By Joan Adrian Tabalanza

The Philippine College of Criminology (PCCR) celebrated the achievements of its criminology licensure exam board passers, bar exam passers, Southeast Asian Games medalists, and distinguished alumni in a festive event titled Gabi ng Parangal on June 8, 2023, at the Winford Manila Hotel.

Dr. Kevin Bartolome, head of Alumni Affairs, opened the program as retired Police General Director Nicanor A. Bartolome introduced the guest of honor, Atty. Lucas Managuelod, F.I.C.D, the chairman and CEO of Public Safety Savings and Loan Association, Inc.

The ONE PCCR Alumni Association Officers took their Oath, reaffirming their dedication to the organization. Dennis F. Layug, president and CEO of Kaizen Group, gave a message on the future of law enforcement.

Other notable VIPs who are alumni of PCCR graced the event. They were AMB. Jesus S. Domingo, Ph.D., Philippine Ambassador to New Zealand and Vice President of One PCCR Alumni Association; Lt.Col. Gerry J. Caño, PA(Res.), Ph.D., President of the Philippine Criminologist Association of the Philippines and Secretary of One PCCR Alumni Association; Atty. Jarwin J, Gabana, a law practitioner; and PMGen Lucas M. Managuelod, (Ret.) F.I.C.D, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Public Safety Savings and Loan Association Inc.

High-ranking officials of PCCR also attended the event, including its “rockstar” President Ms. Angelica Lei Bautista who delivered her inspiring keynote speech and rallied the audience with the mantra: Galing PCCR, galing PCCR! (i.e., Anyone from PCCR is excellent.). The Executive Vice President Mr. Karim Bangcola supervised the event and the Assistant Vice President for Student Experience Mr. Eduard Solomon helped him oversee the proceedings.

Other important attendees were the two hard working deans namely Dr. Jezreel Vicente of Graduate School and Dr. Gaypelyn Casiw of College of Criminal Justice. The academic heads also attended namely Dr. Lesa Diaz and Ms. Ana Carmela Pakiding. Some faculty members of CCJ and the General Education Department were also present in the event. Other attendees were the successful board passers since 2019.

Gabi ng Parangal underscored the remarkable contributions of students and alumni to their respective fields. A representative each from CLE board passers, bar exam passers, and SEA games athletes delivered a speech. Moreover, Ms. Ria Velasquez, the fifth highest ranking passer of April 2023 CLE concluded the round of speeches by leaving her audience with some tears and laughter. The organizers gave each speaker plaques of appreciation, scholarships, and cash prizes as a token of gratitude and encouragement.

The attendees also received giveaways such as jackets and cellphones. These items served as symbols of appreciation and motivation for the recipients, highlighting their importance and contributions.

Gabi ng Parangal was a special evening dedicated to honoring and celebrating the achievements of exceptional individuals from PCCR. It aimed to showcase their hard work, recognize their accomplishments, and provide them with the recognition they deserve.