By Jesslyn Keith Valite

The MMSU College of Health Sciences continues to maintain its excellence in the field of nursing after emerging as the 6th Top Performing School in the November 2024 Philippine Nursing Licensure Examination (PNLE). The university achieved an impressive 99.31% passing rate, significantly surpassing the national average of 85.01%, and produced three topnotchers.

Leading the roster of MMSU topnotchers is Mhelanie Dave Vidad, who ranked 8th with a 91.01% rating, while Krizza Mae Dalire and Shanarelle Mae Marcos both secured the 9th spot with a rating of 90.80%.

In celebration of the university's success, OIC-President Prima Fe R. Franco expressed immense pride and credited the achievements as a result of the dedication and perseverance of both faculty and nursing graduates.

Mhelanie shared her gratitude, emphasizing how MMSU played a significant role in shaping her dedication to excellence. "The university provided me with the confidence and support to pursue a high-quality education, which not only prepared me for the national nursing exams but also equipped me to compete globally," she said.

On the other hand, Krizza described her path to success as "challenging yet fulfilling." She acknowledged the difficulties she faced but expressed that overcoming them made her achievement even more rewarding.

Shanarelle offered a message of encouragement for aspiring nurses. "Never let setbacks dim your light," she advised. She emphasized the importance of resilience and determination in the face of challenges, urging her peers to keep pushing forward no matter the obstacles.

CHS OIC-Dean Cheryl Didi Neli Obra expressed that this success is the result of a strong sense of teamwork and a shared commitment to academic excellence that the college upholds. Nursing Department Chair Roel Benjamin acknowledged how much effort and determination went into preparing for the licensure exam and celebrated their success as a testament to their passion and commitment to becoming excellent nurses.

Since it started in 1976, the MMSU Nursing program has consistently produced skilled professionals who have helped raise the reputation of Ilocos Norte and strengthen the global healthcare workforce. As MMSU nursing graduates work internationally, they bring valuable knowledge and skills that improve healthcare both locally and around the world, making MMSU an important source of highly trained professionals.