PASAY CITY, Philippines — Samar Colleges, Inc. (SC) marked another milestone as Sheila Rose A. Nedera, top 3 national topnotcher, joined newly licensed criminologists in formally taking their oath at the Oath-Taking Ceremonies for New Criminologists, on May 1, 2026, at the SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City.

The event gathered newly licensed criminologists who passed the February 2026 Licensure Examination for Criminologists (LEC) from across the country, alongside school presidents, deans and program heads of Criminal Justice/Criminology, and academic leaders, which highlighted a nationwide celebration of success in criminology education.

During the ceremony, institutions that produced topnotchers were recognized, including Samar Colleges, which received a Certificate of Recognition from the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC)’s Professional Regulatory Board of Criminology (PRBC). The award was personally received by the School President, Mr. Rhett Caesar L. Piczon, and the OIC Dean of the College of Criminal Justice Education (CoCJE) Ms. Mary-Ann D. Abaigar.

This recognition was described by Mr. Piczon as “an honor” noting that it reflects SC’s continued pursuit of excellence in criminology education.

The program also featured the induction of new members of the Professional Criminologists Association of the Philippines, Inc. (PCAP), officiated by its National President, Dr. Gerry J. Caño, marking another step in strengthening professional engagement within the field.

Samar Colleges’ participation and recognition in this national event reaffirm its strong academic standing and continued commitment to producing top-performing criminology professionals.