CENTRAL PHILIPPINE UNIVERSITY

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Aguiling descendant visits CPU, retraces grandfather’s legacy

by | Aug 28, 2026 | The Centralian Link | 0 comments

By Karren Jay G. Asgar


Maria Adiel H. Aguiling (right), accompanied by Dr. Esther Rose Romarate (left), Vice President for Student Affairs, poses with the 120 Years landmark signage during her visit to Central Philippine University.

Maria Adiel H. Aguiling, granddaughter of the late Rev. Dr. Homobono Atienza Aguiling, lyricist of Central Philippine University’s Alma Mater song, “Central, My Central,” visited CPU on August 26, 2026.

Aguiling was accompanied by Dr. Esther Rose Romarate, Vice President for Student Affairs, during her visit. The campus tour included the Dr. Rex D. Drilon Hall (Administration Building), Old Valentine Building, University Church, and the Henry Luce III Library, where she also visited the Gallery on the fourth floor.

At the Gallery, Aguiling had the opportunity to read Scientia et Fides: The Story of Central Philippine University, a book co-authored by Linnea A. Nelson and Elma S. Herradura. The book contains accounts of CPU’s history and details about the contributions of her grandfather, Rev. Dr. Aguiling, allowing her to learn more about his role in the University’s early development.


During her visit, Aguiling explored the University Gallery, assisted by CPU Librarian, Assistant Professor Vince Ervin V. Palcullo, as she discovered stories and artifacts that reflect the University’s rich history.

She also visited the New Valentine Building, where she met faculty and staff members of the College of Business and Accountancy.

Asked for her message to the Centralian community, Aguiling expressed her appreciation for being able to revisit the institution her grandfather helped shape and learn more about its continuing contribution to Philippine education.

“I would like to congratulate CPU for a very successful expansion and quality education, and I’m so happy that my lolo has contributed to the beginnings of CPU. So, thank you also to Ma’am Titit for showing me around and helping me appreciate the contribution of CPU to the education of Filipinos in the country. So, I wish you the best, more passers, and more Christian citizens of our country,” she said.

Aguiling’s visit provided an opportunity to reconnect with the history of CPU through her family’s legacy and to witness the University’s continuing development and role in Christian higher education.