By Karren Jay G. Asgar

CPU President Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy together with CPU administrators, School of Graduate Studies faculty, and invited guests during the Investiture of Hoods and Graduation Ceremony.

Celebrating the culmination of dedication and perseverance – On June 28, 2024, the CPU School of Graduate Studies conducted its annual Investiture of Hoods and Graduation Ceremony, conferring a total of 178 graduates at the Rose Memorial Auditorium.

The event began with a parade of colors, followed by a processional. An invocation was led by Herme A. Borlado, MAN, Assistant Program Head. The singing of the national anthem was conducted by Ms. Praise E. Glory, MEd, a Doctor of Education student. For the words of welcome, CPU President Rev. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy, DMin, congratulates the graduates’ academic successes and some who have reached the pinnacle of their academic journey.

CPU President Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy during his welcome remarks.

“As you graduate from Central Philippine University, I ask that you will stay in touch with your Alma Mater. I also ask that you exemplify the ideals you have learned at Central and choose to live by them each and every day. Once again, my heartfelt congratulations to you, our graduates, and your loved ones. I pray for success in all your personal and professional endeavors,” Dr. Dagohoy added.

Gynnyn G. Gumban, DM, CPU Doctor of Management-Public Management Alumna, Secretary to the Sangguniang Bayan, Local Government Unit, Pavia, Iloilo, was the event’s inspirational speaker.

“Graduates of 2024, like the rising sun, you carry hopes and dreams. Like the sprout of spring, you carry vigor and vitality. Like a bird on wings, you carry freedom and longing. Go forth knowing that you have been well prepared to make a positive impact. Not why, not how, but why not?” Dr. Gumban emphasized.

Kaixuan Xu, DM, Vice President of the Henan Vocational University of Science and Technology, commencement speaker, encouraged the graduates to go forth with confidence, courage, and a commitment to making a positive impact on the world, emphasizing their friendships made, experiences shared, and personal growth.

“Let us not be afraid to dream big. Let us set ambitious goals and work tirelessly to achieve them. The path ahead may not always be smooth, but with determination and hard work, we can overcome any obstacle,” he said.

Rowena M. Libo-on, DM, Dean of the CPU School of Graduate Studies, presented the candidates for graduation. It was then followed by the conferral of graduates and the investiture of hoods led by Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy, assisted by Dr. Irving Domingo Rio, CPU Vice President for Academic Affairs, Rowena M. Libo-on, DM, and Ms. Charissa June G. Deocampo, Registrar.

Congratulations, Rev. Dr. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on! To God be the glory!

For the response on behalf of the graduates, Rev. Francis Neil G. Jalando-On, a Doctor of Ministry student, shared the following commitments: Be an Exemplary Leader, Be Christ-Centered, Be Dedicated to Serve, Be Excellent in All Things, and Be a Lifelong Learner of Science and Faith.

“Let us enjoy our graduation, for there are no more edits, no more revisions, no more additional related literature, no more APA citations, no more references,” he added.

Another response was delivered by Juarni, a Master in Library and Information Science-Theological Librarianship student. She indicated that this is not just a celebration of their individual achievements; it’s also about acknowledging the support and guidance they’ve received along the way.

Rev. Cris C. Amorsolo Sian, Senior Pastor of University Church, conducted the commissioning for the graduates, followed by an alumni pledge led by Atty. Jeremy V. Bionat, President of CPU Alumni Association, Inc.

Beyond the ceremony, the CPU Graduate Studies Investiture of Hoods and Graduation Ceremony marks the beginning of a new phase in graduates’ lives. Armed with knowledge, skills, and the Central Spirit forged through shared experiences, they will embark on another chapter of their journeys that will shape the future of their respective fields.