By Mikee Natinga Norico
A group of CPU’s talented gentlemen, led by University President Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy, lift their voices in a powerful song of thanksgiving, expressing heartfelt gratitude to God for His faithfulness, provision, and blessings throughout the year.”
On November 26, 2025, Central Philippine University (CPU) gathered its faculty and staff for a heartwarming University Thanksgiving Service at the University Church, uniting the academic community in an uplifting celebration of God’s faithfulness, provision, and unfailing love. The annual gathering served as a dedicated moment of reflection and gratitude, honoring the many blessings and milestones the university has received throughout the year.
The program opened with an invocation led by Rev. Lovejoy Quimpo-Leysa, Associate Pastor for Youth, setting a reverent tone for the celebration.
During his welcome remarks, Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy, University President, reflected on the Lord’s enduring grace that continues to guide the institution. He highlighted significant milestones that shaped CPU’s journey in 2025, including the university’s 120th year as a Christian institution and the 125th anniversary of the American Baptist Mission—historic markers that testify to CPU’s longstanding mission and legacy.
With gratitude in his heart, University President Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy leads the CPU community in celebrating a year of blessings and achievements.
Rev. Dr. Dagohoy also celebrated CPU’s academic achievements and recognitions. These include the university’s inclusion in the QS World University Rankings: Asia 2026 and its continued presence in the WURI 2025 rankings. He commended strong performances in recent licensure examinations—8th place among top-performing schools in the November 2025 Pharmacist Licensure Examination, 3rd place in the Midwifery Licensure Examination, and the College of Nursing’s newest topnotcher. He likewise acknowledged CHED’s approval of a ₱25-million development project for the College of Hospitality Management, a significant investment in the university’s growth.
Affirming CPU’s rich heritage and mission-driven contributions to society, he encouraged the community to remain steadfast in gratitude and faith. Drawing from Psalm 103:1–5 and Psalm 100:1–5, he urged everyone to continually offer thanks to the Lord who has sustained the university through every season.
The service continued with a Scripture Reading by Pastor Neva Grace L. Fabila, Associate Pastor for Campus Ministry, followed by a special number by an all-men Singing Centralians led by CPU President Rev. Dr. Dagohoy. An inspiring message was then delivered by Pastor Louvel Edson L. Caspe, Interim Pastor for Outreach, who reminded the community that thanksgiving is not merely a response to blessings received but an act of faith that acknowledges God’s steadfast presence even in seasons of challenge. He encouraged faculty and staff to embody gratitude in their daily work and ministry, emphasizing that every achievement of the university is ultimately a testament to God’s grace.
An offertory song by Pastor Jennefer Joy G. Bata-anon of the Senior High School Faculty enriched the atmosphere of worship as the congregation participated in the Giving of Thanksgiving Offerings.
A heartfelt testimony by Mrs. Mylene S. Latap of the Elementary Department affirmed God’s goodness in both personal and community life. She spoke of the challenges she faced throughout the year and how God’s grace carried her through each one, strengthening her faith and deepening her sense of purpose as an educator. Mrs. Latap shared how the CPU community became a source of encouragement and support, reminding everyone that God often works through people to bring comfort, hope, and renewal. Her testimony moved many in the congregation, serving as a powerful reminder of God’s presence in life’s everyday moments. This was followed by a Thanksgiving Litany and a Song of Thanksgiving offered by the Faculty and Staff Praise Team.
CPU faculty and staff gather at the University Church for the 2025 University Thanksgiving Service, joining in prayer, worship, and thanksgiving for God’s faithfulness and the university’s accomplishments.
The gathering concluded with a benediction by Rev. Dr. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian, sending the CPU community forth with renewed gratitude and hope.
As CPU looks forward to another year of service and excellence, the Thanksgiving Service stands as a reminder of the university’s identity as a Christ-centered institution—rooted in faith, guided by grace, and committed to transforming lives.