By Cyrus A. Natividad

CPU celebrated its 116th Foundation Day with the theme “Ang Paghanduraw: Revisiting Our Historical and Cultural Heritage.”

CPU celebrated its 116th Foundation Day on Friday, October 1, 2021. This year’s theme “Ang Paghanduraw: Revisiting Our Historical and Cultural Heritage” showcased Central’s legacies and achievements through the years.

The Foundation Day virtual program started at 9:00 AM via Zoom with Facebook live on CPU TV Channel Facebook Page. A video presentation by the CPU Adverts started the program. Rev. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on led the opening prayer and thanked God for His faithfulness for the last 116 years to CPU. Dr. Teodoro C. Robles gave the opening remarks and remembered the legacies of the missionaries who sacrificed a lot, even their lives in bringing the Gospel of Salvation to our country.

The national anthems of the United States and the Philippines were played, followed by a video of the past wreath-laying activities at the Filipino-American Cemetery where some American Baptist Missionaries were laid to rest. Rev. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian, UC Senior Pastor, gave a message emphasizing the foundation on which CPU is built upon. He challenged the Centralians to live out the core values that CPU has taught them.

A collage of pictures and videos throughout the years – from Jaro Industrial School to the Centennial Celebration up to the recent U-Day activities – was played. It was reminiscing of memories at Central.

A ‘Binalaybay’ (Ilonggo poem) was beautifully rendered by Engr. Bernie Cangrejo of the Packaging Engineering Department. It brought back memories of the lockdown, and the future hope that awaits us. The program ended with a virtual tour of CPU Campus, the singing of the Alma Mater song, Central, My Central, and a closing prayer by Rev. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian.

Ms. Crista Huyong (Cultural Affairs Office) joyfully hosted the virtual program.

The Foundation Day 2021 Committee members are the following:

Rev. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on – Chairperson
Dr. Lenny Rose P. Mucho – Co-Chairperson
Ms. Magdalena Cristi Lyn S. Huyong
Ms. Tina Marie P. Hortelano
Mr. Jeaniel D. Sajo
Mr. Jenmark P. Calumba
Ms. Grace Ann C. Jardenil
Mr. Donald G. Lebrilla
Ms . Nestle G. Taala
Ms. Sheila Mae G. Galagate

You may watch the replay of the virtual celebration at: https://fb.watch/8mpPwDNnzn/