education (BSED) student, led her fellow future teachers in the Oath of Future Educators, symbolizing their collective pledge to uphold the principles of the teaching profession.

𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞
Concluding the event was Assoc. Prof. Judelyn U. Cantor, CTED Dean, who extended heartfelt thanks to all parents, students, and faculty members who made the ceremony possible.