By Roselle Mitch G. Anas

University officials, faculty, staff, and students come together during the Dr. Carmen Pama Santos Renovation Ceremony held at the CPU Junior High School Gymnasium, October 14, 2026.

Central Philippine University (CPU) held a renovation ceremony for the Dr. Carmen Pama-Santos Multi-Purpose Gymnasium at the Junior High School Gym on October 14, 2026.

The ceremony began with a prelude, followed by the words of welcome delivered by Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy, CPU president, who acknowledged the pioneering batch that supported the formative years of the facility and the Dr. Carmen Pama-Santos family for their immense generosity in bringing the project to its full completion.

Pastor Alfred C. Morales led the opening prayer, while Dr. Matt P. Palabrica delivered the rationale for the gathering, sharing an excerpt from the letter sent by the CPU Development Class of 1981, represented by its president, Mr. Roger Balderas.

“The letter described the donation as having been made voluntarily and gratuitously with the purpose of supporting educational and community-related activities and fostering not only the physical wellness but also the holistic development of the students,” Palabrica shared, emphasizing that the letter captured the very spirit of CPU, a community united by faith, service, generosity, and a shared commitment to education.

Palabrica acknowledged the family of the late Dr. Santos, represented by her son, Mr. Roland Kim Pama Santos, who will fund and undertake the improvement of the gymnasium in honor of his mother’s enduring legacy.

The program continued with the opening hymn, featuring “Great Is Thy Faithfulness” and “Thou Art Worthy,” followed by a responsive reading titled “Building for His Glory.” The reading highlighted the purpose of the renovation and the university community’s commitment to developing a space that would support students’ learning, creativity, and growth.

Assoc. Prof. Charlet B. Dianala, Junior High School principal, led the act of dedication and prayer, with Rev. Dr. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian, senior minister of the University Church, also taking part in the ceremony.

In honor of Dr. Carmen Pama-Santos and in celebration of her birthday on October 4, CPU offered a birthday cake and a bouquet to Mr. Roland Kim on behalf of his late mother.

The program concluded with an acknowledgment, a closing hymn, and a benediction led by Rev. Franz Hasiel Lovejoy Quimpo-Leysa. A photo opportunity and fellowship snacks followed.

In recognition of the Pama-Santos family’s meaningful contribution, the improved facility will be named the Dr. Carmen Pama-Santos Multi-Purpose Gymnasium.