By Mikee Natinga Norico

The faculty and staff of CPU CAS Chem, Social Work and Life gathered for a group photo during the Rest and Recreation Celebration at District21 Hotel.

The College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) of Central Philippine University (CPU) held a Rest and Recreation Celebration last May 30, 2024, at District21 Hotel in Iloilo City. The event aimed to recognize the unwavering support of CAS faculty, staff, and student assistants throughout the accreditation process and various college activities for Academic Year 2023-2024.

The celebration honored the college’s achievements, including:

• Four programs granted accreditation: BS Biology and the Liberal Arts Programs (BAELS, BA Communication, AB Political Science & Public Administration) received Level IV accreditation (December 2023-December 2028), while BS Chemistry and BS Social Work received Level III accreditation.
• Outstanding committee outputs from the Christian Life Committee, Outreach/Extension Committee, Flag Ceremony Committee, and others.
• Active participation in CHED and ISO audits.

Dr. Stella G. Fernandez, Dean of CAS, and Emcy Sanchez, CAS Secretary, organized the event. Dr. Marie Melanie J. Javier, the event speaker, delivered a message about gratitude and the importance of acknowledging God’s role in our lives.

In an interview, Dean Fernandez said the celebration aimed to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of the CAS faculty and staff.

“The college celebrates and acknowledges the hard work and dedication of our faculty and staff through a special Year-End Rest and Treat Celebration. This 1-day event provides us with an opportunity to come as a family, relax, and enjoy some well-deserved rest and refreshments,” Dean Fernandez said.

Professor Rhys Camacho, who participated in the event, highlighted the various activities that made the celebration enjoyable and emphasized the significance of such events in fostering camaraderie and team dynamics among faculty members.

“Everything counts. There has never been a drab moment. It is indeed vital for the faculty and staff to do team dynamics and yearly camaraderie and sheer fun. We also deserve to manifest our child-like qualities and share our infectious laughter and massive talents,” Professor Camacho said.

The college also presented certificates of appreciation and tokens to all those who contributed to its success, including umbrellas for faculty, staff, and student assistants, and certificates for those who significantly helped the college.

The CPU College of Arts and Sciences’ Rest and Recreation Celebration served as a well-deserved break for its hardworking faculty and staff while recognizing their achievements throughout the academic year.