By Cyrus A. Natividad
An ode to the Philippine flag – Centralian Boy and Girl Scouts during the flag-raising ceremony held at the CPU flagpole.
Central Philippine University Cultural Affairs Office in collaboration with the University Elementary School hosted the celebration of the 121st Philippine Independence Day on June 13, 2019, Thursday. A campus parade and flag raising ceremony was held by the University Elementary School and CPU Republic at 7:30 AM. A program followed at the CPU flagpole area. This year’s theme is “Pagbabagong Ipinaglaban, Alay sa Masaganang Kinabukasan.”
Pastor Roger T. Quimpo, Pastor for Outreach, University Church, led the invocation. The singing of the National Anthem was led by CPU Elementary Grade 6-Excel pupil, Sofia Beatrice U. Tupas. The Panunumpa sa Watawat ng Pilipinas and Panatang Makabayan were led by CPU Elementary Grade 6-Excel pupils, Steven Andrei C. Chua and Benjamin Israel O. Fuentespina, respectively
Sofia Beatrice U. Tupas, CPU Elementary School led the singing of the Philippine National Anthem.
The program continued at the Alumni Promenade and Concert Park. CPU President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles welcomed everyone and expressed gratitude to the organizers. He mentioned the importance of celebrating independence and of thanking God for the freedom that Filipinos are enjoying now. Dr. Robles recalled as well the sacrifices of the Filipino heroes so that “we enjoy life, citizenship, and responsibilities in nation building.” He encouraged everyone to continue to educate themselves and be aware of the problems confronting the nation. The CPUES Rondalla then rendered a special number of some favorite Philippine folksongs.
Mrs. Evamer G. Ruegg, faculty, CPU Elementary School, introduced the guest speaker, Atty. Joseph S. Celis, National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) Regional Director (Region 6).
CPU President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles together with Guest Speaker Atty. Joseph S. Celis and Prof. Janet P. Jaco, Principal, CPU Elementary.
Celis talked about the “Essence of Nationalism.” He emphasized that “our educators are the heroes in nation-building,” acknowledging that without them, he would not have achieved his current position and exercised integrity in government service.
Towards the end of the program, Viza Gale Q. Espada, Grade 6-Excel, gave a rendition of Pilipinas Kong Mahal. Mr. Rodrigo J. Sotto, Jr., CPUES Faculty, then led the singing of the Alma Mater song. Pastor Quimpo ended the program with a prayer.
Central Philippine University hails its six new Certified Public Accountants for successfully passing the May 2019 CPA Board Examinations.
According to the Professional Regulation Commission, 1,699 out of 10,319 passed the Certified Public Accountant Licensure Examination given by the Board of Accountancy.
By Keziah G. Huelar
CPU officials together with the evaluation team of TCLIS, CHED and PRC.
The Technical Committee for Library and Information Science together with the Commission on Higher Education and Professional Regulation Commission conducted a monitoring visit for the Bachelor of Library and Information Science program of the university on May 29, 2019.
Composing the evaluation team are Ms. Corazon M. Nera, member, TCLIS, Hon. Yolanda C. Granda, PRC Representative, Ms. Remedios S. Talingdan, representative, CHED-Office of Programs and Standards Development and Dr. Ester Guarin, CHED, Education Supervisor, Information Technology Education Programs.
Discussing innovations and areas of concerns – both teams aimed at promoting the Bachelor of Library and Information Science program as a competitive academic degree.
Present during the said evaluation activity were: Dr. Irving Domingo L. Rio, CPU Vice President for Academic Affairs, Prof. Ma. Cynthia Peleña, Acting Director of Libraries, Prof. Ma. Christina Quijano – Acting Dean, College of Computer Studies, Prof. Ana Mae Cantel, Coordinator, Bachelor of Library and Information Science and Master of Library and Information Science.
The said evaluation aimed at assessing the Bachelor of Library and Information Science program of the university. The evaluation team and CPU officials discussed future innovations to strengthen the said program and to provide an avenue for competitive academic developments.
By Nestle G. Taala
Book Authors Mr. Oliver D. Almonares and Dr. Philip Fortuno together with Dr. Mai Lynn Bermejo-Jacar, University Dentist and Director of the CPU Handbell Ringers. Photo Credit: Dr. Mai Lynn Bermejo-Jacar
Oliver D. Almonares and Dr. Philip Fortuno launched their book entitled The Rescue: God’s Amazing Grace on June 5, 2019 at the EMC Conference Room, Central Philippine University.
Mr. Oliver D. Almonares is a Centralian hailing from Alimodian, Iloilo. He is the former Commanding Officer of the 15th Scout Ranger Company and Special Operations Command of the Philippine Army while Dr. Philip Fortuno, his co-author, penned the best-selling book, No Man Left Behind: A Story of Valor in the Battle of Marawi, published in 2018. The book is about The book is about the mission to rescue those who were kidnapped by the Abu Sayyaf way back in 2002.
On behalf of the University President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles, Prof. Esther Rose Romarate, faculty member, Department of Languages, Mass Communication and Humanities (DLMCH), warmly welcomed the authors, guests, and visitors from all over the country. It was then followed by songs of praise, acknowledging the goodness of the Almighty God.
Mr. Oliver D. Almonares together with Missionary Gracia Burnham. Photo Credit: Mr. Oliver D. Almonares
Bea B. Almonares, Almonares’ daughter, shared her thoughts about the book being launched and about the authors. “As a military man, expect man naton siguro nga very [action-filled] ang libro, may mga battle scenes. Pero, it is also [composed] of small actions nga nagresulta sang dako nga impact sa kabuhi sang iban kag sa kabuhi ni Papa kag ni Uncle Philip. Ang libro, memoir man ni Papa. Military man si Papa pero para sa akon, papa ko siya.” (As a military man, we would expect that the book is filled with action and battle scenes. However, it is also full of small incidents that had a big impact on the lives of others and those of Papa and Uncle Philip. The book is also Papa’s memoir. Papa is a military man, but for me, he is [just] my father.)
Meanwhile, Gracia Burnham, who served with the New Tribes Mission in the Philippines for 17 years and Almonares’ colleague, spoke more about him and her appreciation for his work through a video greeting. Since the rescue in 2002, Gracia has become an internationally sought speaker and author of two best-selling books, In the Presence of my Enemies (2003) and To Fly Again (2005).
Almonares then shared his experiences as a military man against terrorists and how God spared and rescued his life in all his combat missions. He narrates that the series of events following their mission revealed the overall plan of God’s redemptive power “for [him], Gracia, and others who were directly involved in that rescue.” He claimed that God is his Commander-in-Chief, his King of kings and Lord of lords and he gave glory to God for this milestone in his life.
He also thanked CPU for giving him the opportunity to conduct his book launching in his alma mater. In response, the authors donated copies of their book to the CPU Junior High School where he spent his high school days; and to the CPU Library.
The celebration ended with the singing of the CPU Alma Mater song, a closing prayer, and book signing.
By Cyrus A. Natividad
CPU President Dr. Teodoro C. Robles together with the faculty and staff retirees of the university.
Central Philippine University honored 23 retirees during the Recognition Ceremony on the evening of May 30, 2019 at Emilion Function Center, Iloilo City. This is an annual program of the CPU Human Resource Development Office under Prof. Rodel Palomar. The retirees were honored for their distinguished service to Central Philippine University.
The retirees were welcomed by Dr. Teodoro C. Robles, University President. “They may have retired but they are still needed,” said Dr. Robles. Rev. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian, Senior Pastor, University Church, then encouraged the retirees to be used by God and “to work with a sense of purpose” in his reflection.
Rev. Joniel Howard H. Gico, Vice President for Student Affairs and his wife, Prof. Emma T. Gico holding their plaques of appreciation from the university.
Dr. Robles handed out the Certificates of Appreciation to the retirees with Dr. Florence P. Bogacia, Vice President for Administration and Finance, and Prof. Palomar.
A response was given by Rev. Joniel Howard H. Gico, the outgoing Vice President for Student Affairs, on behalf of the staff and by Ms. Alma A. Java, a retired faculty member of the Chemistry Department, on behalf of the faculty.
The following are the retirees for Academic Year 2018-2019:
Dr. Melda L. Estember
Rev. Joniel Howard H. Gico
Dr. Anita U. Illenberger
Dr. Roldan P. Pescos
Prof. Julieta H. Boteros
Prof. Ernesto S. Elefan
Prof. Orlie R. Gallos
Prof. Emma T. Gico
Prof. Carla D. Guilaran
Prof. Daisy G. Jimenea
Prof. Sharon Rose G. Munar
Prof. Carolyn L. Yoro
Mrs. Ophelia B. Acervo
Ms. Theresa T. Balofiños
Mr. Abelardo B. Carman
Mrs. Ramona D. Elevado
Ms. Gloria C. Felarca
Ms. Alma A. Java
Mrs. Mary Ann B. Limbungan
Mr. Victorio G. Madero
Mr. Joe Marie P. Navigar
Mr. Freddie S. Salvania
Mrs. Juliet G. Samoro
By Cyrus A. Natividad
The staff of the departments under the President’s Office at Badiango Island.
Finally the rain stopped and the service bus arrived; the staff from the President’s Office came in earlier for the trip. Sir Ted and Ma’am Angel personally checked on each one and waited until everybody has confirmed to be on the trip. The CPU President during the last faculty and staff night reminded his employees to relax, energize and fellowship with one another whenever there is a chance. “The activities create positive attitude, provide energy and develop team building with the organization”.
There were about twenty-five in the group including Sir Ted and Ma’am Angel. Pastor Alfred Morales and Jones Somosierra led in the singing of hymns as the bus started off on the road. The trip took about a couple of hours to reach the Municipality of Concepcion.
Concepcion is a coastal town in northern Iloilo and one of the fast developing tourist’s destinations in Western Visayas. On the way to Concepcion, panoramic view of the sea and the islands were just breathtaking.
At one time or another, CPU President Dr. Teodoro C. Robles with administrators, staff and CPU alumni groups brought foods, clothing and shelter materials to the victims of Typhoon Yolanda. The Municipality of Concepcion was among those declared in a state of calamity. Succeeding civic actions and medical missions from CPU followed. More and more relief goods and supplies were delivered from CPU. The events would lead the Central Philippine University Alumni Association and the Municipality of Concepcion to become allies and supporters of each other. “The ‘concepcionanons’ are thankful and will never forget the sympathy and support of Central Philippine University during that time of disaster”, according to one of the Centralian alumni who hails from the town of Concepcion.
A chartered motored bangka brought the group to the Badiango Island Beach Resort. Afterwards, a Galilean worship service was led by Pastor Alfred – with Dr. Ted and Angel Robles, before proceeding to the beach. Everyone indulged in seafood served for lunch. Island-hopping and more pictures were taken before returning to the mainland of Concepcion.
Vice Mayor Millard Villanueva met with Dr. Robles at the coffee shop of Pan de Azucar Hotel where everyone stayed for the night. Villanueva who is now the Vice Mayor – elect of Concepcion engage everyone in conversation over brewed coffee and thanked them for the visit. He encouraged them to continue on with the strong alliance that CPU and the Municipality of Conception have founded. Villanueva is currently the Vice President of the Concepcion Centralian Alumni Association. The group was treated to dinner by Dr. Ted and Angel Robles at their place in Concepcion.
Everyone started early for the trip back to Iloilo City the next day.
By Keziah G. Huelar
Comprising most of the athletes representing Western Visayas, the Central Philippine University Golden Lions led Region VI to numerous victories during the 2019 National PRISAA held at Davao City on May 19-24, 2019. Region VI was declared as the overall champion with 455 medals (212 Gold medals, 146 Silver medals, 95 Bronze medals). Region VII came in second with 347 medals (139 Gold medals, 128 Silver medals, 80 Bronze medals).
The CPU Golden Lions Athletes contributed 75 Gold medals, 35 Silver medals, and 16 Bronze medals.
Tertiary
Athletics Tertiary Men
Name Course/Yr Level Individual Overall
- BALOGO, Ailter John B. SHS, G 12 Champion
- DEMOTAÑO, Dan Angelo C. SHS, G 12 Gold-110m Hurdles Champion
Athletics Tertiary Women
Name Course/Yr Level Overall
- VALENCIA, Celeste Marie B. BSN 4 2nd Runner Up
Basketball Tertiary Women
Name Course/Yr Level Official Results
- BALES, Ma. Queenie L. BSBA 4 2nd Runner Up
- PAYAS, Lolly P. SHS, G 12 2nd Runner Up
Dancesport Tertiary
Name: Course/Yr Level Official Results
- SA-ATO, Patrick Ivan T. Participant
Softball Tertiary Women
Kim B. Dela Cruz – Head Coach – BEST COACH
Rhea Sevilla – Asst. Coach – BEST COACH
Ma. Marriel Arnado – Asst. Coach – BEST COACH
Jose Hechanova – Trainer – BEST TRAINER
Name Course/Yr Level Individual Official Results
- ATANAS, Krisha Leigh M. BSSW3 Champion
- BANGCAYA, Jacqueline L BSED X 3 Champion
- BESIN, Frizzy May B. BSED X 3 Champion
- BOTERO, Jennifer R. BSSW 1 Champion
- DECHOSA, Geia Lyn D. BSSW 4 MVP Champion Best Pitcher
- DE LOS SANTOS, Cheryl Marie P. BSED X 3 Champion
- DEL ROSARIO, Jiezl P. BSED X 3 Best Slugger Champion
- GIERZA, Charlyn Joy B. SHS, G 12 Champion
- HECITA, Ma. Kesiah BSED X 3 Champion
- MABELIN, Kate P. SHS, G 12 Champion
- MONICODE, Angielie M. BSED X 3 Champion
- PARREÑO, Shiegred B. SHS, G 12 Champion
- PARREÑO, Riza Jean J. BSBA 1 Champion
- SAMSON, Tweedle Gee M. BEED Z 4 Best Hitter Champion
- SARAYNO, Shymie Casandra S. SHS, G 11 Champion
- VARGAS, Yyanna C. BSPSYC 1 Champion
- VELASCO, Beverly S. BSED X 1 Champion
Swimming Tertiary Men
Name Course/Yr Level Individual Overall
- APOLTO, Joseph Dominic F. BSIT 1 Silver-4x100m Medley Champion
- LEE, John David L. BSAccty 1 Silver-4x50m Freestyle Relay Champion
Silver-4x200m Freestyle Relay
Swimming Tertiary Women
Name Course/Yr Level Individual Overall
- ARENAL, Carla June M. BSTM 1 Gold-4x100m Freestyle Relay Champion
Silver-4x50m Freestyle Relay
Silver-100m Freestyle
Silver-100m Backstroke
Bronze-50m Freestyle
Bronze-50m Backstroke
- PALOMA, Geraldine Rose A. BSCS 1 Gold-200m Butterfly Champion
Gold-400m Freestyle Relay
Gold-800m Freestyle Relay
Silver-800m Freestyle
Silver-400m Freestyle
Silver-200m Freestyle
Bronze-100m Butterfly
SEPAK TAKRAW TERTIARY MEN
Keith Dune R. Gallos – Head Coach – BEST COACH
Leonardo A. Lumawag Jr. – Asst. Coach – BEST COACH
Name: Course/Yr Level Individual Official Results
- CABUAL, Baron B. Champion
- GANGOSO, RV T. Champion
- GALIA, Jay-ar B. MVP Champion
- JALANDONI, John Hiros B. Champion
- PADIOS, Hubert John M. Best Tekong Champion
- PAREJA, EJ J. Best Setter Champion
- SOLTONES, John Christian B. Champion
- TOGLE, Steven M. Champion
Karatedo Tertiary Men
Name Course/Yr Level Individual Overall
- PRADO, Brett John L. BSPsych 4 Silver-Team Kumite 1st Runner Up
Karatedo Tertiary Women
Name Course/Yr Level Individual Overall
- MIRASOL, Danica D. BSSW 4 Gold-Individual 1st Runner Up
Gold-Team Kumite
- PILLADO, Edjean D. BSSW 4 1st Runner Up
- TEQUIO, Maria Angela G. BSSW 4 Silver-Individual 1st Runner Up
Table Tennis Tertiary Women
Rev. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on – Coach
Name Course/Yr Level Individual Overall
- ANECITA, Sharmaine M. BEED 4 1st Runner Up
- BONILLA, Lindsley Valerie D. SHS, G 12 1st Runner Up
- BUBONGAN, Mary Grace D. BSPSyc 1 Silver-Doubles 1st Runner Up
- CAOYONAN, Frances Necole E. BSPhar 1 Gold-Singles 1st Runner Up
- SOLOCASA, Kimberly S. BEED Z 4 Silver-Doubles 1st Runner Up
Taekwondo Tertiary Men
Quinn Pauline Hormigoso – Head Coach – BEST COACH
Name Course/Yr Level Individual Overall
- AGUIRRE, Zachary T. SHS, G 11 Gold-Team Poomsae Champion
Silver-Mixed Poomsae
- DIASNES, Alfie A. BSED X 3 Gold-Team Poomsae Champion
Gold- Invidual Poomsae B
- GANCERO, Clarence Jotham F. SHS, G 12 Bronze-Kyoroge Champion
- GANTALAO, June Draico C. SHS, G 11 Gold-Team Poomsae Champion
Gold- Invidual Poomsae A
- HORLADOR III, Adriano D. SHS, G 12 Gold-Kyoroge Champion MVP
- RECABAR, Jieben Lark A. SHS, G 12 Silver-Kyoroge Champion
Taekwondo Tertiary Women
Name Course/Yr Level Individual Overall
- AGUIRRE, Cyril Marie F. SHS, G 12 Silver-Kyoroge 1st Runner Up
- LIZARDO, Sanra Grace JHS, G 10 Gold-Kyoroge 1st Runner Up
- VIDALLON, Cara Nicole G. BSBABM 4 Gold-Kyoroge 1st Runner Up MVP
VOLLEYBALL TERTIARY MEN
John Kenneth A. Panes – Coach
Gary Medalle – Asst. Coach
Name Course/Yr Level Individual Official Results
- AMPARADO, Deo D. BSED X 4 2nd Runner Up
- ANDRADE, Kian Royce H. SHS, G 11 2nd Runner Up
- CAOYONAN, Gifred R. BSED 3 2nd Runner Up
- DORONILA, Paolo Gabriel T. SHS, G 12 2nd Runner Up
- ESPINOSA, Francis Michael D. BSSW 1 2nd Runner Up
- GABO, Jason A. BSBABM 3 2nd Runner Up
- MALIHAN, Joven D. BSBABM 3 2nd Runner Up
- ORBINA, Peter John T. BSBABM 3 2nd Runner Up
- UNION, Ken Rhodmer J. BSBABM 3 2nd Runner Up
- YU, Dan Miguel M. BST 4 Best Server 2nd Runner Up
Volleyball Tertiary Women
Anthony A. Arnilla – Coach
Ashley Mark L. Galupar – Asst. Coach
Name Course/Yr Level Individual Official Results
- AMBROCIO, Shyrel F. BSBABM 4 1st Runner Up
- DENURA, Pearl An T. SHS, G 12 Best Libero 1st Runner Up
- EGUICO, Daniela Louis C. BSAccty 1 1st Runner Up
- GUEVARRA, Eunice H. SHS, G 12 1st Runner Up
- LEDESMA, Glezel Anne B. BSBABM 4 1st Runner Up
- PIOSCA, Euna Gene D. SHS, G 12 1st Runner Up
- PUYO, Dessa Mae S. BSBABM 4 Best Attacker 1st Runner Up
- SERRANO, Riza Mae S. BSBABM 4 1st Runner Up
- TRONCOSO, Glaudine C. BSBABM 4 1st Runner Up
Athletics Secondary Boys
Name: Grade Level Overall
- GUARIZO, Darwin Aaron P. JHS, G 10 1st Runner Up
- PUEBLO, Dexter Patrick M. JHS, G 9 1st Runner Up
Chess Secondary Girls
Ronel C. Ballesteros – Coach – BEST COACH
Ramon Decrepito – Asst. Coach – BEST COACH
Name Grade Level Individual Overall
- DEL PILAR, Jasmien Cassandra D. JHS, G 8 Champion
- GUIRHEM, Fiona Geeweneth B. SHS, G 11 Gold Champion
- TELESFORO, Checy Aliena S. JHS, G 8 Bronze Champion
Dancesport Secondary
January Love Desamero – Coach
Name: Grade Level Official Results
- LEGASPI, Beny T. Jr. JHS G 10 Participant
- PARANGAN, Ingrid Denise P. JHS G 10 Participant
Swimming Secondary Girls
Name Grade Level Individual Overall
- VALENZUELA, Danielle Patricia T. JHS, G 10 Gold-4x200m Freestyle Relay Champion
Silver-100m Butterfly
Bronze-50m Butterfly
Bronze-4x50m Medley Relay
Tennis Secondary Girls
Alquinn M. Flores – Coach – BEST COACH
Name Grade Level Individual Overall
- CUBOS, Rissa Ann J. JHS, G 9 Champion
- JIMENEZ, Princess Aliha M. SHS, G 11 Gold-Doubles Champion
- MARTIREZ, Althea Rose M. JHS, G 8 Gold-Singles Champion
- SUACE, Avril Andrea S. JHS, G 9 Gold-Doubles Champion
Table Tennis Secondary Boys
Simplicio G. Gayoso Jr. – Coach – BEST COACH
Name Grade Level Individual Overall
- BARIA, John Romel S. JHS, G 9 Gold-Doubles Champion
- CAOYONAN, Rem Francis E. SHS, G 11 Gold-Singles Champion
- CHAVEZ, Joshua C. JHS, G 10 Gold-Doubles Champion
- GAYOSO, J Allan Noel C. SHS, G 11 MVP Champion
Silver-Singles
Silver-Mixed Doubles
- MACAVINTA, Nathan Kahli G. G 8 Champion
Table Tennis Secondary Girls
Simplicio G. Gayoso Jr. – Head Coach – BEST COACH
Name Grade Level Individual Overall
- GOMEZ, Clarice Thalia D. SHS, G 11 Gold-Doubles Champion
- GOMEZ, Clarissa Byeen D. JHS, G 9 Champion
- OLIVA, Ann Nicole L. SHS, G 11 MVP Champion
Silver-Singles
- OLIVA, Levee Marie G. JHS, G 9 Gold-Doubles Champion
Silver-Mixed Doubles
- VICENCIO, Jan Ashley R. JHS, G 9 Gold-Doubles Champion
Football Secondary Boys
Name Grade Level Official Results
- RIVERA, Tyler Kim B. SHS, G 11 1st Runner Up
- VALENZUELA, Khent Brian B. JHS, G 9 1st Runner Up
Taekwondo Secondary Boys
Floramie G. Navales – Coach
Name Grade Level Individual Overall
- BORNAZAL, Kean Ryth R. JHS, G 7 Silver-Mixed Poomsae 2nd Runner Up
Bronze-Team Poomsae
- JARDIO, Hans Oliver G. JHS, G 10 2nd Runner Up
- MARASIGAN, Lawrence R. SHS, G 11 Bronze-Kyoroge 2nd Runner Up
- PALONPON, John Patrick S. JHS, G 8 Silver- Invidual Poomsae B 2nd Runner Up
Bronze-Team Poomsae
Taekwondo Secondary Girls
Alan J. Diasnes – Coach – BEST COACH
Name Grade Level Individual Overall
- DIASNES, Cindy Joy J. JHS, G 10 Gold-Invidual Poomsae B 1st Runner Up
Gold-Team Poomsae
- MOSQUERA, Geraldine French S. JHS, G 7 Bronze- Kyoroge 1st Runner Up
- SOTOMIL, Estrelarryne Polla Ericca F. SHS, G 11 Silver-Kyoroge 1st Runner Up
Volleyball Secondary Boys
Jeffrey G. Alcarde – Head Coach – BEST COACH
Alain G. Tarrazona – Asst. Coach – BEST COACH
Name Grade Level Individual Official Results
- BANTOLO, Jose Miguel C. JHS, G 10 Champion
- BORRA, Lawrence G JHS, G 9 Best Setter Champion
- DEDOROY, John Emmanuel G. JHS, G 10 Best Blocker Champion
- JANOLINO, Dan Pretz O. JHS, G 10 Champion
- MIRANDA, Julz Christian C. JHS, G 10 MVP Champion
- NOBLE, John Kenneth H. SHS, G 11 Champion
- RAMOS, Louie Jay SHS, G 12 Champion
- SAN JOSE, Jhon Louie S. JHS, G 9 Champion
- SEDUCO, Francis C. SHS, G 11 Champion
By Nestle G. Taala
Engr. Russel Renz Garcia’s life is a testimony of how young people can use their energy and gifts for God’s glory.
“Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.” – 1Timothy 4:12
In the recently concluded Convention Baptist Youth Fellowship of the Philippines (CBYFP) 62nd Anniversary and 5th Biennial Assembly on May 20-24 at Sta. Monica Elementary School, Puerto Princesa, Palawan, the set of officers was led by a Centralian Chemical Engineer, Mr. Russel Renz Garcia, Batch 2017.
Mr. Garcia’s journey in CBYFP started in 2009. He was elected as Young Teens President during the first biennial assembly in 2011 in Capiz. Later, he became the Auditor for 2013-2015. “There was almost no activity for CBYFP aside from the biennial assembly which ended with a financial adversity,” Mr. Garcia shares. From there, he decided to take up the challenge to be the CBYFP President for 2017-2019, with the faith of recuperating the financial status of CBY as well as wanting the Baptist youth to be empowered as disciples and sharers of the Good News.
During this year’s assembly, Mr. Garcia and his co-officers were also tested: “As a [visionary] leader, my biggest fear is not seeing my plans happen. We were expecting 500 delegates but only a little over 200 confirmed through online registration. But Proverbs 19:21 reminded me that God’s purpose will prevail. I just entrusted everything to Him and I knew that we won’t fail.”
Being a Centralian leader, Mr. Garcia claimed that he fully trusts God with his decisions. “Sometimes our personal interest may interfere that’s why we need God to intervene and reveal His plans so that we can decide based on His will,” he adds. Hence, the CBYFP 2019 was a success and was victorious through the efforts of the officers, pastors, and advisers, and most especially, with the help of God.
Now that his term as CBYFP President has come to an end, he makes sure that at his workplace, he gives his best when completing his tasks. As a chemical engineer in environmental management, he sees to it that his company complies with the environmental laws because “we are stewards of God’s creation.” And for him, that is where the Central Spirit should be ignited.
By Cyrus A. Natividad
CPU Elementary School pupils raising their flaglets during a flag ceremony held at the University Flag Pole.
The commemoration of Independence Day comes in the second week of June, when classes have just started. It is a time to develop among the children, awareness of the significance of the flag and history of the Philippine independence.
Also known as “Araw ng Kalayaan” and “Araw ng Kasarinlan,” the Independence Day used to be celebrated on the 4th of July—on the same day that the Americans celebrate their Independence Day. Through Republic Act 4166, the day was changed from July 4 to June 12.
In preparation for this momentous occasion, the Central Philippine University conducts various activities such as parades and programs showcasing the beauty and resilience of the Filipino culture. Speakers from different sectors of the community are invited to share their insights and expertise on the significance of our Independence Day.
Even the CPU Kindergarten participates by making the Philippine flag during their art classes. The aim of which is to develop love and respect for our national flag even at an early age.
At CPU, continuing the tradition of Scientia et Fides is coupled with a profound love for country and a deep appreciation of being Filipino.
A flag ceremony to commemorate the Philippine Independence Day will be held at the University Flagpole on June 13, 2019.
By Rinand C. Escuban
The Bahandi Singers is testimony of God’s goodness and faithfulness through music. On July 15, 2019, the Bahandi singers held a concert at the Rose Memorial Auditorium to celebrate their 40th Anniversary and to present their concert entitled, “Our Anchor Holds.”
“We move for a greater Central”, this clarion call for a march towards a greater and prestigious Central Philippine University by the University’s First Filipino President, Dr. Rex D. Drilon was again heard on Saturday, May 25, 2019 when the Central Philippine University Alumni Association of the Greater Toronto Area (CPUAAGTA) presented the Bahandi Singers in a fundraising concert for the benefit of the Association’s scholarship program for deserving students of CPU. The well-attended event gathered the alumni and friends of Central Philippine University in the Greater Toronto Area. It was held at the Burgundy Room of the North York Memorial Community Hall, City of Toronto.
The CPUGTAAA recognizes CPU’s vision towards Exemplary Christian Education for Life (EXCEL) thus it sponsors a Scholarship Program that gives opportunity to financially challenged but deserving students to continue their education at CPU.
The Bahandi Singers performed Filipino and Christian music and featured David T. Clydesdale arranged dramatic musical “Lead Me to the Cross”. The Bahandi Singers (in Canada) is led by Dr. Jose Denzil D. Daquiado, Musical Director and Alvia de Leon Magno, Musical Conductor. For the concert Cheryl Obregon served as the Stage Director and Edwin Arroz, Light and Sound Coordinator.
The Bahandi Singer during their Concert for a Cause at the Burgundy Room of the North York Memorial Community Hall, City of Toronto.
During the program Ms. Norma Van Dusen, President, CPUGTAA gave the Opening Remarks. Mr. Rod Gonzales, CPUGTAA Board of Director shared the purpose of the activity and the mission of the Bahandi Singers.
In an email to the members of the CPUGTAA a day after the concert, Ms. Van Dusen commented that it was, “a great success. We raised the much needed funds for the Scholarship Program for deserving students of CPU. The tickets were sold out and I wanted to say ‘a big thank you to all of you, for the attendees for taking time out of your busy schedule to join us. The sponsors and donors for the generous financial support as well as to those who donated their time – the volunteers, thank you.”’
She continued, “We could not have achieved the success of this event without the collaborative efforts of the planning members and executive officers, most of all the Bahandi Singers who spent countless hours practicing and preparing for this event. Thank you for the hard work, intense effort and the dedication by stepping up to volunteer your time, expertise, experience and best of all for lending your beautiful voices to the glory of CPU. Dr. Christine Lopez Daquiado who scoured the city for the appropriate venue, Rodney and Faith Gicana who worked at the printing and numbering of tickets and the printing of the programs and creating the video clips for sponsors and donors, thank you.” “The narrators, multimedia, videographer, and everybody who were all instrumental in making the event a success – thank you, we are all deeply appreciative of all the efforts. I am so proud of all of you, events like these depend on its members and friends for its success and the level of enthusiasm on the part of this group is amazing.”
To God be the glory for the love and support given by the CPUGTAA to CPU!
By Keziah G. Huelar
Photo Credit: www.4icu.org
Trending in Western Visayas—The Central Philippine University website claimed the no. 1 spot in uniRank’s 2019 Western Visayas Ranking and League Tables. The University also placed 33rd in the top 50 overall country ranking. Only two educational institutions from Region VI entered the top 50—the other school being University of the Philippines-Visayas, which ranked no. 40.
In uniRank’s latest regional ranking, CPU bested the University of the Philippines-Visayas and John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University, which placed second and third respectively.
According to its website (https://www.4icu.org/about/index.htm#ranking): The aim of the uniRank University RankingTM is to provide an approximate global ranking of world universities and colleges based upon their web presence and popularity in terms of estimated traffic, trust/authority, and quality link popularity. This is especially intended to help international students and academic staff to understand how popular a specific higher education institution is in a foreign country.
uniRank (formerly 4icu.org or 4 International Colleges & Universities) is an international higher education directory, reviewing accredited universities and colleges in the world. uniRank includes 12,358 colleges and universities, ranked by web popularity, in 200 countries.
CPU’s ranking is credited to the internet activity of its students, alumni, faculty, and staff. Since the re-launch of the Centralian Link in 2016, the university website has been receiving a lot of traffic due to site visits, inquiries and shares, mostly from alumni and foreign students who wish to study in CPU. Over the years, traffic in the CPU website as well as in its Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter accounts, has increased four times.
The Weekly Centralian Link, an online publication of the University, has connected Centralians all over the world, creating an online community of CPU graduates.
Every like, click, and share has increased the platform for the University to be globally known, not only to foreign students but to also to other educational institutions for future academic and cultural partnerships.
Apart from popularity, the greatest aim of these online platforms is to share Centralian stories of faith and excellence and let the Central Spirit shine on new platform, the social media.
By Keziah G. Huelar
Euphoria – Mr. Samuel Yap at the basecamp of Mt. Everest. Photo Credit: Mr. Samuel Yap
The glorious peaks of Mt. Everest kissed the horizon as rays of sunlight painted the freezing sky with the nostalgia of warmth. The scenic tundra was breathtaking, epic, and ethereal to the soul. However, for Samuel Yap, the one who deserves all the marvel and praise is the God of such splendor.
Together with 18 others, Yap reached the basecamp of Mt. Everest on April 28, 2019 after a 10-day journey.
A graduate of the CPU College of Nursing Batch 1985, Yap developed a passion for hiking at an early age; however, it was much later that this love affair blossomed into a commitment to adventure: “I’m from Antique and I used to climb the mountains there 40 years ago back in high school. But I was never as committed to it as I am now. I started taking hiking seriously at the age of 53.”
He shares that it all began in 2015 when a fellow Centralian invited him to a hike he would never forget: “Twenty-five years after graduating from CPU, a friend of mine, who is also a Centralian, invited me to Pico de Loro, [in Nasugbu, Batangas]. At first I thought we were going to the beach but to my surprise, we were going hiking. On our way down, rain fell, and there I tumbled down the mountain covered [in] mud and dirt.”
The fall didn’t discourage Yap—rather it was an epiphany to the then neophyte climber: “It was an awakening on my part. I realized that I love this kind of life—this thrill and this adventure is what I’ve been missing in my life.”
A year after, Yap resigned from his job at a New Jersey hospital to pursue his new passion: “The following year [after the Pico de Loro hike], I filed my resignation letter. Before the 24 hours was over, the management called me asking why I was quitting my job. They asked if I had any intention [of returning]; I said yes. So they gave an offer to be a seasonal employee—for six months I work as a nurse and for the next six months I climb mountains.”
After graduation, at the age of 23, Yap went to America to work as a nurse: “I was really [a workaholic] back then. I realize now that it’s not about the money—it’s about the memories that will last throughout your lifetime. Looking back [I thought to myself], why didn’t I hike in my 20s or in my 30s? But now, I just look forward to more memories and adventures.”
Mr. Samuel Yap together with CPU Office of Communications Director, Rev. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on.
During his stint as a nurse, Yap talked about how he always made sure to exemplify the Centralian brand of nursing excellence in his workplace: “Our training here in the university is really different from those in other countries. We have the confidence and experience to deal with difficult situations because of our [hospital immersion] as nursing students. As a Centralian nurse, I was always sure and confident with how I deal with my patients.”
Sharing a flashback of his stay in the university, Yap recalls being the only male graduate of Nursing Batch 1985 under the deanship of the late Natividad C. Caipang: “Our batch started with 350 nursing enrollees. There were only three boys. Four years later, our batch had 56 nursing graduates—I was the only male to graduate.”
At 56 years old, Yap has climbed 7 out of the 10 highest mountains in the country. The peak for him is always the next adventure—the additional testimony of God’s amazing grace in his life: “There is a sense of [fulfilment] when I reach the summit. I get teary-eyed with the view, the realization that with my age I still get to do what I love.”
For him, climbing Mt. Everest was not only a great blessing but an opportunity to encourage others to also climb and conquer whatever challenge or dream they have in their lives no matter what age they are: “Back then I was 285 pounds. I had 85% of my large intestines removed but it did not stop me from doing what I love the most. [It should also be the same for others]. I reconfigured my life and found happiness outdoors, climbing mountains despite my age. Age does not define or limit you.”
When asked about his favorite part of climbing Mt. Everest, Yap shares that it is the sense of fulfillment and amazement at God’s creation: “When we finally reached Mt. Everest, I [couldn’t] help but be amazed at God’s wisdom and creation. You just get this sense of amazement and appreciation of how beautiful His work is. Sometimes you question yourself how far you would go or where else you would go, but reaching the summit gives you the zen to pause and just appreciate life. You see the tip of the mountain and you ask yourself how far you still have to go but when you reach it, there is just this satisfaction at the effort and the hard work that makes the view more [breathtaking].”
On the other hand, Yap encourages his fellow Filipino hikers to also develop a love for our Philippine mountains and to exhibit social and environmental responsibility to help preserve our mountains for the next generation: “We have beautiful mountains here in our country. When it comes to natural resources and [scenic views], we are really blessed. But we need to develop responsibility [for] taking care of our mountains. We should practice proper waste management, and we should also respect our guides and treat them with accordingly.”
With Mt. Everest off his list, Yap hopes to climb more mountains and conquer more peaks not only for the pride of the country and of the university—but for the glory of God whose faithfulness reaches higher than the summit.