By Keziah G. Huelar
The Annual Student Campus Organizations’ Evaluation and Exhibit highlights diversity and camaraderie among Centralians.
Following the booth exhibits and presentations of the different student organizations held at the Alumni Concert Promenade Park on February 6 to 7, 2019, the Student Development Programs headed unveils its list of front-runners who have represented their respective organizations with excellence and commitment.
Here are the winners:
Most Outstanding Adviser, to receive Php 3,000
Ms. Prof. Joan Iven Abello, Special Education Society
Outstanding Advisers – to receive Php 1,500.00 each
- Academic Category – Ms. Prof. Joan Iven Abello, Special Education Society
- Special Category – Mr. Jobert H. Pillado, Impact Philippines, Inc.
- Cultural Category – Ms. Grace Ann Jardenil, CPU Teatro, Sining, Atbp.
- Sports Category – Mr. James Peter Trasporto, CPU Mountaineering Society
- Religious Category – Dr. Florentino Perez Alerta II, Every Nation Campus
Most Outstanding Student Organization, to receive Php 10,000.00
- Institute of Electronics Engineers of the Philippines, Inc.
Outstanding Organizations – to receive Php 5,000 each
- Academic Category – Institute of Electronics Engineers of the Philippines, Inc
- Special Category – Work Students Organization
- Cultural Category – CPU Teatro, Sining, Atbp.
- Religious Category – Campus Bible Fellowship
- Fraternity Category – Megalith Nu Sigma Phi Society
Best Booth Exhibits – to receive Php 1,500.00 each
- Academic Category – Institute of Packaging Professionals (IoPP)
- Special Category – CPU College Red Cross Youth Council
- Cultural Category – CPU Teatro, Sining, Atbp.
- Religious Category – Campus Bible Fellowship
- Sports Category – Central Philippine University Mountaineering Society
- Fraternity Category – Megalith Nu Sigma Phi Society
Essay Writing Contest
- First Place, to receive Php 1,500 – Arem Jay Badajos, Junior Phil. Institute of Chemical Engineers
- Second Place, to receive Php 1,000 – Joshua Van L. Faala, Janitorial Student Assistant
- Third Place, to receive Php 500 – Paul Christian M. Alado, Phil. Institute of Civil Engineers SPU-SC
The annual Student Campus Organizations’ Evaluation and Exhibit is a celebration of diversity and student initiative. It is a witness of Central Philippine University’s dedication of providing a venue for holistic learning and experience. Also, the competitions are recognitions of the hard work and dedication given by the students and advisers in promoting and initiating student participation.
By Cyrus A. Natividad
Mr. Mauro Somodio and his wife, Cecelia Somodio have been passionate in supporting and providing scholarship opportunities for CPU working students.
The Filipino Australian Foundation of Queensland, Inc. (FAFQI) and Ilonggo Association of Victoria, Inc. (AUSTRALIA) (IAVTA) will award scholarships to deserving work students on January 25, 2019 at 4:00 PM at the CPU Educational Media Center.
The FAFQI Grant-in-Aid Scholarship program for CPU work students has its origins in 1996 when Mr. Mauro Somodio (CPU BSA 1973) organized the Filipino-Australian Foundation of Queensland, Inc.
A work student himself, Mr. Somodio witnessed the struggle of work students in maintaining their grades, looking for money to pay for their board and lodging: “We have no social life as our dream is to finish our studies in order to land a job to support our families.” This experience has led Mr. Somodio to establish the scholarship program for the benefit of the CPU work students, especially those in their senior years.
The scholarships are awarded every year to junior work students who come from Iloilo, Antique, Guimaras, Aklan, and Capiz and those with the best academic performance for the current year.
By Nestle G. Taala
Rekindling friendships – Batch 1969 celebrates the Central Spirit by re-exploring Panay.
The CPU BS Nursing batch 1969 saw more of Iloilo province and Antique as they celebrated their golden anniversary on February 7-12, 2019.
The group started with a mini program at the Knowledge for Development Center, Henry Luce III Library. They then visited the College of Nursing at the Loreto D. Tupaz Buiding and the Iloilo Mission Hospital (IMH) where they had their lunch together with Dr. Elmer Q. Pedregosa, IMH Administrator.
On February 8, CPU BSN batch 1969 sailed to Tambaliza, Concepcion, Iloilo. The batch enjoyed the view, the beach, and a table full of seafood during lunch time. The feast was prepared by their classmate, Erlinda V. Arlos.
Fun in the sun – CPU BS Nursing Batch 1969 explores Iloilo and Antique during their batch reunion.
The batch experienced a more fellowship in Dingle, Iloilo on February 9. The event was hosted by Mr. Ramilo and Mrs. Zenaida Tadeo at their residence. On February 10, they headed to Mrs. Zenaida K. Tubianosa’s home in Antique where they commemorated four classmates who had gone on ahead of them. The night was then filled with entertainment through the song and dance numbers presented by the Cultural Group of Antique.
On the last day of their reunion, some witnessed the dedication service for the College of Nursing Virtual Simulation Laboratory and Learning Resource Center while others proceeded to Pavia, Iloilo for a lunch fellowship hosted by Mrs. Delia G. Daus.
In an interview, Mrs. Angel Robles, one of the organizers of the said event, shared that they chose this kind of itinerary “because it’s very simple and we don’t have to do a lot of work. We don’t need to dress up.”
To Lydia Robles, reunions “[are] the time for you [and your classmates] to meet again, to reminisce happy memories, and, sometimes, to share each other’s experiences after a long, long time.”
Meanwhile, the batch continues to connect with each other through Facebook, Messenger, e-mail, and other forms of online communication.
By Keziah G. Huelar
Prof. Leilani Fatimah Ledesma Trompeta, Director, CPU Office of International Relations and Cooperation Office together with CHED Commissioner, Dr. Perfecto A. Alibin and Atty. Lily Freida M. Milla, CHED Director III, International Affairs Staff.
Prof. Leilani Fatimah Ledesma Trompeta, Director, CPU Office of International Relations and Cooperation Office attended the 52nd Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE) Annual Conference and Exhibition at the Westin Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada on 18-21 November 2018.
The annual conference provides a platform for academic and cultural exchange partnerships. It has been a global meeting place of choice for international delegations and government officials seeking to deepen engagement with the Canadian education sector.
Over 30 countries sent 850 delegates to the said gathering. The conference had 90 sessions with 35 exhibitors and leading experts in the field of international education.
Prof. Trompeta, alongside Commission on Higher Education officials, namely: Dr. Perfecto A. Alibin, CHED Commissioner; Ms. Luisa S. Valencia, Director IV, Administrative, Financial and Management Services; Atty. Lily Freida M. Milla, Director III, International Affairs Staff; and Ms. Elma C. Paz, Education Program Specialist International Affairs Staff as well as Ms. Ayessa Marie N. Velasquez, Coordinator, Ateneo de Davao Academy of Lifelong Learning Ateneo de Davao University, promoted the academic and cultural services of the country.
Prof. Trompeta showcased Central Philippine University as one of the premier academic institutions in the country providing holistic training that produces competitive professionals. She was able to build new contacts and networks with various academic sectors to develop partnerships for possible programs in research, faculty, and student mobility.
By Keziah G. Huelar
Mrs. Ann Catedrilla Seisa, BSN Class 1977 shares her life and testimony during the “Successology of Nurses Abroad” held at the Loreto D. Tupaz Building.
A testimony of faith and excellence – the Central Philippine University College of Nursing held a talk entitled “Successology of Nurses Abroad” at the Audio Visual Room, Loreto D. Tupaz Building on February 12, 2019.
Guest Speaker, Mrs. Ann Catedrilla Seisa, BSN Class 1977, shared her experiences as a Centralian nurse working abroad, a philanthropist and businesswoman.
As a Centralian nurse, Mrs. Seisa encouraged CPU nursing students to pursue their profession with excellence and commitment. “I am committed to do the best. That means when you are a Filipino nurse, when you are a CPU nurse, not only when you compete with the rest of the nurses you have to give not a hundred percent of yourself but a thousand percent.”
Sharing her life and testimony, she gave 3Fs: focus on your goals, follow through and finish strong, which according to her are the key factors of her successes.
Mrs. Seisa highlighted the importance of dedication and hard work coupled with grit in order to achieve one’s dream. According to her, the challenges of life are there to promote and hone us for bigger things. “The challenges prepare you for the next big thing. You have to have the determination and the grit to achieve your dreams. Be open to opportunities, you need to be ready for them.”
She also talked about the importance of being grateful to God and to appreciate the people He placed in one’s life. “Don’t forget to bring the Lord in your life and [your successes]. To be able to [thank Him] and be grateful for the [love and support] of your family and friends.”
It can be recalled that in 2008, Mrs. Seisa and her husband, Mr. Narciso “Loy” Seisa, sponsored the construction of the covered stage located in the center of the Loreto D. Tupaz Building in honor of her parents Mr. and Mrs. Ponciano Catedrilla. She and her Batch BSN 1977 donated 2 million pesos for the repainting of the Loreto D. Tupaz Building.
In 1986, the couple founded the Vagthol’s Residential Care Center, Inc. in Los Angeles, California. The center started as a boarding facility for senior citizens. Now, the center serves individuals with Phenylketonuria (PKU).
Mrs. Seisa is also the Chief Executive Officer of Solarex Energy International. She was a volunteer at the Frank D. Lanterman Regional Center and later became a member of its Board of Directors and the chair of its Program Services and Strategic Committee. Currently, Mrs. Seisa serves as managing partner for ASN, LLC and Vagthes, LLC, real estate holding companies.
The CPU College of Nursing takes pride in its alumni here and abroad. As the college gears up for new developments and breakthroughs, it recognized the role of the alumni not only in supporting the endeavors of the college but in coming back and sharing their insights and perspectives to the new breed of CPU nursing students for the glory of God and for the pride of Central.
By Keziah G. Huelar
11 delegates from CPU and CPBC attended he APBF T.E.A.M. consultation in Melaka, Malaysia.
Furthering the Baptist faith across the globe—Central Philippine University and the Convention of Philippine Baptist Churches joined the Asia Pacific Baptist Federation Theological Mission Education, Aid and Mission Consultation at the Kings Green Hotel, Melaka, Malaysia on January 22-24, 2019.
With the theme “Stronger Together,” the event, spearheaded by the Malaysia Baptist Convention, aimed to challenge, empower, and equip believers across the continents to carry the Baptist faith with devotion and fervor to Christ.
There were 172 delegates coming from all over the globe who participated in the three-day event.
Rev. Dr. Jerson B. Narciso, CPBC General Secretary presenting his study entitled “The Church’s Response to Armed Conflict in Southern Philippines.”
Delegates from CPU included Rev. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on, Director, CPU Office of Communications and Rev. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian, Senior Pastor, University Church. Representing CPBC are Rev. Dr. Jerson B. Narciso, CPBC General Secretary; Pastor Jec Dan Borlado, CPBC Director for Placement, Theological Education and Ministerial Concerns; Rev. Samuel G. Talha, President, Convention of Philippine Baptist Churches; Mrs. Feraz Legita, Deputy Director at Asia Pacific Baptist Aid, Asia Pacific Baptist Federation; Rev. Jenkins Bañas, Director, CPBC Director for Mission and Evangelism; Ms. Henna Baclagon, CPBC Director for Development Ministries; Rev. Rosan Tabaodaja, Mr. Jeff Legita and Mr. Alvin Legita.
During the said event, Rev. Dr. Narciso presented his paper entitled “The Church’s Response to Armed Conflict in Southern Philippines.” His study presented a background for and the history of the armed conflict in the southern part of the country and the ideal response of the church in reaching out to the said areas.
According to Malaysia Baptist Convention’s website (https://mbc.org.my/), in this consultation, the mission and evangelism committee created sessions led by experts to explore ways in which the Baptist churches that exist as a minority group amidst dominant religions such as Hinduism, Buddhism, and Islam could do ministry within such contexts. The sessions also included workshops in which the experts and participants could discuss methods applicable to each participant’s circumstance. Most importantly, the committee planned to explore ways of introducing the Baptist faith to countries where the faith had not yet been formally organized.
By Keziah G. Huelar
CPU President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles and Ms. Sherri Bell, President, Camosun College sign the memorandum of understanding. Present during the signing were CPU Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Irving Domingo L. Rio; CPU Vice President for Student Affairs, Rev. Joniel Howard H. Gico; Director, CPU Office of Transnational Programs and Acting Dean of the CPU School of Graduates, Dr. Rowena M. Libo-on; Acting Director of the Office of International Relations and Cooperation, Prof. Anna May A. Yap-Zerrudo; Dean, CPU College of Business and Accountancy, Dr. Lorna T. Grande; Dean, CPU College of Hospitality and Management, Asst. Prof. Medalla P. Baliao; Principal, CPU Kindergarten, Prof. Hannah C. Siosan; and faculty, CPU Kindergarten. Mrs. Praise Enriquez Glory.
Central Philippine University and Camosun College, British Colombia, Canada signed a memorandum of understanding to initiate cultural and academic exchanges between the two educational institutions. The said agreement was signed at the Administration Building, Conference Hall on January 23, 2019.
CPU President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles introduced the administrative and academic officials of the university. He also highlighted CPU’s academic partnerships and exchanges with universities and colleges across the globe. Dr. Robles further stated that the university was pursuing more partnerships for international academic and cultural immersions by actively promoting the university’s holistic and competitive programs.
The said agreement was signed by Dr. Robles; Ms. Sherri Bell, President, Camosun College, Mr. Geoff Wilmshurt, Camosun College Vice President for Partnerships; and Mr. Rudy Sabas, Consultant, Commission on Higher Education-Canadian Bureau for International Education (CHED-CBIE) International Partnerships.
Warm exchanges – CPU President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles welcomes Ms. Sherri Bell, President, Camosun College and Mr. Geoff Wilmshurt,
Camosun College Vice President for Partnerships.
Present during the signing were CPU Vice President for Academic Affaairs, Dr. Irving Domingo L. Rio; CPU Vice President for Student Affairs, Rev. Joniel Howard H. Gico; Director, CPU Office of Transnational Programs and Acting Dean of the CPU School of Graduates, Dr. Rowena M. Libo-on; Acting Director of the Office of International Relations and Cooperation, Prof. Anna May A. Yap-Zerrudo; Dean, CPU College of Business and Accountancy, Dr. Lorna T. Grande; Dean, CPU College of Hospitality and Management, Asst. Prof. Medalla P. Baliao; Principal, CPU Kindergarten, Prof. Hannah C. Siosan; and faculty, CPU Kindergarten. Mrs. Praise Enriquez Glory.
During the said meeting, both parties tackled the possibility of conducting student and faculty exchanges primarily on tourism and hospitality management programs, internships, creating an integrated system for academic credit transfer, internationalization technical and academic trainings, joint programs and a comprehensive curriculum for early childhood curriculum.
By Keziah G. Huelar
Dr. Teodoro C. Robles, CPU President and Ms. Wang Yang, Chief Executive Officer of Weilian Educational Consulting (Beijing) Co., Ltd. together with Dr. Florence P. Bogacia, Vice President for Administration and Finance; Dr. Rowena M. Libo-on, Director, CPU Office of Transnational Programs and Acting Dean, CPU School of Graduates and Prof. Anna May A. Yap-Zerrudo, Acting Director of the Office of International Relations and Cooperation.
Central Philippine University and Weilian Education Consulting (Beijing) Co. Ltd. signed a cooperative agreement on the offering of the degree Masters in Business Administration (MBA) establishing academic linkages between China and the Philippines. The said agreement was signed at the Administration Building, Conference Hall on January 2, 2019 by Dr. Teodoro C. Robles, CPU President and Ms. Wang Yang, Chief Executive Officer of Weilian Educational Consulting (Beijing) Co., Ltd.
Present during the signing were Dr. Florence P. Bogacia, Vice President for Administration and Finance; Dr. Rowena M. Libo-on, Director, CPU Office of Transnational Programs and Acting Dean, CPU School of Graduates; Prof. Anna May A. Yap-Zerrudo, Acting Director of the Office of International Relations and Cooperation together with other academic and administrative officers of the university.
Weilian will be sending 15 students from China to study Masters in Business Administration in the university.
CPU President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles and Ms. Wang Yang, Chief Executive Officer of Weilian Educational Consulting (Beijing) sign the memorandum of agreement.
According to Ms. Wang, Weilian came to know about the academic services of CPU during the 1st China International Import Expo held at the National Exhibition and Convention Center, Shanghai, China on November 3-10, 2018. CPU was one of the 10 universities featured in the Philippine National Pavilion during the said expo and was represented by Prof. Leilani Fatimah Ledesma Trompeta, Director of the office of International Relations and Cooperation and Prof. Kay Arden Q. Gallo, Assistant to the President on Special Projects.
As CPU expands its academic services to the international community, the university is committed in providing competitive and holistic academic and cultural immersions that is responsive to the needs of the international community.
By Keziah G. Huelar
Strengthening global ties for community and academic development – CPU President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles, CPU Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Irving Domingo L. Rio and Prof. Xu Ying, Director, Henan University Water Treatment Henan Engineering Center sign the cooperative agreement.
Fostering global ties—Central Philippine University and Henan University will be partnering together to promote and initiate an Industrial Water Treatment Technology Project. Both parties signed the cooperative agreement for the said project at the Administration Building Conference Hall on January 22, 2018.
The agreement was signed by Dr. Teodoro C. Robles, President, CPU and Prof. Xu Ying, Director, Henan University Water Treatment Henan Engineering Center. It was witnessed by Dr. Irving Domingo L. Rio, Vice President for Academic Affairs, CPU and Mr. Xu Bin, co-founder of the Filipino Chinese Youth Promotion Culture Promotion Inc.
Said partnership highlights the importance of addressing the social development needs of both actual and scientific research regarding water security.
Both parties have agreed to build a water environment and health international laboratory at the CPU Campus to carry out basic research and application technology. Technical exchanges, faculty immersions and post graduate trainings will also be held in order to train research and development and technical and engineering personnel.
Prof. Xu presented his study entitled “Preparation and Properties of Natural Scale and Corrosion Inhibitors,” to CPU officials.
Prof. Xu presented his study entitled “Preparation and Properties of Natural Scale and Corrosion Inhibitors,” to CPU officials. His study will be one of the bases of research for the said agreement. Prof. Xu highlighted the challenges faced by industries and institutions in addressing water shortage and treatment. His study highlights the use of sweet potato and other root crops to help prevent soil erosion and absorption and treatment of industrial waters: “Natural product extracts can be used as a good green scale and corrosion inhibitors. [They are] inexpensive, renewable and biodegradable. [They have] a good scale and corrosion inhibition performance in industrial circulating water system and has excellent corrosion inhibition and acid pickling.”
The Filipino Chinese Youth Promotion Culture Promotion Inc. will be assisting the two institutions by providing interpreters, addressing cultural and language barriers as well as accommodation concerns.
The CPU Administration is optimistic that the said partnership will help provide better water services in the region and efficient water treatment systems for local and regional industries and institution as well as address the shortage of clean and potable water.
With its growing research partnerships, the university aims to be at the forefront of providing breakthroughs in the field of science and technology not only for academic enrichment but for community engagement and development.
By Keziah G. Huelar
Come home to Central and rekindle the Central Spirit centered on Christ!
Raise a song for dear old Central!
Fair and far renowned
Let her campus ring with echoes
Let her halls resound!
- “Raise A Song” by Dr. Francis Howard Rose
The Central Spirit leads us back home—Central Philippine University alumni here and abroad are invited to attend the university’s Grand Alumni Homecoming to be held at the CPU Campus on February 5-9, 2020.
A time for rekindling friendships and recalling fond memories, the event will be a celebration of God’s faithfulness to the university and of the ties that have united Centralians all over the globe.
CPU takes pride in its alumni from all fields of professions and practice. The Central Spirit has been thriving because of Centralian men and women who have proudly carried the CPU banner across continents and regions.
Come home to CPU and be part of this momentous occasion!
Deadline for registration will be on October 31, 2019. To properly accommodate you and your guests, we highly encourage you to register early.
Please register here: click to download
For questions and inquiries please don’t hesitate to contact us at:
e-mail: homecoming@cpu.edu.ph
contact numbers (CPU Alumni Office): (033) 329 2904 or 329-1971 to 329-1979 loc. 1033
By Keziah G. Huelar
Atty. Chel Diokno visited CPU on December 4, 2018 with the aim of empowering young leaders.
On December 4, 2018 at the Henry Luce III Library, Atty. Chel Diokno, the Chairperson of the Free Legal Assistance Group, held a forum on martial law and extra-judicial killings of human rights lawyers.
Atty. Diokno shared the experiences of his father, Sen. Jose W. Diokno, during the martial law era. He also discussed the role of the youth in influencing and advocating for social issues in order to promote equality and justice.
In another interview with the Centralian Link, Atty. Diokno shared the experiences that eventually molded him to advocate for social justice and youth empowerment.
According to Atty. Chel, he was 13 years old when he decided that he wanted to become a lawyer. With his father as his mentor, he developed a love for justice and equality: “When I was 13 years old, I already decided that I would become a lawyer. That was the time my father was released from detention and organized the Free Legal Assistance Group. I used to go with him to court. I’d bring his bags and his barong. I never got bored. I learned so much from watching my father and his colleagues in court.”
Talking about his childhood, Atty. Chel shared that his parents would always treat them like mature and independent individuals. He learned much of this trait when his father was incarcerated during the martial law era: “My parents always treated us like big people. That made it easier for us to understand what [was] happening.” He further explained that because of what happened during the martial law when his father was jailed, the whole family was affected and it made him and his siblings more determined to succeed.
Growing up with a prominent human rights lawyer, his father, Atty. Chel says that the greatest lessons he learned were to love serving people and to fight for social justice: “I learned so many lessons from my father. One of them is that the law should be for the people. Second, when we serve as lawyers, we really serve the people in ways that will help them become better—ways that will empower them. Rights are not given to us; they are fought for. We should always fight for our rights and not just for ourselves but for the rights of others. And third, we need to love our country, our fellowman, and the dignity of man.”
As for his advice to aspiring lawyers, Atty. Diokno encourages them to work hard and to develop their writing and speaking skills: “As lawyers, we only have two weapons—the written word and the spoken word. I would advise law students to do everything that they can to improve their writing and to improve their ability to speak in public because as lawyers, you will be called to either submit written arguments or to make oral arguments before the court, the boardroom and other places. If you are not good at speaking and writing, you will not do any good for your client. As a law student, even as a lawyer, you should never stop learning.”
As Atty. Diokno envision a country built on the foundations of human rights and social justice, he hopes that the youth will be empowered to advocate for causes that will greatly shape our nation: “I envision a just society for Filipinos. I envision a justice system that gives justice especially to the marginalized. I dream of a time where our children and future generations could live in a country where we can expect that our government officials [would] be held accountable if they commit something wrong and we [could expect them to] provide public service clearly without any sense or form of corruption.”
By Cyrus A. Natividad
Dr. Manuel C. Palada has always been a fervent alumnus uplifting the Central Spirit. Photo Credit: Dr. Manny C. Palada
Central Spirit has purportedly served as a “social glue.” This comment comes from a true blue Centralian, CPU Board of Trustees member, Dr. Manuel C. Palada, a 1966 graduate of Bachelor of Science in Agriculture.
Centralians who came back for their batch reunions this year may also borrow the glue analogy from Doc Manny as Central Spirit is the “spirit of camaraderie and unity.” Doc Manny adds that “reminiscing their fond school day memories and activities at Central has become symbolic of the bond that unites Centralians.”
In a conversation, Dr. Palada emphasized that his love of Central, coming back several times to serve CPU as a visiting professor at the College of Agriculture, being a member of the CPU Board of Trustees, were all inspired by the Central Spirit in him.
This inspiration also led Dr. Palada to what he is today, to whatever stations he went to work in—whether assigned as a researcher, consultant, professor, or even just as a tourist in many parts of the world. The Centralian Spirit, he said, is the spirit of one who always longs for CPU.
Dr. Palada even expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to stay and teach in CPU before leaving for the US and other countries to share his expertise in agriculture. He has served farmers improve their production, thereby also improving their standard of living. The success of his projects which help other people in several Asian and African countries have brought Dr. Palada many personal rewards and blessings.
Being a Centralian has not only led him to opportunities for his career. CPU has also touched his personal life: “If I did not stay and teach in CPU, I would not have met my beautiful life partner Elisa Hortelano.”
Doc Manny is indeed a Centralian who has the Central Spirit of gratefulness, generosity, and love.