By: Alyszah Angela Beltran
Photo layout by: Maverick Rhoy De Vera / The LANCE
On November 11, the results for the Nutritionist-Dieticians Licensure Exam (NDLE) were released and the name Vince Andrei Petalver shone brightly amongst the Top 10 passers, securing the Top 9th place.
His achievement is more than just a triumph, it is a reflection of his dedication and perseverance.
Petalver’s success serves as a testament to his unwavering commitment over the past years in the Colegio. With the Colegio maintaining its 100% passing rate for the NDLE, it is undeniable that the school is dedicated to shaping professionals in the field.
A Bold Leap
Petalver’s journey to choosing Nutrition was not one straight line. In fact, it started in a completely different world; Arts and Design Track in Senior High School. The jump from an Arts track to Science is a bold jump, but behind his decision was something deeply personal: his father. The experience he had was something that drove him to continue pursuing Nutrition.
During application season, he was accepted into his dream school for Fine Arts, but not Nutrition. Faced with this tough choice, he ultimately decided to study in Letran. The turning point came upon learning about the Top 1 Board Passer who eventually became his professor, Asst. Prof. Melvin Bernardino, a living proof of what he could achieve.
His first year was marked by an unforgettable moment: an online exam in Anatomy he barely finished, earning only half the score. This humbled him and drove him to work even harder. By the time he reached Basic Nutrition he realized that he truly loved what he was studying.
“Everytime maririnig ko from my instructors during their lecture na lalabas yun sa board exam, I would type or write in my notes ‘IMPORTANT FOR BOARDS!!!’”
Through challenges, humbling moments, and inspirations, Petalver discovered that his path led him exactly where he was meant to be; doing something he loves and with a purpose that goes far beyond himself.
The Hands That Hold
When the journey grew heavy, he always remembered the reason why he started, “Because of my papa and my mama, who did everything just so I could be where I am.”
During the final month of reviewing for the licensure exams, anxious about the possible outcomes, he let go of the pressure and entrusted God completely. “If it is Your will, Lord,” he often prayed.
Yet, the road wasn’t smooth and burnout crept during review season. Self-doubt became his biggest enemy, especially with his goal of becoming part of the topnotchers. There were moments when he questioned his capability, but he gently reminded himself, “Oo, I may not be as naturally smart as others, pero mahal ko yung inaaral ko at na-eenjoy ko yung ginagawa ko.”
In this long treacherous path, he was not alone. Behind him stood people who helped keep him grounded.
His mother, who checked in on him after long days and never pressured him, yet reminded him that whatever the results may be, they would accept it. His siblings, who brought him food to make sure he was cared for. His friends, who called or met up with him to ease his mind from the pressure. And his boyfriend, who reviewed with him every single day, a reminder that with the right people, rest can be a form of productivity and healing.
These were the hands that held him up when he couldn’t hold himself together anymore, and ultimately, the reason he kept going.
To The Boards and Beyond
On the day the results were released, he couldn’t bring himself to open the PRC page because of his overwhelming anxiety and the slow internet connection. Notifications started popping up in his phone with messages from classmates. Letran had achieved a 100% passing rate for the 2025 Nutritionist-Dietitians Licensure Examinations.
Relief washed over him, but moments later, “Sumigaw ang kuya ko na parang naiiyak na ewan. ‘Top 9 ka, drei.’ In my mind I was thanking God. He answered my prayer.”
Looking back at his journey, if he could talk to his younger self, he’d say, “Do it one day at a time and just keep on manifesting.”
Even now that the boards are over, “I guess that kind of pressure never really goes away,” he said, “it simply transforms into a deeper sense of responsibility.”
To make an impactful change using his license is something he is certain of. “Nutrition is more than just science; it is service.”
CBAA’s Commitment
Petalver’s achievement speaks for his dedication in the field, but also reflects the quality education provided by the Colegio. Assoc. Prof. Asano Jr., Dean of the College of Business, Accountancy, and Administration (CBAA) mentioned that, “This [the 100% passing rate and top 9 placement] evidence shows that the curriculum is solidified by proving its niche to the world of Nutrition and Dietetics.” His words reflect the pride the Colegio holds in shaping its students.
Dean Asano also emphasized the holistic approach that CBAA provides in preparing its students.
“By having a 360-degree full support through our faculty mentoring programs, peer coaching, responsible student organization activities, and department-initiated review and/or refresher classes.”
He said the College creates not just board passers, but future professionals who carry with them the heart and spirit of the Colegio.
Sustaining Excellence
The Dean highlighted how CBAA integrates Letran’s core values— Deus, Patria, and Letran —into its academic and spiritual formation. “The triune ideals are the bedrock of our teaching-learning process… We wanted students that are not only professionally competent but also spiritually mature.”
Looking ahead, the Dean outlined plans to maintain CBAA’s tradition of excellence through their trifocal measures: “a. To ensure competent, industry-immersed CBAA faculty, b. Guiding and mentoring our students to be professionally adept and industry-driven problem solvers, and lastly c. Bridging the student to their spiritual needs, building true Dominican Character in the business arena.”
These efforts reflect a learning environment that is built on care and the desire to see every student succeed.
As CBAA continues to shape future Nutrition and Dietetics professionals, it remains dedicated in its mission to ensure that every Letranite carries not only knowledge and skill, but also faith and heart formed with purpose— to prove that excellence is not just achieved, but passed on.
Towards a Future Guided by Service
Petalver’s journey was never easy. Every challenge, every moment of doubt, every review session shaped not only his knowledge but also his character. Moreover, his achievement also contributes to Letran’s remarkable tradition of excellence, sustaining a 100% passing rate in the Nutritionist-Dieticians Licensure Exam.
Passing the board is only the beginning. He looks beyond personal achievement towards a larger purpose, “Sa paglaban sa malnutrition at food insecurity na dulot ng corruption at misinformation na patuloy na nangyayari dito sa bansa.”