CENTRAL PHILIPPINE UNIVERSITY

Autonomous Status granted by CHED – Sept. 16, 2024 – Sept. 15, 2027
ISO 21001:2018 (Educational Organizations Management System)- valid from August 19, 2025, until August 18, 2028

By Mikee Natinga Norico

University administrators, faculty members, staff, and students gather at the University Flagpole for the Flag Raising Ceremony marking the 128th Philippine Independence Day celebration themed “Kalayaan. Kinabukasan. Kasaysayan.”
University administrators, faculty members, staff, and students gather at the University Flagpole for the Flag Raising Ceremony marking the 128th Philippine Independence Day celebration themed “Kalayaan. Kinabukasan. Kasaysayan.”

In celebration of the 128th Anniversary of Philippine Independence themed “Kalayaan. Kinabukasan. Kasaysayan”, Central Philippine University held a flag-raising ceremony at the University Flagpole on June 11, 2026, gathering university administrators, faculty, staff, and students.

The ceremony opened with a prayer led by Pastor Neva Grace L. Fabila, Associate Pastor of the University Church followed by the singing of the Philippine National Anthem, underscoring the solemnity and patriotism of the occasion.

In her message, Dr. Esther Rose A. Romarate, Vice President for Student Affairs and Officer-in-Charge (OIC) of the Office of the President emphasized that Philippine Independence Day is not only a historical commemoration but also a moment of reflection on the sacrifices of national heroes who fought for freedom. She stressed that freedom is both a gift and a responsibility that must be exercised with integrity, accountability, and love for others.

“Kalayaan. Kinabukasan. Kasaysayan.” The theme reminds us that freedom is not only a right that we enjoy but also a responsibility that we must protect and uphold. Our future as citizens and as a nation depends on our ability to use our freedom with responsibility, integrity, and love for others,” she emphasized.

Dr. Esther Rose A. Romarate, Vice President for Student Affairs and Officer-in-Charge of the Office of the President, delivers her message during the 128th Philippine Independence Day, emphasizing the importance of freedom as both a gift and a responsibility that calls for integrity, civic duty, and active nation-building
Dr. Esther Rose A. Romarate, Vice President for Student Affairs and Officer-in-Charge of the Office of the President, delivers her message during the 128th Philippine Independence Day, emphasizing the importance of freedom as both a gift and a responsibility that calls for integrity, civic duty, and active nation-building.

Dr. Romarate further called on the CPU community to honor this freedom through daily actions grounded in truth, respect for human dignity, faith in God, and active civic participation. She encouraged everyone to uphold patriotism and to become responsible citizens who contribute to nation-building and inspire the younger generation.

“As members of the CPU community, may this celebration serve as a reminder that the true essence of freedom is seen in our daily actions, in our commitment to truth, love for God, respect for human dignity, and active participation in building a better future for our country. May we continue to nurture the spirit of patriotism and serve as an inspiration to the next generation to love, serve, and protect our nation,” she said.

As Central Philippine University continues to uphold its commitment to nation-building, the University reaffirms its dedication to nurturing students who embody patriotism, integrity, and civic responsibility.