By Ambassador Leo Tito L. Ausan, Jr.

Ambassador Leo Tito L. Ausan Jr. (center), Commencement Speaker, is shown with CPU President Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy (left) and CPU Board of Trustees Vice Chairman Dr. Matt P. Palabrica (right) during the 96th University Colleges Graduation. He later honored CPU with his written tribute, Ode to Central Dear.

O Central, my Alma Mater, Dear,
Indeed I’m glad, to be back and see you more than fine and good,
After I went away for a four decade wander,
And upon my return, you’re still deeply imbued, with even much warmer,
Moth’rly nurturing, warmth & care,
That’s calmed & balmed outright, all my worldly fear.

It all can be only so,
Be by Heaven’s grace, I know,
I still dare, though, and write this ode for you,
While it may seem long overdue,

Perhaps, O Central, my Alma Mater, Dear,
T’is from an unprodigal son, back for cuddling on your lap, after long uncaring wand’ring,
But still I write it, My Alma Mater Dear,
Elated to be back, unto your care,
Let the world ponder & do the wond’ring,
Central, my mother Dear, being your son, for all I care, I come out bold & brave,
‘Cause, O Central, my Alma Mater Dear, this praise, you richly deserve,
AFTER, I’VE KEPT YOU, LONG IN WAITING INDEED, MY NERVE!!….