In a momentous occasion, the School of Criminal Justice at Holy Cross College marked a significant milestone with the launch of the inaugural Donning of Ranks ceremony on October 10. The event celebrated the promotion of 250 criminology students to higher ranks, symbolizing their progress and commitment to the field of study.
Holy Cross College’s Gymnasium was the venue for the historic Donning of Ranks ceremony, attended by second to fourth-year criminology students. The tradition involves students receiving and proudly donning their official ranks or insignia, signifying their academic achievements and dedication to their chosen field.
President Mr. Elmer H. Nucum, Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Leticia D. Flores, guest speaker Police Major General Fernando S. Manalastas (represented by Police Executive Master Sergeant Cherry G. Pangan), and Dean Mark John M. Pangan were prominent figures leading the ceremony.
Dean Pangan conveyed a message to the students, emphasizing that their ranks symbolize not only their achievements but also their ability to overcome challenges. He encouraged them to view their ranks as a source of inspiration to continue striving for excellence.
“As you don your ranks today, may they serve as a symbol of your achievements and a reminder of the challenges you have overcome. Let them also be a source of inspiration to continue striving for excellence in all that you do,” he said.
Police Executive Master Sergeant Cherry G. Pangan, representing Police Major General Fernando S. Manalastas, highlighted the significance of the Donning of Ranks ceremony. She described it as a celebration of the birth of future law enforcers, acknowledging the culmination of years of education, hard work, and commitment to the noble field of Criminology.
“This event marks the combination the years of education, hard work, and commitment to the noble field of Criminology, as we gather here today we are not merely celebrating an academic achievement we are celebrating the birth of the future guardian of justice, protector of peace, and champions of integrity,” she said.
“Each one of you has embarked on a journey that will shape the destiny, not just your own lives but also the lives of countless others who will depend on your expertise and compassion,” she added.
The ceremony also served as a platform for Holy Cross College to acknowledge student leaders, honor academic achievements, and recognize the crucial role future law enforcers play in the college community.
The Donning of Ranks ceremony will now become a proud tradition at the School of Criminal Justice, symbolizing not just positions but the embodiment of leadership, service, and excellence that enrich the college experience for all students.