By Mikee Natinga Norico

From left to right: Dr. Esther Rose A. Romarate, Vice President for Student Affairs; Josh Benedict G. Manejero (BSDMIA–1), 2nd Place; Kate Phoebe C. Alfaras (BSDMIA–4), 1st Place; Hartt Angel C. Alfaras (BSDMIA–1), 2nd Place; and Mrs. Tina Poblacion Hortelano, CPUAAI Liaison Officer, pose for a group photo following the awarding ceremony of the 2025 Festival of Lights and Music On-the-Spot Painting Contest at the CPU Alumni Affairs Office.

Central Philippine University (CPU), in partnership with the Central Philippine University Alumni Association, Inc. (CPUAAI), successfully held the 2025 Festival of Lights and Music On-the-Spot Painting Contest, showcasing the creativity and artistic talents of the CPU community.

The on-the-spot painting competition took place on December 16, 2025, at the CPU Pani Hall and gathered a total of eight participants composed of bona fide students, faculty members, and staff of the University. The contest served as a platform for artists to visually interpret themes that reflected the Christian spirit, core values, and the academic, cultural, and historical identity of Central Philippine University.

After careful deliberation, the winners were formally recognized during the awarding ceremony held on January 6, 2026, at the CPU Alumni Affairs Office, where they received cash prizes and certificates of recognition.

The winners of the 2025 Festival of Lights and Music On-the-Spot Painting Contest are as follows:

• 1st Place: Kate Phoebe C. Alfaras (BSDMIA – 4)
• 2nd Place: Hartt Angel C. Alfaras (BSDMIA – 1) and Josh Benedict G. Manejero (BSDMIA – 1)

Emerging as the 1st Place winner, Kate Phoebe C. Alfaras (BSDMIA – 4) presented an artwork that captured the essence of life and memory within the University. In an interview, Alfaras shared that her inspiration stemmed from her personal experiences on campus, particularly the CPU Big Field and the University Church.

Congratulations to the winners of the CPUAAI Festival of Lights On-the-Spot Painting Contest—Kate Phoebe C. Alfaras (1st Place) and Hartt Angel C. Alfaras and Joshua Benedict Manejero (tied for 2nd Place)—as they receive their certificates and cash prizes at the CPU Alumni Affairs Office.

“This painting always comes to mind whenever I pass by the CPU Big Field and the University Church. It represents my personal memories and reflections of what Central Philippine University means to me. These places hold significant moments in my student life, and through this artwork, I wanted to capture the sense of belonging, nostalgia, and identity that I associate with CPU,” she said.

Alfaras also shared that her passion for painting began at an early age, nurtured by strong encouragement from her family.

“I have been inspired to join art contests since elementary school. Painting has always been a passion of mine, and my family has been a strong source of encouragement—especially my father, who also enjoys painting. Their support motivated me to take part in this contest and share my creativity with others,” she added.

When asked about her message to fellow Centralians who aspire to join painting contests, Alfaras encouraged students to take courage and embrace every learning opportunity.

“It doesn’t hurt to try, even when you see others who are very skilled and professional in painting. Instead of being discouraged, take their work as inspiration. Every contest is an opportunity to gain experience, learn something new, and grow as an artist. Never be afraid to start or to stand on your own. If you feel that you lack ability, use that as motivation to learn from every experience—because that is where every artist’s journey begins,” she shared.

Organized as an official CPUAAI event, the competition emphasized originality, faith, and creativity through visual art. Participants were given four hours to complete their artworks using acrylic on canvas, following the contest’s strict guidelines to ensure fairness and authenticity.

In line with the objectives of the contest, twelve exceptional artworks will be selected for inclusion in the CPU 2027 Desk Calendar, which will be released during the CPU Grand Reunion. This initiative not only recognizes artistic excellence but also promotes a deeper appreciation of the University’s heritage while strengthening the connection between alumni and the academic community.

Through this collaborative effort, CPU and CPUAAI continue to uphold their commitment to nurturing creativity, celebrating culture, and preserving the rich identity of Central Philippine University through meaningful and faith-inspired initiatives.

For more information about the contest, visit Central Philippine University’s previous Facebook post at: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1JnWgjwnqX/

The Committee Members for the 2025 Festival of Lights and Music On-the-Spot Painting Contest are the following:

Dr. Anita U. Illenberger – CPUAAI President
Dr. Esther Rose A. Romarate – Vice President for Student Affairs
Ms. Grace Ann Jardenil – Committee Chairperson
Mrs. Tina Poblacion Hortelano – CPUAAI Liaison Officer
Mr. Mark Pentojo Calumba – Faculty Member, CPU College of Computer Studies
Monica Gregorio – CENVAS Officer
Nelle Ivory Galea – CENVAS Officer
Perla G. Londres Waters – Member, CPU Board of Trustees
Emelda Frange Valcarcel – Member, CPU Board of Trustees