By Cyrus A. Natividad

CPU President Dr. Teodoro C. Robles delivers a message of thanksgiving to the faculty and staff during the fellowship dinner.

Central Philippine University President Dr. Teodoro C. Robles held a Thanksgiving Dinner for the faculty, staff, alumni, and friends at the Alumni Promenade and Concert Park on Thursday, November 28, 2019.

A short program with songs and prayers was prepared by Pastors from the College of Theology with the direction of Prof. Crista S. Huyong, Cultural Affairs Office Director.

The University President took time to explain the reasons why he was on leave for four months in the U.S. “Our first plan was to visit the family, and then consult our physician, but it was discovered that there are a few things to be done to avoid future heart attacks”, Dr. Robles explained. “First is that my aortic valve needed to be replaced, and then it was discovered that there are two coronary arteries that were blocked, 80 to 90 percent. In the process, it was also discovered that I have 3 major congenital heart defects.” Because of this, Dr. Robles had an open heart surgery to fix the blockage. Later, he was equipped with a pacemaker because of an irregular heart rhythm. He joyfully added that his surgeon said that his heart is as good as new.

The hymn Let There Be Peace On Earth was sung before the end of the program.

Dr. Robles also thanked everyone for their continued support for the betterment of the university. Rev. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian, University Church Senior Pastor, gave a Thanksgiving Message, evoking the kindness and blessings of God. Rev. Ruth G. Lunasco, University Church Christian Education Director, led the prayer for the food.

Everyone was later given a molded flower candle to light. The hymn, “Let There Be Peace on Earth” was sung while the candle lighting was going on. Rev. Sian ended the thanksgiving service with a prayer and benediction.