By Karren Jay G. Asgar

Congratulations to Rochelle B. Gallega and Nicole A. Mallorca for bringing home the championship in the ASEAN MINDS Regional Quiz Challenge 2026, making Central Philippine University proud!

Two Central Philippine University (CPU) students emerged as champions in the ASEAN MINDS Regional Quiz Challenge 2026 conducted by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Regional Office VI on September 3, 2026, at the Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT-U) in La Paz, Iloilo City.

Representing CPU were Rochelle B. Gallega, a fourth-year Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Public Administration student, and Nicole A. Mallorca, a fourth-year Bachelor of Science in Biology major in Microbiology student, both from the College of Arts and Sciences.

The team was coached and advised by Mr. Daryl T. Lutero, faculty member of the Social Sciences Department, with support from the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs, led by Dr. Esther Rose A. Romarate.

CPU secured the championship among 21 participating higher education institutions (HEIs). Capiz State University–Dumarao Campus placed second, while Filamer Christian University and Aklan State University–Banga Campus tied for third place.

The achievement underscores the students’ academic excellence and teamwork in representing CPU in the regional competition.