The Gear

Davao Central College Recognizes PRC National Top 2 and LEPT Passers (September 2025 & March 2026)

Davao Central College (DCC) formally recognized today the accomplishments of its graduates who successfully passed the Licensure Examination for Professional Teachers (LEPT) administered in September 2025 and March 2026. The recognition ceremony underscored the institution’s commitment to producing professionally competent and ethically grounded educators.

Foremost among the honorees was Diana Faith P. Mataco, a 2025 graduate of the Bachelor of Secondary Education, major in Science, who attained the National Rank 2 in the LEPT. Ms. Mataco’s national distinction not only reflects individual excellence but also affirms the quality of teacher education imparted by DCC.

The college also conferred recognition upon its school-level topnotchers, whose performance further evidences DCC’s sustained academic standards. The recognized candidates and their corresponding ratings are as follows:

- Rank 11: Lyra Gwen A. Dulguime — 93.0
- Rank 12: Ma. Victoria B. Aducal — 92.6
- Rank 13: Fienne Angelica U. Sanchez — 92.2
- Rank 14: Honey C. Sarigumba — 91.6
- Rank 15: Maria Laiza E. Edosma — 91.4
- Rank 16: Diane A. Saturinas — 91.0
- Rank 16: Aliah Ardepolla — 91.0
- Rank 17: Hanna Janniela A. Aguio — 90.4
- Rank 18: Dhea Marie B. Villacencio — 89.8
- Rank 19: Erika L. Rosales — 89.4
- Rank 20: Jenyl Ivy Foz — 89.2

DCC reaffirmed its institutional mission to nurture competent, ethical, and service-oriented educators who can contribute to national development.

📸: Christine Oroc and Claudine Brato

The 55th Commencement Exercises for Tertiary Education

Davao Central College conducted its 55th Commencement Exercises for Tertiary Education for the graduating batch of 2026. The event gathered graduates, parents, faculty members, school officials, and guests at the SMX Convention Center at SM Lanang Premier.

The masters of ceremony were faculty members from the College of Education and Liberal Arts, Ms. Judy Pearl C. Sonsona and Mr. Niño Dela Salde. They opened the program with the processional of graduates with es**rt, school mace, DCC administrative officials, faculty and staff, and DCC colors. The invocation, National Anthem, and Davao City Hymn were rendered by the DCC Flordeliz Chorale.

The petition for the release of credentials was led by Mrs. Elpidia G. Salazar, School Registrar, followed by the presentation of candidates for Graduation Batch 2026 by Dr. Myrna P. Tubigan, Vice President for Academic Affairs. The candidates included 51 students from Bachelor of Elementary Education-Generalist, 4 from Special Needs Education, 88 from Bachelor of Secondary Education major in English, 24 from Bachelor of Secondary Education major in Mathematics, 25 from Bachelor of Secondary Education major in Science, 46 from Bachelor of Secondary Education major in Social Studies, 45 from Technology and Livelihood Education major in Home Economics, 264 from Bachelor of Science in Criminology, 21 from Information Technology Education, 89 from Hospitality Management Education, 92 from Bachelor of Science in Business Administration major in Financial Management, 71 from Bachelor of Science in Business Administration major in Human Resource Management, and 55 from Bachelor of Science in Business Administration major in Marketing Management. Then, Dr. Ruben L. Dela Cruz, School President, officiated the acceptance of candidates for graduation.

The distribution of diplomas and the awarding of honors were assisted by Mrs. Elpidia G. Salazar, Dr. Myrna P. Tubigan, Dr. Delia C. Advincula, and the program heads from every department. After that, the valedictory address was delivered by Ara Grace C. Comedido, Cum Laude, Bachelor of Science in Business Administration major in Marketing Management. In her speech, she expressed gratitude to the institution, especially for the academic scholarships offered by the institution, as well as the faculty members, parents, fellow graduates, and the Almighty God.

“Today, I stand here not as a cm laude, but because I was lifted by so many people along the way. I am deeply grateful to my family, sponsors, friends, teachers, loved ones, and most especially to God, who never left my side.”

The ceremony also featured the graduation song titled “Sangranggola” by Ben&Ben, followed by a tribute to parents delivered by Roberto P. Tacobo Jr., Cum Laude, Bachelor of Secondary Education major in Science. In his message, he recognized the sacrifices, support, and prayers of parents who stood beside the graduates throughout their academic journey and acknowledged their role in helping the students reach graduation day.

“This graduation is not only about academic achievement. It is about every sacrifice that brought us here, every tear hidden behind smiles, every prayer whispered at night, and every ‘Nak, kaya ra nato ni ug kayahon nato perme.’ Today, we made it. To our parents—this victory is yours too.”

The tribute to faculty and words of appreciation were given by Dr. Delia C. Advincula, Acting Chairman of the Board of Directors and Vice President for Finance and Administration where she acknowledged the role of teachers in guiding learners through their academic journey and in helping them pursue their chosen profession. She also recognized the efforts of the faculty members in providing instruction, support, and service to the students throughout their years in the institution.

“Teachers are the hope of the motherland because teachers are the light that guides future leaders and personnel to the path of righteous living and fairness.”

Words of thanks were shared by Ken H. Mantzano, Cum Laude, Bachelor of Secondary Education major in Social Studies, where he expressed gratitude to his family, friends, and teachers for being part of his college journey. The program continued with the induction of Graduates Batch 2026 into the DCC Alumni Association led by Rev. Emelinda E. Villegas, Treasurer of the DCC Alumni Association, followed by the oath of loyalty to the alma mater administered by Mr. Jay Ar A. Robles, Coordinator for Alumni Affairs.

The event concluded with the singing of the DCC Hymn, photo documentation, and recessional.

🖋️Jessa Mae Anggalan

‎“GOODNESS GRACIOUS!!! 🌞⛱️
‎Andam na ba ka sa Summer Class? O andam ra ka matulog?
‎
‎Every morning feels like a battle between “mubangon ko” and “matulog na lang ko balik.”
‎
‎There may be stressful days, unfinished requirements, and moments when we feel tired and unmotivated, but DCCians never stop trying because every small effort today becomes a big achievement tomorrow ✨
‎
‎So to all DCCians taking Summer Class, stay hydrated, stay motivated, and don’t forget to rest when you can 📖
‎
‎✍🏻: B. Bachinela
‎Illustration by: B. Bachinela

Kumusta, DCCians?🏖️

After 2nd sem, finally… lumabas na ang grades and kasama na rin ang realizations, regrets, at acceptance stage

Freshman: umiiyak sa “PASSED” kasi ‘di satisfied 😭

Juniors & Seniors: umiiyak sa “PASSED” kasi… nakapasa pa 😭🙏

Not every semester will feel like success, but every semester is still progress. You may feel tired, average, or even disappointed but you are still moving forward, and that matters more than perfection. Growth does not always look loud, sometimes it looks like simply surviving deadlines, showing up despite burnout, and choosing to continue even when you feel like stopping. One day you will realize these “just passed” moments were actually building your strength all along.

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” — Joshua 1:9

✍🏻: B. Bachinela
Illustration by: Jeff Diazon

𝐈𝐍 𝐏𝐇𝐎𝐓𝐎𝐒 | Davao Central College Holds NSTP Graduation Ceremony

Students of Davao Central College gathered at the school gymnasium on May 9, 2026, for the National Service Training Program (NSTP) Graduation Ceremony, celebrating the successful completion of the Civic Welfare Training Service (CWTS) and Literacy Training Service (LTS) programs alongside NSTP instructors and coordinators.

The ceremony brought together graduates, faculty members, and guests in recognition of the students’ dedication, discipline, and commitment throughout their NSTP journey. The event highlighted the importance of community service, leadership, and civic responsibility as essential values instilled through the program.

NSTP instructors and the NSTP Coordinator extended their congratulations and words of encouragement to the graduates, acknowledging their active participation and perseverance in completing the requirements of the CWTS and LTS components. The graduates were also reminded to continue embodying the spirit of volunteerism and service beyond the classroom.

The program concluded with photo-taking sessions and moments of celebration as students proudly commemorated another milestone in their academic journey at Davao Central College.

📸: Emmanuel Jhon Recamora & Jeff Diazon

𝐈𝐍 𝐏𝐇𝐎𝐓𝐎𝐒 | 735th DMST DCC PAF ROTC Holds Graduation Ceremony and Change of Command

The 735th DMST DCC PAF ROTC, in partnership with the 7th Air Reserve Center headed by Commandant Colonel Ricardo Ray B. Garcia PAF (GSC), successfully conducted its Graduation Ceremony and Change of Command for Basic and Advanced ROTC officers on May 9, 2026, at Sirawan Beach Elementary School – Sirawan Beach National High School.

The ceremony formally recognized the accomplishments and dedication of the graduating cadets of the Davao Central College PAF-ROTC Unit for the Academic Year 2025–2026. The program featured the arrival of the keynote speaker, entry of troops, trooping the line, mass singing of the Philippine National Anthem, invocation, welcome remarks, and the presentation of graduates together with the distribution of certificates of completion and special awards.

During the welcome remarks, Mrs. Aimar M. Gerasmio, RCrim warmly greeted the guests, officers, graduates, and attendees. In her message, she expressed pride and appreciation for the cadets’ dedication, perseverance, and discipline throughout their ROTC journey. She also encouraged the graduates to continue upholding the values of leadership, service, and patriotism beyond their ROTC training.

Present during the event were NSTP Coordinator Sgt. Precy A. Piñones PAF (Res), CJE Program Head Sgt. Aimar Mondejar Gerasmio PAF (Res), and MTI Sgt. Dia Dandie V. Florentino PAF, who continuously guided and supported the cadets throughout their ROTC journey. Their dedication and leadership helped shape the cadets into disciplined, responsible, and service-oriented individuals.

The graduates were honored for their perseverance, sacrifice, and commitment throughout their ROTC training. Every challenge, training experience, and shared memory became part of their journey toward growth and leadership.

Special appreciation was also extended to Davao Central College for its unwavering support in providing opportunities that strengthen leadership, discipline, and patriotism among student cadets. The corps also expressed gratitude to Barangay Daliao, especially the Sangguniang Kabataan Office, for their cooperation and assistance that contributed to the success of the activity.

During the Change of Command ceremony, the corps warmly welcomed the newly appointed officers of the 1CL led by the incoming Corps Commander for the next school year, C/Col Mikee Aiwa So Esperat 1CL. The new leadership is expected to continue promoting unity, excellence, and dedication within the corps.

The event concluded with pride and celebration as the graduates officially completed their ROTC journey, carrying with them the values of discipline, leadership, and service to the nation.

📸: Claudine Brato
🖋️: Baby Babe Bachinela

𝐈𝐍 𝐏𝐇𝐎𝐓𝐎𝐒 | 735th DMST DCC PAF ROTC Holds Graduation Ceremony and Change of Command

The 735th DMST DCC PAF ROTC, in partnership with the 7th Air Reserve Center headed by Commandant Colonel Ricardo Ray B. Garcia PAF (GSC), successfully conducted its Graduation Ceremony and Change of Command for Basic and Advanced ROTC officers on May 9, 2026, at Sirawan Beach Elementary School – Sirawan Beach National High School.

The ceremony formally recognized the accomplishments and dedication of the graduating cadets of the Davao Central College PAF-ROTC Unit for the Academic Year 2025–2026. The program featured the arrival of the keynote speaker, entry of troops, trooping the line, mass singing of the Philippine National Anthem, invocation, welcome remarks, and the presentation of graduates together with the distribution of certificates of completion and special awards.

During the welcome remarks, Mrs. Aimar M. Gerasmio, RCrim warmly greeted the guests, officers, graduates, and attendees. In her message, she expressed pride and appreciation for the cadets’ dedication, perseverance, and discipline throughout their ROTC journey. She also encouraged the graduates to continue upholding the values of leadership, service, and patriotism beyond their ROTC training.

Present during the event were NSTP Coordinator Sgt. Precy A. Piñones PAF (Res), CJE Program Head Sgt. Aimar Mondejar Gerasmio PAF (Res), and MTI Sgt. Dia Dandie V. Florentino PAF, who continuously guided and supported the cadets throughout their ROTC journey. Their dedication and leadership helped shape the cadets into disciplined, responsible, and service-oriented individuals.

The graduates were honored for their perseverance, sacrifice, and commitment throughout their ROTC training. Every challenge, training experience, and shared memory became part of their journey toward growth and leadership.

Special appreciation was also extended to Davao Central College for its unwavering support in providing opportunities that strengthen leadership, discipline, and patriotism among student cadets. The corps also expressed gratitude to Barangay Daliao, especially the Sangguniang Kabataan Office, for their cooperation and assistance that contributed to the success of the activity.

During the Change of Command ceremony, the corps warmly welcomed the newly appointed officers of the 1CL led by the incoming Corps Commander for the next school year, C/Col Mikee Aiwa So Esperat 1CL. The new leadership is expected to continue promoting unity, excellence, and dedication within the corps.

The event concluded with pride and celebration as the graduates officially completed their ROTC journey, carrying with them the values of discipline, leadership, and service to the nation.

PART 5
📸: Claudine Brato
🖋️: Baby Babe Bachinela

𝐈𝐍 𝐏𝐇𝐎𝐓𝐎𝐒 | 735th DMST DCC PAF ROTC Holds Graduation Ceremony and Change of Command

The 735th DMST DCC PAF ROTC, in partnership with the 7th Air Reserve Center headed by Commandant Colonel Ricardo Ray B. Garcia PAF (GSC), successfully conducted its Graduation Ceremony and Change of Command for Basic and Advanced ROTC officers on May 9, 2026, at Sirawan Beach Elementary School – Sirawan Beach National High School.

The ceremony formally recognized the accomplishments and dedication of the graduating cadets of the Davao Central College PAF-ROTC Unit for the Academic Year 2025–2026. The program featured the arrival of the keynote speaker, entry of troops, trooping the line, mass singing of the Philippine National Anthem, invocation, welcome remarks, and the presentation of graduates together with the distribution of certificates of completion and special awards.

During the welcome remarks, Mrs. Aimar M. Gerasmio, RCrim warmly greeted the guests, officers, graduates, and attendees. In her message, she expressed pride and appreciation for the cadets’ dedication, perseverance, and discipline throughout their ROTC journey. She also encouraged the graduates to continue upholding the values of leadership, service, and patriotism beyond their ROTC training.

Present during the event were NSTP Coordinator Sgt. Precy A. Piñones PAF (Res), CJE Program Head Sgt. Aimar Mondejar Gerasmio PAF (Res), and MTI Sgt. Dia Dandie V. Florentino PAF, who continuously guided and supported the cadets throughout their ROTC journey. Their dedication and leadership helped shape the cadets into disciplined, responsible, and service-oriented individuals.

The graduates were honored for their perseverance, sacrifice, and commitment throughout their ROTC training. Every challenge, training experience, and shared memory became part of their journey toward growth and leadership.

Special appreciation was also extended to Davao Central College for its unwavering support in providing opportunities that strengthen leadership, discipline, and patriotism among student cadets. The corps also expressed gratitude to Barangay Daliao, especially the Sangguniang Kabataan Office, for their cooperation and assistance that contributed to the success of the activity.

During the Change of Command ceremony, the corps warmly welcomed the newly appointed officers of the 1CL led by the incoming Corps Commander for the next school year, C/Col Mikee Aiwa So Esperat 1CL. The new leadership is expected to continue promoting unity, excellence, and dedication within the corps.

The event concluded with pride and celebration as the graduates officially completed their ROTC journey, carrying with them the values of discipline, leadership, and service to the nation.

PART 4
📸: Claudine Brato
🖋️: Baby Babe Bachinela