By Kyle B. Pumaren and Jaylord F. Lampa
Student leaders from CPUR guide and provide peer support to first-year students navigating the enrollment process.
Central Philippine University (CPU) in Iloilo City launched Centralian Gabay 2025 in July 2025 as a comprehensive and student-centered university-wide initiative aimed at supporting students—particularly freshmen—during the critical enrollment period for Academic Year 2025–2026. Recognizing that the enrollment process can often be overwhelming, especially for first-time students, the program sought to provide timely guidance, accessible information, and a warm welcome to the CPU community.
From July 9 to July 22, strategically located help desks were established throughout the CPU campus. These stations became vital touchpoints where students could seek assistance with various concerns, including admission procedures, online registration difficulties, document submissions, and general inquiries about university services. Staffed by a dedicated team of volunteers composed of student leaders and members from various student organizations, the help desks not only provided administrative support but also fostered a sense of camaraderie and belonging for incoming students. Their enthusiasm and knowledge helped ensure a smooth, efficient, and student-friendly enrollment experience.
In addition to face-to-face assistance, volunteers distributed informative flyers that featured step-by-step guides to enrollment, including important deadlines, a detailed academic calendar, tuition and fee breakdowns, available scholarship options, and a campus map with key university offices marked. This ensured that students were equipped with the necessary tools to navigate the enrollment process independently and confidently, even beyond the help desk hours.
The initiative was a collaborative effort led by the CPU Republic (CPUR), the university’s official student government, in close coordination with Local Government Units (LGUs), who also expressed their support for student services and educational access. CPUR took charge of the planning, logistics, and overall implementation of the program, reinforcing their role as proactive student leaders dedicated to service and institutional development.
Centralian Gabay 2025 not only addressed logistical challenges but also embodied CPU’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive academic environment. Its resounding success has set a promising precedent for future enrollment seasons, with stakeholders already anticipating its return in the coming academic years. The initiative stands as a testament to CPU’s enduring mission to prioritize student welfare, enhance the student experience, and uphold its legacy of faith, character, and service.