By Cyrus A. Natividad
Members of Antique Centralians and guests gave a Thumbs up for CPU President Dr. Dagohoy (at center in white Barong.)
On November 24, 2023, Central Philippine University graciously welcomed a Caravan of Antique Centralians from Antique province who came to show their support for the investiture of Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy, the 18th President of CPU.
The caravan arrived around 11:00 AM, and the enthusiastic Centralian supporters from Antique gathered at the Alumni Promenade and Concert Park (APCP) for a symbolic signing of support. The program commenced with an opening prayer by Pastor Joe Suico, setting the tone for the day’s events.
Representing Atty. Jeremy V. Bionat, President of the CPU Alumni Association, Inc., Rev. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on, Vice President of CPUAAI, extended words of welcome. Former SP Fernando Corvera, President of Antique Centralians, delivered the opening remarks, sharing sentiments of camaraderie and unity.
The rationale behind the Signing of Support was eloquently presented by Mr. Kris Kringle C. Bancolo, adding depth to the significance of the occasion.
Expressing gratitude, President Dr. Dagohoy addressed his town mates and the Antiqueño Centralians, acknowledging their effort in organizing the inaugural “Caravan for a Cause” from San Jose, Antique to Central Philippine University. He expressed thanks to CPU and his mentors for shaping his education and career in service to God.
Dr. Jelyn Alentajan delivered a Statement of Support, while Dr. Lazaro G. Petinglay Jr. read the Signing of Support. Antique Centralians actively participated by signing the Manifesto of Support, affirming their backing for the presidency of their townmate, Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy. The program concluded with the resonant strains of the CPU Alma Mater Song.
Rev. Michael Gabby Mataquel led the Closing Prayer and Benediction, imparting a sense of unity and blessings for the occasion.
The festivities continued with a memorable picture-taking session at the promenade, and later in the afternoon, the Antique Centralians joyfully attended the Investiture Ceremony, marking a significant moment in the history of Central Philippine University.