By Cyrus A. Natividad

Reynaldo L. Gonzales- AB Political Science Batch ’80.

Reynaldo L. Gonzales first applied as a cadet officer in 1974 and undergone a very rigid initiation needed to be a recognized member of the Cadet Officers Corps and also to be a member of the elite CPU ROTCU Cross Swords Fraternity. At that time, ROTC was compulsory to physically fit male students, only in their first two years in college.

He was First Platoon Leader of Bravo Company, CPU ROTC Unit in 1975. Intelligent and mentally alert, 2Lt Reynaldo Lagarto Gonzales was ahead of his contemporary cadets and cadettes in more ways than one. ‘Rey’, ‘Naldo’ or ‘Nalds’, among the popular call names he has by his friends was an industrious ‘work student’ whose duty as security guard of CPU had probably made up his mind to join the CPU Reserved Officer’s Training Corps. He stays in the campus and render duty with the regular security guards.

He attended classes during the day. Enrolled in AB Political Science, Gonzales was observed to very conversant on socio- political issues of the day. The late Professor Rudy Faulan often asked him to start up a discussion on matters of government, although he cautiously stay away from Martial Law issues, and warns his classmate to be mindful of the situation. Gonzales graduated in CPU College of Arts and Sciences, Major in Political Science in 1980.

His love for military service made him contribute to the tactical and practical training for his company. Nelson Jutare, Sr. from his lower class at that time said that Rey was a dedicated cadet officer and a committed leader. He never left his cadets without assuring them of success for the tactical inspection; even so, of their future career if only they are determined and study well.

In 1976, he was promoted 1st Lt., and at the same time 1st Platoon Leader of the Alpha Company. This was a greater responsibility when at that time, the challenge to win an award in the Regional Tactical Competition was high. His commitment to succeed was consistent in his work and study. He once confronted his men and said “Dedication has to be a commitment!”
He became Cadet Captain in 1977 and was assigned as Battalion Intelligence Officer. His leadership and intelligence would bring him to a higher position as Cadet Major and Alpha Company Commander in 1978. The CPU ROTC Unit won several times as best unit and many awards were hung at the CPU ROTC Headquarters with Gonzales as an excellent company commander. Gonzales worked as CPU ROTC Unit Intelligence and Tactical Officer and Instructor.

After his work at CPU ROTCU, he was employed by PEPSI in Iloilo. His leadership and management experience at Central Philippine University brought him to a greater career-employment and rose to be a Plant Manager in Mindanao areas.

He was with his friends and classmates during the CPU Global Reunion in 2020. On January 29, 2022, he was clinically pronounced dead due to a lingering illness.
The CPU Political Science Alumni Association is grateful for the principles and friendship that Rey has given.