Guided by its commitment to being “Inspired by Mission, Driven by Excellence,” Saint Mary’s University (SMU), through its Equivalency and Technical-Vocational Assessment Office (ETVAO), successfully held the TESDA Training for Work Scholarship Program (TWSP) Caregiving NC II Graduation Ceremony at the Saint Pedro Calungsod Hall, Saint Mary’s University, Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya on April 29, 2026.

The event gathered graduates, National TVET trainers in Caregiving NC II, University officials, TESDA representatives, and guests in a meaningful celebration of perseverance, skill development, and dedication to the noble profession of caregiving—reflecting TESDA’s empowering tagline, “Sa TESDA, Kayang Kaya.”

In her welcome remarks, ETVAO Head Mrs. Gayle B. Mercado, MPA, MBA emphasized the transformative power of Technical-Vocational education in shaping not only competent but also compassionate Caregivers, grounded in values and service.

The formal presentation of graduates was led by Dr. Moises Alexander T. Asuncion, Vice President for Academic Affairs, who affirmed the readiness of the trainees to join the Caregiving workforce. The graduates were then officially conferred by TESDA Nueva Vizcaya Provincial Director Mr. Ben-Hur B. Baniqued and University President Dr. John Octavious S. Palina, marking a significant milestone in their academic and Technical-Vocational journey.

A highlight of the ceremony was the message from TESDA Nueva Vizcaya Provincial Director Mr. Ben-Hur B. Baniqued, who delivered a strong and memorable challenge to the graduates: “Fight to win.” He further underscored the essence of Caregiving through the value of compassion, adding, “Kalinga—this must define you as Caregivers.”

The guest speaker, a graduate of the TWSP Caregiving NC II Batch 2023–2024, inspired the audience with a heartfelt message drawn from experience. “Ipagmalaki ninyo ang napiling landas—isang landas na may karangalan,” she said, encouraging graduates to take pride in their chosen path. She further reminded them, “Idagdag ninyo ang puso sa bawat gawain, at higit sa lahat, ipasa-Diyos ninyo ang lahat,” highlighting the importance of compassion, dedication, and faith in their professional journey.

The ceremony also included the awarding of certificates from TESDA and Saint Mary’s University, along with special awards recognizing outstanding trainees for their excellence and dedication throughout the program.

Messages of support from University President and TESDA Provincial Director reinforced the vital role of Caregiving as a profession that responds to the growing needs of communities both locally and globally.

In her closing remarks, Mrs. Joan B. Taroma, Coordinator of the TVET Health Sector, commended the graduates for their perseverance and reminded them that Caregiving is both a profession and a calling—one that requires competence, compassion, and integrity.