By Karren Jay G. Asgar
Attendees gather for a photo opportunity during the grand celebration of CPUDHS Batch ’79’s 45th anniversary, alongside CPU President Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy.
Batch ‘79 of CPU Development High School reconnected in the grand celebration of their 45th year on October 10, 2024, at the Grand Xing Hotel. There were a lot of fun moments wherein attendees just caught up and shared fond memories of their time in CPU.
The event kicked off with an ice breaking session that involved participants to display objects which starts from a particular letter randomly chosen. Using ideas from ‘C’-credit card to ‘U’-University Handbook, the attendees had their fun exhibiting their creativity leading to lots of laughter in the hall.
“I would like to welcome you all with open hearts. Thank you for remembering your Alma Mater and mentors through your visits this morning. Wearing your IDs way back long [long] year ago with pictures and full of laughter indicates your love and support to Central Philippine University. The Central Spirit unites us and leads us to excel to God’s greatest glory,” JHS Principal, Prof. Charlett B. Dianala, said in her opening greetings.
Joel “Jones” Somosierra, Vice President of the CPUDHS ’79 Alumni Association, also extended his welcome message. He expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the attendees who traveled from various parts of the world to be part of this special occasion. After some of heartfelt speeches, guests had a dinner, and all had the chance to share and express their memorable experiences with their colleagues.
The culmination of the evening was selection of the winners of the Best Dressed and Star of the Night awards, the nominees came to the middle of the stage showing their elegant attires. The atmosphere was charged with applause as each participant introduced themselves, showcasing their unique style.
“As we come before God with grateful hearts, we thank Him for the unity that binds us together as classmates and friends. May this be our constant commitment as God blesses our time together, renewing old friendships and creating new ones,” Rev. Dr. Harold Peñacerrada said during his thanksgiving message.
The night became even more memorable as the batch acknowledged the presence of their mentors and presented them with gifts. JHS Principal Prof. Charlett B. Dianala, JHS Assistant Principal Prof. Lilian Rose Jabao Asesor, and CPU President Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy were also acknowledged. Some attendees also led a sharing of experiences, reflecting on their unforgettable journeys at Central.
“As you gather for this reunion, your agenda should not just be to have fun and luminous but also to celebrate the bond you share, to recall with great fondness is many kindnesses towards you while you are at CPU and even after you graduated from CPU, and more importantly to resolve in your hearts to seek greater heights of service both to Him and to your fellow human beings as your way of worship for who He is and what He has done,” CPU President Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy shared in his inspirational message.
After the event, JHS Principal Prof. Charlett B. Dianala invited the attendees to join the foot parade with the Department of Junior High School for the University Day 2024 in the following day, October 11, 2024.
Indeed, the event was a testament to the enduring spirit of the CPU Development High School Batch ‘79, reminding everyone that no matter where life takes them, they will always have a home in each other’s hearts.