By Mikee Natinga Norico

With confidence and pride, crowned ambassadors of CPUES, Mr. Philippines 2024 and Ms. Philippines 2024, stand alongside Mr. United Nations 2024 and Ms. United Nations 2024, embodying hope for a united future.

With the theme “One Common Future, One Common Agenda,” Central Philippine University Elementary School (CPUES) celebrated United Nations Day on November 8, 2024, at Rose Memorial Auditorium. Students, faculty, administrators, and parents gathered to honor the United Nations’ mission. The program emphasized peace, sustainable development, and unity, featuring cultural performances, inspiring speeches, and symbolic messages that highlighted the UN’s core values.

The program began with a vibrant procession led by Grades 1 to 6 muses, escorts, faculty, and administrators. The solemn doxology was led by Grade 4 EXCEL students Nuseibah L. Gallardo and Eleasah Jalen E. Frange, followed by an opening prayer from Coleen Faith A. Limoso. The selected members of Glee Club performed the Philippine National Anthem.

CPU President, Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy, delivers his welcome remarks at CPU Elementary School’s UN Day celebration, encouraging students to embrace the UN’s mission of unity and peace.

University President Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy welcomed attendees on behalf of the CPU administration. Aligning with the recent United Nations General Assembly’s call to “Leave No One Behind,” Dr. Dagohoy encouraged CPUES students to recognize the significance of the UN’s mission and to uphold peace, cooperation, and development in their communities. He emphasized unity, referencing Psalm 133:1 and expressing gratitude to the CPUES community, especially parents, grandparents, and relatives.

“My hope is that our students at Central Philippine University, particularly from our elementary school, will recognize the importance of the United Nations on the world stage. Beyond a one-day celebration, they will take steps to concretize its objectives in their respective contexts,” he said.

CPUES Principal, Prof. Janet P. Jaco addresses the audience in recognizing the dedication of faculty, parents, and students in promoting cultural diversity and global awareness.

CPUES Principal Prof. Janet P. Jaco followed with her own inspiring remarks, acknowledging the collaboration among faculty, parents, and students. She expressed gratitude to the university administration, including Dr. Irving Domingo L. Rio, Vice President for Academic Affairs; Dr. Esther Rose A. Romarate, Vice President for Student Affairs; Dr. Florence Bogacia, Vice President for Finance & Enterprises; and Engr. Danny C. Molina, Vice President for Administration. She also recognized the contributions of the PTA and encouraged students to appreciate cultural diversity and embrace their potential as future global citizens.

The festivities were further elevated by the special entrance of Mr. and Ms. Philippines 2024, along with Mr. and Ms. United Nations 2024. The CPUES Rondalla performed a moving musical piece, setting the stage for thematic presentations from each grade level. Grades 1 through 6 showcased different continents in colorful and educational performances.

Newly crowned Ms. Philippines 2024, Kate O. Luna, and Mr. Philippines 2024, Syunn GM S. Alog, addressed the crowd with messages of peace and global awareness. The day’s celebration continued with a lively community song, “One World,” followed by Pastor Louvel Edson Leysa-Caspe’s “Prayer for the Nations.” The prayer emphasized gratitude for global unity and diversity, calling for peace and cooperation in line with biblical teachings.

In her closing remarks, Dr. Esther Rose A. Romarate, Vice President for Student Affairs, reflected on the event’s impact and expressed appreciation for the students’ performances and the organization’s success. She reminded attendees of the UN’s mission to foster peace and collaboration amid diversity, and congratulated CPUES’s ambassadors, encouraging students to embody peace and mutual respect.

“We celebrate United Nations because we are thankful to God for this organization that promotes peace among the nations. Peace can be achieved when we unite, cooperate with one another, and consider our differences,” she said.

Dr. Florence P. Bogacia led the closing prayer, and the Alma Mater song, performed by Ms. United Nations 2024, Adele Tricia Y. Zerrudo, brought the program to a heartfelt conclusion. The event served as a powerful reminder of the importance of global unity and the role each individual can play in fostering peace.