By Allana S. Delgado
The latest issue of Multidisciplinary Research Journal (formerly Patubas) is now available to read and download online in the Bahandian Institutional Repository. The full issue can be downloaded at https://repository.cpu.edu.ph/handle/20.500.12852/1992
This special edition for February 2022 features 13 papers by School of Graduate Studies students and faculty, on various topics such as business, education, tourism, governance, and health.
The papers included in this edition are:
● Inter-village dispute: A phenomenological study by Irving Domingo L. Rio, Renia F. Dela Peña, Kareen Jay D. Lozada, Ma. Corazon G. Nievales and Bernadine T. Baliguat
● Determinants of tourists’ satisfaction: The case of DOT accredited accommodation establishments in the Province of Capiz, Philippines by Janet V. Ledesma, Mary O’ T. Penetrante and Carmen N. Hernandez
● Food tourism industry in SOCCSKSARGEN region: Availability of resources, awareness, attitude, and compliance with the implementing rules and regulations on food safety and sanitation among street food vendors by Milchie G. Palapar and Irving Domingo L. Rio
● Supervisor’s leadership style, personnel empowerment, engagement, work-life balance, and job satisfaction for personnel intention to stay in the Center for Disease Control and Prevention in Henan Province, China by Xu Bin and Mary O’ T. Penetrante
● Development and evaluation of modules for senior high school Physics teachers by Edgardo P. Gerada
● Rural-urban interactions and interdependence: Policy implications for the enhancement of linkages between Iloilo City and the Province of Guimaras by Evan Anthony V. Arias and Carmen N. Hernandez
● Factors influencing the decision not to retire among the retiring personnel of Iloilo Provincial Government by Shara May P. Centina and Gynnyn G. Gumban
● Factors associated with the compliance to Ecological Solid Waste Management Act 2000 (RA 9003) of inland resort establishments in the Province of Iloilo: Inputs to policy enhancement by Tadema B. Formarejo, Carmen N. Hernandez and Lorna T. Grande
● Knowledge, experience, expectation and satisfaction of operations staff on audit services of a microfinance NGO in Iloilo by Allen Dave C. Fuego and Rowena M. Libo-on
● Green supply chain initiatives and sustainable performance: A case study of Darlings’ Milktea Shop in Iloilo by Jengkey H. Ventura and Gynnyn G. Gumban
● Anxiety to COVID-19 vaccination among personnel in a tertiary government hospital in Iloilo City by Marcos D. Bito-onon and Alfonso E. Catolin
● Level of performance of the Lupon members under the barangay justice system as perceived by the constituents of the selected barangays in Municipality of Badiangan, Iloilo, Philippines by JD Chris Y. Dofeliz and Renia F. De la Peña
● Sustainable tourism awareness-adherence and coastal issues and concerns of the selected coastal tourism stakeholders in Southern Iloilo, Philippines by Carmen N. Hernandez, Maribel B. Dunton, Ma. Amihan T. Panes and Febe Rose L. Torres
The Multidisciplinary Research Journal is published semi-annually by the University Research Center of Central Philippine University. It was first published in 2004. All issues are available to read and download in the Bahandian Institutional repository.
By Chris Dale Peñacerrada Patriarca, BA Comm-4 OJT
Joshua Miguel “Osh” Bañas, a Grade 4 – Emerald Centralian.
Joshua Miguel Agabe Bañas was the champion during the 1st Pintados de Pasi’ Table Tennis Tournament under the category of, “12 Under,” on Sunday, March 27, 2022, at Passi City Arena.
Trained by Cyrus Tolentino and Simplicio Gayoso, Jr., the young table tennis prodigy sweeps his opponent during the championship match, resulting in a 3-0 score.
Joshua, or, “Osh,” is a 10-year old Grade 4 – Emerald student at Central Philippine University Elementary School, and is also a proud varsity member of CPU Golden Lions since he was in 2nd grade.
When asked what he felt while waiting for his turn to compete, Bañas said, “I was very excited because I will be competing against popular players from different provinces.”
During the championship game, Bañas stated that he felt confident competing with others, as he trained every day after his class, and was trained by his coaches every Saturday.
“I was confident going into the latter part of the match due to the momentum I had. However, I was not particularly excited nor nervous during the match for I was simply enjoying the game.”
Despite at a very young age, Bañas has always believed that nothing is impossible and practice makes us near perfect.
Bañas also shared his thoughts about competing, saying, “Focus and discipline will lead to better results. However, if we take one step at a time and enjoy every moment of the process of betterment, we might find that the journey may be more rewarding than the outcome itself.”
By Cyrus A. Natividad
Two Central Philippine University Senior High School students, Mico Andrei Hechanova and Aleia Robbyn Muyco emerged as champions in the Youth Category, for the 2nd Manila Dancesports Open Competition. The virtual sports match was held on March 27, 2022.
Six finalists from other schools were beaten by the CPU Senior High School students, who are known to be winners from other previous spectacular contests. The CPU students are scholars in the Senior High School. The CPU SHS entry was sponsored by the CPU Cultural Affairs Office under Director Crista Sianson Huyong.
Congratulations! Central Philippine University is proud of you!
by Edwin C. Laru-an
Gedaya is a member o the CPU Golden Lions Football Team.
Name: Mark Daniel Gedaya
Nickname: Mark
Height: 5′ 7”
Grade/year: Grade 11
Playing Position: Goalkeeper
Coach: Engr. Marc Hermel G. Agriam
Hometown: Brgy. Igcocolo, Guimbal, Iloilo
Achievements:
Champion WVRAA 2017, Antique
Champion Palarong Pambansa 2017, Antique
Champion ILOPRISAA 2019
Champion WVPRISA 2020, Roxas City, Capiz
Participant Borneo cup 2017
1st Runner up Youth Football League 2018, Alabang Muntinlupa
Champion Thristy Cup 2017, Cebu City 2018,
Champion Ceres cup 2017 and 2019 .
Hobbies: playing football and cooking.
Favorite Player: Manuel Neuer
Most Memorable Game: Regional prisaa 2020
Principle in Life:
Always remember that the “beginning is the hardest part.”
What can you say as a player of CPU Golden Lions:
I am very grateful that I’ve been chosen as one of the players. The CPU Golden Lions always look for the welfare and give support to their athletes.
Why did you choose CPU:
I chose CPU because I could see a lot of opportunities that CPU could provide, and that CPU is the home of successful athletes.
By Princes Elaine Y. Espongja, BA ELS-4, OJT
Participants of the meeting between Central Philippine University and Universitas Kristen Indonesia.
Central Philippine University (CPU) and Universitas Kristen Indonesia (UKI) had their first online meeting on March 9, 2022 via Zoom teleconferencing regarding the collaboration of the two institutions to promote good relations among Southeast Asian universities.
The said online meeting was done to establish an understanding of cooperation and friendship which is intended to further academic objectives of each institution and to promote possible collaboration and mobility between the faculty and students of CPU and the faculty and students of UKI.
Representatives from Central Philippine University were the following: Prof. Leilani Fatimah Ledesma Trompeta (Director, Office of International Relations and Cooperation); Dr. Stella Fernandez (Dean, College of Arts and Sciences); Dr. Mar Rafael Ambos (Coordinator, Professional Ed, CoEd); Prof. Rea Angelica Faulan Villeza (Chairperson, Dept. of Religion and Ethics).
Representatives from Universitas Kristen Indonesia were several Deans and heads of the following study programs: International Office staff headed by Dr. Lisa Gracia Kailola; Dean Faculty of Teacher Training and Education; Dean Faculty of Letters and Languages; Dean Faculty of Social and Political Sciences; Head of Christian Education Study Program; Head of Biology Education Study Program; Head of Chemistry Education Study Program; Head of Mathematics Education Study Program; Head of English Language Education Study Program; Head of English Literature Study Program; Head of Communication Science Study Program; Head of Political Science Study Program.
The Initial talks on international collaboration and partnerships is facilitated by the Office of International Relations and Cooperation under the office of the CPU President.
By Ivan Anthony D. Sapio, BACOMM-4 OJT
Photo courtesy of PRC. CPU garnered an overall performance of 51.43%.
The Philippine Regulation Commission announced that out of 2,837 examinees of the March 2022 Philippine Licensure Examination, 1,427 have passed, and that 18 passers are Centralian graduates under the College of Medicine.
The 18 Centralian PLE passers are the following:
1. Apilando, Jasper Faith Soldevilla
2. Badillo, Angel Rose Trasadas
3. Bagsit, Astrid Marie Pollentes
4. Barrida, April Grace Villasis
5. Bereber, Arriane Mae Cantiller
6. Billones, Mel Bryan Eramis
7. Emmanuel, Randel Padilla
8. Fegarido, Deo Jireh Gicana
9. Legario, Jacinth Legria
10. Libo-on, Anna Andrea Sabio
11. Mendez, Joher, Jr. Bolante
12. Nebato, Glenice Mae Anib
13. Olipendo, Cyrus Ledesma
14. Sala, Florence Suganob
15. Suarez, Jacqueline de Guzman
16. Tirante, Junien Yam
17. Veto, Honey Grace Doroteo
18. Yerro, Selwyn Bayo-ang
According to Veto, one of the Centralian PLE passers and the Valedictorian of their class, the board exam is a do or die pressure-giving event. “I felt anxious before the examination began but what helped me is knowing that I’ve done my best and I really worked hard for this, and that is what really matters, not perfection,” she added.
Veto also emphasized four preparations for the exam she finds effective:
1. Extraordinary body – aside from preparing for your mental health, you should also prepare for your physical health.
2. Extraordinary mindset – build a positive mind-set; failure is not the end of your dreams. Failure is just a wall that needs to break to reach your goal
3. Extraordinary core – what you believe is what you become. Have faith in everything that no matter what happens, you can succeed.
4. Extraordinary habits – your habits can be seen by the results of your performance.
38 Centralian PLE takers took the PLE exam, in which 17 are first timers and 18 are repeaters. Central Philippine University garnered an overall performance of 51.43%.
The examination was given by the Board of Medicine in Manila, Baguio, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Legazpi, Lucena, Pampanga, Rosales, Tacloban, Tuguegarao, and Zamboanga last March 2022.
By Cyrus A. Natividad
Dr. Lenny Rose P. Mucho receives the Certificate of Commendation from DILG.
Central Philippine University was awarded a Certificate of Commendation by the Department of Interior and Local Government for its commitment, active participation, and strong support in the operationalization, and effective implementation of the various programs, projects, and activities of the Western Visayas Local Governance Resource Consortium for the years 2013 up to the present.
The commendation was given on March 22, 2022 on the occasion of the 2022 World Water Day Celebration in Iloilo City. It was signed by Juan Jovian E. Ingeniero, CESO IV, Regional Director, DILG VI, Interim Chairperson, WVLGRC Coordinating Council. Dr. Lenny Rose P. Mucho, CPU RCEC Director.
A Memorandum of Agreement reconstituting the Western Visayas Local Governance Resource Consortium (WVLGRC) was signed between Central Philippine University represented by University President. Dr. Teodoro C. Robles and the University of San Agustin as represented by Rev. Fr. Frederick C. Comendador, OSA.
by Kimberly T. Gahilomo, BA Comm-4, OJT
The 10 new scholars of The Ruth Scholarship Foundation with the Board of Trustees of the Foundation and their parents.
The launching of The Ruth Scholarship Foundation was held last March 21, 2022 at the CPU Henry Luce Library. The Mission of the Foundation is to support students by providing need-based scholarships to enable them to succeed and give back to their communities.
The event was attended by the members of the Board of Trustees of the Foundation. Also present in the event are CPU Vice President for Students Affairs, Dr. Esther Rose R. Romarate; CPU Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Irving Domingo L. Rio; CPU Vice President for Finance and Administration, Dr. Florence B. Bogacia and also the University Church Senior Pastor, Rev. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian. The parents and deans of the different colleges were also present to show their support to the 10 new scholars of the foundation.
Rev. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on led the attendees to an invocation followed by the virtual opening remarks of the University President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles.
Atty. Peter Irving C. Corvera, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Foundation, explained the foundation’s overview. It aims to give support and resources to students who are financially challenged to achieve their goals.
Atty. Corvera continued that in choosing the recipients of the scholarship, the students doesn’t need to be at the top of their classes. There are no biases especially when it comes to cultural or religious background. Instead, the foundation partnered with the deans of the colleges to select, interview and evaluate students who exhibits the potential to give back to their communities in the future.
“It is not a religious scholarship. It is a scholarship with Christian values,” the Chairman emphasized. The goal is that its scholars, after graduation, may find proper employment and succeed in their respective careers, whereby they may give back to their families and be of service to their communities.
Besides the full scholarship and fees, assistance in board and lodging, connectivity and academic materials, the Foundation also wants to impart their core values to the students which are integrity, equity, leadership, community service and compassion, and relationships.
Dr. Rumalie A. Corvera, founding President of The Ruth Foundation, introduced the Board of Trustees. The following are the members of the Board: Chairman, Atty. Peter Irving C. Corvera, Dr. Rumalie A. Corvera, Engr. Job P. Gimay, Mrs. Ester Lagardilla-Jara, Mrs. Josita Alpha G. Jalando-on, Mr. Adrian Lee, and Prof. Rea Angelica F. Villeza. The members of the Board were chosen because of their competency and their relationship to the Corvera Family.
Prof. Rea Angelica F. Villeza presented the first 10 scholars of the foundation. They are the following: Julienne Anne D. Bajon, Bachelor of Science in Accountancy; Florinda E. Caldito, Bachelor of Science in Environmental Management; Alrey N. Canicula and Karen Kate P. Liza, Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering; Gad B. Castro, Bachelor of Science in Advertising; Deneilyn P. Gabo, Bachelor of Science in Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering; Reden V. Gadot and Micah Gail M. Sorioso, Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science; Althea E. Labestre, Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy; Jessa Mae B. Malificiar, Bachelor of Science in Social Work.
Gad B. Castro, one of the scholars, entertained the attendees by sharing his talent in singing. Florinda E. Caldito shared her journey in becoming one of the scholars. She unveiled how she thought at first that the whole ordeal was a scam since she had past experiences with such situations. But her fear turned into praises when she became part of the first 10.
Julienne Anne D. Bajon also presented a grateful response in behalf of her fellow scholars.
The event came to an end with a message of commitment and support given by Dr. Esther Rose R. Romarate and a prayer of dedication by Rev. Cris Amorsolo Sian.
The launching was also filled with joy and nostalgia as old friends and comrades shared stories to commemorate and give honor to the late Rev. Ruth Corvera, to whom the foundation was named after.
By Maria Hannah Katrina J. Lustria, BA Comm-4, OJT
Dr. Maria Amihan Panes as DOT Certified Resource Speaker.
The Department of Tourism initiated a training program for all tourism related workforce to promote an excellent method of providing customer service focusing on Filipino values. Dr. Maria Amihan “Mae” Tamayo Panes is an avid volunteer for Iloilo City’s Tourism development. She is an active accreditation member of the Regional Assurance Quality Team (RQAT) of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) for Hospitality and Tourism courses and one of the founding members of the Outstanding Students Circle of Iloilo. She is an accredited Department of Tourism regional trainer on the Filipino Brand of Service Excellence.
A practicing academician, she is a graduate of BS Tourism from the University of the Philippines Diliman. She also has a Master’s Degree in Business Management major in Hotel and Restaurant Management and a Doctor of Business Management degree with specialization in Tourism and Hospitality Management. Dr. Panes is currently a faculty of the School of Graduate Studies and the College of Hospitality Management.
The said training was done through face to face since it included workshops to tourism-related front liners. The training mainly focuses on infusing the seven M’s based on Filipino traits and culture; namely Makamaylikha, Makatao, Makakalikasan, Makabansa, Masayahin, Maybayanihan, Maypag-asa. All these seven values were infused to all participants as they do their job in the Tourism Industry. Dr. Panes also cited the famous tagline of the DOT, “It’s more fun in the Philippines” as the guiding principle of the said workers in showcasing the unique and one-of-a-kind customer service of the Filipino front liners.
The training ended as the attendees participated in a workshop on how to accommodate and deal with different customers through the different types of job in the Tourism industry. Participants were taught on how to greet and prepare for themselves to face and showcase their brand of customer service to guests and visitors. At the end of the training and workshop, these front liners coming from different field of work will instill the uniformed greeting all over the country, which is “Mabuhay!”
By Cyrus A. Natividad
Officers and members OF CPUAA UAE Alumni Association.
The City of Dubai, UAE is known for the world’s tallest building-the Burj Khalifa, sightseeing attractions and as a hub of conventions and conferences. Central Philippine University Alumni Association – United Arab Emirates (UAE) Chapter is blessed to have held its 17th year Gathering and Induction of Officers for the year 2022-2023, at the famous city on March 19, 2022. The meeting place was at the Edge Creekside Hotel on 4th Street, Deira, Dubai.
Centralian alumni started arriving at 6PM for the registration. Alumni Oliver and Amie Jomadiao introduced the guests and members of the UAE Chapter. The Induction Ceremony followed. Asst. P.R.O. Rezy Tabanera led the invocation. The National Anthems of the Philippines and UAE were played and was followed by the CPU Alma Mater Song , ‘Central my Central’. Alain Paul Andigan. Asst. Auditor, made the Welcome Address. A special number was rendered by CPU Alumni Arvin and Kristina.
Lenie Karim, a member of the Board of Directors, introduced the Guest Speaker Madam Wafa Kasimieh, Senior Executive for Islamic Cultural Activities, who was also the Inducting Officer. Chapter President (2022 – 2023) Ryanne Dolorfino delivered her acceptance speech. She highlighted the Central Spirit that continues to bind all Centralians.
The following are the inducted Officers for 2022-2023:
President – Ryanne Dolorfino
Vice President
External – Kathleen Grace Gustilo
Internal – Lorenz Angelo Corpuz
Secretary – Anthea Lee Nuyad
Asst. Secretary – Mitzi Lou Cebretas
Treasurer – Oliver Lucas Jomadiao
Asst. Treasurer – Joy Casaquite
Auditor – Gien Rose Vicencio
Asst. Auditor – Alain Paul Andigan
P.R.O. – Ma. Verna Kathryn Alcala
Asst. P.R.O. – Rezy Tabanera
Board of Directors:
Lennie Senato Karim
Rudy Llanora
Ian Doughlas Balquin
Mary Jane Maymiero
Rujin Jan Gapilango
Teresita Palmes
Jonathan Detaro
In his message sent to CPUAAI UAE Chapter, University President Dr. Teodoro C. Robles expressed his deepest appreciation and gratitude. He mentioned that “For seventeen years, this Chapter has been an integral part of Central Philippine University, with the Central Spirit always alive and thriving even in this extraordinary time. The situation has made you stronger and wiser.” He added that, “You have found and nurtured your ‘Oasis’, but did not keep it also yourself; you keep on giving to your Alma Mater through scholarships.” Dr. Robles congratulated the new set of officers led by its President Ryanne Dolorfino. He made special mention of the founding President of CPUAA UAE Chapter Mildred Maravilla Majed.
The President of CPUAAI Dr. Florentino Alerta, and CPUFOAA President Rod Gonzales also sent their congratulatory messages to CPUAA UAE Chapter’s new inducted officers and members. Dr. Alerta emphasized that, “through Scientia (Science) we achieved education, and Fides (Faith) brings us the Central Spirit.” He said that, “without faith it is impossible to please God because anyone who comes to him must earnestly seek Him. As Centralians, we fulfill something, and that’s gonna be – To God be the Glory! We bring back the glory to God. He pointed out the great sacrifice of the Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW’s) for what they are doing for their families back home. He acknowledged them as the New Heroes of the Philippines who are so blessed.
CPUFOAA President Rodrigo Gonzales thanked CPUAA UAE for linking their Chapter to the mother organization CPUFOAA. He impressed upon the idea that everyone in an organization is a leader, and part of the leadership core manning the Chapter. The organization he said, “do not exist until an induction of its officers. He enlightened the organization about the 5 C’s of being a member: 1) Commit – to fully dedicate on something or to the organization 2) Connect – to bring together, establish a link and join together as they provide access and communication; in many ways connect at a click of a button or a key. 3) Communicate – exchange information, ideas and pass it on to another person. 4) Collect – to gather together. 5) Celebrate – to acknowledge a significant happy day, or an event with social gathering.
Joy Casaquite, Asst. Treasurer acknowledged the Sponsors and Donors. A special number by the CPUAA UAE Officers (2022-2023) was followed by the Closing Remarks of Kathleen Grace Gustilo, VP External. The Dinner started at 8:00PM while Special Numbers, Testimonials, Giving of Certificates of Appreciation, Door Prizes and Stars of the Night segments were going on.
Fritz Arthur Armada and Anthea Lee Nuyad were the Masters of Ceremony.
By Audrielyn E. Ulloa, BA Comm 4 OJT
Paul Vincent L. Tirador wants to become an agent of change as a Boy Scout.
This story is about Paul Vincent L. Tirador, a grade 10 EARTH student from CPU Junior High School. Paul, who has been a Centralian for almost four years now, brought home the bacon after being elected as Regional Scout Representative for Western Visayas on March 12, 2022 during the virtual and limited face-to-face Regional Scout Cyber Jamboree at Pavia National High School. Out of six provinces, Iloilo got majority of the votes from the voting delegates. Paul shared his reaction after finding out he was elected.
“During the 5th Plenary Session, I was so nervous,” he said. “Given the fact that I have a lot of competitive and great colleagues this year, the pressure is on me but it is good pressure. When we found out that I was the newly elected Regional Council Scout Representative, I was so shocked while crying inside.”
Paul revealed he had a mixed reaction and explained he was going to cry because the victory he witnessed for himself would make him the 3rd Centralian Scout who got that award. Before him were his manong Jethro Mark Jerez and manong Vance Raphael Anthony Praire.
Paul continued, “When the results came out, we were all silent for almost five seconds. Then we all started shouting together.” Those with Paul cheered for him, yelling, “Tirador, Tirador, Tirador.” It was truly a momentous victory.
But how Paul came to be the Boy Scout that he is now happened in July 22, 2018. He recalled, “I was walking in the hallway of the department when I saw a group of young people forming around the flagpole. I was curious and interested. Therefore, I asked my classmates how to join scouting. The next day, I was invited. I entered the flagpole area and introduced myself as someone who is very innocent and was a first-timer at everything.” Days passed and eventually he fell in love with the movement.
As a young freshman back then, he understood his advocacies must be attainable and sustainable. He shared, “I was able to understand deeply and find my directions on this movement until today’s endeavors. Therefore, I must conclude that I joined Scouting because my heart said yes to this and my curiosity in everything leads me to advocate for sustainable causes that contribute to our environment and to be a catalyst for change.”
Paul emphasized, “I firmly stand to the duties of a scout to become an AGENT OF CHANGE.”
As a Boy Scout, one achievement Paul talked about was their very first, “OUTFIT 346 BSP-ECO FRIENDLY PARK” which is an eco-friendly park for Layog Elementary School, Maasin, Iloilo. He shared, “It was our very first project in my batch as an outfit that provides facilities for that remote and demographic community. No amount of joy could be as measurable as we see the full blast smile of each learner enjoying the park while making them learn that they could have it even at home by recycling. Making everyone smile and inspired in just a little act is a huge achievement of mine.”
Aside from being Council Scout Representative 2022-2023 and Regional Scout Representative 2022-2023, Paul has accomplished a lot as a student, being Vice Governor of the CPU Junior High School Student Council 2021-2022 to being a Voice of the Youth Award Finalist. Some extracurricular activities he’s taken part of are the following: CPU Koalisyon, Kabataan Sa Kartilya Ng Katipunan, Youth Advocates of the Philippines, Padayon Kabataan Ng Pilipinas, and Young Men Christian Association (YMCA). He’s also a CPU Volleyball Athlete.
When asked about who he would like to show his gratitude to, Paul answered, “Firstly, I would like to thank my Council, the Iloilo (Confesor) Council, who gave their all-out support during the forum and campings. They are my Outfit Advisers, Ma’am Christine Joyce A. Lacson, Ma’am Maebelle Junsay. My Outfit 346 Manongs, all the scouts, staff, CSE’s and the members of our Local Council. My Central Philippine University JHS Department, the Student Council, my beloved teachers and my JHS principal, Ma’am Charlette Dianala. Secondly, my relatives who were always there to show support on my journey, my Mother and Father, my CNU friends who helped me cope up with my classes and activities, and best friends. Thirdly, everyone who lifted me, inspired me, and mentored me throughout my scouting and non-scouting journey.”
When asked what his next steps will be after being elected as Regional Scout Representative, Paul answered, “At the moment, we are preparing for the national scope of the forum.” The latter will be from April 21-23, 2022.
Indeed, Paul has learned a lot from being a Boy Scout. One is to always be grounded and the other is to be a better citizen for our community. As an individual, Paul upholds to promote sustainable advocacies, equality, and good responsibilities as a good citizen of this nation, something he’d like students of CPU to practice too. When asked what his message for those who want to try being scouts would be, he said, “Just prepare and present yourself wholeheartedly and stay curious, future scouts.”
By Cyrus A. Natividad
The Gurrea couple Louella and Ricardo.
In observance of the International Women’s Month this March 2022, we reflect upon its significance and importance in the life of the Filipino Woman. Without a doubt, the Filipina contributes to the well-being of the Filipino Family – the basic unit of society. This celebration is about the empowerment of women, particularly in their demand for equality. We cannot deny their important role in the family, their discipline and their contribution to the family resources.
The celebration aims to track the development in Women Empowerment and use it as a platform to know the progress of the Magna Carta of Women and development of other laws. Among them, the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) and the U.N. Sustainable Development Goals.
It was worth a pleasant day listening to this former CPU working student who worked as telephone operator from 1981 up to 1983 at the CPU administration building, now the Dr. Rex D. Drilon Hall. She is a successful wife and business woman; Centralian Louella ‘Lou’ Nuñez is now married to an equally successful ‘warehousing’ businessman in Iloilo City, Ricardo ‘Ric’ Gurrea.
The Centralian Link had an engaging talk with Lou on “Why do we celebrate Women’s Month?” First she said that, “it is about the neglect on women as part of society or that they are often neglected by society.” Asked how are they neglected? (We think that a lot of them are leaders in society). She answered, “Yes, they are seen there, but not heard.” On the other hand however, she said that, “they are the strongest point in a household. Do you observe once the mother gets sick, the household doesn’t seem to work?” Who is a mother? “She is a woman.” She clarified that “a woman has a very complicated compartmentalized brain but they seem to make it work.
Things go smoothly even in tough times. They seem to remember many things of the past-related to the present.” She added that “I believe though how heavy the toll is on women; they still do many things, not only personally, household, and business – but also a part of what we call ‘Marites society’ that the new normal has generated. I take these strengths from a woman who has given birth.” She pointed out that the birth pains is no comparison to what other human beings have encountered. “Don’t take me wrong,” she said. In our society, we have an extended family that our unmarried aunts also take care of their nephews and nieces- especially when their parents are OFW’s. In our present society, there is a growth of single parents; mostly women who are left to take care of the children, with no father in sight. These are the strongest women that we have now. It is tough enough to raise children with both parents, how much more if one handles it singlehandedly?
She admires women who raise their children by themselves and abused women who stay in relationships to raise their children. Mostly the reason why they stay is that they are financially weak. “These women forget about themselves and just focus on their children in order to give them good living environment and for these children to grow up successfully.” she said.
About being a wife, she was asked, “What’s your best asset as the woman of the house? What do you think your husband sees in you as very important in homemaking? That best asset she said is her ‘organizational skill’. A former disc jockey (DJ) in an FM station, Lou also worked as a newscaster. The skill in organizing is inherent in her talent and training. As active as her husband, Lou involves herself as a board secretary in many different civic organizations. For more than five years she has been a Virtual Assistant to several corporations in North America.
Lou shares the idea that in making up or sustaining a successful family, “Me, my husband and our two kids, Lourica Rastelli and Ric Jr. have lunch out after church every Sunday.”
In relation to Women’s Month, Lou encourages to build a better society by giving a better support and treatment to women for our next generation. She added that, “After all, a woman’s job is 24/7. No day off.”
Happy Women’s Month to all the great women in the world!