Western Mindanao State University (WMSU) celebrated its pioneering batch of newly licensed physicians after the College of Medicine recorded a 100% passing rate in the October 2026 Physician Licensure Examination (PLE).
The celebration began with a motorcade around the city honoring the newly licensed physicians, followed by a thanksgiving program themed โUnang Tagumpay: Suntuanโ on October 19, 2026, at the WMSU Social Hall. Among the newly licensed physicians was Dr. Nurhaida Langgal, who ranked 10th nationwide in the examination.
College of Medicine Dean Dr. Mohammad Khasim Abdulmajid attributed the achievement to the collegeโs rigorous training and confidence in its studentsโ capabilities.
โWe are hard on you because we believe in you,โ Dr. Abdulmajid said, explaining that the demands of medical education prepare students for the responsibilities of clinical practice, where patientsโ lives are at stake.
He emphasized that passing the licensure examination was only the beginning of a physicianโs professional journey, underscoring the importance of accountability, commitment, and respect for patients.
โBeing good will be decided by the nights you stay when you could leave, the questions you ask when you could pretend, and the patients you treat with respect when no one is watching,โ he said.
Dr. Abdulmajid also acknowledged the contributions of the faculty, the sacrifices of the physiciansโ families, and the support of the university administration in preparing the pioneering batch.
WMSU President Dr. Ma. Carla A. Ochotorena said the achievement reflected the universityโs commitment to accessible medical education and preparing physicians to serve communities with limited access to healthcare.
She recalled the establishment of the College of Medicine in 2021 as part of WMSUโs efforts to address regional healthcare needs. She also recognized the contributions of the collegeโs leadership, faculty, and staff in training the pioneering batch.
Meanwhile, Dr. Langgal, in her message titled โEight Weeks of Sacrifice, a Lifetime of Purpose,โ recounted the challenges the batch faced while preparing for the licensure examination.
She said the batch had less than eight weeks to review after completing their internship, requiring discipline and perseverance amid exhaustion and uncertainty. She also recalled experiencing doubts during the examination, particularly in Preventive Medicine.
Dr. Langgal encouraged aspiring physicians to strengthen their academic foundations, learn from mistakes, prioritize their health, and persevere through challenges. She also emphasized the importance of compassionate, patient-centered care.
โPatients wonโt ask for our board ratings,โ she said, stressing that physicians must listen to patients, explain their conditions clearly, and provide support during difficult moments.
The College of Medicineโs 100% passing rate marks a milestone for WMSU as it continues to expand medical education and help address healthcare needs in the region. (MKMQ, PAO)
