CENTRAL PHILIPPINE UNIVERSITY

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CPU-GAD holds Women’s Month observance highlighting women’s leadership

by | Apr 1, 2026 | Centralian Link

By Mikee Natinga Norico


University officials, faculty, staff, and students unite for a group photo during the National Women’s Month observance at the Educational Media Center (EMC) Conference Room.

On March 25, 2026, the Central Philippine University Gender and Development (CPU-GAD) Committee held its National Women’s Month observance themed “Celebrating Women’s Leadership” at the Educational Media Center (EMC) Conference Room, bringing together university officials, students, faculty, and staff to honor women’s contributions and leadership within the institution.

The program opened with the registration of attendees, followed by the singing of the National Anthem and the CPU Hymn. Dr. Mary Grace F. Labis of the CPU-GAD Committee led the opening prayer, while Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy, University President, delivered the opening remarks, underscoring the importance of empowering women and fostering inclusive leadership in the academic community.

Dr. Anna May A. Yap-Zerrudo, Director of the CPU Quality Assurance and Accreditation Center (QAAC), introduced the featured segment, setting the stage for a meaningful discussion on women in leadership. The highlight of the event was a fireside chat titled “Up Close and Personal on Women Leadership,” where women leaders in the University shared their experiences, challenges, and achievements, inspiring participants to advance gender equality and empowerment.


A fireside chat on women’s leadership highlights the experiences, challenges, and achievements of women leaders.

The program recognized not only the invited women leaders but also all attendees and women present, honoring their roles in promoting leadership and empowerment. Among those acknowledged were Dr. Florence P. Bogacia, Vice President for Finance and Enterprises; Dr. Merle L. Junsay, Acting Vice President for Academic Affairs; Dr. Esther Rose A. Romarate, Vice President for Student Affairs; Dr. Aries Roda D. Romallosa, Vice President for Research, Development and Extension; and Dr. Cecile Gonzales Dagohoy.

The event concluded with closing remarks from Dr. Jelvit Amor C. Alicante, CPU-GAD Focal Person, followed by a closing prayer led by Rev. Dr. Dagohoy.

The observance forms part of the University’s ongoing commitment to promoting gender equality, inclusivity, and women’s empowerment, reinforcing its role in advancing social responsibility within and beyond the academic community.