God Did It Again: AUP Alumna Dr. Joaquin Captures Top 1 in May 2026 DLE; COD Secures 100% Passing Rate
Dr. Nicole Joaquin clinched the nationwide Rank 1 position in the May 2026 Dental Licensure Examinations. This remarkable victory anchors an extraordinary season of double blessings for the Adventist University of the Philippines (AUP), as the Lord did it again by granting the AUP College of Dentistry (COD) an excellent 100% passing rate, surpassing the national average of 84.84%.
An Offering of Gratitude and Purpose
Dr. Joaquin looked back on her achievement not as a personal victory, but as an ongoing testimony of God’s leading and provision. Raised by educators, including her father and grandmother, she learned early on to view academic pursuits through the lens of stewardship.
“From an early age, I understood that having the opportunity to study was a privilege,” Dr. Joaquin shared. “I have always seen knowledge as a blessing from God, one that should be cherished and used with humility and purpose.”
This understanding anchored her throughout the challenges of dental medicine. For Dr. Joaquin, the intense years of clinical preparation were fueled by the mission to serve.
“When I entered college, I committed myself fully to the study of dentistry,” she noted. “My motivation was never rooted in recognition alone, but in a deep sense of responsibility to become the best dentist I could be. I wanted to honor the opportunities I had been given by developing the skills and character needed to serve others well.”
A Community Built on Faith and Service
Reflecting on the grueling preparation for the board examinations, Dr. Joaquin expressed her appreciation for the mentors, peers, and professors whom the Lord provided at the right moments to sustain her throughout her journey.
“Looking back, one of the greatest gifts of this journey has been the people I have met along the way. At different moments, when I needed encouragement, direction, or simply someone who believed in me, the right people appeared,” she stated. “I am who I am today because of the guidance and generosity of the many beautiful people who have been part of my journey. Their influence has not only helped me grow as a student but also as a person who hopes to use knowledge with compassion and integrity.”
Shining the AUP Light
Dr. Arceli Rosario, the AUP president, praised God for granting the COD graduates this shining success through this remarkable 100% passing rate.
“When I saw the results of the exam, my eyes blurred with tears, and my thoughts immediately rose in praise to God. He did it again for AUP, because “the Lord, He is God! The Lord, He is God!” We also acknowledge with deep gratitude our faculty, staff, and administrators at the COD, for it is not in careless work but in faithful and wholehearted labor surrendered to the Almighty God, that such results are born. To the parents and sponsors of our dear graduates, rejoice in this moment; God has allowed you to see the fruit of your labor and sacrifices. May He continue to reward your love for God and His work.”
As Dr. Joaquin and her fellow AUP board-passers transition into professional practice, may they #ShineOn as living testimonies of Adventist education. “Congratulations, our new dentists! The world will be healthier and brighter because of lives like yours—professionals who do not merely work for a living but serve with eternity in view.”
