By Cyrus A. Natividad
A class posed with their teacher on their graduation day.
The 93rd CPU Elementary School Graduation Ceremony for SY 2021-2022 was held on July 26, 2022 on a virtual platform via the CPU TV Channel Facebook Page.
The Ceremony started with the Entrance of Colours with the CPU-JHS Boy Scouts Marshalls followed by the graduating pupils with their parents and guardians, faculty and staff.
Pastor Alfred C. Morales, Student Recruitment Officer, led the Invocation which was followed by the National Anthem led by Yasmeine Marguerite F. Limbungan, Grade 5 Excel pupil.
Dr. Teodoro C. Robles, CPU President, delivered his opening remarks. He acknowledged the Guest Speaker, the Parents, the Elementary Faculty and Staff headed by its Principal Prof. Janet P. Jaco, and the Graduating Students of the CPU Elementary School.
He was delighted to see the parents who did their best to have their children graduate in CPU Elementary School; a school that has a Christ-centered education that helps develop Christian character. He shared a verse from Psalms 127:3 which says, “Lo, children are a heritage of the Lord: and the fruit of the womb is his reward.”
Prof. Jaco introduced the Guest Speaker Atty. Lorena Pearl Roseluz Gellada-Tubongbanua, President of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines, Iloilo Chapter, and an alumnus of the CPU Elementary School Batch ’89. Expressing her love and gratitude for the education she earned in CPU — from Kindergarten to High School, she considers herself a True Blue Centralian.
She encouraged the graduates to “have trust in God.” Recalling the experiences brought by Covid-19, she said that “We have to overcome the challenges and remind ourselves of God’s love and mercy”. She added that, “The future is not bleak. There will always be the proverbial ‘Light at the end of the tunnel’. With faith in God, we shall overcome.”
Before ending her speech, Tubongbanwa quoted a beautiful verse from a poem by the famous poet Robert Frost:
“The woods are lovely, dark, and deep
But I have promises to keep.
And miles to go before I sleep.”
Dr. Robles conferred upon the Graduates their Certificates, with Miss Charisa June G. Deocampo, University Registrar, Dr. Irving Domingo L. Rio, VP for Academic Affairs, Dr. Florence P. Bogacia, VP for Finance and Administration and Dr. Esther Rose A. Romarate, VP for Student Affairs. Also assisting in the Distribution of Certificates were Mrs. Melani S, Valencia (Adviser, Grade 6-Excel), Mrs. Mary Ann L. Saladar (Adviser, Grade 6-Faith), Miss Rosalia I. Espiritu (Adviser-Grade 6 Hope), Mr. Ryan S. Dadivas (Adviser, Grade 6-Joy) and Mr. Carlo M. Pausa (Adviser, Grade 6-Love).
The Graduates with High Honors: Matthew Jared A. Fermalan and Sunn Gyann May S. Alog delivered theirs Words of Gratitude. Surprise Special Incentive Awards were given to the Top Basic Education graduates, courtesy of Dr. Carmen P. Santos, H.D., honoris causa, and who is a member of the CPU Board of Trustees, and a CPU Basic Education Consultant. In behalf of Dr. Santos, Dr. Bogacia and Prof. Jaco distributed the Ampao (traditional red envelope containing the incentive).
Miss Carmelle Frances M. Romero, Administrative Officer, Office of the President (CPUES Alumna Batch 1995) administered the Elementary Alumni Pledge. The 2022 Graduates rendered their Graduation Song “Journey of Faith”.
Rev. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on Director, Office of Communications led a Prayer for the Graduates. It was followed by the closing remarks of Vice President Dr. Irving Domingo L. Rio.
The singing of the Alma Mater Song “Central, My Central”, was followed with a benediction by Rev. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian, Senior Pastor University Church. The Program ended with the recessional of Administration Officials, Faculty, Staff and Graduates with Parents and Guardians.
The program was hosted by Mrs. Mae Ann B. Puertollano, Lady Dean of the Program.
By Cyrus A. Natividad
Engr. Dany C. Molina, Dean CPU College of Engineering.
The Philippine Accrediting Association of Schools, Colleges and Universities (PAASCU), thru the recommendation of its Board of Trustees, has appointed CPU College of Engineering Dean Dany C. Molina as a Member of the Commission on Engineering and Architectural Education. His appointment covers a two-year term, starting on May 2022 to 2024.
Molina willingly accepted the appointment from PAASCU. He said that “I still have to acquaint myself of the current policies, standards, guidelines and practices implemented by PAASCU. It is only then that I can propose changes or improvement of the system.”
The CPU College of Engineering under Dean Molina has achieved much. It continues to have good results from the National Licensure Exams for Engineers, and the CHED’s certification of the CPU College of Engineering as a Center of Development.
Molina was the President of the Philippine Association of Engineering Schools (PAES) from 2018 to 2020. He is the first-ever President-elect from a non-NCR engineering school since the organization was founded in 1955.
By Cyrus A. Natividad
CPU Dancesport Duo Mico Andrei J. Hechanova and Aleia Robbyn J. Muyco.
CPU Danceport contestants were the Gold medalists in the Palarong Pambansa 2022 held at the Lucena City Gymnasium on July 28, 2022.The energetic dance duo reaped the gold medals in all single dances.
CPU Cultural Affairs Office Director, Crista Sianson Huyong said that, “the Dance duo, Mico Andrei J. Hechanova and Aleia Robbyn J. Muyco, who are both incoming Grade 12 students, eventually got the Gold medal and trophy for Grade A Latin American category.”
Prior to the Palarong Pambansa 2022, they were Gold medalists in the 2nd Manila Open Dancesport Championship (virtual) in March 2022 and 10th Philippine Summer Ballroom Championship held in Boracay in June 2022.
Congratulations to the CPU winners and kudos to Coach January Love Joy Desamanero, Trainer Nero Babon Amorin; CPU Sports Director Edwin C. Laruan, CAO Director Crista S. Huyong and the CPU Golden Lions.
By Ms. Gretchell Anne E. Ponsaran, Faculty, Life Sciences Department
The Unified Federation of Filipino-American Educators, Philippines held its 1st series of Virtual International Conference and Research Colloquium with the Theme: “Digital Education in Pandemic: Learning in Different Modalities” last July 29, 2022. The Unified, Philippines have discussed the topics related to the new normal that we are experiencing for the past 2 years. The topics are focused on the different modes of learning.
The conference started with the warm welcome of the UNIFIED, Phils. President Mr. Edgardo B. Dacpano, USA.
The invited speakers are from the different parts of the world who have shared their experiences and expertise on their fields. The valuable speakers were Dr. Safary Wa-Mbalika from USA with the topic on “Online Education: Capitalizing on Lessons from COVID-19”, Dr. Jose Dennis G. Dureza from Kingdom of Bahrain with the topic on “Effective Use of Learning Modalities: Relating to Students Learning Styles and Resources”, and the third plenary speaker was Dr. Teay Shawyun Former President SEAAIR, Thailand, with the topic on “Strategic Organization Readiness Model”.
Four students from Central Philippine University presented their papers: Parasites in Aquatic Organisms at Sinuhutan Cave, Barangay Onop, Miag-ao, Iloilo by Prince Edmar Nismal ( BSBio 4) ;Development of a Culture-Based Module in Teaching Reproduction for Grade 7 Science by Heber Paul Dalen ( BSEd- Science 4); Development of Learning Modules in Chemistry for Junior High School Students by Wenn I. Ricaforte (BSEd- Science 4):and Isolation, Characterization and Identification of Indigenous Soil Microorganisms in situ of Organic Farm at Dreamer’s Valley, Tigbauan, Iloilo, Philippines by Pamela Sue Hilada ( BSBio-4).
Some faculty of Central Philippine University headed by Dr. Stella G. Fernandez, Dean of College of Arts and Sciences with Prof. Jayvee Jore, Prof. Sarex Dipol, Jr., Prof. Debbie Marsha Sian, Prof. Maricel Falguisana, and Prof. Gretchelle Anne Ponaran faculty members from Life Sciences Department were able to participate in the conference.
UNIFFIED is an organization of educators who share the vision of dedicating their skills in promoting excellence in teaching and providing community service through projects that will benefit their community. UNIFFIED is a duly registered 501(c) (3) and a SEC registered non-profit organization in the United States and in the Philippines.
The organization will conduct their 2nd Series of Virtual International Conference to allow Educators share their studies. Dr. Rex Casiple – CHED 6 ended the conference with his message emphasizing the importance of research presentation in different colloquia and publication of researches in refereed and international journals.
By Cyrus A. Natividad
Armin Faith A. Aldemo, BSBA Major in Marketing Management Batch 2022, Cum Laude.
Sixty-four work students graduated this semester from Central Philippine University. Many of them did it through determination, and awareness on how success comes to those who sacrifice and do their best.
One of them, Armin Faith A. Aldemo, graduated in Business Administration Major in Marketing Management, Cum Laude. She had her share of experiences with which she likes to shares to her fellow graduates and continuing work students of CPU.
The Centralian Link made an interview, and would like to share her ideas, particularly to those who aim to fulfil their dreams of graduating from Central Philippine University.
Q. Why did you consider enrolling a course in CPU through the Work-study Program?
A. “I dreamed of being a Centralian since my high school. Despite that desire, I was hesitant due to our financial situation. I thank God that I was able to study at Central Philippine University by being a work student and it helped lessen our financial problems. I was able to avail credit balances which not only supported my tuition and fees, but also my day-to-day allowances. I have realized my dream and I am now an Alumna of CPU.”
Q. “Why did you choose Business Administration?
A. “I would like to become a businesswoman someday. From this field, I hope to become more creative, although the funny thing here is that people would sometimes want to call you a ‘tindera’ (vendor). They would say, “Ay mamaligya ka man lang, nag kuha ka pa kurso?’’ (Oh, you don’t need to take up a course if you only wanted to sell!”). But I do not want to listen to them. I have learned how business could affect the country’s economic growth and development.”
Q. What was your most difficult part as a work student?
A. “As a work student for four years, I have to endure having a cut-off grade with 18 units enrolled, and also a prescribed period of duty time. It was difficult but I was able to survive by always thinking that “this is not hard” because you have already experienced it coming from a ‘less fortunate’ family. I have been trained to face difficult situations. I will be forever grateful for the training I had with the InfoCenter family, especially to Director Rev. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on, and my supervisors Mrs. Hannah Lee J. Canlas and Atty. Ina Bernales, for guiding me throughout my journey in College.”
Q. “What was your most difficult experience in work and study? How did you handle it?
A. I think my most difficult experience is not found in my work and study. It was in dealing with my personal problem; finding time and fixing it silently – despite my busy schedule at work and study.”
Heide and Armando Aldemo are the parents of Armin Faith. She has a brother named Arlan Kim A. Aldemo.
By Cyrus A. Natividad
Mangao: God fearing and independent- minded Sangguniang Panglungsod Member of Kabankalan City.
Adolfo Tingson-Mangao, Jr. (CPU BSC 1985), well-known in Kabankalan as Toto Mangao is a pro-active, detailed oriented, efficient, and organized retired professional with extensive years of experience in the banking, lending, and cooperative sectors, community and child development engagement, among others. He is a multi-tasker who thrives in a challenging environment.
Toto envisioned himself long before – to be a God-fearing and independent-minded Sangunniang Panlungsod Member of Kabankalan City who owes his loyalty and gratitude primarily to the common tao, to speak freely without fear of reprisal, to propose measures deemed beneficial to the greater majority, and to make decisions guided by the dictates of his conscience and faith in the Lord.
The education he earned from Central Philippine University led him to a Master’s degree in Public Administration at West Negros University in 2018. He was guided to a career journey in Public Service putting him in the City Council as Sangguniang Panglunsod Member (SP) –to serve his beloved Kabankalan City.
While studying at Central, he is remembered by his friends for his leadership; he trained in community engagements in particular. On top of his studies in finance and economics, Toto has driven himself well in public management. He recalls, “Our experiences in sorties and political campaigns around the campus – way back our CPUR days have contributed much to the efficiency of my campaign, here in Kabankalan.”
Toto has treasured the values of CPU which is well-known for excellence, faith and generosity. “One day, I should come back to revisit our Alma Mater and see its development; I know it is going very well with its present administration, faculty and staff. I am grateful to CPU, especially that being a Centralian has a bearing in the mind of the electorate.”
Mangao has a Career Executive Eligibility. He is a Retired Senior Manager of Overseas Filipino Bank (Formerly Philippine Postal Savings Bank, Inc.) in Bacolod and Himamaylan branches, and Retired Chief Accounts management Specialist of Land Bank of the Philippines from 1990 to 2005.
His church and civic engagements include being former President and currently Treasurer of the Gideons International, Kabankalan Chapter.
Toto is happily married to the former Jocelyn Pico. They are blessed with 3 children, Adcel Kyle, Adriel Dolf and Adrian Josh.
By Pearl Joy L. Suficiencia, BS Accty, Summa Cum Laude
Delivered during the 94th Graduation of University Colleges, CPU on July 24, 2022 (first batch) at the Rose Memorial Auditorium.
Pearl Joy L. Suficiencia, BS Accty, Summa Cum Laude, delivers the response on behalf of the graduates – first batch.
To the members of the CPU Board of Trustees and Corporation led by the Chairman, Dr. Elmer Q. Pedregosa; To our university president, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles; To our faculty and staff; To our commencement speaker, (insert name of speaker); Our parents, loved ones, my fellow graduates, a pleasant afternoon.
Looking back through my college years, I have lost count of how many times I encountered these questions. “Ngaa kahapos lang ya sa imo, pero kami ya gaka budlayan?”,”Ano ang may ara sa inyo nga wala sakon man, ngaa muni lang ko ya?” Others really think I had it easier. Well, of course, not. I had my doubts and insecurities, to be honest. Ironic how these people who asked me, are the same people who are good at public speaking, great student leaders, excellent in interpersonal skills, and so on. And I am not like them; I am not even good in things they do best.
Like everybody else, I compared and measured myself too. When I was in my first-year summer class, I experienced a mental block for almost half an hour. I was just looking up at the front, not knowing how to analyze and solve the problems. I ended up merely answering 20 questions using the letter C, as I thought of C for Christ. While exiting the room, I was thinking, “Ngaa nakasabat sila ya, ako wala, ano pa pulos ka pag dean’s list ko kung hapos nalang gid nga pamangkot indi ko pa ya masabtan?” I even doubted I could pass my 1.75 cut-off grade, so I was just holding on to Jeremiah 29:11, which says, that God has a plan for us that will give us hope and a future. I was overjoyed when I was given a mark of 1.75, which was later on adjusted to 1.5 when corrections were made. It was overwhelming, wasn’t it? “Nakapasar na, nag taas pa!” I again claimed that I have everything because I have Christ who provides.
Then came the shift from face-to-face classes to an online setup where I felt more lost, and probably you too. Have I learned something? I even heard some remarks: “Daw natapos lang ya ang online class, ambag ko lang is good morning maam/good bye maam/yes sir bation ka.” And have you also been told that “online classes gid lang na, budlayan ka pa?” Because in reality, yes it was. It seems like the efforts have been doubled. Staying up late at night to get a bearable internet connection; listening to classes where chickens and dogs were louder than the audio; juggling backlogs due to fast-paced lessons and limited time; pulling an all-nighter and being greeted with a below-the-mean grade; and having an extended class than the usual class hours during face-to-face were just some of the norms this new setup brought to our batch.
Just like everybody else, I had also doubted my worth when F2F comprehensive exams ware given after we have been used to online classes. Could I make it knowing that I was not performing well in online classes? I was super anxious that people might judge me if I failed, and I even questioned whether I deserved my grades or not. I even cried in one of my subjects when I hadn’t finished answering the test. The passing score at that time was 49, and my score for that subject? It was merely 50/70. That 1-point margin made me realize how mysterious and powerful faith could be. That 1-point margin made me realize I am not knowledgeable because of myself alone. It was Him who reminded me that, “who am I to say what the future holds?”
It was all faith that made the journey easy to go through. It was faith in God and faith in yourself. How many times have you said, “Kakapoy na gid ya, indi na ko?” But look at where you are right now, sitting in front of this stage and reaching this line just in time like everybody else. It is during those times when you brace yourself with the possibility of failing, when you are not as good as the achievers in your class, but that would make you realize that you can do well, too.
We may always have doubts about what we can do, but we should not forget the potential we have in us. When you want to become someone else, there is another person out there who also wants to become what and who you are. I may be standing here as your batch valedictorian, but remember that success is boundless. It’s not just about being academically superior but also possessing and developing the necessary skills to excel in the workplace. You are more than what you are afraid of.
As we close this chapter of our lives, let us take a moment to thank everyone who has helped us succeed: Our university, which has expanded greater academic opportunities; Our professors, who had passionately and competently taught us a large portion of our chosen profession; Our parents, guardians, and loved ones, who were there to listen to all our breakdowns, to cheer us up when we accomplished something, to be the pillar of our dreams, and who supported us with love, care, and financial assistance; our friends and classmates, who made college a bearable journey and served as our open diaries and our support system; and, most importantly, above and above all, to God, the Most High, who is more than sufficient. Our utmost gratitude to Him and his divine providence!
As we leave these corners, may we never forget where our dreams began, our university. On behalf of all the graduates, we promise to uphold the Centralian values that have been inculcated in us and to be the epitome of what a Centralian should be. As we go on to our chosen career, we assure you that we will be persons of character and substance who promotes success, integrity, and excellence in all ways.
To God be all the glory!
By Wenn I. Ricaforte, BSED-S, Summa Cum Laude
Delivered during the 94th Graduation of University Colleges, CPU on July 24, 2022 (second batch) at the Rose Memorial Auditorium.
Wenn I. Ricaforte, BSED-S, Summa Cum Laude, delivers the response on behalf of the graduates – second batch.
Life is a wonderful journey. A course that you set and determine by the choices you make each day. Eleanor Roosevelt once said, “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams”.
Thank you Atty. Salex Alibogha for the motivational speech, and also thank you to the commencement committee for the privilege of speaking on behalf of the graduates today. Chairperson of the Board of Trustees, Dr. Elmer Q. Pedregosa, University President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles, distinguished administrators, esteemed teachers, beloved parents, honored guests, and fellow graduates of Batch 2022, good afternoon.
Let me introduce myself to you first, I am Wenn Irabon Ricaforte from Kinalangay Viejo, Malinao, Aklan. I am the eldest of the three siblings. I am a daughter of a licensed midwife and an ordinary farmer na if may bagyo, mababawasan ang kita and if sobrang init naman, mababawasan din. A member of an ordinary Filipino family that gives importance to education, a graduate of Kinalangay Viejo Integrated School, a humble barrio school.
That is why studying here in Iloilo was a very difficult decision not just for me but for my family as well. Malayo sa pamilya, may kamahalan ang tuition, at baka hindi ko kayanin. From a mere barrio school to Central Philippine University. But every time I think of my parent’s sacrifices, it gives me enough motivation to continue. Kahit na, ni minsan, hindi naman hiningi sakin ng mga magulang ko na magka award at medals. Ang hiningi lang nila ay mag aral ako ng mabuti at ginawa ko lang din yon.
Allow me to tell you a secret, I was also motivated to work hard for my dreams because I have this realization that “Life is indeed short”. I have to make the most out of it. If the life expectancy of a normal Filipino is 71 years, that’s only 25, 915 days or 621, 960 hours or 37, 317, 600 minutes or 2, 239, 056, 000 seconds…. I said to myself, can I still afford to waste a single second? I was thinking of my parents, how many more years do I have to spend with them? Will I still be able to give them the comfort they deserve? Indeed, time wasted can never be regained… Now, as I am standing here, I am thinking of how many young people out there do not think about the value of time and the importance of giving their best shot in everything that they do…
My fellow graduates, I am not here to brag about anything. I am not here to tell everyone that I am a Summa Cum Laude. I am here to encourage all of you, that if you really put your heart into it, if you look at the sacrifices of your parents, if you see their tireless efforts to send us to school, then, that will already be enough for us to do our best as their children. And you being here today prove that you are successful at recognizing your parent’s sacrifices.
As for me, anak man ako ng isang magsasaka, anak man ako ng isang midwife, graduate man ako ng hindi kilalang high school, pero here I am standing before you. Nakayanan ang college! It simply means that, kung kaya ko, kung kaya ng mga magulang ko, kakayanin ninyo, kakayanin natin, at kakayanin din ng iba.
I might be a Summa Cum Laude but the honor is not mine, hindi tayo ang bida sa araw na ito, kundi ang ating mga magulang. This medal is not for me but for my parents, for without them, I will never be who I a/*m, and I will never be here today. So graduates, after this, please also take time to give your parents a tight hug and say thank you. It’s because they deserve it. They truly deserve it from us. This time, dear graduates, can we give our parents a big round of applause?
At this point, let me take this opportunity to express my deep gratitude to the following people who have helped and supported me through the years. I will not be me without them. Allow me to speak in my native dialect.
Sa akong tatay ag nanay, nga ginaubra gid ro tanan para eang masuportahan ag maiprovide ro akong mga kinahang ean sa akong pag eskuyla, kamo ru dahilan it akong paghimakas ag pagpursigi sa pagtuon. Abo guid nga saeamat!
To my teachers from elementary to college, thank you so much Ma’ams and Sirs. Thank you for all the knowledge, guidance, protection and dreams that you had instilled in me. I am and will forever be indebted to you.
To DOST, the scholarship you entrusted me was my ticket to the realization of my dreams. Please continue in giving hopes and chances to deserving students to study and reach their dreams for themselves and for their families. Thank you so much.
To Central Philippine University, thank you for your excellent, high-calibre faculty members, for your amiable office staff and administrators. Thank you for being my home for the past 4years and for honing me to uphold the Centralian values.
To my board mates, classmates, and friends; the times we shared together through the ups and downs of our college lives will forever be etched in my heart. Ang mga late night ice creams and food hunting naton ang nagapabugtaw sa akon kung hell week sa school. Madamo guid nga salamat.
Most importantly, to my God who is the source of all the knowledge and wisdom, my Alpha and my Omega, my beginning and my ending. Thank you for giving me the gift of life, talent, and intelligence among other beautiful things. I also appreciate that you have given me the best parents, families, teachers, and friends. All for your greater glory Dear God. (tingin sa taas and point)
Fellow graduates, this is not the end but the beginning of a new chapter of our lives. As we leave this university, may we always remember to uphold the Central spirit to lead us onward.
Congratulations batch 2022!
Maraming salamat and for the last time, I am Wenn Irabon Ricaforte, a graduate of a barrio school, from an ordinary family, Suma Cum Laude, Bachelor of Secondary Education Major in Science Central Philippine University Class of 2022.
Bloom wherever you are planted! God be glorified through our lives!
By Cyrus A. Natividad
1,596 students graduated last July 24, 2022.
The 94th Commencement Exercises of the University Colleges was held on July 24, 2022 with the first batch of Graduates at 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM for the second batch, at the Rose Memorial Auditorium. This was the first in-person graduation of the University Colleges after two years of having a virtual graduation. There were 1,596 students that marched for their graduation.
The program started with the Entrance of Colors and processional of the Graduating Students, the Board of Trustees and Corporation Members, Officers of the Administration, Deans and other participants. The CPU Symphonic Band performed the overture virtually.
Associate Pastor for Christian Education, Rev. Ruth Lunasco led the invocation which was followed by the National Anthem led by Ms. Crista S. Huyong, Cultural Affairs Director.
Dr. Teodoro C. Robles, CPU President and Dr. Elmer Q. Pedregosa, Chairman –Board of Trustees delivered their words of greetings and encouragement. Dr. Florence P. Bogacia, Vice President for Finance and Administration introduced the Commencement Speaker who is Hon. Salex E. Alibogha, Commissioner, Legal Education Board, Republic of the Philippines.
Atty. Salex E. Alibogha shared his life testimony in his Commencement Address. He testified how God helped him inspite of their situation in which his father was a janitor while his mother was a vendor. All of them graduated with respective degrees because of determination and faith in God.
CPU President Dr. Teodoro C. Robles, assisted by Mrs. Emerald Joy E. Perucho, Assistant Registrar, conferred the degrees upon the graduates.
The First Batch of Conferees were the CARES with its Dean, Jaime C. Cabarles, PhD., Arts and Sciences, with Dean Stella G. Fernandez, PhD and Business and Accountancy with Dean Lorna T. Grande, PhD.
The 2nd Batch of Graduates who were conferred their degrees in the afternoon included the College of Computer Studies, with Dean Ma. Christina A. Quijano, M.S.C.S.; College of Education with Dean Merly L. Junsay, PhD.; College of Hospitality Management with Dean Ma. Medalla P. Baliao, M.M.H.M.; College of Nursing with Officer-in-Charge Melba M. Sale, M.A.N.; College of Engineering, with Dean Dany C. Molina, M.S.M.E.; Pharmacy, with Acting Dean Vincent Anthony V. Militante, R.Ph.; College of Medicine, with Dean Henry D. Gonzales, M.D.; College of Theology Dean Bernabe C. Pagara, Th.D. and School of Graduate Studies, with Dean Rowena M. Libo-on, D. Mgt.
In the morning, Pearl Joy L . Suficiencia, BS Accountancy, Summa Cum Laude gave the response in behalf of the graduates. In the afternoon, it was given by Wenn I. Ricaforte, BSED-S, Summa Cum Laude.
Rev. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian led a Prayer for the Graduates. The graduates took their pledge of the Alumni with CPUAAI President Dr. Florentino P. Alerta II. Ms. Huyong led the singing of the “Alma Mater Song”, followed by the Benediction by Rev. Sian. CPU ROTC Cadets in their Fatigue Uniform then carried on the Exit of Colors with a recessional of the Graduates, VIP’s and Officers of the Administration.
Prof. Kaye Arden Q. Gallo, Faculty DLMCH and Miss Carmelle Frances M. Romero, Administrative Officer, Office of the President, were the hosts of the program in the morning and afternoon.
On July 23, 2022, on Saturday, the Baccalaureate Service was held at the Rose Memorial Auditorium. It was attended by all the graduating students. The speaker was Rev. Dr. Nestor D. Bunda, a Global Servant of the International Ministries. He challenged the graduates to give their best in everything that they do. A life testimony was also given by Charlotte Gadian, Magna Cum Laude, BA Communications and also an Excel Chorale Leadership Awardee.
By Honorable Salex Espinosa Alibogha, LLM
Commissioner, Legal Education Board
Republic of the Philippines
Delivered during the 94th Graduation of University Colleges, CPU on July 24, 2022 at the Rose Memorial Auditorium.
Hon Salex E. Alibogha shared his life testimony during his Commencement Address.
Greetings!
The Honorable Officers and Members of the Board of Trustees and CPU Corporation led by Dr. Elmer Pedregosa, Chairperson, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles- President of Central Philippine University, Officers of the CPU Administration, Deans, Faculty and Staff, my dear CPU alumni all over the world, my colleagues in the legal profession, special citation to my beloved nursing alumni – the members of CCINAA all over the world, proud parents and guests and my dearest graduating class of 2022, good morning/good afternoon.
BIG CONGRATULATIONS my dearest Class of 2022. Being the first graduates of the K-12 and outcomes-based education and having experienced the pandemic and its challenges and limitations, you are a successful survivors and victors of the 21st century and the FIRe-Fourth industrial Revolution. In a VUCA world, where there is Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity and Ambiguity, you managed to have Victory, Understanding, Clarity and Agility. The pandemic has taught us to be more patient, persevering, resilient and most of all family centered and faithful to God. Optimism wise, the pandemic has taught us how to treasure healthy living and healthy relationship with our families, groups and communities
Reminiscing my past, 30 YEARS ago, I thought I could not attend our baccalaureate service and commencement exercises. My mother said “Nonoy wala kita money to buy all those clothes and shoes”. I only had one pair of shoes for my entire college of education. If not for kind-hearted faculty, alumni and benefactor I had not worn presentable clothes and shoes for that event. I still treasure those people who had helped me come up the stage presentable. I am not ashamed to tell you this story because I wanted you to be inspired by the fact that poverty is not a hindrance to success and behind the clouds the sun is still shining. I belong to a financially challenged family. My father was a janitor in a public school and my mother was a side-walk vendor outside of that public school. I am the youngest of nine (9) siblings but because of determination and hard work, I was able to help my eight (8) other siblings and my 16 nieces/nephews have completed their college education, the last one in 2016 who is also a Centralian lawyer working in public attorney’s office. It’s my way of giving back to my family, especially to honor my father and mother who were my inspiration of hard work and diligence. The gesture of those people who helped me, sparked and etched in my heart the value of giving back and sharing my blessings to my Alma Mater, the community and to those needy people in the College and my current workplace. My routine is that If I have received blessings from work and others, I need to share it with other people and not just to myself. I used to do relief operations during calamities and disasters. During the pandemic while others have been staying in their homes, I went out of my way with other alumni to reached out to 37 hospitals in Region 6 to donate PPE’s and other relief goods to our nurses especially providing weekly groceries tfor 16 weeks to the staff nurses of IMH. These donations were all supported by the nursing alumni supporting my advocacy. Self-centeredness has no place for success. If we want people centered and outer-directed behavior in life, sharing your blessings and giving back to the needy shall be the key to successful living. I used to care and share to the security guards, janitors and rank and file staff of the University and my current workplace.
When I was young, I dreamed of becoming a medical doctor, but because of poverty and circumstances in our family life, I was not able to fulfill my dream to be a great doctor. I was at first frustrated but did not question God’s Will because I believe he has something in store for me – my wife who is the doctor of my heart and the pediatrician of my children.
I have several stories and life events of hardships and struggles which the people in the community have known me and my dedicated mother. Nanay was my inspiration and cornerstone until she died at 96 last year. It was difficult to release her until her last breath, because I lost my greatest inspiration, but she is now in heaven guiding me and her grandchildren, great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren. She was instrumental in guiding me all throughout my student life and even during my married life. She is so popular in the CPU business office and registrar before. She used to sell with people there fruits, nuts , crackers and other food commodities whatsoever, and then follow-up my allowances and benefits being an entrance scholar of the University and state scholar of the Bureau of Higher Education and now CHED- Commission on Higher Education which sustained me all throughout my nursing education. I was the last enrollee at Central Philippine University College of Nursing in June, 1988. I thought I could not make in the First Nursing School. My father died in 1989 His situation being unattended in a public hospital due to lack of family resources has inspired me study hard and finish nursing. I promised to myself that this will not happen to my mother, my siblings, my own family and my significant others and the needy people. I kept all of these to my heart and considered this as a challenge and motivation to go on.
God is so good all the time for the people who cling to his promise. I could always remember what my elementary mentor has told me several times.” See how God Loves you”. When my father died in 1989, I was so disappointed because he could not witness how I struggled to give him a good future. My mother and siblings and relatives however have witnessed how I shared with them and how I lifted them up in their challenging situation. Along the way in my nursing studies I met a benevolent couple, a doctor and a nurse who treated me like their son. They helped me until I finished my law degree and even now they still serve as my guiding star. I am truly indebted to this couple and they are just like second parents to me helping me in all my trials and difficulties in life. I could just imagine without my mother and my foster parents from Jaro helping and guiding me throughout my journey, perhaps I could not realize what I have now. Always remember if you are good, there are people who will be sent by God who are shoulders to lean on. Conduct yourself and live your life in a righteous manner and with humility in service to others and God will send people who will help. This premise has been proven in my life even in Service to Central. My dearest nursing alumni have been supportive of my initiatives for the College of Nursing.
Let me lift some of my favorite lines from the song of Babbie Mason/and Carswell by Concord music and I quote:
All things work for our good
Though sometimes we don’t see
How they could
Struggles that break our hearts in two
Sometimes blind us to the truth
Our Father knows what’s best for us
His ways are not our own
So when your pathway grows dim
And you just don’t see Him,
Remember you’re never alone
God is too wise to be mistaken
God is too good to be unkind
So when you don’t understand
When don’t see His plan
When you can’t trace His hand
Trust His Heart
One famous philosopher has said, “Destiny is not a matter of chance, it is not just a thing to be wanted for. It is a thing to be achieved.” Thus let me share to you the mnemonics for success summarized and made into a meaningful whole based on videos and books on stories of success shared by my closest alumni. AWHIPFS. A- for acceptance W- for Will power, H- for hard work, I- for industry, P- for persistence, F – faith in God and S- service and sharing with others your blessings.
Acceptance:
perceive reality accurately and consciously acknowledge what you perceive.
The first step is to openly accept where you are right now, whether you feel good about it or not. Surrender yourself to what you have to work with — maybe it isn’t fair, but it is what it is. And you won’t get any stronger until you accept where you are right now.
Will Power:
The difference between a successful person and others is not a lack of strength, not a lack of knowledge, but rather a lack of will.
– Vince Lombardi
Willpower is your ability to set a course of action and say, “Engage
The big secret in life is that there is no big secret. Whatever your goal, you can get there if you’re willing to work.
– Oprah Winfrey
Hard Work:
My definition of hard work is that ANYTHING which challenges you.
Strong challenge is commonly connected with strong results. Sure you can get lucky every once in a while and find an easy path to success.
When you discipline yourself to do what is hard, you gain access to a realm of results that are denied everyone else. The willingness to do what is difficult is like having a key to a special private treasure room.
Industry:
Industry is working hard. In contrast to hard work, being industrious doesn’t necessarily mean doing work that’s challenging or difficult.
It simply means putting in the time. You can be industrious doing easy work or hard work.
Persistence:
Persistence is the ability to maintain action regardless of your feelings. You press on even when you feel like quitting. A famous saying says.
ONCE A JOB HAS FIRST BEGUN,
NEVER LEAVE IT,
‘TIL IT’S DONE.
BE THY LABOR, GREAT AND SMALL,
DO IT WELL
OR NOT AT ALL…”
“I do the best I know- the very best I can and I mean to keep doing so until the end.
If the end brings me out all right, what is said against me won’t amount to anything
If the end brings me out wrong, ten angels swearing I was right would make no difference.”
-Abraham Lincoln
Faith in God:
Even when everything fails, we just cling to God even if when the life seemed hopeless because Behind the clouds the sun is still shinning. God will never forsake us, for he knows what is better for us and he has plans for each of us. Maintain a very good religious life and the burden will be light.
SERVICE and Sharing with Others:
Robert Louis Stevenson a famous psychologist has once said, “I believe, the very purpose of life is to serve and share with others. In my own experience, I have found out that with altruism, there is greater sense of satisfaction and contentment. Cultivating a concern for others automatically puts the mind at ease. It helps remove whatever fears or insecurities we may have, and gives us strength to cope with any obstacles we encounter. It is the principal source of success in life. The more you help others, the more you are blessed. This has the origin in the life of our Lord. Since we are not only material creatures, it is a mistake to place all our hopes for external development alone, and for ourselves alone. We are here in the world for a while, and then we are gone. The question is: Do our life matters? Is it possible that we can make a difference in the life of others. Every life matters, and our existence will be fruitful is we can make a lasting legacy and make an impact in the life of others. Its not only money that counts but relationship and goodwill to the people around. The values of altruism, equality and respecting the worth of an individual will truly contribute to one’s path to success. Always remember that money is only a medium for commodity.
“We learn wisdom from failures much more than success. We often discover what we will do by finding out what we will not do and probably he who never made a mistake never made a discovery.”
“Life affords no higher pleasure, than that of surmounting difficulties, passing from one step to another. It is the ability to go from one failure to another with no loss of determination.” Let me share to you some success story of selected people,”I enjoy reading about the lives of great men. One consistent fact I noticed is that most of them experienced failures in one way or another.
I ventured on working as a nurse in the United States of America in 2001-2002, but the emptiness is there until one of my closest patients a lawyer confined in the nursing home told me “Salex, go back to the Philippines and continue to serve your Alma Mater and the Filipino people. Thus, I went back in June, 2002 and serve my Alma Mater again. I did not know that it was God’s way for me to serve the College of Nursing again and the Filipino people through legal education board. Here are some stories of success from great people, to wit:
When the great Polish pianist Ignace Paderewski first chose to study piano, his music teacher told him his hands were too small to master the keyboard. When the great Italian tenor Enrico Caruso first applied for instruction his music teacher told him his voice sounded like the wind whistling through the window. When the great English statesman Benjamin Disraeli, attempted to speak in the parliament for the first time, the members hissed him into silence and laughed when he said, though I sit down now, time will come when you will hear of me. Henry Ford forgot to put a reverse gear in his first car. Thomas A. Edison spent two million dollars for the first experiment which proved to be of little value.
Abraham Lincoln has a biography of trials and difficulties. He has difficult childhood with less than one year of formal schooling but was elected US President in 1960.
“John F. Kennedy, one of the greatest President of the United States, failed in the entrance exam in Harvard law school but he turned out to be great president. Claro M. Recto, a statesman failed in the bar exam at once, but when took the second he placed number one and became a great statesmen of the Philippines. Alvin Patrimonio, a MVP player of PBA, did not pass the first screening as a varsity player in basketball, but turned out to be successful in the field of basketball. These are some of the few stories on success, which could inspire you to go on. Do not consider poverty, insecurities, trials and difficulties as hindrances to go on. Just consider them as dogs barking on your way.
Always aim not to be sheltered from dangers, but to be fearless in facing others. Don’t brag for stilling the pain but for the heart that can endure it. Don’t look for allies in life’s battlefield, but to your own hope for the patience to win freedom. Always pray to grant you to be brave enough, feeling your mercy in success alone and for you to grasp of your hands in failures. It is therefore a mistake to suppose that we succeed through success because most successful men achieved thru failures in some point in time.
Consider this event as an element to your success. The event will not be realized of course without the efforts of the people around you , people who are mindful of your goodness, Your parents to whom you are indebted very much whose happiness is to see their children successful.
Parents made immeasurable sacrifice to support you.
Let us clap our hands for parents who are here today, and those parents who are not here on earth, and has great hope for their children. ( Beloved and proud parents please rise and be recognized, lets give them a round of applause). Dear students please stand and tell your parents. Nanay and Tatay , I love you. Thank you for everything you have done for me.
Your alma mater and your mentors who exerted their efforts to transform you to be better persons of your community. Please do not forget to give back to your family and loved ones, your Alma Mater, the community and most especially to the needy people. Centralians are bound by the Central Spirit that Illuminates Christian values and generosity in one way or another. Your mentors have made difference in your lives. To other people who in one way, or another had contributed to your quest for success and above all to almighty God who guided and inspired you to chose the noblest profession of the healing ministry. The Lord who is always around you even during the days when life seemed hopeless. We don’t have any other rescue, but to grip and cling to God amidst the economic and health crisis of our country.
Always remember despite these trials you need to:
1. bring people to life, don’t curtail life.
2. treat others like yourself. Be sincere.
3. Fill the world with love.because
4. You and I have a mission in life.
Let me leave you with this pearl of wisdom for success from Dib Mossabi and I quote”.
There are 8 secrets of success found in the four corners of my room:
The roof said: Aim high
The fan said: Be cool
The clock said: Every minute is precious
The window said: See the world
The mirror said: Reflect before you act
The calendar said: Be up to date
The door said: Push hard to reach your goals
The floor said: Plant your feet on the ground”
Lastly, let me end with this reflection by Hope Sterling of Bible Daily:
Cain killed Abel not because Abel wronged him or fought with him but, it was because Cain couldn’t stand the FAVOR OF GOD/Blessings of God on Abel’s life.
Sometimes you may wonder why people talk behind your back, why they hate you, why they do the things they do to you. It’s not that you have a problem, it’s because they can’t stand the favor/blessings of God on your life.
That’s why you don’t need to stress yourself over people who are inclined to frustrate or misunderstand you. You have to understand that not everyone will like you but everyone shall witness that you are favored/blessed by the Lord. Share, give back and extend the blessings you have received from God to your family, community, Alma mater and most especially to the needy people.
Stand firm in God and what you believe in and no one will shake you.
God bless my dearest Class of 2022.
By Nestor D. Bunda, DTh, BCC
Global Servant, International Ministries
Delivered during the Baccalaureate Service of CPU on July 23, 2022, 10:00 AM at the Rose Memorial Auditorium and with Scripture Text found in 2 Corinthians 9:6-15.
Rev. Dr. Nestor D. Bunda, Global Servant of the International Ministries, delivered the Baccalaureate Message.
Good morning everyone. Good morning sisters and brothers in Christ.
In spite of the declaration of war of Covid against humanity around the world, I am very grateful for this privilege to bring the good news of Jesus Christ to you on the occasion of celebrating and honoring you, the CPU graduating class of 2022. Congratulations graduates!
Thank you CPU baccalaureate committee for inviting me. Thank you my alma mater, Central Philippine University through President Ted Robles for the welcoming spirit.
My friends, the Word of God today is brought to you by St. Paul, which is his message to the Corinthian church two thousand years ago.
An important message of God to the Corinthians thru St. Paul is about giving and receiving. St. Paul asserts, that whatever you give has a corresponding just reward. He encourages the Christians at Corinth to give their best so they can receive the best reward as well. He motivates the church at Corinth to give the best of who they are. He encourages them to give the best they have.
St. Paul encourages them nga ihatag ang pinakamanami nila nga kabuhi kag ang pinakanami nga ara sa ila.
Let us meditate on the spirit of giving and receiving according to St. Paul. Let us pray: Gracious and loving God, may your Holy Spirit be with us as we discern your Word today. May your spirit of wisdom and common sense be with us as we ponder upon your Word on giving and receiving. Amen!
The title of our Baccalaureate sermon, “Give your Best” (Ihatag ang imo pinakamanami) is based on the gentle counsel of St. Paul on giving and receiving.
Let us find out how we can learn from St. Paul on giving the best we can. For you to find out how to give the best you have, I would like you to answer a question. Please keep your answer to yourself and see if it has a similarity to the answer of St. Paul.
What options have you when you give? St. Paul has two clear answers to that question. First, you can give reluctantly, and second, you can give wholeheartedly.
You have the option to give reluctantly. Ang paghatag bala nga may pang-alag-ag; inang daw nagapaganot antes maghatag; ukon daw pasapayan lang nga paghatag. Or, you can give wholeheartedly. Ang bug-os bala nga paghatag; hatag nga wala gid hawid-hawid kag wala gid kondisyon; bug-os gid nga tagipusoon ang paghatag.
According to St. Paul, you can give wholeheartedly, reluctantly, or even give just because you are forced to do so. However, God does not like a reluctant giver. Wala gid nanamian ang Dios kon pasapayan lang ang imo paghatag.
What happens when you give reluctantly? When you give halfheartedly, meaning not 100 percent, you will also receive less than 100 percent. St. Paul said, “when you sow sparingly, you will reap sparingly.” Kon tunga lang man nga tubig ang imo ginbutang sa baso, ti tunga lang man sa baso ang pwede mo mainom.
Or, you can give with complete sincerity. You give because you decided in your heart to give the best you have.
When you give wholeheartedly, God will be happy and will bless you more.
Kon ginpuno mo imo baso sang tubig, isa gid ka baso ang imo tubig nga mainom.
When you give fully, you will abound in every work you do.
God, the supplier of everything will increase your blessings. When you give your best, God will enrich you so that you become even more generous.
Buot silingon, kon ginapuno mo pirmi ang imo baso sang tubig, maga-alalawas ang tubig mo, gani mas nga naga generous ka; naga alwan ka pa gid; nagamahinatagon ka pa gid.
When you do the best you can do, you are also serving others well. In other words, your service is not only to respond to the needs of others but most importantly, your service to others is also an overflowing expression of thanksgiving to God for all the blessings you received.
You sincerely serve not for personal self-interest but you serve because you are grateful to God. You serve because you are thankful to God for what he has done to your life. Therefore, it is joyful to give fully.
How about you? What do you prefer? Do you want to give reluctantly or wholeheartedly? Let’s find out your answers through these questions:
Are you satisfied with half-cooked rice (hilaw nga kan-on, ok man sa inyo)? It’s good, your answer is “No.” Otherwise, you will have a stomach problem if you eat half-cooked rice.
Do you like to live in a house with unfinished roofing? Gusto mo man mag estar sa balay nga wala matapos ang bubong? It’s good, your answer is “No.” Otherwise, you will get sick sleeping without protection.
Is it alright to be a student but not able to graduate? Maayo bala na nga nag-eskwela ka pero wala ka graduate? It’s good, your answer is “No.” Otherwise, you just spend money and great efforts but end up with nothing.
Would you like me to leave without finishing my baccalaureate sermon? Gusto nyo mahalin ko di subong? It’s good, your answer is “No,” because I usually preach for three hours.
Some said I am not handsome. Is that true? It’s good, your answer is “No.” Otherwise, you are fooling me and my angel will be angry at you.
Your answers to my questions only show that you do not like a half-baked life; you do not want a mediocre life (Indi kamo luyag sang maluya ukon gatinamad nga kabuhi; indi kamo luyag sang kabuhi nga daw wala energy); and, you do not want a casual life (pasapayan lang nga kabuhi).
Here are some more questions:
Do you want your parents to be proud of you? Because your answer is “Yes,” then do the best you can!
Do you like a higher salary? Because your answer is “Yes,” then do the best you can!
Do you want a successful life? Because your answer is “Yes,” then do the best you can!
Do you want to be happy in life? Because your answer is “Yes,” then do the best you can!
Life is good and beautiful when you do the best you can.
If you are working on something, do the best you can and finish it with quality. Jesus once said if you want to build a house, be sure to do your best to complete the construction of your house. Otherwise, those who see your unfinished house will ridicule you. People will insult you because you began to build your house but you were not able to finish it (Luke 14:28-30).
What happens when you give your best? When you do the best you can and intentionally do what is good, a lot of issues can be resolved. (Kon maayo ginahimo ninyo, kag hungod gid sa buot nga ginahimo nyo ang maayo, abaw, damo gid ang problema nga masolbar.)
If you are part of a road construction group, for example, wala gid sang lubak-lubak nga karsada, because you give the best you can. Kag kon may makita ka da nga lubak-lubak gina kay-o mo dayon.
Kon kamo bahin sang housing project group, and you do the best you can, magatahom pa gid ang aton kabalayan.
Kon kamo bahin sang teaching force, damo gid ang maga-alam because you give the best you can.
Kon kamo bahin sang health care force, damo gid magaayo sa ila balatian, because you do the best you can.
My next questions for you are these: How would you know you are doing the best you can? How would you know you are giving the best of who you are and you give the best of what you can do?
You will know that you are doing your best if you do good things when no one is watching you. Buot silingon nga imo gid na ya maayo nga kabubut-on nga naghatag ka sang pinakanami mo gid bisan wala ya sang nagabantay sa imo. Because you are giving your best even if no one is watching, katahom gid na ya sang resulta sang imo ginahimo.
Buot silingon, wala ka ya ga pang into sang iban, you are not fooling others; buot silingon honest ka gid ya kag may integrity kay kon ano ang maayo mo nga ginahimo sa public ginahimo mo man sa imo private life, even if no one is watching you.
To all of you graduates, you will be there in our chaotic but beautiful world; in our churches; and, in our communities. You are Centralians. In the world, you will demonstrate what you have embraced as Exemplary Christian Education for Life (EXCEL).
As Centralians and Christians, you are encouraged by the Word of God through St. Paul to give the best of who you are. You are expected to give the best of what you have.
When you give the best you can give, our world, your world, and your personal world will become more beautiful and meaningful!
This is my challenge to you all:
Identify one value nga ara na sa imo. Inang ginapakamahal mo gid bala, for example, the value of honesty (pagkatampad); the value of kindness (pagkamaloloy-on); the value of generosity (pagkaalwan); the value of caring (pagkamapinalanggaon).
Identify your value. If you identify honesty as your great value, then try hard to do the best you can, to be honest, every day, every hour, every minute, and every second of your life. If you identify kindness as your value, try to do the best you can to be kind every day. If you value generosity, do the best you can to be generous every day. If you choose to be caring, try very hard to be caring every day.
Always choose to give your best. Choose to give wholeheartedly and it can change your life for the better. Choose to give, out of the abundance of your heart. It will make you more generous and kind.
Give your best, and God will do the rest. God will bless you more than you ever wished for. Amen!
By Charlotte Gadian
BA Communication, Magna Cum Laude
Excel Chorale Leadership Awardee
Delivered during the Baccalaureate Service of CPU on July 23, 2022 at the Rose Memorial Auditorium.
Charlotte Gadian, BA Communications, Magna Cum Laude, shared a testimony during the Baccalaureate Service.
To the members of the CPU Board of Trustees and CPU Corporation; our University President, Dr. Teodoro Robles; our three vice presidents, Dr. Florence Bogacia, Vice President for Finance and Administration; Dr. Irving Domingo Rio, Vice President for Academic Affairs; and Dr. Esther Rose Romarate, Vice President for Student Affairs; faculty and staff of this University; parents and loved ones of our graduating students; and my fellow members of Batch 2022, good morning.
It is my honor and privilege to share my story with all of you today, with the hope that it can become a source of inspiration and a testimony of God’s unending love for His children.
My life has an unusual story: an adopted baby that was exchanged for a 1000 peso-debt my biological parents whom I never met had accumulated from a small store. They couldn’t afford to pay, so for 1000 pesos, they gave me to a government employee who can’t have a baby so they could pay off their debt.
From there, I lived a normal life – I had my adoptive parents, and we were a family.
But when I was in 3rd year high school, the one who adopted me, my Nanay, was sick with cancer, so she had to leave me to her best friend at work. She eventually succumbed to the illness. And while I never understood mourning at that time, I still grieved, but I never devoted a lot of emotions into it at that time. I continued to live with her best friend, and she became mommy. The transition wasn’t that hard, and I focused most of myself and my time to my studies.
I never had problems with my studies in college. I have always received good grades, I never had failing marks. It was going pretty well. However, we can’t be perfect. My battles were more about myself. It was more about my view in life, my purpose, my image, and my faith. I was always worried about impressing other people and I always wondered about their perceptions of me. I never knew that it was starting to break me. The lack of knowledge about my faith in God was also painful. I never felt belongingness and there’s always this missing piece inside of me. I’m sure we all have felt that somehow. We all felt that the world is against us and we crave for something more to life than what we have now.
I had sleepless nights, overthinking about those things and it is true…that the hardest battle you can ever face is the battle between you and yourself. You don’t want to be your own enemy. I had endless anxieties about it and I always craved for genuine relationships with other people because all my life, I’ve always had trust issues.
My first two years in college was typical. Mommy and I were trying to recover from a loss and I was motivated to work hard in my studies. I was doing quite well and I was blessed with a couple of opportunities by the school. I was able to go to another country, got awards, and I could say that at that time, I was living my life.
I was indeed living my life until the pandemic happened. Those two years were the hardest years of my life. I developed social anxiety, I had a hard time coping with the online set-up, my faith was rocky, and we were struggling, trying to balance our financial situation. I knew that I could overcome it, but I realized that it was harder for mommy. I saw how she struggled with the situation. I saw how she longed for her friends and while her heart was breaking, mine was breaking too.
The pandemic drained me to the core. My mental health was weak and so was my emotional health. I thought that was it, but it got worse. In the middle of the pandemic, I had to undergo surgery because of a ruptured appendix. Due to this, I had to skip classes for a few days, and even postponed my research for a bit because I couldn’t stand and my mind was a mess. This experience proved that God will always be by our side. I am always grateful that my teachers from the Department of Languages, Mass Communication, and Humanities are compassionate and caring because they gave me time to recover and catch up with the classes I missed and also, I had my best friends who helped me.
After that experience, I was back to my normal pandemic life. Mommy and I were trying to do things to cope with the pandemic so we watched movies every night, we tried to learn how to cook and we talked about random things. This pandemic has given me the opportunity to bond more with mommy and make our mother-daughter relationship deeper. We got to plan out our future after I graduate, and we got to dream about our future destinations once the travel restrictions were lifted. We were happy.
Mid-September 2021, mommy started to feel weird. She had these constant headaches and dizziness. She was starting to get weak. I tried to convince her to go to the doctor, but she was too scared to go out of our home due to high COVID cases. Days passed and I noticed how she couldn’t keep her balance and she was always tired. We had her CT Scanned and we found out that it was cancer. During that time, I had sleepless nights and I also got sick trying to balance every aspect of my life – mental, emotional, and physical. That was it. That was the greatest heartbreak of my life. She spent two weeks in the hospital then on September 30, we lost her. I lost her. My greatest fear has finally caught up with me. I couldn’t eat well, I couldn’t sleep, and I cried every night knowing I lost the only person who understands every inch of me. I was left with nothing but grief and guilt. Questions were overflowing my mind. Was I a good daughter? Did I make her proud? Was she happy when she decided to be my guardian after my first mom died out of cancer too? Was she fulfilled? Was she happy? I thought of every single thing.
I had all the chance to be mad at God. I had all the opportunities to blame Him for everything that has happened in my life, but I didn’t. I continued to trust Him and His plans and I always wondered why. Then I realized that every day I had an opportunity to be mad at Him, I remembered every single thing, CPU has taught me about God’s promise. This school taught me that we can always trust God’s will.
CPU helped me by strengthening my faith and by developing my talents. In this institution, I received Christ and I found my purpose. CPU opened my eyes to what God can do. This school gave me an opportunity to lift my confidence, to learn more about the gospel and most importantly, to serve God in various ways. I will forever be grateful for all the opportunities this school has blessed me with.
These experiences taught me three things: sacrifice, strength, and breakthrough.
Pain is a fickle thing. God tested me big time. He knew my faith was rocky, and He gave me a lot of opportunities to strengthen it. I didn’t understand it at first but I knew He was preparing me for something special.
I learned how to be strong. Just when I thought I’ve sacrificed enough, I lost mommy, the person I love with all my heart.
God made me realize that we shouldn’t take everything for granted. You have to go through greater heights and you must make an effort in everything you do.
We should remember that we will always have our breakthrough. It may seem blurry now, but God will make it clear. Trust in His will and He will deliver. Hebrews 11:1 says, “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.”
This verse has always reminded me of God’s promise that He will never leave us nor forsake us. Despite my struggles, God made ways to send help. He sent out people who will help me in my needs even though I live alone and mom isn’t here anymore. He blessed me with good friends who will stay true to me and will never abandon me. He filled my life with overflowing opportunities that made me realize my worth. He gave me a purpose and this purpose is to share my story with you all. Right here. Right now. In this venue and on this special occasion. I am standing in front of you now – a living proof of God’s goodness. My testimony is a proof that God writes the most wonderful plot in every one’s life.
If you’re struggling right now, may it be in love, loss of a loved one, existential crisis, or mental struggle, never lose hope and most importantly, never lose your faith. God tells us in Isaiah 41:10, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” This is His promise. God’s love always perseveres, and we may lose a lot, but He will fill our cup over and over for us to be whole again.
My fellow Centralians, from this day forward, may we always remember to look forward with hope and not to look backward with regret.