By Cyrus A. Natividad
CPU VPSA Dr. Esther Rose A. Romarate with fellow Centralian, PRC Regional Director Romel B. Balisang.
Central Philippine University was represented at PRC’s 49th Anniversary and Professional Regulatory Commission Week, held from June 16 to 22, 2022. This year’s theme is “PRC @49: Forging ahead towards PROFESSIONALISM, RESILIENCY, AND COMPETITIVENESS.”
In an invitation sent to CPU President Dr. Teodoro C. Robles, PRC Regional Director Rommel P. Balisang, who is a Centralian, expressed “great pleasure for CPU to be represented in the event.” He said, “True to this year’s theme, forging ahead with partners and stakeholders will surely bring us greater heights in public service.” Balisang is a BSED major in mathematics graduate of CPU batch 1993.
Dr. Esther Rose A. Romarate, CPU Vice President for Student Affairs, made the representation with her secretary Ma. Jean Palomata. They joined the parade in a CPU van with PRC Anniversary streamer attached to it. She said that “CPU participation can strengthen the partnership we share with them as well as express our support and appreciation for their service to our graduates.
Dr. Romarate was the Overall Coordinator of the CPU Bar Exam Venue Team.
By Cyrus A. Natividad
Members of CPU SHS Student Council with their advisers: Sonilo L. Crasco, Jr. and Herman V. Jornadal during the outreach activity in Dumarao, Capiz.
A food distribution with tree planting activity was conducted by the CPU Senior High School Department Student Council on June 10, 2022 in Brgy. Aglalana, Dumarao, Capiz, through an outreach program called KapitKamay. The SHS program aims to provide voluntary aid the Indigenous People (IPs) of Brgy. Aglalana. The environmental awareness includes an introduction of a sustainable program through the tree planting activity. The fruit tree seedlings were distributed to the IP’s – for them to plant and take care of as their own.
The outreach activity which was in collaboration with CPU Biodiversity on Wheels (CPU-BOW) – HARIBON Foundation, and CPU Sustainable Campus Committee (SCC) also had mini-lecture, story-telling and interactive activities in relation to preservation and conservation of the environment. The KapitKamay program was made possible with the help and support of Atty. Jeremy Bionat, who provided the seedlings, among them jackfruit, guyabano, marang, avocado, and cuttings of madre de agua.
The activity was also attended by Engr. Levi O. De Los Santos Jr., Director of Community Engagement and Service-Learning Center, Dr. Stella Fernandez – SCC representative, Dr. Myrna Luceño and BSBio students – BOW-HARIBON representatives; SHS Asst. Principal – Prof. Benjie Nee Gallinero and SHS advisers -Prof. Sonilo L. Crasco and Herman V. Jornadal. The activity was spearheaded by Riki Chast G. Fernandez, SHS Minister of Outreach and the SHS Student council.
By Cyrus A. Natividad
CPU ARUGA COO Angel A. Supetran, Jr. in a discussion with Centralian Link’s Cyrus A. Natividad.
On Monday, June 27, 2022, the CPU College of Agriculture Retirees Urban Gardening Association (ARUGA) alumni headed by its President, former DA RFO VI Regional Executive Director Larry P. Nacionales, local government officials and executives from the Department of Agriculture Region 6 will carry out the ground breaking ceremony in Brgy. Talongadian, Sta, Barbara, Iloilo-where the P10 Million 30 Sow Level Swine Multiplier and Technodemo Farm Project will be built.
The project is a component of the Department of Agriculture under the Bayanihan II Law passed by Congress and is being implemented under the Department of Agriculture, Integrated National Swine Production Initiatives for Recovery and Expansion Program (INSPIRE) which aims to build, restore and recover the breeder base to support the gradual restocking and repopulation of the swine industry.
Angel A. Supetran, Jr. (CPU BS Agriculture ’75), CPU ARUGA Chief Operating Officer for the project, explained that “the project is prepositioned to mitigate the threat of the African Swine Fever (ASF) affecting Luzon and Mindanao area.” He added that, “The objective of this project is to improve the breed of hogs for backyard growers. Piglets will be given to beneficiaries of the Department of Agriculture, preferably women who will start up the value chain of the swine products. Sta. Barbara will be the host LGU in Iloilo.”
It was learned from Supetran that the Technodemo will include a Learning Center and an Artificial Insemination Laboratory for the beneficiary. As a protocol, seventy percent of the fund will be used for maintenance and operation.
The expected guests at the ground breaking ceremony will be Sta. Barbara Mayor Rema B. Somo, Provincial Agriculturist Dr. Edelfonso Toledo and DA Regional Director (Centralian) Remia Recoter.
Supetran who is a Training and Consultancy Manager of CPU ARUGA Farming System Learning Site is also the former President of Total Care Staffing Services, LLC; Supervisor of Norsk Hydro Corporation.
ARUGA is a Filipino term which means Care. CPU CARES is Central Philippine University College of Agriculture, Resources and Environmental Sciences.
By Cyrus A. Natividad
CPU REC Officers and members in a fellowship lunch at Breakthrough Restaurant.
A fellowship lunch for members of the CPU Research Ethics Committee Chaired by Dr. Joy Raso was held at the Ponsyon-Breakthrough Restaurant in Mandurriao on June 22, 2022. Called by REC Member Dr. Luisito Conducta a Fellowship Lunch Part II, the meeting also provided for the committee to take up the socials and future plans of the CPU- REC, where they left off during their Summer Bonding activity last July 8. The committee is awaiting accreditation for Level 1 results.
The newcomers who joined the fellowship lunch Part II were: Dr. Mary Ann De La Vega, PhD –WVSU; Dr. Diadem Pearl Equiña and Dr. Lerma Paris of DOST Research Ethics Group.
By Meriam Amy, CPUAAGTA PRO
CPU Alumni Association of Greater Toronto held a picnic at the Centennial Park in Etobicoke.
June 11, 2022 was a beautiful Saturday at Centennial Park in Etobicoke. For the first time in the last two years the CPU Alumni Association of Greater Toronto gathered for the Annual Picnic.
The food filled the two 12-foot picnic tables. All kinds of variety imaginable. Main dishes that reminded all of us of being back home. The noodles, palabok and variety of vegetables cooked to perfection. The lechon – generously donated by Celiz Law. The spread of dessert, in fact my chocolate brownies and chocolate chips have no match for the suman with coconut and the sponge cake with cheese that totally melt as it touches your palate.
The fun started out with a game of letter scramble. Each team must guess the word that would match the description of the leader Faith Gicana. The one group keeps rearranging themselves instead of the letters, we heard more giggles and laughter from that group. I also brought other active games suitable for all ages. The bochi ball was a real hit. The first two teams did not move to the other games because they got really involve and spent 1 hour trying to break the tie score.
It was good to hear testimonies represented from different generations. Marianne Grecia, Carel Gicana read one of the poems “Amazing Grace” from her newly published book” Before 24”. Cheche Obregon shared an animated version of happiness and contentment of being single. Sir Rod Gonzales concluded the program with a short meditation. He highlighted that we should continue to be strong, keep our faith in the midge of trials and challenges. We must also hold on to the promise of God’s amazing grace.
The weather was perfect despite a forecast of 80% shower. As we were cleaning up and saying our goodbyes at 4:00 p.m., we are reminded again that God’s faithfulness is very real and ever present in that gathering. There were 60 adults plus a dozen kids. We also extended a warm welcome to a new CPU alumnus, Mike and Karen Cocjin and their 2 kids, an Engineering graduate. We went home fully nourished physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
It was such a fun time. We also casted our vote for the incoming term [2023-2024] officers for FOAA and CPUAAGTA. Kudos to our President Norma VanDusen for keeping us in line and the rest of the officers.
Thank you to everyone in attendance. I hope we can continue to spread and share the Central Spirit through these events. Your support is greatly appreciated by paying the annual membership fee of $10.00 which can be conveniently directed to the treasurer via e-transfer = cpuaagtachapter@gmail.com
By Francis Neil G. Jalando-on
The members of the CPU Corporation who attended the face-to-face annual regular meeting last year.
The CPU Corporation will hold its annual meeting on June 17, 2022 at the Henry Luce II Library. The following day, the CPU Board of Trustees will also hold their meeting.
The current officers of the Board of Trustees are the following: Chairman – Atty. Peter Irving C. Corvera, Vice Chairman – Dr. Elmer Q. Pedregosa, Corporate Secretary – Dr. Carmen P. Santos, Corporate Treasurer – Dr. George O. Cortel, and University President – Dr. Teodoro C. Robles. The other members of the BOT are: Mr. Noli B. Bajada, Atty. Von Lovel D. Bedona, Engr. Eddie P. Cañuto, Mrs. Josita Alpha G. Jalando-on, Rev. Dr. Armando S. Kole, Dr. Oseni M. Millamena, Dr. Manuel C. Palada, Dr. Agustin A. Pulido (+), Rev. Job A. Santiago and Mrs. Perla G. Waters.
The Ex-officio members are: CPUAAI – Dr. Florentino P. Alerta II, Staff – Mrs. Ma. Victoria G. Bellosillo, Faculty – Dr. Edgardo P. Gerada, CPUR – Mr. Gabriel Mico Bondoc, IM – Dr. Paul J. Rollet.
The membership of the CPU Corporation is fixed at 65 regular members. 33 of them will come from the nominees of the Convention of Philippine Baptist Churches, 20 are from the CPU Alumni Association, Inc., 10 are coopted members and 1 missionary from the International Ministries of the American Baptist Churches, USA.
by Prince Ric Emmanuel Q. Paciente
Congratulations to the Central Echo for winning the Best Science Story for both the magazine and newspaper in the first-ever Gawad Dalumat Best Science-school based Student-led.
Quezon City–The Central Echo (CE) garnered two best science stories in the first Gawad DALUMAT: Best Science-school based/Student-led Publication contest by the Department of Science and Technology – Technology Application and Promotion Institute (DOST-TAPI).
The publication won with the articles, “Angkol and the River,” from the 2021 magazine which features the life of a local fisherman in Iloilo River and “A LITERAL BUZZKILL: Why bees are dying out and what’s in it for us,” from the 2021 tabloid that tackles about the endangerment of bees.
Contested with CE are following school publications, “The Estoile” of the Saint Edward School from General Trias, Cavite, “The Electron” of the Quezon City Science High School, and “Visions and Missions” of the Holy Child Catholic School from Manila. There were 39 total entries for Gawad DALUMAT.
“It was really unexpected that we would actually win with what we wrote and it’s a rush flying there in such a quick notice to receive the award personally, but I would say it was really worth it. All for Central!” Kathleen Frugalidad, the publication’s Associate Editor and former Editor-in-Chief said.
Frugalidad was accompanied by the current Editor-in-Chief Kalanie Saldajeno, the Layout Editor Prince Ric Emmanuel Paciente and publication adviser Prof. Rea Faulan-Villeza.
Gawad DALUMAT aimed to recognize school publications that demonstrate excellent and effective science storytelling.
The awarding ceremony was held face-to-face at Novotel Manila Araneta City, May 13.
By Cyrus A. Natividad
RCJC President Pastor Jec Dan Borlado (in white shirt) holds the Life Changing Achievers Award.
The Rotary Club of Jaro Centraline (RCJC) – CPU Special Alumni Chapter was recently awarded the Life Changing District Award (Rotary District 3850) by Rotary International. RCJC President Pastor Jec Dan Borlado received the award from District Governor Edwin G. To on the 3rd day of April, 2022 during the District Conference held at the Convention Center Garden Orchid Hotel, Gen. Camins Avenue, Zamboanga City.
The award cited with esteemed recognition CPU RCJC for its commendable accomplishments for Rotary Year 2021-2022, thus promoting the Rotary International theme: Serve to Change Lives.
The Rotary Club of Jaro Centraline CPU Special Alumni Association is an active partner of Central Philippine University’s outreach programs, scholarships and socio-academic projects. It actively supported the University and community during the Covid-19 pandemic, typhoons and other calamities.
By Cyrus A. Natividad
CPU Alumni Association President Dr. Florentino P. Alerta.
The CPU Alumni Homecoming and General Assembly will push through on October 1, 2022 according to CPUAAI President Dr. Forentino P. Alerta II. He explains that, “The Alumni Homecoming should signal the return to normal in the University. The convergence, bondings and fellowships that are unavoidable during alumni celebrations should already inform the public that Central Philippine University is now in the ‘Face to Face’ mode.”
Alerta who has just arrive from a five-month retreat in the U.S. also said that, “the homecoming will provide as well an online platform where those who cannot attend may participate in the open forum, nominate and cast votes for their CPUAAI candidates. The Election of Officers is one part of the program during the Alumni Homecoming and General Assembly.”
In a conversation with the Centralian Link, he shared one important agenda; regarding the environment during his watch. “This he said must be given impetus – to encourage the University and the community to help plant the trees.” He added that “Water is running out. We need people to get back to the environment. Planting trees would provide the source for watershed. We need a tree to create another tree. The project will definitely involve the academe with prospective tree planting programs in cooperation with other support offices and agencies.”
He also proposed for a constitutional amendment for CPUAAI. He said the alumni privileges should be inclusive for all – whether the member is here or abroad.
The procedure in nominating the Board of Trustees of the CPUAAI will soon be posted.
By Cyrus A. Natividad
The Facilities, Maintenance and Services Department was at Islas de Gigantes for their Summer Retreat 2022.
The faculty and staff of the College of Education with their Dean Dr. Merly L. Junsay had their Summer Retreat on June 11 and 12, 2022 held at Kenyama Beach Resort. Located in Sitio Guisi Road Nueva Valencia Guimaras, the beach is a relaxing place. The popular activities that people came for are swimming, and island hopping; on site facilities and air conditioned rooms are provided.
One of the faculty said, “It was our chance for bonding and fellowship; also to restore our energy and strengthen ourselves spiritually.” The devotional was one of the group’s activities which according to him creates spiritual growth.
Although most of the departments have chosen to spend their summer retreats on the beach, some have opted to bond and take advantage of the unlimited feast that popular restaurants in Iloilo City have to offer.
Another group – the CPU Research Ethics Committee had its Summer Retreat 2022 bonding activity last June 8, 2022 at the Vikings Luxury Buffet in SM City Southpoint. The so-called ‘Eat All You Can’ package at the Vikings was also availed by the Office the VP for Student Affairs previously for their Summer Retreat.
CPU College of Education group on their Summer Retreat at Kenyama Beach Resort.
Present at the Research Ethics Committee summer bonding were, Chair Dr. Joy Raso, Co-chair Prof. Clarissa Chavez, Secretary Prof. Annalee Cocjin and REC regular members. Also in attendance were Pastor Mary Grace Labis, Atty. Liza Lyn Garcia, Mrs. Elizabeth Balogo, Ms. Rappah Faith Caalem, Dr. Nicolas Guanzon, Mr. Christopher Castano, Dr. Darril Pamocol and Prof. Renia Dela Pena.
For the Facilities Maintenance and Services Department (a.k.a. Shop), the summer retreat was really for a respite from long physical activities that are essential and critically important on the day to day operation of the University.
Members of the Research Ethics Committee enjoy summer bonding at the Vikings Restaurant.
From June 9 to 11, 2022, twenty one members of the Shop went off to enjoy their Summer Retreat at Se san Resort – one of the attractive beach resorts in the legendary Islas de Gigantes offshore of the Municipality of Carles in Northern Iloilo. It was said that there used to be giant coffins that were hanged on the mountainside. It was told time and again that “giants once lived in the island, and to prevent intruders from coming, they hanged giant coffins. Thus, the island is called Islas de Gigantes (Island of the Giants).”
The group enjoyed island hopping, swimming and unlimited videoke. They enjoyed sharing food and experiences, moments of fellowship and prayers.
The summer retreat is a yearly activity that gives the department heads a chance to improve faculty and staff relationship, develop valuable ideas for the group; sustain cooperation and initiatives towards productivity. It is also an opportunity to reflect upon the spiritual side of life, with values and challenges in the workplace.
By Nestle G. Taala
An embodiment of Exemplary Christian Education for Life (EXCEL) – Central Philippine University has once again generated students whose academic excellence, service to humanity, and faith in God go beyond the borders of this institution. Hence, they were hailed as finalists of The Outstanding Students of Iloilo Awards (TOSIA).
After a rigorous selection process, Centralians Gabriel Mico Bondoc, Ro-anne Lozada, Zharina Marie Stephanie Lugo, and Daryl Lutero were among the finalists of TOSIA, a flagship program of JCI Regatta. “These students have showcased their achievements and prowess in line with the Four (4) Pillars of TOSIA: Academic Excellence, Leadership, Community Involvement, and Faith,” the committee wrote in a Facebook Post on June 8, 2022 as an announcement.
Mr. Bondoc is a 4th year student of Bachelor of Science in Accountancy, and the incumbent President of the CPU Republic (CPUR). He shared that, “As someone who almost got disqualified due to the technicalities of the application process, I cannot express how grateful I am to be a recipient of such a prestigious award. My TOSIA application journey is definitely a humbling one.”
On the other hand, Ms. Lozada is a 4th year student taking up Bachelor of Science in Accountancy, and a former CPUR President for academic year 2020 – 2021. According to her, Qualifying again in TOSIA but this time at the college level is a gratifying privilege. But more than an award, TOSIA is a resemblance of our experiences as student servant leaders, may it be our struggles, failures, achievements, or successes. And qualifying for this award means that shouldn’t end here. It is a cycle of dreaming, learning, growing and inspiring. After all, the essence of being an outstanding student isn’t the glorious honor nor the title but one’s capability to get involved, take up spaces, and be able to influence the lives of others.”
Meanwhile, Ms. Lugo is a 4th year student taking up Bachelor of Political Science and Public Administration. She is currently the Literary Editor of the Central Echo, the official student publication of CPU, and its former Editor-in-Chief. “I’m thankful that the four (4) of us from CPU were able to surpass the rigid screening process of TOSIA 2022. I’m also thankful to all the people who supported us all the way,” she expressed.
Mr. Lutero who is a CPUR Senator, and the Minister of Organizations and Fraternities is also a 4th Year student taking up Bachelor of Political Science and Public Administration. To him, “TOSIA allowed me to review the archives of my growth in college and after being acknowledged, I thanked God and my contributors. But I’ve realized that regardless of backgrounds or experiences, anyone can still grow, improve and maximize opportunities to also empower the less empowered. However, it is only possible if we choose to be criticized, learn, work, and collaborate for progress.”
The awarding ceremony will take place on July 20, 2022 as scheduled by the TOSIA Committee.
While the university measures 24 hectares in area, Centralian excellence surely knows no limit nor measurement.
By Cyrus A. Natividad
The CPU School of Graduate Studies Doctor of Management Major in Development class sponsored a Metro Iloilo-Guimaras Development Council (MIGEDC) Project Steering Committee (PSC) Forum with the theme: “Harnessing Opportunities in MIDGEDCs New Normal.”
MIGEDC’s Chairperson, Iloilo City Mayor Jerry P. Treñas in his keynote message encouraged MIDGEDC members “to work together in recovering from the ill effects of the pandemic.” Furthermore he said, “Today we rally with a common goal and should commit to exhaust all possible ways for the economy to bounce back, for businesses to recuperate, and for us to cope with the work set up in the new normal. We must reassure investors that there is a bright future for them in Iloilo and Guimaras.”
He added that, “We have to renew our commitment and get our acts together to make Metro Iloilo-Guimaras stronger, more vibrant and attractive to live, work and invest.”
According to Cebu Leads Foundation, Inc., MCDC Chair Mr. Gordon Alan Joesph and NEDA Regional Office 6 Asst. Regional Director Engr. Arecio A. Casing Jr., “Responsive Governance, Proper Urban Planning and Political Will of Local Leaders are the important factors in making a competitive Metropolitan Iloilo and Guimaras.”
Supply Chain Management Association of the Philippines President, Mr. Pierre Carlo C. Curay and Department of Agriculture Western Visayas, Regional Executive Director- (Centralian) Engr. Remelyn R. Recoter said that “Having a strong Supply Chain Economy should be considered a priority in Metro Iloilo and Guimaras – to achieve efficiency in the area.”
The online forum was held on Thursday, June 2, 2022. MIGEDC’s Executive Director and Iloilo City LEDIP Officer Ms. Velma Jane C. LAO, EnP was Host and Moderator.