By Mikee Natinga Norico

A memorable group photo of the CPUGAD TBI team and university leaders, marking the milestone of the facility’s dedication as a catalyst for creativity and collaboration at CPU. Photo Credits to CPUGAD TBI Facebook page.

On January 24, 2025, CPUGAD TBI dedicated its facility through a ceremony held at EN-110, CPU Engineering Building, which was led by Rev. Cris Amorsolo Sian, Senior Pastor of the University Church. The event began with a heartfelt message from University President Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy, who emphasized God’s provision for the university through the CPUGAD TBI project.

Messages of support were delivered by key university officials who have been essential to the success and continued development of the project. Rev. Dr. Dagohoy reaffirmed the administration’s full support for CPUGAD TBI, saying, “We will work alongside you. We will be praying for you. And when God grants you success in this endeavor, may you be so careful to give back all the glory, praise, and honor to Him.” Engr. Dany C. Molina, VP for Administration, expressed his optimism for the future, stating, “This is just the beginning of beautiful things to happen in the future. As you journey towards achieving your vision and mission, rest assured that the Office of the Vice President for Administration, for as long as I am there, I will support you.”

Dr. Florence P. Bogacia, VP for Finance and Enterprises, shared her excitement for the entrepreneurial possibilities that CPUGAD TBI holds, acknowledging the team’s dedication: “Looking forward to more entrepreneurial things that would come out of it…Thank you, CPUGAD Team, for all the sacrifices and challenges that you didn’t give up on, but you held on and continued until we have this.” Dr. Esther Rose A. Romarate, VP for Student Affairs, voiced her enthusiasm, promising her full support: “We’re excited, and one thing that I can promise is prayers – prayers that this facility will truly become a venue for people to have bigger ideas and for those ideas to become realities.”

The event also saw encouraging words from Prof. Sarex D. Dipol Jr., Director of the Community Engagement & Service-Learning Center, who expressed his belief in the transformative power of CPUGAD TBI. “We believe that this endeavor paves the way for transformative change, ensuring that no one is left behind,” he remarked. Dr. Everlyn D. Ayson, Director of the University Research Center, pledged her commitment to supporting CPUGAD TBI in harnessing research outputs for larger developments, stating, “We are partners in this mission.” Dr. Anita U. Illenberger, President of the CPU Alumni Association, also offered her congratulations and unwavering support: “We will always be behind you pushing you to think of many ideas and turn them into reality.”

Dr. Teodoro C. Robles, CPU’s former President, shared a message of gratitude and encouragement, saying, “Thank you for your efforts, and I am sure that your success will depend on the help of the students and faculty of the university…We can succeed if everyone works together.”

The dedication ceremony was also attended by various deans and department heads of Central Philippine University, further showcasing the collective support for this groundbreaking initiative.

Engr. Gelvie C. Lagos, Project Leader of CPUGAD TBI, concluded the speeches with a reflection on the mission of the facility to foster innovation and entrepreneurship, making CPU a hub for groundbreaking ideas. Engr. Dany C. Molina, VP for Administration and the driving force behind the project, offered final words of encouragement, urging CPUGAD TBI to continue striving for excellence while embodying the core values of the university.

Following the ceremony, a tour of the CPUGAD TBI facility was conducted, highlighting its innovative spaces and resources designed to support the development of ideas and innovations. The facility stands as a testament to CPUGAD TBI’s commitment to nurturing creativity and collaboration, serving as a catalyst for empowering individuals and startups to turn their ideas into impactful ventures. As CPUGAD TBI embarks on this exciting journey, it reaffirms its dedication to making a lasting impact on students, entrepreneurs, and the community at large.