By Cyrus A. Natividad

(L-R) CPU CMLS Dean Dr. Maria Corazon Porras, CPU CAS Dean Dr. Stella Fernandez, Ms. Florebell May Condes, CPU Acting Registrar Ms. Charissa June G. Deocampo, CPU Purchasing Officer Mrs. Hermely Jalando-on, CPU Office of Communications Director Rev. Francis Neil Jalando-on gave honor to Rev. Dr. William Valentine.

A memorial service in commemoration of the 114th year of Central Philippine University Foundation Day was held at the Philippine-American Cemetery on Commission Civil Street, Jaro, Iloilo City, on October 1, 2019.

CPU Administrators, members of the Board of Trustees and CPU Corporation, Deans, Unit Heads, and CPU employees attended the memorial service, which started at 6:00 in the morning. Rev. Ruth G. Lunasco, Christian Education Director, of the University Church, led the invocation.

CPU University Church Senior Pastor, Rev. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian led the prayer for CPU.

The Flag Raising Ceremony followed with Dr. Florence P. Bogacia, VP for Finance and Administration, and Ms. Flora Grace C. Cudiamat, CPUFOAAI President raising the American Flag. The American National anthem, “The Star-Spangled Banner“ was played as the American Flag was raised.

The Philippine Flag was raised by CPU Vice President for Student Affairs Esther Rose A. Romarate and CPU BOT Member Dr. Elmer Q. Pedregosa. The Philippine National Anthem, “Lupang Hinirang,” was played while the Philippine Flag was raised.

A statement from one of the Hopevale Martyrs – Rev. Francis Howard Rose in 1926 was read: “Central’s Doors are open to those who would teach, those who will work, those who dislike mediocrity.” The Central Decalogue was responsively read to remember our mission and vision.

Rev. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian, Senior Pastor, University Church, led the Prayer for Central Philippine University. CPU officials laid down flowers for the Heroes and Heroines of Faith as Ms. Rusieljs G. Lunasco of the CPU Office of Communications rendered a musical tribute in honor of the American Missionaries whose remains are located at the cemetery. The Closing Prayer was led by Rev. Roger T. Quimpo, Pastor for Outreach, University Church.