THE Bedan Psychological Society (BPS) commemorated its 30th year of Bedan service while honoring the Department of Psychology’s Batch 2027 during its annual Pinning Ceremony on Aug. 22 at the Tugade Auditorium.

Hosted by Miguel de Guzman (III-BSP), Vice President for Logistics, and Yesha Natividad (III-BSP), Internal Vice President, the ceremony gathered students, faculty members, and families to recognize the seniors’ academic milestones.

In her opening remarks, Psychology Department faculty member Prof. Ara Cherina Buenacosa, RPm, reflected on her experience as a Bedan Psychology student in 2016.

"As a product of [the] Bedan Psychological Society myself, today I stand before you as a licensed Psychometrician, Certified Human Resource Associate, soon-to-be Doctor of Psychology, and a Gen-Z Psychology Professor, no cap," she shared. 

Prof. Buenacosa also reminded the seniors that they would be a distinct breed of professionals because they had chosen to study Psychology, emphasizing the importance of professionalism and humanity in their future roles to inspire respect and a sense of purpose. 

Following the opening remarks, Prof. Michelle Macahilig, RPsy, BPS moderator,  delivered her words of inspiration, stressing the importance of responsibility and encouraging the graduating batch to put their hearts into their work. 

"Your pins are more than just symbols of responsibility; they are reminders of why you chose to pursue psychology in the first place," she said as the seniors took their Pinning Oaths, symbolizing their commitment. 

Following Pinning Oaths, Prof. Buenacosa and Prof. Macahilig presented the pins to the seniors from BAP-4A, BSP-4A, and BSP-4B.

After the pinning ceremony, guest speaker Ms. Bianca Lavin, BPS President for A.Y. 2023-2024, delivered a speech acknowledging the fear of the unknown in entering a new stage in their lives while encouraging excitement for what lies ahead. 

“What promises are you making by accepting this pin?” she asked, asking the seniors to reflect on three questions after the ceremony: “What is your north star?” (to find your way), “What is worth your sacrifice?” (struggling for), and “What would be enough?”

She also reminded them that in answering these queries, “The reality is we don't always get what we dream for, and to be prepared for that."

Ms. Patricia Pacheco-Beton, RPsy, a curriculum consultant, a coordinator at Mindbuilders Preschool, and a former psychology department faculty member, also delivered an inspiring speech to the seniors, stressing the importance of remembering that failure is normal.

"Despite failing ten times, learn to tell yourself to do it again, but this time, you might not be the best, but you'll be better," she shared, urging the students to stay focused on being better than they were five years ago. 

The event then proceeded to a series of speeches delivered by each section's block representatives. 

Representing BAP-4A, Marticia Arao (IV-BAP), former president of BPS A.Y. 2025-2026, shared her sentiment about happiness and that comparing themselves to others' progress should not take that away.

"Happiness will look different to everyone, but it's best when shared with friends, family, professors, and loved ones who supported us on our journey," Arao said. 

Aerial Josh Esgeurra (IV-BSP), representing BSP-4A, reminded his fellow seniors that the ceremony marked only the beginning of their careers. "Setbacks were actually the experiences that built us to be who we are in the future," he said, recognizing friends, family, and faculty for their never-ending support. 

Meanwhile, Martina Mia (IV-BSP), representative of BSP-4B, emphasized the importance of friendship, guidance, and faith throughout their journey. "To our friends, families, and professors, behind every achievement we have made, we would not be standing here today, and to God, to whom we are deeply grateful."

Closing the series of speeches, Vashti Gabriel Yap (IV-BSP) delivered his final speech as the Bedan Psychological Society's 4th Year Level Representative, further reflecting on the collective experience of reaching the milestone with his fellow seniors. 

"Semester by semester, we made it here, trying to survive every deadline towards this day," he shared. "Thank you for choosing me, we're almost at the finish line," he added.

Closing the ceremony, Reign Rafinan (IV-BAP), BPS President, delivered a message reflecting on the diverse experiences they experienced within their batch.

 "We may not all be the same, but our diversity has truly made a difference and pushed us to be who we are today," she shared, thanking her batchmates for making the journey a little lighter. 

Batch 2027’s resilience and commitment to psychology were highlighted at the event. As they approach graduation, it emphasizes how their diverse journeys have united them in facing future challenges in the field.