By Karren Jay G. Asgar
TOSIA awardees Lady Kyla Balibagoso, Nepth Micro Apil, and Roan Victor Lacupa, together with their proud parents, CPU President Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy, TOSIA Coach Pastor Alfred “Palf” C. Morales, and CPU officials, took a photo opportunity during the 16th The Outstanding Students of Iloilo Awards at Robinsons Place Iloilo.
Three students from Central Philippine University were named awardees at the 16th The Outstanding Students of Iloilo Awards (TOSIA), held on May 24, 2025, at Robinsons Place Iloilo. The event recognized student leaders under the theme “Salute to Excellence.”
In the College Category, Lady Kyla Balibagoso, a BS Environmental Management student, was named a TOSIA Awardee and recognized as the TOSIA Writer. Nepth Micro Apil, a BS Pharmacy student, was also a TOSIA Awardee and won the Best Advocacy Video Award. In the High School Category, Roan Victor Lacupa, a recent Junior High School graduate of CPU, was named a TOSIA Awardee and was included in the Top Circle of Five.
“To Kyla, Nepth, and Roan Victor: Being honored as TOSIA Awardees is not just a recognition—it is a continuing platform that reflects who you have become. You are catalysts for change in a transforming society, and the advocacies you have championed even before your TOSIA journey are proof of your personal victories. You have truly become beacons of light and hope wherever you go,” Pastor Alfred “Palf” C. Morales, College TOSIA Coach shared in an online interview.
Joining the awardees in the ceremonial march were CPU President, faculty, and mentors, along with the students’ proud parents and family members. Representing the university were Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy, University President; Pastor Alfred “Palf” C. Morales, Director of the Student Development and Programs Office and College TOSIA Coach; Ma. Victoria Bellosillo, representing Central Philippine University – College of Agriculture, Resources and Environmental Sciences (CPU-CARES); Prof. Xenia Louise Joy B. Assin, Acting Dean of the Central Philippine University – College of Pharmacy (CPU-COP); Charlett B. Dianala, JHS Principal; Lillian Rose A. Jabao, JHS Assistant Principal; and Ma. Nilfa S. Salanio, High School TOSIA Coach.
“What you have become today, along with your advocacies, stands as a living testament to the profound impact you can make in many lives when service is done selflessly and with the glory of God in mind. Carry the spirit of CPU’s EXCEL with you wherever your path leads, even beyond your TOSIA journey,” Morales added.
The Outstanding Students of Iloilo Awards (TOSIA) is a flagship program of the Junior Chamber International – Regatta (JCI Regatta) which intends to give honor and recognition to well-rounded Ilonggo students who excel in academics, leadership, community, and faith and in creating positive change. It is also a salute to schools for molding their students to be young active citizens.