By Mikee Natinga Norico
Join the welcoming community at CPU and embrace every opportunity to learn, grow, and connect.
Welcome to Iloilo City, a vibrant metropolis in the heart of the Philippines. Known as the “City of Love,” Iloilo is rich in history, stunning architecture, and friendly communities, making it a perfect destination for international students seeking an enriching academic and cultural experience.
At the heart of this captivating city lies Central Philippine University (CPU), a prestigious institution with a long-standing legacy of academic excellence. Commitment to Excellence, Driven by Faith, CPU offers foreign students a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in Filipino culture while pursuing their educational goal. With insights from Harnega Babu, a Sri Lankan student pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Medical Biology, this guide aims to equip future students with essential information to navigate their journey at CPU and explore the vibrant city of Iloilo.
A Warm Welcome from Harnega Babu
“I’m Harnega Babu from Sri Lanka, incoming 2nd year student of Bachelor of Science in Medical Biology and I hope that this guide will help you get used to your new surroundings and make the most of your time at CPU and Iloilo. I hope it helps you feel at home and have a fantastic experience here.”
How to Get to Central Philippine University with Ease
Getting to CPU is easy, whether you’re coming from within Iloilo City or from other parts of the Philippines. From Iloilo International Airport, you can take a taxi, Grab, or a shuttle van to the university. The trip takes around 30 minutes, depending on traffic. If you’re coming from other parts of the Philippines, you can take a bus or a van to Iloilo City, then a jeepney or a taxi to the university, which takes around 15 to 20 minutes from the city center.
If you are from Bacolod, traveling between Bacolod and Iloilo on a ferry is quite convenient. A ferry journey gives you a chance to experience some beautiful scenery while moving from Bacolod to Iloilo. To find the most scenic and comfortable trips within your price range, make sure you book in advance. The distance between Bacolod and Iloilo by ferry is 32 miles (50 kilometers). The ferry trip may not cover the shortest route between these two points, but it makes for a very memorable travel experience. Based on the distance and the average speed of the boat, it normally takes around 1 hour to get from Bacolod to Iloilo. Keep in mind, however, that travel time will heavily depend on weather conditions and the type of vessel. When choosing a boat company from the Bacolod to Iloilo timetable, make sure you consider the following:
1.Read the reviews. You can find feedback from seasoned travelers who took a ferry from Bacolod to Iloilo and are willing to share their experiences.
2. Consider the distance between the port and the place you’re staying. Use Google Maps to ensure you can get to the port on time. If the hotel you chose and the port are far away, it’s wiser to avoid early morning departures.
3. Take note that during high season, many boat companies add extra departures to their usual schedule. However, if you are in Iloilo, you can take a taxi, Grab, or any safe transportation going to the university.
Accommodation at CPU
CPU offers dormitories for both male and female students. The Franklin Hall Dormitory for males is located near the Engineering Building, facing the CPU Football Field, providing a refreshing view of the green field. For female students, the Weston Hall Ladies Dormitory is situated across the football field, near the imposing Loreto D. Tupaz Building (Nursing Building).
Both dormitories offer basic facilities and 24-hour security. The Franklin Hall Dormitory is conveniently located along the road, making it easy for morning joggers to run around the football field and pass by beautiful buildings and gazebos. The University Church, Henry Luce III Library, Rose Memorial Auditorium, and other campus facilities are within walking distance, ensuring a convenient and enriching living experience for dormers.
Enrollment Process
To enroll at Central Philippine University, visit the official CPU website for detailed instructions https://cpu.edu.ph/. Ensure that you have all necessary documents, such as your passport, visa, and academic records, ready. The international student office is available to assist with any questions or concerns.
Campus Life
Campus life at CPU is vibrant and welcoming. The friendly community, approachable faculty, and engaging learning environment make studying here a truly wonderful experience. CPU offers a variety of activities and clubs, providing opportunities to meet new friends and explore new interests.
Top Reasons to Study at Central Philippine University in Iloilo
There are many reasons why foreign students should consider studying at CPU. The university offers a great environment to learn about the history, culture, and traditions of the region. The campus features a mix of contemporary and colonial-style buildings, providing a glimpse into the city’s past and present.
CPU is home to some of the best academic programs in the country, with undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields, including business, engineering, nursing, education, and liberal arts. Many programs are recognized by national and international accrediting bodies, ensuring a high-quality education. Additionally, CPU hosts various cultural events throughout the year, such as Christ Emphasis Week and Centralian Fest, offering students a chance to engage in the vibrant campus life.
Why Central Philippine University Stands Out Among Other Universities in Iloilo and Even Manila?
According to Harnega Babu, a BS Medical Biology student at Central Philippine University, the university distinguishes itself from other institutions in Iloilo and even Manila for several reasons. Given her interest in biology, she found CPU’s offerings in this field to be exceptional. The university is renowned for its strong academic programs and dedicated faculty, providing students with a high-quality education. CPU also cultivates a supportive and friendly campus community, fostering an environment conducive to both academic and personal growth. The university’s modern facilities, such as the library and study hubs, offer students convenient access to resources. Located in Iloilo City, CPU provides a unique blend of urban convenience and cultural experiences. Compared to larger Manila-based universities, CPU offers a more personalized learning environment with closer faculty interactions and a stronger sense of community.
Fun Things to Do Near Central Philippine University
There are many fun things to do near CPU, whether you’re a student, faculty member, or a visitor. The Iloilo Esplanade, a scenic park offering stunning views of the Iloilo River, features walking and jogging paths, picnic areas, and playgrounds. Museo Iloilo, a museum showcasing the history and culture of Iloilo and the Western Visayas region, offers a collection of artifacts, photographs, and exhibits. For shopping and dining, visit SM City Iloilo, one of the largest malls in the city, featuring a wide range of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, including a cinema and an arcade.
Where to Stay Near Central Philippine University?
If you’re looking for accommodation near CPU, several popular hotels are available to suit your needs and budget:
- Diversion 21: Offers excellent value, comfort, and dining in a convenient location near historical sites. Its unique amenities and easy access to local attractions make it a popular choice for travelers. CPU is the hotel’s primary customer.
- Injap Tower Hotel: A multiple-use hotel with modern and stylish rooms.
- Seda Atria: A contemporary hotel offering spacious rooms and excellent amenities.
- Go Hotels Iloilo: A budget-friendly hotel with clean and comfortable rooms at affordable rates.
- Zuri Hotel: A boutique hotel with stylish rooms and excellent amenities.
- Richmonde Hotel Iloilo: A luxury hotel with spacious rooms and excellent amenities.
Delicious Food to Try Near Central Philippine University
Iloilo City is the Philippines’ first UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, as announced via a press release on October 31, 2023. This recognition is granted to applicant cities for their culinary history, tradition, culture, and identity, integrating education, science and technology, crafts and farming industries, and environmental endeavors that contribute to a sustainable gastronomic heritage.
Iloilo is a food lover’s paradise, offering a diverse range of local dishes. One of the most popular dishes is batchoy, a noodle soup with pork, liver, and other ingredients, available at Ted’s Oldtimer Lapaz Batchoy. Another favorite is pancit molo, a soup with dumplings filled with ground pork or beef; you must try Kap Ising’s Pancit Molo. Roberto’s is known for its siopao, which has been dubbed the oldest, most famous, largest, and best tasting in Iloilo. You may also visit Pueblo de Alicia’s Restaurant in Jaro, Iloilo, where Ilonggo dishes are served at their best. For something sweet , try the famous mangoes of Guimaras Island, known for their sweet and juicy flavor.
Embrace Your Journey
As you begin your journey at Central Philippine University, remember that you are joining a welcoming and supportive community. Take advantage of the many resources available, from vibrant campus life to diverse food options and cultural experiences in Iloilo. Embrace every opportunity to learn, grow, and connect with others. Harnega believes that CPU is the best place to be, and she is confident you will love your time here, filled with enriching opportunities and lasting memories.
Welcome to Central Philippine University and Iloilo City!
How to Contact Us?
Phone and email directory: https://cpu.edu.ph/about-us/phone-directory/
For more inquiries:
Email: infocenter@cpu.edu.ph and communications@cpu.edu.ph
Social Media Accounts:
https://www.facebook.com/CentralPhilippineUniversity.CPU/
https://twitter.com/cpueduph
https://www.instagram.com/cpueduph