By Eugene Matthew B. Juanico, BA-COMM 4, Centralian Link Intern

The designated representatives of the 69 student organizations, fraternities and local government unit gather for a commemorative photo opportunity, celebrating continued excellence and the development of leadership values.

Central Philippine University held a two-day Leadership Training Seminar at the Educational Media Center on February 20 and 21, 2026. The event, which was themed “Striving for Success: Flourishing in Hope for the Future,” and facilitated by the office of Student Development and Programs (SDP), brought together representatives from the various student organizations, fraternities, and local government units comprising CPU’s student leadership body.

Serving as the emcee for the duration of the seminar, Leandrae Edriann Molo Agagas guided the participants through a series of lectures and activities designed to foster growth and excellence, followed by Pastor Neva Grace Fabila, who opened the program with remarks and a prayer, followed by the singing of the Philippine National Anthem and CPU Alma Mater song.

University President Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy and Vice President of Student Affairs Dr. Esther Rose A. Romarate were also in attendance to offer their support, to which Dr. Dagohoy delivered an inspiring speech, characterizing CPU as an ideal institution for academic excellence and urging students to set an example despite their youth, stating that they should not let anyone look down on them because of their age. Dr. Romarate followed with her own message, expressing a desire to see each participant flourish and reach their goals by the conclusion of the seminar.

Pastor Alfred C. Morales, SDP Director then conducted a roll call for the 69 student organizations present before transitioning into an energizer activity. The morning session continued with Dr. Florence P. Bogacia, Vice President of Finance and Enterprises. She focused her talk on financial resource management, specifically for those handling organizational budgets. Drawing from Luke 16:10-12, she emphasized the necessity of integrity and stewardship, noting that the goal is to become faithful servants as managers of resources.

Her session included practical lessons on accounting and budgeting, which were put into practice through a mock activity involving receipts and transaction forms. This hands-on exercise allowed students to learn how to properly record expenses and liquidate funds, instilling essential financial competency. After lunch, the afternoon session shifted to a critical discussion led by Law Student Practitioners from the College of Law Legal Aid Clinic.

The speaker explored the culture of hazing within fraternities and sororities, elaborating on the legal ramifications under Republic Act 11053. The presentation emphasized that membership should never come at the cost of physical or mental well-being and that initiation rites must be strictly regulated. Following a game of charades, CPU-COL Asst. Dean Atty. Liza Lyn Lamason-Garcia underscored that true brotherhood and sisterhood are built on meaningful connections rather than pain.

The day concluded with presentations from all 69 organizations and a closing prayer by Pastor Morales.

The second day began with an energizer from the Pastor’s Kids organization and a prayer by Pastor Morales. Ms. Sharlene Gotico, Associate Director of the Quality Assurance and Accreditation Center, led the first session by discussing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), where she explored CPU’s history with the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings, noting the university’s progress from participating in four SDGs in 2023 to eight SDGs by 2025.

She encouraged participants to reflect on how their organizational activities, such as the CPU Kabuhayan project for SDG 1 or urban garden initiatives for SDG 2, align with these global targets. Attorney Mark Borres of the Borres Youth Leadership Institute then took over the second half of the morning session, wherein he focused on self-awareness and perspective.

Through the “Great Discovery” activity, participants were encouraged to reflect on their own identities and privileges, fostering a sense of camaraderie within their groups. The afternoon leaned on the more physical side, starting with the creation of group flags and cheers. A misdirection activity taught lessons on pressure and conformity, while a paper plane exercise served as a metaphor for achieving goals through collective effort.

The seminar culminated in the Eco-Leadership Challenge, a campus-wide activity where students applied their teamwork and values to complete various challenges across the university. Attorney Mark Borres shared final reflections on commitment, drawing from his experiences with the Southeast Asian Youth Program.
He emphasized that true leadership is defined by the dedication one brings to their responsibilities. The seminar concluded with parting words from the emcee and a final group photo, marking a successful two days of training that empowered students to lead with a renewed sense of hope and purpose.