The air at the Quirino Grandstand buzzed with anticipation. The College of Criminal Justice Education Department’s pinning ceremony was always a memorable occasion—a rite of passage for graduating students who had dedicated years of their lives to understanding the complexities of crime, law, and justice. The rows of seats quickly filled with campus officials, faculty, and representatives from host agencies, such as the Philippine National Police (PNP), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO), PNP Crime Laboratory, and the Land Transportation Office (LTO). Proud parents, families, and friends also gathered, eager to witness the culmination of years of hard work.
The ceremony would not only mark the students’ academic achievements but also symbolize their readiness to embark on careers where they could make a difference in the world of criminal justice. The event aligned with one of the global goals: SDG 4 – Quality Education.
The ceremony began with an invocation and the singing of the national anthem and the ISU hymn. Ms. Medelyn S. Lacunsay, the program chair of BS LEA, took the stage to deliver the welcome address. She spoke with joy and enthusiasm, highlighting the symbol of the pin they were about to receive as a reminder of the values, discipline, and responsibility they were entrusted with. This was followed by an inspirational message from the Director of Academic Affairs, Associate Prof. Charibel R. Sarte, and the Campus Administrator, Dr. Rosalyn L. Bautista.
With a solemn expression, Dr. Bautista emphasized the importance of applying what the students had learned in school and the character they needed to develop as they began their on-the-job training. As Dr. Bautista said, “In your left pocket, carry what you have learned inside the school; in your right pocket, bring out your character, because character is the best policy.”
As the ceremony continued, the excitement of the audience grew with the ceremonial parade, followed by the pinning of the nameplates. Proud parents wiped away tears of joy; their pride was evident as they watched their sons and daughters step into the next chapter of their lives. Some students tried to suppress their nerves, but there was a visible sense of accomplishment in the air.
The program then continued with the silent drill exhibition, where the students showcased their snappy performance. Following this, the presentation of the host agencies was given by the Program Chair of BS Criminology, Dr. Nelmar P. Agub. Aligned with SDG 17: Partnership for the Goals, these host agencies will play a significant role in providing the practical knowledge necessary to mold the students into great law enforcers in the near future.
The send-off and acceptance of the OJT host agencies followed. Representatives from each agency warmly welcomed the students and expressed excitement about embracing the full responsibility of mentoring them. As stated by these representatives, OJT students from the Isabela State University-Roxas Campus are welcomed into their respective agencies, where they will gain valuable experience and knowledge needed to pass the board exam, stay disciplined, and become law-abiding citizens.
Finally, as a sign of respect and gratitude, the host agencies were presented with certificates of appreciation. The ceremony concluded with applause from all who witnessed this momentous event. The program ended with closing remarks from the College Secretary, Ms. Redelyn F. Dupaya, BSLEA SIPP coordinator.
