By Mikee Natinga Norico

The public witnessed a spectacular fireworks display as the campus was illuminated with dazzling Christmas lights during CPU’s 2025 Festival of Lights, marking the start of the holiday season.

Central Philippine University (CPU) welcomed the Christmas season with a spectacular display as the university, together with the CPU Alumni Association, officially switched on the Christmas lights at the Centennial Walkway on Friday, December 5, at 5:30 PM. The highly anticipated “Festival of Lights” drew more than 10,000 visitors, marking its grand return to the public after a hiatus during the pandemic.

This year’s theme, “Be The Light,” set the tone for an evening filled with warmth, unity, and the true spirit of Christmas. The Centennial Walkway dazzled onlookers with its magnificent illumination featuring stars, Christmas trees, and other traditional symbols—making it one of the most stunning holiday attractions in Iloilo City. The annual lights display continues to be a crowd favorite, enchanting visitors from early December until the first week of January.

The festivities began earlier in the afternoon with Parolandra 2025: Be The Light, held from 3:00 to 4:00 PM at the Alumni Promenade Concert Park. University organizations and fraternities showcased their artistry through a parol-making competition and mini-parade. The friendly contest fostered creativity, collaboration, and community spirit among Centralians.

Setting a joyful tone before the formal program, the CPU Symphonic Band, led by Mr. Ascencion O. Bautista, performed classic Christmas carols. The invocation was delivered by Rev. Dr. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian, followed by the Philippine National Anthem conducted by Engr. Vitini Edhard O. Idemne, and the singing of the Alma Mater song.

Dr. Gleen A. M. Catedral, Overall Chairman of the 2025 Festival of Lights at Central, delivers heartfelt Christmas greetings at CPU’s Festival of Lights 2025.

Heartfelt Christmas greetings were shared by several university and government leaders, including Dr. Glenn A. M. Catedral, Overall Chairman of the 2025 Festival of Lights at Central; Hon. Matt P. Palabrica, Chairman of the CPU Board of Trustees; Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy, University President; Hon. Julienne L. Baronda, Representative of the Lone District of Iloilo City; and Ms. Junel Ann P. Divinagracia, Iloilo City Tourism Officer.

Dr. Catedral recalled the Festival of Lights’ origins in 1991, when he first led the initiative to brighten the campus during Christmastime. He emphasized that the lighting tradition symbolizes unity, gratitude, kindness, and reflection—pointing the community back to the true meaning of Christmas: the birth of Jesus Christ.

“The Christmas season reminds us of kindness, generosity, and gratitude. Whether you are here with family, with friends, with fellow students, faculty members, or even celebrating with us for the first time, I hope tonight brings you a little holiday magic and joy. Let this night remind us that even a small bit of brightness can make a big difference when we share it with one another—whether through small acts of kindness or even just a friendly smile. When we share our light, we help the whole community shine,” he said.

Hon. Palabrica welcomed the CPU community and guests, highlighting the significance of the celebration not only for the university but also for Iloilo Province. He congratulated the Alumni Association and encouraged everyone to give thanks for the gift of Christ.

University President Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy delivers heartfelt opening remarks, reminding everyone of the true meaning of Christmas.

University President Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy reminded the audience that amid the bright lights, Christ remains the center of the season. Quoting John 3:16–17, he emphasized God’s love and the hope and peace brought by Jesus—the Light of the World.

“May this celebration draw your attention not only to the lights on display, but more importantly, to the Light of the World Himself—our Lord Jesus Christ. He is the reason we celebrate Christmas. Amidst the darkness of this world, His presence brings hope and healing, peace and comfort, restoration and fullness. May Christmas remind us of who He is, sent by the Heavenly Father to be the living demonstration of His unconditional and extravagant love for all of us,” Rev. Dr. Dagohoy said.

The program also featured a special performance by Mr. John Bryan G. Carnaje, a multi-medalist and 2019 WCOPA world champion. The CPU Tumandok Dance Company and CPU PATHFIT students delivered a vibrant dance presentation.

The much-awaited moment came as university and city leaders, together with student and alumni representatives, simultaneously switched on the Christmas lights. Among them were Dr. Catedral, Hon. Palabrica, Rev. Dr. Dagohoy, Hon. Baronda, Ms. Divinagracia, Dr. Anita Umali-Illenberger, and CPUR President Ms. Jellian Precious P. Ganda.

CPU leaders, alumni, and invited guests gathered for a memorable group photo following the switch-on of the 2025 Festival of Lights.

As the lights illuminated the campus, the sky erupted into a grand fireworks display, drawing cheers from the crowd and filling the Big Field with awe and excitement. A lively food bazaar near the Uy Building offered snacks and ice-cold refreshments, adding to the festive atmosphere.

During the celebration, the newly elected CPU Alumni Association, Inc. (CPUAAI) Board of Trustees for AY 2026–2028 were formally presented and inducted by CPU President Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy. The new board members are Engr. Vitini Edhard Idemne, Dr. Esther Rose A. Romarate, Dr. Florentino Alerta II, Dr. Anita Illenberger, and Rev. Dr. Francis Neil Jalando-on.

As the night continued, a fellowship dinner followed at the Educational Media Center (EMC) Conference Room, giving guests, students, alumni, and university officials the chance to connect and celebrate together in a warm, communal atmosphere.

The evening concluded with a lively Battle of the Bands, bringing together talented student musicians from across the university. Each group showcased their creativity and musical prowess, ending the night on a high note filled with energy, camaraderie, and holiday cheer.

With its vibrant lights, joyful performances, and heartfelt messages, this year’s Festival of Lights truly embodied CPU’s enduring message to the community—to be the light and share hope, joy, and faith this Christmas season.