An Open Letter to Pentagon Reviewees and Colleagues
Taken from Manila Bulletin Pentagon Ad
Finally it was out! Daybreak of July 19, 2006, exactly 27 days after the Nurses' Licensure Examinations, the Professional Regualtions Commission released the list of successful examinees. Most of those who took the exams and waited for a long while painstakingly searched for their names. Those whose names appeared on the list rejoiced, while others continuously searched theirs to the extent of even challenging the list for typographical errors and printing omissions. And this is amidst controversy of alleged leakage and investigation. But the stark reality is that only 17,281 of the 42,006 who took the exams made it!
In January of 2006, this scenario was unthinkable. With varied expectations, our students queued to register in our review classes. Most of them are referrals from former students-- their relatives, classmates and friends. They share a common intention-- pass the board exams through the Pentagon review experience.
When the first module started, our students inspired us by their eagerness to learn. They usually come an hour earlier to discuss, to clarify points and share notes and breakfast with one another. The grueling intensive lectures were always anticipated to be informative and pleasant experiences. In unison, they would enumerate the developmental milestones and the ovulation process. They would make conceptual mapping of left and right sided heart failure. They would differentiate different communicable diseases, levels of disease prevention and the phases of community organizing. Our classrooms would reverberate with the pharma moments, defense mechanisms and principles of bioethics and research. From the lofty UE Theater, the grand San Sebastian Auditorium, the restive rooms of the College of Holy Spirit and the homey Pentagon classroom, both teachers and students would always anticipate productive learning sessions. These we recall with great pride!
In the Critical Pathway Module, we applied the concepts in question situations. Our students would take the challenge of deciphering mind-boggling questions. Slowly but surely, we would marvel at the steady development of their analytical and test taking skills. Not even the protest actions in Mendiola could hamper the students' firm adherence to the course requirements.
And in the Final Coaching, we simulated the board exams. On the first day, the students came in their white uniforms. It was a sight to behold as they underwent the tedious process of test taking. When the Integration came, our feet thumped with Ati-atihan rhythm all together to affirm our unity towards a successful outcome of the exam to hurdle. Who will forget Diana Ross, Cher, the Tahitians and Japayuki dancers? As we reviewed the concepts one by one, we saw the fruits of our efforts. That night before the examinations, the Pentagon students maintained a mild level of anxiety but beamed with self-confidence. They were prepared.
All of these are pleasant memories recalled with fondness. These are moments shared. But the turn of events was like a nightmare. The fiasco of the alleged cheating sowed uncertainty and specualtions that range from realistic to horrific. The text messages brought more anxiety than updates. Then the release of the list of successful examinees...
The Royal Pentagon Review Specialists Inc. congratulates and shares the joys and triumphs of successful examinees. Despite the questionable scoring, you made it. We take pride in being part of such successful outcome. Thank you for the trust. Your thoughts became architect of what you are now. Pagbati sa inyo!
Not all made it. The Royal Pentagon Review Specialists Inc. laments with those who are not in the list of passers. We are confident that you gave your best. But the situation turned to be against what should have been. We are with you in your great sorrow. We understand your anger over the situation. We are enraged for your devastated self-confidence, the unnecessary shame and the halt to the fulfillment of your dreams. In our hearts, we believed that you passed. We know that you studied hard and prepared for the exam. Lumaban tayo ng patas!
We empathize with the low spirits of your mentors. They too had great expectations. For long years they had done their best to prepare you. Like them we tried our best to hone you to become an efficient nurse. Ginawa natin ang lahat ng dapat!
We share the pains of your families and friends. We acknowledge their sacrifices and sufferings in your education to become a nurse. We are aware that some siblings were stopped from schooling, parcel of land leased, jewelries pawned and the tremendous efforts in having both ends meet just to complete your education. The situation deprived us of our intentions for our families and friends. Kakayanin natin ito!
We denounce this situation for tainting the integrity of the nursing profession. It shattered all of us: our organization, our leaders, the academe, the professional nurses and the students. The situation stabbed the moral fiber of our profession. It clouded trust, confidence and credibility. Saan tayo patungo mula rito?
The Royal Pentagon Review Specialists, Inc. recognizes the silent cries of Filipino people in their deplorable health situation. We condemn this situation that deprives the people with nurses who could have been responsible health providers. Hanngang kailan ito?
We cannot change the past, but on our hands rest the power of the future. Soon this situation will be documented as an infamous segment of our hisotry. Yes, but we cannot make a fast track the natural course of events. In the meantime, let us muster our ranks. To our detractors and professional rivals, we call for sobriety. Sumainyo ang kapayapaan!
For all of us, let us assist one another in healing our wounds. Let us facilitate due processes to indemnify the sufferers and rectify the mistakes.
Advocate credibility! Stand firm with truth and justice!
Uphold integrity! Condemn dishonesty!
Mabuhay ang Nursing!
The Royal PENTAGON Review Specialists Inc.
28 July 2006
Mr. Gerardo P. Andamo
Atty. Glenn R. Luansing Mr. Jerome E. Balisnomo
Mr. Michael U. Jimenez Mr. Ferdinand B. Valdez
Taken from Manila Bulletin (Pentagon Ad) July 28, 2006
Joan's Notes: For those who reviewed in Pentagon another spread was alloted for their list of successful reviewees and top performing schools. They also emphasized this tag line PURE KNOWLEDGE NO LEAKAGE!
