Written by Myka Mae Martinez
On February 7, 2026, the University of Baguio Gymnasium buzzed with excitement. Nervous smiles and proud parents filled the room at the Hard Hat and Pinning Ceremony hosted by the School of Engineering and Architecture. About 138 students from Civil Engineering, Sanitary Engineering, Electronics Engineering, Mechatronics, and Architecture gathered for this important milestone. It wasn’t another school event; it was the beginning of something real.
The ceremony marked the students’ move from classroom learning to real-world experience. For many, this means starting on-the-job training and applying years of lessons in real situations. Even the Architecture students, who do not have OJT, were part of the ceremony. This was their first time being included. They are now graduating students about to start their apprenticeships. That made the moment even more meaningful.
The programme began with the processional. Seeing the students walk in with their parents was an experience. You could see the deep pride in the families. The SEANERGY Chorale led the invocation and national anthem, creating a solemn and respectful tone. Ar/EnP. Ryan Benaoe welcomed everyone and reminded them that this ceremony stands for growth and responsibility. One part that stood out was when Engr. Leah Talusig explained the meaning of the hard hat. She said it symbolises responsibility, courage, humility, protection, and discipline. It’s not something you wear on-site. It represents the lives that future engineers and architects will be responsible for. Real people in real situations will use the buildings and systems they design. That thought makes the hard hat feel heavier. It’s not about weight; it’s about responsibility.
Each keynote speaker shared something personal, and that made the ceremony more relatable. Ar. John Glenn Abela told the architecture students their work is about more than creating beautiful buildings. He emphasised ethics, integrity, and service. He said that even if a project bears your name, your true legacy is how it serves the community. That message felt grounding. It reminded everyone that the profession is not about fame, but about impact.
Engr. Gabriel Santos, who spoke to the Civil Engineering students, was very honest about his struggles. He shared that he had failed subjects before and even took the board exam twice. Instead of hiding those experiences, he used them as proof that failure is not the end. What matters is standing up and trying again. His story demonstrated that people build success through resilience rather than perfection.
For the Electronics and Mechatronics students, Engr. Reymark De Guzman talked about the importance of OJT and learning from mentors. He mentioned that students cannot learn everything inside the classroom. Real growth happens when you work in real environments. There, you can team up with others and tackle real problems. He urged students to choose their training carefully and to absorb a great deal during their learning.
The last speaker, Engr. Rainier Steven Selencio, shared a very personal and emotional story. He shared his experience of growing up with money problems. He worked hard as a student assistant to finish his degree. He also shared about a serious accident that changed his life and tested his faith. Despite everything, he continued to move forward. His message about trusting God’s timing and not giving up deeply resonated with the audience. It wasn’t motivational; it felt sincere and lived.
One of the most emotional parts of the ceremony was the tribute to parents. The students sang “Your Love (The Greatest Gift of All)” while giving tokens to their parents. There were a lot of tears, hugs, and quiet smiles. It was a simple moment, but it showed that this achievement was for the students and their families. They supported them through sleepless nights, financial struggles, and stressful semesters. The ceremony ended with closing remarks from Ar. Divina Ligaya Rillera and the singing of the UB Hymn. As everyone stood together, there was a strong feeling that something had changed. The students were no longer learners inside four walls. They were now future professionals preparing to enter the real world.
The Hard Hat and Pinning Ceremony was not about wearing a hard hat. It was about taking responsibility, facing challenges, and understanding that the path ahead can be tough. These future engineers and architects have integrity, resilience, and humility. They are ready to move forward.
