By Mikee Natinga Norico

The P.E. Department organized a vibrant field demonstration on the evening of October 5, 2024.

The Central Philippine University (CPU) College of Education marked its 85th Foundation Anniversary with a week of activities, showcasing its long-standing commitment to excellence in teacher education. With the theme “85 Years of Upholding Excellence in Teacher Education,” the college organized events from October 4-5, 2024, that brought together faculty, staff, students, alumni, and key university officials.

The festivities began at 5:30 AM on October 4 with a Fun Run at the University Big Field, attended by CPU President Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy, Vice President for Student Affairs (VPSA) Dr. Esther Rose A. Romarate, and College of Education Dean Dr. Merle L. Junsay. The event was joined by first-year students and faculty from the College of Education and the Physical Education (PE) Department. Participants energized their morning with a Zumba session before the Fun Run commenced along Anahaw Road, heading to Dungon B, Jaro, and returning to the Alumni Promenade Concert Park.

Participants were treated to arroz caldo and pandesal for breakfast at the finish line, and cash prizes were awarded to the first finishers. The event exemplified the college’s spirit of unity and wellness.

At 8:30 AM, the Henry Luce III Library Lobby and Conference Room opened its doors to the “EDUCXIHIBIT,” a retrospective exhibit displaying the College of Education’s history, achievements, and contributions over the past 85 years. The exhibit was inaugurated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by CPU President Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy, Vice President for Student Affairs Dr. Esther Rose A. Romarate, and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Irving Domingo L. Rio, along with other university officials.

The exhibit featured photographs, trophies, medals, and memorabilia that honored the college’s rich history and educational legacy. Alumni, former faculty members, and deans attended the event, reminiscing about the college’s milestones. The exhibit ran until October 5.

Later in the afternoon, the “Dance with Colors” Field Demo took place at 5:00 PM at the University Big Field. Despite heavy rain, Pathfit students, led by the COEd PE Department, performed a unity dance with colorful illuminated props and headpieces. The highlight of the event was a human formation of “COED 85,” which the students completed amid the rainfall. The performance showcased the students’ resilience and unity, as they chanted “UNO/1.0” and received praise from their teachers for their dedication.

To celebrate their success, everyone was treated to ice cream after the event, despite being soaked from the rain.

The anniversary celebration concluded with a Gala Night on October 5, held at the Rose Memorial Auditorium. Guests arrived dressed in modern Filipiniana and Barong, marking a reunion between alumni, faculty, and students. CPU President Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy, along with other university officials, graced the event.

The highlight of the evening was the awarding of distinguished alumni who have made significant contributions in their respective fields. The night featured a buffet dinner, and a series of talent showcases from the College of Education’s students and alumni. The Gala Night was a joyous culmination of the two-day celebration, as it honored the past, present, and future of the College of Education at CPU.

With 85 years of excellence, the CPU College of Education continues to be a pillar of quality education, shaping the future of teaching in the Philippines.