By Farah Dhea B. Galvez, BA Comm-4 Centralian Link Intern
Batch Anaya gathers for a group photo during the 101st CPU College of Nursing Alumni Homecoming. Photo courtesy of CCINAA.
Marking over a century of excellence in healthcare education, the Central Philippine University (CPU) College of Nursing, in joint celebration with the Capiz Emmanuel Hospital and Iloilo Mission Hospital Nurses’ Alumni Association, hosted its historic 101st Alumni Homecoming & 37th Loreto D. Tupaz Memorial Lecture on June 2, 2026. The momentous event gathered generations of Centralian nurses at the Ann Margaret Ballroom of the Diversion 21 Hotel to honor a deep-rooted legacy of healing, leadership, and faith.
This year’s homecoming was anchored on the theme, “Heritage and Horizons: 101 Years of Legacy, Leadership and Learning: Honoring Loreto D. Tupaz and Empowering BSN Class of 2026,” beautifully bridging the foundational history of the college with its future torchbearers. The grand reunion served as a testament to the enduring spirit of faithful service that began when the school was established alongside the Iloilo Mission Hospital, the pioneer institution of professional nursing education in the Philippines.
Highlighting the celebration was guest speaker Dr. Denja P. Santos, Class of 1976. Dr. Santos shared profound insights from her decades-long career, inspiring the alumni community to continue making a global impact. Between the speeches, nostalgia filled the ballroom as a digital montage of vintage photos and videos flashed on the screen, taking attendees on a sentimental journey through their student days. Adding to the excitement of the event was a raffle draw, which gifted lucky attendees with various appliances curated to aid them in their household and professional lives.
The homecoming also served as an occasion to recognize individual excellence and milestone years of dedication. Certificate of Recognition awards were presented to outstanding members of the graduating class: Roy Christian Pachica (Class of 2026) received the CCINAA Award, while Kid L. Villarreal (Class of 2026) was honored with the prestigious Loreto D. Tupaz Award, named after the legendary “Dean of Philippine Nursing Leaders.”
Moreover, the event celebrated three distinguished batches of Jubilarians for their lifelong commitment to the profession and the university, honoring the Class of 1996 as Pearl Jubilarians (30 years), the Class of 2001 as Silver Jubilarians (25 years), and the Class of 1976 as Golden Jubilarians (50 years).
A pivotal moment of the evening was the official induction of the BSN Class of 2026, Batch Anaya, as the newest members of the alumni community. Led by Dr. Anita Illenberger, the graduates stood proud as they took their solemn oath of loyalty to the Alumni Association and their Alma Mater. Following their induction, Batch Anaya harmoniously performed their official class song, “Paving Pathways,” symbolizing their readiness to chart new territories in global healthcare. The entire ballroom then joined voices for a stirring rendition of the CPU Alma Mater song, “Central, My Central,” masterfully conducted by Assoc. Prof. Rona Idemne.
The memorable celebration drew to a close with an inspiring message from Dr. Raymund Pantisala from Class of 1992. In his closing remarks, Dr. Pantisala left the audience, especially the fresh graduates, with a powerful reminder of what truly defines their calling: “Remember that your greatest strength will not be found in technology, equipment, or titles. Your greatest strength will always be your commitment to care for another human being when they are most vulnerable. That is the heart of nursing.”
The 101st homecoming officially concluded with a solemn closing prayer led by Assoc. Prof. Joy B. Lacson, sealing a night of gratitude, reunion, and enduring Centralian pride.