By Karren Jay G. Asgar

The Yearners and the CPU Debating Team, also known as the RDDDS Team, pose for a photo opportunity with University President Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy, Vice President for Student Affairs Dr. Esther Rose A. Romarate, their coaches, and team consultant during their courtesy call at the Office of the President.

On November 4, 2026, Centralian debaters paid a courtesy call on University President Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy at the Office of the President following their recent achievements in two debate competitions.

Rev. Dr. Dagohoy warmly welcomed The Yearners and the CPU Debating Team, also known as the RDDDS Team, congratulating the students and expressing pride in their accomplishments and contributions to the University.

Vice President for Student Affairs Dr. Esther Rose A. Romarate encouraged the students to continue nurturing their talents, reminding them that these are gifts from God that should be used not only for their own good but also to help others and serve the community.

The student representatives expressed their gratitude to the Centralian community for its unwavering support and shared their eagerness to participate in future competitions.

The Yearners secured third place in PANINDUGAN: Interschool College Debate Cup 2026, organized by the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Federation of Iloilo City. The team, composed of speakers Sam Isaac Alog, Eryn Torento, and Abegail Mandar, and researchers Jher Annley Phyrl Francisco, Lexiss Lumanog, and Ethan James Sumayo, advanced to the semifinals held on September 2, 2026, at the Iloilo City Diamond Jubilee Hall.

Meanwhile, the CPU Debating Team, also known as the RDDDS Team, emerged as champion in MIC ON: A Youth Discourse on Local Governance, organized by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Region VI through its Local Governance Regional Resource Center (LGRRC) as part of the 2026 Local Government Month celebration. Held on October 26, 2026, at the SM City Iloilo Events Center, the competition saw the team represent Iloilo Province.

The RDDDS Team was composed of speakers Sam Isaac Alog, Marielle Mediodia, and Myco Sembrano, with Clariss Galaraga, Ethan James Sumayo, and Jeh arra Dianne Sumbanon serving as researchers.

Also present during the courtesy call were the teams’ coaches, Mr. Daryl Lutero, faculty member of the Social Sciences Department; Dr. Lenny Mucho, Director of the Review, Continuing Education and Consultancy Center (RCECC); and team consultant Pastor Alfred C. Morales, Director of the Office of Student Development and Programs.

The courtesy call reaffirmed the University’s commitment to supporting student development and recognizing Centralian students who use their talents, skills, and knowledge to excel in their respective fields and contribute to the wider community.