By Mikee Natinga Norico

Scholars proudly receive their certificates of scholarship together with Vice President for Student Affairs, Dr. Esther Rose A. Romarate (1st from left) and CPU President, Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy (1st from right), during the scholarship and recognition program at Rose Memorial Auditorium.

Central Philippine University (CPU) celebrated the generosity of 109 new and continuing scholarship donors and welcomed 741 new scholars for the academic year 2024-2025 during the Scholarship Awarding and Recognition Program held on November 27, 2024, at the Rose Memorial Auditorium. The event was spearheaded by the Student Development and Programs Office and supported by Dr. Esther Rose A. Romarate, Vice President for Student Affairs, through her active participation and presence. The gathering underscored CPU’s dedication to providing exemplary Christian education with the support of its committed donors and scholars.

The program began with an Invocation led by Pastor Neva Grace L. Fabila, Associate Pastor for Campus Ministry, followed by the singing of the Philippine National Anthem and the Alma Mater Song conducted by Maám Crista Sianson-Huyong, Cultural Affairs Office (CAO) Director.

Pastor Alfred C. Morales, Director of the Student Development and Programs Office and Chairman of the Scholarship Committee, acknowledged the presence of the donors and scholars, expressing heartfelt gratitude for their contributions. “May we all be forever grateful to God for these scholarships and from whom all blessings flow,” Pastor Morales remarked, emphasizing the role of divine providence in the success of the scholarship program.

Pastor Alfred C. Morales, Director of the Student Development and Programs Office, expresses heartfelt thanks to the donors and scholars during the scholarship and recognition program at Rose Memorial Auditorium.

In his welcome remarks, Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy, University President, praised the hard work and dedication of the scholars and their families. He acknowledged the unwavering generosity of alumni and donors, emphasizing the unity among Centralians worldwide in supporting deserving students. “The awarding of scholarships today is evidence that there’s a strong bond that unites Centralians and our friends from all over the world together,” he stated. He also encouraged the scholars to embrace gratitude, work diligently, and “pay it forward” by helping others in the future. He concluded with Proverbs 3:5-6, urging the scholars to trust in the Lord in all their endeavors.

Certificates of scholarship were presented to each scholar, while donors received certificates of recognition. The presentation of the certificates was led by Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy, University President and Dr. Esther Rose A. Romarate, Vice President for Student Affairs, and they were assisted by Ms. Charissa June G. Deocampo, Registrar, and Mrs. Wilna L. Roxas, Treasurer, who represented Dr. Florence P. Bogacia, Vice President for Finance and Enterprises. Intermission numbers were performed by Elaisha L. Pomida (BA Communication-3) and Pure Grace Melody D. Jotiz (BA Communication-4). Lara Angela A. Bering, a BA Language Studies-2, delivered a heartfelt response on behalf of the scholars and led the pledge of commitment.

The program concluded with the prayer for the scholars and benediction led by Rev. Dr. Bernabe C. Pagara, Dean of the College of Theology and Scholarship Committee member Prof. Praise Enriquez-Glory, Kindergarten Principal, served as the event’s emcee.

The event showcased CPU’s vibrant community spirit, with support from the CPU-CHM Ambassadors and Ambassadresses, CPUR officials, and the Emergency Response Team. As the scholars and donors celebrated this milestone, the event stood as a testament to the enduring legacy of generosity and faithfulness within the CPU community.