UST CON HOLDS SEND-OFF MASS FOR BATCH ‘26 BOARD TAKERS

MANILA, Philippines - After months of review and preparation, the University of Santo Tomas College of Nursing (UST CON) held its send-off Mass for Batch 2026 graduates, who are set to take the Philippine Nursing Licensure Examination (PNLE), at the Santísimo Rosario Church on Friday, August 28.

The solemn and meaningful gathering, presided over by the college regent, Fr. Julius Paul Factora, O.P., was attended by the recently graduated batch, faculty members, administrators, and college-based organizations, including the Nursing Central Board of Students, the UST Chorus of the Nightingales, and the UST Pax Romana – Nursing Unit. 

In his homily, Fr. Factora reminded the board takers to face the exam with confidence, calmness, faith, and trust in the preparation they received throughout their four-year stay in the College of Nursing. 

“Tomorrow, graduates will be converted from graduates to registered nurses,” he stated, connecting the journey of St. Augustine to conversion with the transition of graduate nurses into the profession. 

He also emphasized that God had called and sustained the graduates throughout their time at the college and would remain with them during their examination.

Fr. Factora concluded by welcoming the graduates as future colleagues in the profession. 

Following the Mass, a video presentation featuring messages of encouragement and support from the faculty, staff, and students was shown to the board takers. 

The college has maintained a 100% passing rate for 11 consecutive years and is seeking to extend the streak to a 12th year.

Traditionally scheduled for November, the PNLE was set for August 29-30, 2026. However, adverse weather conditions and regional flooding prompted the cancellation and rescheduling of examinations to different dates in several affected areas. In Metro Manila, the canceled second day of the examination was rescheduled to Saturday, September 12, 2026.

Written by: Eda Monina Robles/ UST Nursing Journal