SDCA formally welcomed freshmen and transfer students at its annual Pasalubong and Pinning Ceremony at the DRA Hall, September 28.

Pasalubong, organized by the faculty members and Eventologist Batch ‘19, is a yearly tradition to welcome new academic members of the community which marks the beginning of their lives as fullfledged Dominicans. The event started with the entrance of freshmen students from the School of Arts, Sciences and Education (SASE), School of International Hospitality and Tourism Management (SIHTM), and Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) along with the San Lorenzo Ruiz marching band. This was followed by the interfaith prayer and the singing of the National Anthem. The activity formally opened with the President’s address by Dr. Gregorio Andaman Jr., and a welcome message from Dr. Nilda W. Balsicas, Vice President for Academic Affairs.

The afternoon session was conducted with the students from School of Nursing and Health Science (SNAHS) together with the School of Medical Laboratory Science (SMLS). Dr. Andaman highlighted the event by announcing the plan to build the School of Medicine for the 20th year anniversary of SDCA. Ceremonial pinning commenced with the graduating students handing over the letters to the freshmen students and placing the pins at the left side of the new students’ chests. This symbolizes their commitment and pride in their journeyas Dominicans. The symbolic pin serves each Dominican a gateway to start their journey in achieving their dreams as future professionals.

Before the end of the event, SDCA Vice President Dr. Nilda Balsicas quoted, “One day you will share your story of success at hihintayin namin kayo, hihintayin kayo ng SDCA.” The event concluded with the closing remarks from Professor Mary Grace Demetillo, Director of Student Affairs and Services, and the singing of the SDCA Hymn.