Cebu Doctors’ University proudly celebrates another milestone as its College of Dentistry graduates Dr. Shanti Marrion Go Nicolas, DMD, and Dr. Christine Kyle Lopez Sumangil, DMD, placed 3rd and 9th, respectively, in the May 2026 Dentists Licensure Examination. The college also maintained its 100% overall passing rate, reflecting the University’s unwavering commitment to academic excellence and its mission to produce competent, practice-ready dental professionals with strong clinical foundation.
In an interview conducted on June 16, 2026, the topnotchers shared how Cebu Doctors’ University played a vital role in shaping their academic journey and preparing them for the board examinations.
They emphasized that CDU’s curriculum is designed not only to prepare students for licensure examinations but, more importantly, to develop competent, practice-ready dentists. According to Dr. Sumangil, “Ever since our first year, we have been well-trained, especially in building a strong foundation in the core subjects. As we progress to the next level, we continue to build on that knowledge and develop into clinicians who can effectively apply what we have learned.” Both topnotchers highlighted the University’s academic enhancement programs, which integrate board-relevant subjects into the curriculum, as well as its structured clinical requirements that closely mirror board examination tasks and reinforce clinical readiness.
In Photo: Dr. Shanti Marrion Go Nicolas, DMD (Top 3), Dr. Christine Kyle Lopez Sumangil, DMD (Top 9), and Dr. Imelda P. Montuerto, DMD (Dean, College of Dentistry)
The topnotchers further noted that a deep understanding of the dental fundamentals is crucial, since advanced clinical applications ultimately stem from the basics. They shared that their review focused on mastering these fundamentals rather than engaging in intensive studying, having already built a strong academic foundation at Cebu Doctors’ University.
When reflecting on their licensure exam experience, they described seeing their names among the topnotchers as a deeply fulfilling validation of years of preparation, sacrifice, and perseverance. Beyond academics, they credited their success to a strong support system. Dr. Nicolas and Dr. Sumangil expressed heartfelt gratitude to their families, friends, clinical instructors, and mentors who provided emotional, financial, and moral support throughout their journey.
In their message to future board takers, Dr. Nicolas said, “Surround yourself with people who bring out your best, encourage your growth, support your goals, and are genuinely happy for your success.” Both topnotchers emphasized the importance of understanding one’s own study style as a key factor in effective preparation, along with staying grounded in the basics.
In Photo: Cebu Doctors’ University recognizes exceptional academic achievement by providing a tuition refund incentive to graduates who place among the top ten in the board examinations.
Congratulations to CDU topnotchers and board passers for this outstanding achievement. Your hard work makes Cebu Doctors’ University proud and inspires the next generation of dental professionals.