On Friday, December 13, 2024, at Tanghalang Meycaueño, Meycauayan City Hall, the first-ever Black Coating Ceremony was held to honor the graduating students of the Office Administration Program (OAP) at the Polytechnic College of the City of Meycauayan (PCCM). With the theme “The Journey to Excellence in Professionalism,” the event celebrated the achievements of the Class of 2024-2025 as they prepare to begin their internship journey and take the next step toward their professional careers.

The ceremony began with a solemn prayer led by Ms. Mikka Ela T. Perlado, Class President of BSOA 4B. This was followed by the singing of the Philippine National Anthem, “Lupang Hinirang.” To officially open the program, Prof. Rose Kathleen G. Delos Santos, the OAP Head, delivered her welcome remarks, addressing the BSOA 4A and 4B students and their parents in attendance. Dr. Reneliza C. Sta. Ana, College Dean and Acting College Administrator, gave a congratulatory message to the soon-to-be graduates from OAP BSOA 4A and 4B. She also extended her warm greetings to the parents, acknowledging their sacrifices and support for their children. This was followed by an inspirational message from Team Villarica, who shared encouraging words with the graduating students.

The program continued with a presentation on the meaning and symbolism of the “Office Symbols,” led by faculty members of the OAP, alongside students from BSOA 4A and 4B. To formally introduce the guest speaker for the event, Ms. Janet R. Tabios, LPT, MBA, OAP Industry Coordinator, and Fourth-Year Class Adviser, introduced Mr. Atty. Bernard Joseph E. Domingo, Acting City Legal Officer, as the motivational speaker. Atty. Domingo delivered a powerful and memorable message that will surely resonate with the graduating students as they embark on their professional journeys. Dr. Reneliza Sta. Ana and the OAP faculty members presented a certificate of appreciation to Atty. Domingo for his participation.

Mrs. Rowena V. Gatdula, representing the parents, also shared a heartfelt message, acknowledging the dedication and sacrifices of all parents in supporting their children’s academic pursuits. The highlight of the ceremony was the Black Coating Ceremony. One by one, the graduating students from BSOA 4A and 4B, accompanied by their parents, were called to the stage to don their symbolic black coats, signifying their transition to professionalism. This was followed by the Oath of Office, led by Mr. Jaymark M. Mangalindan from BSOA 4B, with the graduates reciting their pledge in unison.

To conclude the program, Dr. Ma. Paz G. Gontreras, Directress of the Office of Student Affairs (OSA), delivered a closing message to the graduates, expressing gratitude to the parents and faculty members of the OAP for their unwavering support and participation in the ceremony.

Written by: Hazel Madoh

Photos taken by: Rafael Andrada and Janine Garcia