ILOILO City — Central Philippine University (CPU) strengthened Iloilo’s presence in the national licensure rankings after producing three Top 10 finishers in the September 2026 Social Workers Licensure Examination (SWLE), including one who landed fifth nationwide.
Kris Anne Hechanova Masangkay led the Centralians with a 92.40-percent rating to place fifth, while John Marlou Bautista Salido ranked ninth with 91.60 percent and Sittie Maimonah Batuan Abuat secured 10th place with 91.40 percent.
The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC), which released the results early Thursday, September 17, reported that 8,383 of the 10,991 examinees passed the licensure examination, translating to a national passing rate of 76.27 percent.
CPU’s three topnotchers distinguished themselves in the three-day national examination that tested aspiring social workers in key professional areas, including Human Behavior and Social Environment; Social Work Practice involving individuals, families, groups and communities; and Social Welfare Policies, Programs and Services.
The university attributed the performance of Masangkay, Salido and Abuat to rigorous academic preparation, faculty mentorship and its commitment to developing compassionate and Christ-centered community leaders.
Iloilo City’s Mayor Raisa Treñas hailed the achievement, describing the three Centralians’ success as a source of pride for the city and an example of what sustained investment in education can accomplish.
“Congratulations sa aton Centralians nga nag-top sa Social Workers Licensure Examination! Dako nga bugal sa aton siyudad ang makita nga naga-excel ang aton mga pamatan-on especially when it comes to education. Gani ginakalipay naton nga may tatlo kita ka Centralians nga nag-rank 5, 9, and 10 sa sini nga licensure exam,” said Mayor Treñas.
Treñas said the achievement also underscored the long-term importance of providing young people with opportunities to develop their abilities and pursue their professions.
“This reminds us that when we support the education of our children, it will allow them nga ma-reach nila ang ila nga full potential. Congratulations to all our new Ilonggo Social Workers and to every person behind their success,” said Treñas.
The new batch of licensed social workers enters the profession as local government units, non-governmental organizations and healthcare institutions expand community outreach and social welfare initiatives, increasing the need for professionals trained to work with individuals, families and communities./PN
