By Mikee Natinga Norico

College of Education Student Council receives their medals and certificates, together with Dr. Eden P. Gomez, COED Faculty member; Dr. Maredil R. Ambos, COED Faculty member; and Ms. Wenn I. Ricaforte, Faculty of the Math and Physics Department, during Handuraw kag Padya 2025.

In a heartwarming celebration of achievement, reflection, and renewed purpose, the College of Education at Central Philippine University (CPU) hosted Handuraw kag Padya 2025 at the Rose Memorial Auditorium on April 23, 2025. With the theme “Empowering Educators, Inspiring Futures: Celebrating Excellence in Teaching and Learning,” the event honored the hard work, resilience, and dedication of students, faculty, and organizations who have exemplified Centralian excellence.

The morning began with a soul-stirring devotional from Pastor Justine P. Mije, Associate Pastor for Campus Ministry. She unpacked the profound meanings behind Handuraw—a sacred act of remembering—and Padya—a symbol of reward and recognition. “We receive the Padya only when we embrace Handuraw—when we reflect on God’s goodness, learn from the past, and find hope for what’s ahead. May your memories not just shape your identity but ignite your calling. Teach not only from textbooks, but from your life—your struggles, your faith, and the grace you have received. In every season, let Handuraw guide you to your greatest Padya. Let Handuraw be more than memory. Let it be hope, rooted in God’s unfailing goodness,” Pastor Mije encouraged, inspiring future educators to reflect on their journeys of struggle and growth as they strive for lasting impact.

College of Education Dean’s Listers receive their medals and certificates alongside their proud parents, Dr. Eden P. Gomez, COED Faculty member (1st from right), and Ms. Wenn I. Ricaforte, Faculty of the Math and Physics Department (1st from left), during Handuraw kag Padya 2025.

College of Education academic organizations, along with Dr. Eden P. Gomez, COED Faculty member, and Ms. Wenn I. Ricaforte, Faculty of the Math and Physics Department, pose for a photo after receiving their medals and certificates during Handuraw kag Padya 2025.

Following the entrance of colors and the singing of the National Anthem and CPU Hymn, the audience was warmly welcomed by Dr. Maredil R. Ambos, a faculty member of the College of Education, who emphasized the significance of the day: “This event reminds us that achievement comes not only from talent but from dedication. It is a celebration of past successes and a call to keep reaching higher.”

Dr. Merle L. Junsay, Dean of the College of Education, delivered a powerful message, urging future educators to rise to the challenge of national transformation. “I challenge you to reflect on how you can best contribute to improving our country’s educational landscape. To all our achievers, keep pushing forward—you are all precious gemstones in the making. Remember, just as gold is tested through fire, so too is a person’s endurance.”

The commencement address was delivered by Ms. Wenn I. Ricaforte, a faculty member of the Math and Physics Department from the College of Arts and Sciences. With a compelling mix of personal testimony and professional insight, Ms. Ricaforte resonated deeply with the crowd. Recounting her humble beginnings and unexpected journey to CPU through a DOST scholarship, she reminded the audience that today’s challenges can lead to tomorrow’s opportunities.

“Teaching is not easy, but it is powerful. Let your struggles fuel your passion. Your medals and certificates are not just awards—they are tributes to your family, your journey, and your calling,” she said.

A highlight of the program was the much-awaited awarding of medals, trophies, and certificates—recognizing Dean’s Listers from both semesters of the academic year, student council officials, academic organizations, Tatak Eduk Productions, Knights for Christ, University Week contributors, and recipients of special awards. Each honor represented a story of perseverance and excellence—proof that the Centralian spirit endures.

Before the conclusion, congratulatory videos offered heartfelt tributes to the awardees, with messages of pride and support from classmates, teachers, and loved ones.

The event culminated in closing remarks and a prayer led by Dr. Eden P. Gomez, bringing the ceremony to a close with a note of gratitude and a call for continued faith-driven service. A photo opportunity followed, preserving the memories of this meaningful milestone.

Handuraw kag Padya 2025 was more than an awards ceremony—it was a testimony of legacy, faith, and the transformative power of education. With renewed vision and courage, CPU’s future educators are ready to step forward—not just with medals in hand, but with purpose in their hearts.