By Dr. Maredil R. Ambos
Centralian scouts, leaders, and schools were recognized for exemplary leadership, service, and outstanding scouting achievements during the 74th Iloilo (Confesor) BSP Annual Council Meeting held on May 15, 2026, at Robinsons Place Pavia.
The spirit of leadership, service, and excellence once again illuminated the legacy of scouting at Boy Scouts of the Philippines as Centralians proudly emerged among the distinguished awardees during the 74th Iloilo (Confesor) BSP Annual Council Meeting held on May 15, 2026, at Robinsons Place Pavia. The annual gathering celebrated the achievements of scouts, leaders, schools, and stakeholders who have continuously embodied the ideals of scouting through meaningful service, exemplary leadership, and community engagement.
Among the highlights of the event was the recognition of outstanding scouts from Central Philippine University, particularly from Outfit 346 of CPU High School, who excelled in the prestigious “Bugal sang Confesor Award – The Outstanding Senior Scouts of BSP Iloilo (Confesor) Council.” Venturer Scout Memphis Raines T. Alcain and Outdoorsman Scout Juan Paulo M. Nisnisan were honored for their exceptional performance, commitment to scouting values, and active involvement in community-oriented initiatives.
Their achievements reflected the enduring commitment of young Centralians to the principles of discipline, leadership, and nation-building espoused by scouting. Guiding these young scouts toward excellence were their dedicated Outfit Advisors, Christine Joyce A. Lacson and John Matthieu R. Gonzalez, whose mentorship and unwavering support played a significant role in shaping the scouts’ growth and success.
The ceremony also recognized distinguished scout leaders and advocates whose years of service significantly contributed to the advancement of scouting in Iloilo. Dr. Maredil R. Ambos, OIC Dean of the College of Education of Central Philippine University, received a Certificate of Commendation for his decade-long service as a Board Member of the Iloilo (Confesor) Council Executive Board. His dedication to youth formation and leadership development reflects the educational mission of scouting, which promotes holistic growth and civic responsibility among young people.
Likewise, Dr. Matt T. Palabrica, Mayor of Bingawan, Iloilo and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Central Philippine University, was honored with a Commendation Award as Council Chairman Emeritus in recognition of his 12 years of exemplary leadership and service to the council. In addition, his town, Bingawan District, was named as the Top 1 in Overall Scouting Operations.
Further emphasizing the active participation of Centralians in regional and international scouting activities, Scout Leaders Christine Joyce A. Lacson and John Matthieu R. Gonzalez received Certificates of Commendation for their commendable leadership and active participation during the Asia-Pacific Regional Scout Jamboree held at Camp Kainomayan from December 14–21, 2025. Their involvement in international scouting engagements demonstrates the importance of intercultural collaboration, youth empowerment, and global citizenship—core dimensions of modern scouting programs.
In institutional recognition, the CPU Elementary School received a Certificate of Commendation for achieving Outstanding Scout Membership (100%), showcasing the school’s strong commitment to youth participation and character formation through scouting. Meanwhile, the CPU High School earned multiple distinctions, including Best in Scouting Activities (Secondary Level), Best in Scouting Community Project, and Outstanding Scout Membership (100%). These achievements affirm the university’s continued dedication to producing socially responsible and service-oriented students who exemplify the ideals of leadership, teamwork, patriotism, and volunteerism.
The accomplishments of Centralians during the 74th Iloilo (Confesor) BSP Annual Council Meeting underscore the transformative impact of scouting in shaping future leaders and responsible citizens. Scouting remains an essential platform for experiential learning, leadership training, and community engagement, enabling young people to become catalysts of positive change in society.
Through the collective efforts of scouts, educators, administrators, and community leaders, Central Philippine University continues to uphold its tradition of excellence and servant leadership, proving that the spirit of scouting remains vibrant and relevant in today’s generation.