By Mikee Natinga Norico

Memories in the Making: CPUDHS Batch 1994 gathers for a group photo during the 2024 CPU Alumni Homecoming and General Assembly at the Rose Memorial Auditorium.

Central Philippine University (CPU) successfully held its 2024 Alumni Homecoming and General Assembly on October 12, 2024, at the Rose Memorial Auditorium. The event, themed “Legacy of Centralian Excellence: Celebrating CPU’S Work Students, Varsity Players and Musicians,” brought together hundreds of alumni from various batches and locations, with a total of 563 attendees.

The day began with a welcoming performance by the CPU Symphonic Band, directed by Mr. Ascension Bautista, setting an upbeat tone as attendees gathered. The formal opening ceremonies featured a meditation led by Rev. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian and the University Church Pastoral Staff, followed by the National Anthem, conducted by Ms. Crista S. Huyong of the Cultural Affairs Office (CAO).

Key university figures took to the stage to welcome the alumni. Atty. Jeremy V. Bionat, President of the Central Philippine University Alumni Association, Inc. (CPUAAI), acknowledged the presence of Dr. Teodoro Robles, former CPU president, and Atty. Von Bedona, Chairperson of the CPU Board of Trustees. He extended a special mention to the university’s faculty and staff, including the Jubilarians who were honored during the event. CPU President, Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy, emphasized the significance of the theme and its tribute to work students, athletes, and musicians, noting their role in shaping CPU’s legacy of excellence. Atty. Bedona shared nostalgic stories of alumni whose lives were shaped by their experiences at CPU, further highlighting the university’s impact.

Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy, University President, warmly welcomed alumni during the 2024 Alumni Homecoming and General Assembly, celebrating the university’s legacy of excellence.

The morning session transitioned into a business meeting where Atty. Bionat delivered the President’s Report, while BGen Ezra James P. Enriquez, Ret., presented the Treasurer’s Report. Updates from Mr. Lee James Jayme L. Plagata, Jr., President of the CPU Federation of Overseas Alumni Associations, Inc. (CPUFOAAI), followed, alongside key addresses from Atty. Lorena Pearl Roseluz Gellada–Tubongbanua, who facilitated the presentation of nominees for the CPUAAI Board of Trustees and alumni nominees to the CPU Corporation. The total number of ballots collected during the election was 520, with 488 valid ballots and 32 invalid ballots. The induction of new officers and honorary members concluded the business meeting segment.

The afternoon session featured special presentations from various alumni batches and organizations, including the CPUGAD Awareness Campaign that was presented by Engr. Gelvie C. Lagos, Project Leader of the CPUGAD TBI and a BS ECE 2001 graduate, which highlighted new opportunities for CPU alumni to become entrepreneurs. The event also recognized outstanding alumni, work students, varsity players, and musicians.

Mr. Melvin H. Espiga, a work student alumnus, recounted how CPU’s work-study program shaped his values and contributed to his career success, while Mr. Joseph P. Gensaya, a former varsity player and member of the National Football Team in 1984, emphasized the importance of supporting CPU’s sports programs. Atty. Gualbarto V. Cataluña, Jr., a former CPU Republic president, shared insights into the leadership development provided by the university’s student government system.

Special presentations from various CPU alumni chapters and groups, including the CPU Taekwondo Varsity Team and the CPU High School batches of 1979, 1994, and 2004, added a vibrant touch to the day. The event concluded with the recognition of CPU’s Jubilarians, alumni celebrating milestone anniversaries of their graduation.

As the event drew to a close, Atty. Gellada-Tubongbanua announced the election results for the new CPUAAI officers. The alumni theme song, performed by Engr. Vitini Edhard O. Idemne and Ms. Crista S. Huyong, along with Class 1964 members, filled the auditorium, marking the end of another successful alumni homecoming. Rev. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian offered the closing prayer and benediction, sending attendees off with blessings as they reconnected with fellow alumni, faculty, and friends.

Following the assembly, attendees gathered in front of the University Church for a tree planting ceremony, marking their commitment to environmental stewardship as part of the event.

The 2024 CPU Alumni Homecoming and General Assembly was a testament to the enduring legacy of Centralian excellence, celebrating not just the achievements of alumni, but their collective contributions to the university’s continued success.

The following are the election results, provided in the table below for clarity and reference.