For the parents of 152 Electronics Engineering students at Marikina Polytechnic College, the inaugural Hard Hatting and Pinning Ceremony on June 16, 2026, marked the fulfillment of long-held dreams as they watched their children don their first hard hats in a historic, student-led ceremony.
Held at the Academic Building, this institutional milestone was organized by the Association of Electronics Engineering Students (AECES) in coordination with the Electronics Engineering Department. The ceremony formally recognized the transition of 152 third-year standing Electronics Engineering students to industry immersion as they prepare to begin their On-the-Job Training with partner companies.
Among the proud parents was Mrs. Rhodora Castillo, whose son, AECES officer Jhon Mark Castillo, led the Batch Oath of Commitment. “Maliit pa siya, iyon na talaga ang pangarap niya ay maging engineer. Iyon din po ang gusto ko sa kanya. Thank you at tinupad niya,” Mrs. Castillo shared.
Student representative Cristine Joy P. Digo has already secured an OJT placement at IBMS Technology Phils. Corp. in Makati. Her father Rogelio gave a simple yet meaningful message, “Mag-aral ng mabuti at pagbutihin ang kanyang trabaho.”
Vice-President for Academic Affairs Dr. Ma. Arra Santos-Bava gave her insights and practical advice to the students who have fulfilled their dreams despite academic hurdles.
“Embrace the resistance. Be resilient in whatever challenges you may face in life. Be an amplifier, not an attenuator. Amplify your work ethic, curiosity, and willingness to learn. Maintain your ground by trusting the training and guidance provided by your mentors. The hard hat shields your head, but your dedication shields your future. Wear both with absolute pride,” VP Santos-Bava said.
Dean of Engineering, Dr. Marie Luvett I. Goh, emphasized that the hard hat symbolizes professionalism and commitment to learning in a real-world environment. “While technical knowledge and skills are important, it is your character that will distinguish you from others. Be respectful, responsible, dependable, and willing to learn,” she stated.
Program Chair Engr. Abner C. Arroyo expressed pride in being part of the celebration, having witnessed the students’ readiness to build their future in the industry. Guest speaker Engr. Leo Paulo P. Lonto, Training and Development Lead Global Services Hub of Schneider Electric Philippines and member of the Institute of Electronics Engineers in the Philippines, encouraged the students to view their OJT as their first real step into the profession and stressed the importance of adaptability, communication, professionalism, and character alongside technical competence.
Closing the program, ECE Program Coordinator and one of the OJT course advisers, Engr. Philip John L. Salvaloza expressed gratitude to the college officials, administrators, faculty members, staff, parents, and guardians for their unwavering support and commitment to the students’ academic and professional growth.
College President Rene M. Colocar congratulated the students and noted that the ceremony reflects the goals of the Commission on Higher Education’s ACHIEVE Agenda, particularly in advancing quality and future-oriented higher education through stronger industry linkages, experiential learning, and workforce readiness.#
More pictures here:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1313aTN56geJcHnKisEQjy3dHporBQJk4?usp=drive_link
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