By Mikee Natinga Norico
First year BLIS students delight the audience with a lively performance of Encanto’s “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” during the Library and Information Services (LIS) Month and National Book Week celebration at the CPU Elementary Gymnasium.
On November 27, 2024, Central Philippine University Elementary School (CPUES) hosted a vibrant celebration for Library and Information Services (LIS) Month and National Book Week at the CPU Elementary Gymnasium. With the theme “Magbasa, Mangarap, Magdiwang,” the event emphasized the transformative power of reading and its role in inspiring imagination, dreams, and learning.
The LIS Month and Book Week Celebration is a collaborative event organized by the CPU Elementary School Library in partnership with the Henry Luce III Library, American Corner Iloilo, the Bachelor of Library and Information Science (BLIS) Program under the College of Computer Studies, and the Library and Information Science Student Organization (LISSO).
The celebration began with the entrance of book character parade participants, delighting the audience with their creative costumes. The opening prayer was led by Gracielle Angeli L. Singdingan, Vice President of the CPU Junior Republic, followed by the National Anthem, led by Joblan Jao Demayo, President of the CPU Junior Republic.
Prof. Ma. Cynthia T. Peleña, Director of Libraries, delivers an inspiring welcome address, highlighting the transformative power of reading and wisdom from the scripture of Proverbs 2:10-11.
Prof. Ma. Cynthia T. Peleña, Director of Libraries, delivered a heartfelt welcome address, highlighting the event’s theme and the value of books in unlocking new worlds and ideas. She encouraged students to explore CPU’s rich library resources, including the Henry Luce III Library, the elementary library, and the American Corner, which offers innovative tools like Bookflix. She also commended the organizers, especially Prof. Rhea Joy T. Fernandez, OIC BLIS Coordinator, and concluded her message with a verse from Proverbs 2:10-11, urging everyone to seek wisdom and understanding through reading. Prof. Peleña reminded the audience that “books take us to exciting places, introduce us to fascinating characters, and ignite our imagination.”
Prof. Janet P. Jaco, CPU Elementary School Principal, delivered an inspiring message during the National Book Week celebration, highlighting the transformative power of reading. She expressed gratitude to the CPU librarians, faculty, staff, supportive parents, and students who creatively showcased their favorite book characters despite the short preparation time. Prof. Jaco emphasized the importance of reading through the acronym READ: “R” stands for “Read to Learn,” as books unlock endless possibilities, offering knowledge about topics like plant growth, galaxies, and kindness. “E” stands for “Explore New Worlds,” reminding children that opening a book is like stepping into a magical place filled with adventure. “A” stands for “Aim for Your Dreams,” as stories inspire courage, hope, and determination, showing that with hard work and God’s help, anything is possible. Lastly, “D” stands for “Discover the Fun,” highlighting that reading is not just about learning but also about experiencing joy, laughter, and excitement. She encouraged everyone to “Magbasa, Mangarap, Magdiwang” because reading enriches life, makes it more colorful, and provides a path to success.
“Books are the keys that unlock endless possibilities. When you are a book reader, you have the edge over those who do not read. Let us embrace the joy of reading, the courage to dream, and the triumph of learning. Magbasa, Mangarap, Magdiwang, because every page turned is a step toward a brighter tomorrow,” she said.
The program featured special presentations, including the first-year BLIS students’ lively performance of Encanto’s “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” and impressive book character impersonations. Among the standout portrayals were Jizel Mari D. Husada, 2nd year BLIS student, as the Big Bad Wolf from Little Red Riding Hood, Theanne Maia Belloga, Grade 5-Excel pupil, as the Queen of Hearts from Alice in Wonderland, Cymon Xerxis Zambale, 3rd year BLIS student, as The Little Prince, and Eleasah Jalen E. Frange, Grade 4-Excel pupil, as Mulan. A delightful performance of “Love is an Open Door” from Frozen by second-year BLIS students added to the event’s charm.
The event concluded with the announcement of awards by Prof. Rhea Joy T. Fernandez, followed by closing remarks from Prof. Ma. Christiana A. Quijano, Dean of the College of Computer Studies. She thanked the donors for their support and recognized the event’s winners. Prof. Quijano also encouraged the audience, particularly the students, to embrace reading as a source of learning and dreaming. She highlighted the power of imagination and the importance of dreaming big. She concluded by wishing everyone success in their endeavors and reminded them to read, dream, and celebrate: “So, remember that reading makes us learn a lot and makes us dream a lot as well.” The program wrapped up with a heartfelt closing prayer by Chaliya Blessy Mosquera of Grade 5 – Excel. The organizers extended their gratitude to generous donors, as well as the dedicated faculty, staff, librarians, parents, and students who contributed to the event’s success. The celebration beautifully embodied this year’s National Book Week theme, “Magbasa, Mangarap, Magdiwang,” marking its 90th year and reminding everyone that reading opens doors to knowledge, ignites dreams, and brings joy—each page turned bringing us closer to a brighter future.