By Cyrus A. Natividad

CPU Red Cross leading the parade.

Central Philippine University and CPU Republic in partnership with the Philippine Red Cross- Iloilo Chapter, Western Visayas Regional Blood Center, and CPU Red Cross Youth held the CPU Blood Olympics 2018 on Wednesday, July 11, dubbed as a “Decade of Saving Lives.” According to CRCY Director, Mr. Jojee Roy Juarez, “CPU already received three Hall of Famer Awards.”

The opening program was held at the CPU Promenade and Concert Park after the University-wide foot parade at 7:00 AM. It started with an invocation by Rev. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian, Senior Pastor, University Church. The CPU Symphonic Band under the baton of Mr. Ascencion O. Bautista, played the Philippine National Anthem, with Ms. Crista S. Huyong, Coordinator, CPU Cultural Affairs Office, directing.

Rev. Joniel Howard H. Gico, CPU Vice President for Student Affairs, welcomed the participants and guests. He thanked the organizers and sponsors who make the annual event possible in achieving its goals. The student organizations and colleges were recognized by CPUR Prime Minister, Samantha Ilejay.

CRCY Director Mr. Jojee Roy Juarez led the oath taking of the new CPU Red Cross Youth Officials.

CPU Vice President for Student Affairs Rev. Joniel Howard H. Gico, Ms. Crista S. Huyong, Coordinator, CPU Cultural Affairs Office, Engr. Alberto A. Java, faculty College of Engineering, Dr. Margen A. Java, Director, Office of Student Development Programs and the officials of the CPU Red Cross.

Engr. Alberto A. Java, faculty member of the College of Engineering, and Anfernee Jo An Ng, an alumnus, delivered their messages. The CPU Red Cross Youth Officials Oath Taking was administered by Director Juarez. PRC Blood Center Manager read an overview of the Mechanics of the Blood Olympics and the Youth Pledge of Commitment. Blood Olympics 2017 was seen in a slide show presentation. Pastor Alfred Morales closed the program with a prayer.

The CPU Blood Olympics has a goal of donating blood from 1% of the total University population. It was noted that three to four lives are saved by every bag of blood donated.

The CPU Blood Olympics 2018 is also in cooperation with the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs, Cultural Affairs Office, the University Church, University Outreach Center, Buildings and Shop Department, and the CPU Alumni Association, Inc.

“Be there for someone. Save lives, give blood” is an advocacy of the CPU Red Cross Youth.