By Cyrus A. Natividad
On October 1, 2020, Central Philippine University celebrated its 115th Foundation Day. The commemorating program was aired at the CPU TV Channel featuring the performances of the CPU Symphonic Band, CPU Excel Choral and the CPU Dance Company.
Central Philippine University turned 115 years old on Thursday, October 1, 2020 with a musical and cultural program. For health and safety reasons, it was done on virtual mode, and premiered on CPUTV Channel Facebook page at 9:00 AM and a replay in the afternoon. This will later be made available in the CPUTV Sky Cable Channel 31.
The program began with scenes of the University showing its landscapes, buildings and fields. The CPU Handbell Ringers played “Climb Every Mountain” as part of the invocation. The CPU Symphonic Band followed with the Pambansang Awit ng Pilipinas and the American Hymn “The Star Spangled Banner”. Old photos from the Centralite were shown also. Irish Del Rosario of the CPU Excel Chorale sang “Looking Back”, an original song from a Centralian, Mrs. Sharon Rose Buensuceso-Enabe.
Irish Del Rosario of the CPU Excel Chorale gave a rendition of “Looking Back”(written by Sharon Rose Buensuceso-Enabe).
University President Dr. Teodoro C. Robles delivered an inspirational message. He recalled how Central Philippine University stood the test of time. “Time and time again, CPU has proven that it shall rise above the tide. This has been especially true at present as Central faces the harsh realities and the labyrinth of challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.” He also said that the faithful and courageous stewards of God weather the storms. He ended his message by saying, “The tie that binds us all – the Central Spirit – shall live on as we become good stewards of what the Lord has given to us – our dear old Central.”
The CPU Symphonic Band again played with a unique orchestra for the song “Heal the World.” It was a virtual edition in which its members led by band coordinator Asuncion Bautista performed with their respective instruments from their homes.
Virtual performance of the CPU Symphonic band led by conductor Mr. Asuncion Bautista. They performed Heal the World during the program.
Other groups from the Cultural Affairs Office: The CPU Dance Company and the CPU Teatro, Sining, Atbp. rendered a cultural dance and an interpretative musical play. The Facebook premiere ended with a closing prayer led by Rev. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian, University Church Senior Pastor. The whole program was conceptualized by the Cultural Affairs Office headed by Ms. Crista H. Huyong and was edited by the CPU TV Channel.
It can be remembered that on October 1, 1905, a vocational school for boys called the Jaro Industrial School, opened under the leadership of Rev. William O. Valentine. It enrolled a handful of boys who were required to live and work in the school for their tuition and fees. They received an industrial education with a firm base in Christian teachings and emphasis on the “dignity of labor.” In 1923, the name of the school was changed to Central Philippine College in 1922. Later, on April 1, 1953, Central Philippine College became Central Philippine University. Today, Central Philippine University continues to live out its vision of providing Exemplary Christian Education for Life.