By Nestle G. Taala
The new JHS lockers and locker sheds.
Central Philippine University Junior High School Parents and Teachers Association celebrated God’s goodness and faithfulness as they witnessed the dedication of JHS Lockers Shed and Lockers on August 2, 2019 at the CPU JHS Complex.
CPU JHS Principal Prof. Janet Jalbuena gives her welcome remarks.
Mrs. Hermely Jalando-on of the CPU JHS PTA Board gives the words of intention.
CPU JHS Principal, Janet S. Jalbuena, welcomed everyone who came and joined the said dedication with her kind words. Furthermore, Mrs. Hermely A. Jalando-on, CPU JHS PTA Board S.Y. 2018-2019 rendered the words of intention. According to her, the additional lockers will augment the lack of lockers in the CPU JHS. “We are happy and thankful to God for this project—these lockers shed and lockers. It was last year that we have experienced an increase in enrolment in the Junior High School. Thus the need for additional lockers,” said Mrs. Jalando-on. It was then followed by the singing of hymn of praise and ribbon cutting which formally signified that the lockers are ready to be occupied by the JHS students.
Meanwhile, Rev. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian, University Church Senior Pastor, offered prayers of thanksgiving for the said dedication.
By Rusieljs G. Lunasco
Participants from CPU and Suwon University pose for a group photo.
Selected students from Suwon University and Central Philippine University participated in an interactive program on August 2, 2019 at the gallery of Henry Luce III Library. The CPU Office of International Programs spearheaded the said activity.
During their interaction, students from both universities got to understand the culture, food and educational system of each other’s home countries. Students also got to know each other’s universities through video presentations.
CPU and Suwon University students share about each other’s culture and customs.
30 students from Suwon University and 18 students from the Bachelor of Arts in Communication (BA Comm) and Bachelor of Arts in English Language Studies (BA ELS) programs as well as 5 students from the Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management (BSTM) program participated in the said event.
The said activity is part of an International Cooperative Agreement between CPU and Suwon University that was signed last February 28, 2016. The contract has a five year validity which will end on February 27, 2021.
By Rusieljs G. Lunasco
CPU Vice President for Finance and Administration Dr. Florence Bogacia talks about Student Insurance and Other Benefits.
Central Philippine University in cooperation with the CPU Office of International Relations and Cooperation held an orientation for foreign students on July 26, 2019 at the gallery of the Henry Luce III Library.
CPU Vice President for Finance and Administration Dr. Florence Bogacia discussed about insurance coverage and other benefits while CPU Office of International Relations and Cooperation Acting Director Prof. Anna May Zerrudo talked about the role of the Office of International Relations and Cooperation. CPU Head for Guidance Services Center Dr. Racquel Polec-eo discussed the university Dress Code Policy, Physical Exam, and Student Services under the Office for Student Services. Bureau of Immigration Officer Mr. Jonel Ostaga, talked about the Policies on holders of Student Visa and other laws related to being a foreign student and Acting Registrar Ms. Charissa June Deocampo discussed about Registrar Concerns on foreign students.
Foreign Students pose for a photo.
After the orientation, the foreign students elected the new set of officers of the International Student Organization (ISO) for School Year 2019-2020.
By Merly L. Junsay
The first batch of Chinese students with the Dean of the School of Graduate Studies, Dr. Rowena Libo-on and the coordinator of the EdD and MAEd Programs, Dr. Merle Junsay.
The School Year 2018-19 marked a significant year for the CPU School of Graduate Studies as twenty students from Zhengzhou University of Industrial Technology (ZUIT) enrolled in the Doctor of Education program. The students majored in Curriculum and Instruction and they started their first stint of their academic journey in the university on January and February 2019. This July and August 2019, the students are back in the university to continue their studies.
The second batch of Chinese students with the Dean of the School of Graduate Studies, Dr. Rowena Libo-on, the coordinator of the EdD and MAEd Programs, Dr. Merle Junsay, the University Librarian, Prof. Cynthia Pelena and the University Research, Dr. Mary ‘O Penetrante.
This school year 2019-2020, another batch of 20 students from different universities in China enrolled in the EdD major in Administration and Supervision program of the university. They started their classes on August 2019.
By Cyrus A. Natividad
CPUES students perform a dance number.
Central Philippine University Elementary School observed the Nutrition Month with a week-long celebration from July 15 to 31, 2019. This year’s theme is: “Kumain ng wasto at maging aktibo…Push natin ito.” The Opening Program was held on July 15 at the CPUES Gym.
On July 26, the Grade 2 students and their teachers sponsored a Literary-Musical Competition that included Poster Making Contest at the Elementary Library organized- by Mrs. Mary Jacqueline Plana, Ms. Wilmer Joy Coronel and Mr. Rodrigo Sotto. The Grade 4-6 Students with class advisers and EPP teachers organized an Essay Writing Contest in English and Filipino Categories. Mrs. Liza Espada, EPP teachers and other class advisers organized a cooking contest for Grades 4-6. The contest required the Grade 4 pupils to cook Pochero, Grade 5 pupils to cook Tinolang Manok and Grade 6 pupils to cook Chopsuey.
Grade 2 student Bea Ysabelle Alibogha portrayed Moana during the Character Impersonation Competition.
The culminating activity was held on July 31. It included a Food Fest per level. Each level prepared healthy foods for the pupils to eat. To strengthen their entrepreneurial skills, the Grade 4 level pupils sold food items. Tables per grade level were set up in the gym for the food fest. The awarding of prizes was held in the afternoon.
Mr. Clem Burgos, one of the winners of the 5th International Competition of Arts and Culture, and Mr. Jobert Pillado, faculty member of the CPU Junior High School Department were judges during the Lit-Mus Competition.
Elementary School Principal, Prof. Janet P. Jaco thanked the faculty, parents and students who facilitated the successful Nutrition Month Celebration. Prof. Jaco pointed out the valuable experience of students in the awareness of Healthy Foods and Nutrition. “The students learned a lot about health during the program”, she said.
By Rusieljs G. Lunasco
Scholars from the Junior High School Department with OIC for the CPU Office of the Vice-President Pastor Peter James Trasporto with CPU Registrar Ms. Charissa June Deocampo.
792 students were awarded with scholarships by Central Philippine University during the Scholarship Awarding and Recognition Program on August 9, 2019 at the Alumni Promenade Concert Park. The CPU Office of Student Development and Programs headed by Dr. Margen Java spearheaded the said event.
In her opening remarks, CPU Vice President for Finance and Administration Dr. Florence Bogacia, thanked the donors for their support and generosity. She also addressed the scholars and said “This is your day but most of all, always remember that this is a day of gratitude for you.” She is also reminded them to bless and pray for their donors.
Vice President for Finance and Administration Dr. Florence Bogacia welcomes the awardees and their donors.
The donors were then presented with certificates by Dr. Bogacia and CPU Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Irving Domingo Rio. The scholars were awarded certificates by their donors and were assisted by Dr. Bogacia, Dr. Rio, CPU Treasurer Mrs. Welna Roxas and Officer-in- Charge for the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs Pastor Peter James Trasporto.
2nd year BS Chemical Engineering Student, Patrick Jules Marquez gives the response in behalf of the scholars.
Patrick Jules Marquez, a 2nd year Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering student as well as a University Entrance and Department of Science and Technology (DOST) scholar gave the response in behalf of the scholars. In his speech, he expressed his gratitude to the donors for helping the scholars achieve their dreams. “You truly deserve the title of being called modern-day heroes who believe in the power of education and the youth as a hope of our nation”, Marquez said.
Aside from the scholars, a total of 111 donors from both the public and private sector as well as alumni hailing from local and international chapters were honored in the said event.
By Nestle G. Taala
The CPUAAI Officers and chapter presidents pose for a group photo.
Central Philippine University Alumni Association, Inc. officers together with CPUAAI Chapter Presidents convened once more at the Alumni Affairs Office Building on August 2 to prepare, finalize and ready the programs and events for this year’s General Assembly and Alumni Homecoming. The Assembly which is on September 28, 2019 aims to accommodate a number of Alumni Centralians who will be coming from different regions of the Philippines.
Part of the discussion for the said event includes the Registration Fee packages:
* Php 400.00 — with lunch
* Php 600.00 — with lunch plus Lifetime Alumni ID
The CPUAAI is looking forward to another fun-filled and memorable get together this 2019. In addition to the said meeting, the officers together with the administrative officials continue to prepare for the Grand Alumni Homecoming on February 5-9, 2020 at Central Philippine University.
Centralian Alumni all over the world are cordially invited to come and join the reunion! Not yet registered? Registration for both affairs is going on!
Contact details:
E-mail: homecoming@cpu.edu.ph
CPUAAI Office: (033) 329 2904 or 329-1971 to 329-1979 loc. 1033
Also visit cpu.edu.ph to learn more.
Central Spirit Leads Us Back Home!
By Sarla Ferrer-Duller and Emelda Frange-Valcarcel
Golden Jubilarians with Delia Gumban-Daus and husband Steve at the Delia Mansion and Gardens.
Memory … just like the famous song from the Broadway musical Cats, the Central Philippine University (CPU) College of Nursing class of 1969 AKA the 69ers, dreamed of the old days and remembered that life was beautiful then as they commemorated their Golden Jubilee from February 7 to 12, 2019. Attended by 25 69ers and some 12 husbands, the class reunion was celebrated in the provinces of Iloilo and Antique, and in six different venues: CPU; Iloilo Mission Hospital (IMH); Tambaliza/Pan de Azucar Island in Concepcion, Iloilo; Dingle, Iloilo; San Jose, Antique; and Pavia, Iloilo.
Day Six – 12 February 2019. Pavia, Iloilo (by Emelda “Daday” Frange Valceral)
It can be best described as the “icing on the cake” day of the six-day reunion. Fully aware that it was the last day of the reunion, the group resolved to make it fun and enjoyable. Hosted by Delia Gumban-Daus and husband Steve, at the Delia Mansion and Gardens, the venue is situated between the cheerfully painted lime yellow-green ancestral house and the new terracotta and cream Mediterranean-inspired mansion. There were interesting garden nooks and corners and an abundance of varieties of plants and fruit trees. The weather was pleasantly sunny to our delight, notably to the “sun worshipper” Dieter Kraseman, Lucille Palabrica’s husband. The cool breeze was felt from the river beside the house even through the high fences.
The Jubilarians enjoyed the lunch fare of laswa, fresh lumpia, chicken tetrazzini, beef stroganoff, valenciana, escabeche, pancit bijon, beef ribs, adobo and shrimps served under a sprawling mango tree, in peach/brown colored tablecloths over round tables. For desserts, there were star apple, alupe, chico, guinatan, suman, lanzones, maja blanca, fruit salad, and mango. Thanks, Angel, for supplying the sweet mangoes for several days for us to enjoy.
Memories are one of life’s cherished possession, someone once said. Reminiscing our college and dormitory years, rekindled friendships as we shared bittersweet memories of our unique experience as Centralians, and as student nurses with an internship in IMH and Capiz Emmanuel Hospital. Our looks may have changed, but our fond memories remained the same, and all the more made significant because we were sharing them with friends and kindred spirits. Collectively, we were grateful for our many blessings personally and professionally both in the homeland and abroad. We shared travel plans, we talked about children and bragged about grandchildren and hardly discussed problems or maintenance medications. On our last reunion day of togertherness, we chose to regress and transported ourselves back in the day when we were teens aged between 16-20 years old, full of dreams, hope, and energy. We asked each other: Were you a fan of Susan Roces or Amalia Fuentes? We wondered how we survived our tours of duty as student nurses, although sleep-deprived yet we were able to bounce back and attend our firt-period class. We recalled Miss Tupaz bringing us sandwiches for our lunch during our nursing board exam in Manila. We remembered Dra. Hofilena’s teaching style and her writing encouraging notes on our test papers. We remembered Dr. Viterbo’s wit and wisdom, scrubbing for prolonged surgeries of Dr. Muyco’s thoracic, and Dr. Padilla’s neuro cases (and green jokes). Oh yes, how Akay in the Kitchen and Boning in Central Supply intimidated us as student nurses especially during our junior year. And more…
Switching gears, we played the Siomai, Siopao, and Suman with flamboyant actions accompanied by shrieks and laughter. We also played the Balay ni Belay that was a little bit challenging to one’s concentration especially when the onlookers tried to distract by teasing the players. Congratulations to the winners: Cochiao and Lydia. By the way, who else got the third Texas T-shirt? (Senior moment!)
Indeed, time files, and before we knew it, our rides were already fetching us. It was 5:00 P.M. Once again, we joined hands and sang Blest Be the tie, had our group pictures taken yet under the tree, in front of the Bahay Kubo, fountain and mansion and said good bye to each other for at least ten (10) times. We bagged some plant cutting and seeds, the green mangoes we harvested off the tree, and of course the customary Ilonggo “Putsiko” for the food to go. Other loots included handmade bracelets and necklaces by Edith Villaruz. More hugs and hysterical laughter as we waved, “until next reunion!”
We parted with sensory overload, full of nostalgic memories and great experiences! Once again, thanks to our hosts Delia and Steve Daus, the Organizing Committees in Iloilo, classmates and their spouses in attendance and God for our safe travels and provisions to be able to attend out 50th college reunion. I was such a gift and profound blessing!
Post Note:
“No distance of place or lapse of time can lessen the friendship of those who are thoroughly persuaded of each other’s worth.” – Robert Southey
While we sorely missed our classmates who were unable to join us to celebrate our Golden Jubilee due to illness and other compelling priorities, however, we were blessed with the presence of the following 69ers and husbands who attended some or all activities. Above all, we thank the Iloilo-based Planning and Organizing Committee: Angel Robles (coordinator), Angie Majaducon, Lucille Krasemann, Lydia Robles, Miray Pedregosa and Ruth Griño, for your hard work behind the scenes in making our 50th fun and memorable event!
Hasta luego, fellow 69ers…and let the memory live again!
By Cyrus A. Natividad
Senior High School students pose for a commemorative photo.
Central Philippine University Senior High School held its Academic Excellence Awards Ceremony on July 29, 2019 at the Rose Memorial Auditorium. This is for the school year 2018-2019. The program started with an opening prayer and devotional led by Rev. Zeus Familiaran, SHS Bible Teacher.
In her welcome remarks, Engr. Dimpna Castigador OIC, Office of the President congratulated the parents of the Honor Students and acknowledged them for the achievements of their sons and daughters in Senior High School. She also challenged the honorees and told them, “You have a big responsibility to honor your parents, because without their efforts and sacrifices you would not be receiving your honors today.”
OIC for the CPU Office of the President Engr. Dimpna Castigador welcomes the awardees and their families.
Prof. Nenita Mino, SHS Filipino teacher gave the awards to the honor students, classified with High Honors and with Honors. Intermission numbers were rendered by the CPU Dance Company and selected Senior High School Students.
Prof. Edgar E. Eriman, Principal, SHS in his closing remarks, encouraged the parents to “continue in supporting and motivating their children so that they will continue to be successful in whatever path they choose to pursue.”
CPU Senior High School Principal Prof. Edgar Eriman and Asst. Principal Prof. Ma. Corazon Nievales hand a certificate to an awardee.
The program ended with the singing of the Alma Mater song lead by Mrs. Linnie Rose Estante, SHS Filipino Teacher.
By Cyrus A. Natividad
Dr. Evangelica Diesto-Padernilla (seated) with friends from CPU University Church and Convention of Philippine Baptist Churches (CPBC).
Dr. Padernilla, “Manay Vangie” to friends and family celebrated her 91st Birthday on July 28, 2019 at the CPU Educational Media Center. Speaking at the podium on her birthday, Manay Vangie emphasized the love and faithfulness of the Lord who gave her everything she enjoyed. She enumerated the blessings she received. Among them is the Doctor of Pedagogy, honoris causa, and the Distinguished Centralian Award in Educational Management which was awarded to her by Central Philippine University – in recognition of her outstanding achievements as an educator and academic administrator.
Dr. Padernilla thanked God for the long life and strength He gave her. She recounted her student days, her scholastic and co-curricular achievements in school. She was an athlete, choir member, dramatist, zarzuela lead artist, declaimer, Gospel Team member, and officer of various campus organizations. It was at CPU where she completed her Elementary Teacher’s Certificate (with honors), Bachelor of Science in Education, and Master of Arts in Education. She also earned units leading to Doctor of Education degree from CPU.
She started serving CPU as a classroom teacher and became school principal of the University Elementary School. Her exemplary performance resulted in the conferment of numerous citations to her by various local, national, and international organizations. Among others, she was recognized as distinguished alumna of the CPU College of Education; finalist in the Ten Outstanding Women Professionals Awards; Gintong Sikat Awardee as Outstanding Educator; Golden Heart Service Award as Outstanding Educator and Church Leader; Dakilang Ilaw ng Tahanan Award Year 2000.
Dr. Padernilla poses for a photo before her birthday celebration.
Her church-related efforts earned her many certificates and plaques of appreciation from the Convention of Philippine Baptist Churches. She was a delegate and participant in various trainings and conferences here and abroad. Her involvement in social action groups and religious organizations made positive influence in the lives of Ilonggos. She has authored several books, articles in education. She is a member of the CPU Corporation for many year up to the present.
The presence of her family, relatives and friends; alumni and members of the CPU Board of Trustees, CPUAAI Board and CPU Corporation justified the importance of her celebration. Manay Vangie was given tributes by some of the guests. In return she gave them a moment to have their photos taken with her. Everyone was entertained by music of the Centralian singing group called ‘Tulihaw’. A sumptuous dinner followed as the night continued to bring together Centralians and friends of Manay Vangie.
Dr. Padernilla was married to the late Godofredo C. Padernilla and they were blessed with four children, all Centralians, (1) Fredgel, (deceased) married to Imelda Donguines Espiritu (2) Godfred, married to Agnes Sanches; (3) Ramsay, married to Arlene Porras (4) Dr. Anabel Joy, married to Jose Romel Aragona Sajo.
By Rusielsj G. Lunasco
Participants, together with the speakers pose for a photo.
Central Philippine University in partnership with the CPU Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence, CPU Review, Continuing Education Consultancy Center and the United Board for Higher Christian Education in Asia held a Seminar-Workshop on Whole Person Education and Exemplary Christian Education for Life (EXCEL): Preparing Students for Life and Beyond on July 17, 2019. Selected deans and unit directors attended the said event which was held at the Knowledge Development Center, Henry Luce III Library.
The program started with an opening prayer led by CPU Dean of the College of Theology, Dr. Bernabe Pagara. Dr. Rowena Libo-on, Officer in -charge for the Office of the President gave her opening remarks.
CPU Office of Communications Director Rev. Francis Neil Jalando-on gives a lecture on CPU Heritage and Other Reasons for being.
“CPU has always recognized whole person education through its Vision and Mission Statement. And we hope that we could enable our students to become good Christians and competent individuals when they go into the real world,” Libo-on said.
CPU Office of Communications Director Rev. Francis Neil Jalando-on talked about “CPU Culture, Heritage and other reasons for being” and CPU Corporation member and former CPU Elementary principal Dr. Evangelica Padernilla gave a lecture about “What it means to be a Christian Leader.” “Excellent Teaching” was then discussed by Distinguished Teacher Awardee and CPU College of Medicine Faculty member Dr. Lucita Jalbuena.
CPU RCEC Director Dr. Lenny Rose Mucho, with CPU Director for Institutional Advancement Eng. Dimpna Castigador and CPU OIC for the Office of the President Dr. Rowena Libo-on.
“Developing the Learner of Today: The Whole Person way” was discussed by CPU Director for Institutional Advancement Engr. Dimpna Castigador. CPU Director for Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence Dr. Ananias Sabijon, Jr. talked about “Foundations of Education and Pedagogical Competence” and CPU Research Center Director Dr. Mary O’ Penetrante gave a lecture about “Research and the Professional Educator.”
The seminar-workshop featured emphasized whole person education and the university’s commitment in carrying out moral and intellectual training in producing competitive and responsible professionals.
By Cyrus A. Natividad
The Central Philippine University Golden Lions futsal team.
The Golden Lions Women’s Football team once again showed power as they won over Barotac Viejo, Iloilo, 3-0 at the 2019 Villa Luisa Football Club futsal cup to get the championship. The game was held at Kirayan National High School in Miag-ao on July 20, 2019.
The team earlier won over Iloilo City National High School Team B, 3-1 in the semi-finals before winning over Barotac Viejo in the finals.
The Team under Coach GP Seloterio included Therese Cordero, Victoria Altavas, Cydelle Denola, Juliana Espedion, Bridgette Libo-on, Kat Rabino, Shanley Soldevilla, Rea Majarocon, Argelyn Silao, Mariel Adorio, Danafe Libo-on and Cynthia Hayawon – all brought additional honors to the CPU Golden Lion team.
CPU Sports Director Edwin C. Laru-an has a whole year sports program that gives the CPU varsity teams to compete in other events aside from the PRISAA.