𝐁𝐒𝐓𝐌 𝐁𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡 “𝐀𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐠” 𝐇𝐨𝐥𝐝𝐬 𝐅𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭-𝐄𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐏𝐢𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐂𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐲

The Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management (BSTM) Batch “Aninag” of J.H. Cerilles State College (JHCSC) held its first-ever pinning ceremony on January 28, 2026. The event symbolized the students’ readiness to enter professional practice in the tourism industry. It was led by BSTM Program Chair Prof. Julie R. Cabalog, under the guidance of the Dean of the School of Business and Management, Dr. Julito V. Mandac, Jr., with the support of JHCSC President Dr. Edgardo H. Rosales, whom the Pagadian Extension Campus Director, Dr. Patricia D. J. Bahian, represented.

In his message, Prof. Cabalog emphasized the significance of the pinning ceremony as a rite of passage for BSTM students and as a symbol of their transition into professional life in tourism management. He underscored that the ceremony serves as recognition of the students’ academic journey and as preparation for the responsibilities they will face in the industry. Meanwhile, Dr. Bahian encouraged the students to remain grounded in their values, reminding them that “competence will bring you opportunities, but character will sustain your success.” She further advised the candidates to embrace challenges as part of growth and to carry with them the discipline and resilience they developed during their academic journey.

The importance of the academic pin was further discussed by Dr. Mandac, who explained that it symbolizes commitment, competence, and readiness to serve in the tourism and hospitality industry. This was followed by the blessing of the pins led by Pastor Glory Oberes, who offered prayers for guidance, wisdom, and success for the candidates. Dr. Mandac also presented the candidates for pinning, formally introducing the graduating BSTM students to the assembly.

A petition for the conferment of academic pins was presented by BSTM student Mr. Lowell Jhon M. Quilario on behalf of Batch “Aninag,” requesting the conferment of the pins as recognition of the students’ academic accomplishments and preparedness. The conferment of academic pins was led by Dr. Bahian, marking the official pinning of the candidates and signifying their transition from students to future tourism professionals.

One of the highlights of the ceremony was the inspirational message from guest speaker Mr. Matthew Gary D. Hinoguin, who shared insights into the realities of the tourism industry and encouraged the students to remain resilient, adaptable, and passionate in pursuing their chosen profession. A pledge of commitment was then led by Mr. Dexter Carl J. Corpuz, BSTM faculty member, during which the students vowed to uphold professionalism, integrity, and ethical standards.

Beyond its ceremonial significance, the pinning ceremony highlighted JHCSC’s commitment to producing competent and values-driven tourism professionals. For the institution, it strengthened the BSTM program’s identity and affirmed its role in preparing industry-ready graduates. For Batch “Aninag,” the event marked a defining moment that reinforced their readiness to face real-world challenges with confidence and integrity. Ultimately, the ceremony served as a foundation for the students’ future contributions to the tourism industry and the broader community.