By Cyrus A. Natividad
The RCJC is committed in serving CPU by providing different scholarships and opportunities for Centralians. Photo Credit: RCJC
A work student’s desire to graduate from college is determined by his/her patience in his/her work while studying. Countless alumni from Central Philippine have become successful in their chosen careers after graduation from college because of the Work Study Scholarship Program.
Success in their lives and careers resulted from years of perseverance. The work students are admired for their commitment to help their parents. They work in order to study and graduate from a prestigious university like CPU. However, sometimes, being a work student is not enough. There are more requirements that need more financial support so that some work students do menial jobs outside of school and duty.
For this reason, the Rotary Club of Jaro Centraline and Central Philippine University started a fund campaign to support deserving work students in their financial needs. The RCJC-CPU Work Student Scholarship started with 100,000 pesos from the University and another 100,000 pesos from RCJC as seed money. This fund will serve as a counterpart for the WS Scholarship endowment fund. One work student for every semester will receive the cash award out of the interest from the endowment fund during the scholarship recognition ceremony at CPU every year.
The incentive encourages the work student to perform well in academics to be deserving and to become the excellent student that he/she is supposed to be.
The Rotary Club of Jaro Centraline is a special alumni chapter of Central Philippine University and has been a partner in educational and socio-cultural programs and projects of the University.
By Nestle G. Taala
The CS Committee together with the donations to be given to the Manaolan Elementary School, teachers and its pupils.
The Centralian Star (CS) is just one of the many contests and events taking place during the University Day celebration. It started in 2005 during the Centennial Celebration of CPU as a new major contest. Since the organizers, Ms. Dyna Lynn Madalag, the chair of the committee; Marvin Segura and Doriedel Lozanes, CPUR Officials; and the cultural committee, saw that it was well-accepted and enjoyed by spectators, the contest became an annual inclusion in the U-Day.
One area of the said contest called “For a Cause” collects ticket which cost P1.00 each for Popularity Vote (minor award only). The money accumulated on this is utilized for the advocacy program of the CS Committee. Hence, after every CS contest, the committee conducts an outreach program to a certain beneficiary.
Giving back to the community – the pupils and teachers of Manaolan Elementary School together with CPU Republic officers and Centralian Star committee.
This year, the CS Committee together with the CPU Republic and the Community Engagement and Service Learning Center organized an outreach program on January 11, 2019 at the Manaolan Elementary School, Badiangan, Iloilo. The team provided storybooks, sports equipment and a TV monitor to the school which will help teachers enhance the students learning experience. The pupils received hygiene kits as well.
After the outreach, Manaolan Elementary School expressed their gratitude to the CS Team and to the whole CPU community.
By Cyrus A. Natividad
Bonds that last – the CPU High School Batch 69 celebrates 50 years of embracing the Central Spirit.
The High School Batch of 1969 converged at Central Philippine University on January 17 to celebrate their 50th year anniversary with the theme “Remember and Celebrate.” An opening program was held at the Educational Media Center at 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The reunion will continue at Sol y Mar beach resort in Tigbauan, Iloilo this weekend, January 20.
CPU President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles welcomes the CPU High School Batch 1969.
University President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles, welcomed the alumni. Engr. Isagani Jalbuena, President CPUAAI, congratulated the participants and extended his support to the new alumni association to be confirmed after the election of officers.
Included in the batch is Iloilo City Vice Mayor Jeffrey P. Ganzon. The Vice Mayor thanked his classmates for organizing the reunion after 50 years. He left a sentimental remark when he said, “They can take me away from Central, but they cannot take Central Spirit away from me.”
Engr. Isagani J. Jalbuena, President, CPUAAI Inc. thanks the batch for their continuous love and support for the university.
The organizing members were led by the working committee’s chairperson, Dr. Perla A. Suyo, former Dean of the CPU College of Education and College of Hospitality Management. Dr. Delvy V. Balasbas, Municipal Administrator of Concepcion, Iloilo and Judy Grace Regalado Galuna, who works with the Government of Nunauut, Canada, were with her during an interview with CPU TV’s Looking Forward.
The High School Batch of 1969 expressed their gratefulness to the Lord for letting them enjoy life with success. They talked about the Central Spirit that has been guiding them, giving them the chance to still meet their high school classmates after a long time. The 1969 batch originally had about 170 members.
By Keziah G. Huelar
Belle Kate Gatilogo showcasing the charm and beauty of a proud Ilongga. Photo Credit: RAC Images
Two crowns for CPU—Belle Kate Gatilogo, Grade 10, Special Science Class of the University Junior High School and Jennifer Wheelband, Grade 11, ABM strand of the University Senior High School, were crowned Miss Teen Iloilo Heritage 2018 and Miss Teen Iloilo Goodwill 2018 respectively during the coronation night of Miss Teen Iloilo 2018 held at Cinema 6, SM City, Iloilo on January 11, 2018.
During the competition, Wheelband advocated for mental health awareness and social media responsibility. She was crowned Miss Haw-as Festival Queen 2018 in her hometown, the Municipality of Dumangas.
Belle Kate Gatilogo was crowned as Miss Teen Iloilo Heritage 2018 while Jennifer Wheelband was crowned as Miss Teen Iloilo Goodwill 2018 (Gatilogo, second from left, Wheelband , second from right).
On the other hand, Gatilogo, a girl scout and a passionate traveller, advocated for the development of self-esteem among the Ilonggo youth and the promotion of Iloilo as a cultural and tourism hub of the region.
Jennifer Wheelband during the pageant night of the search for Miss Teen Iloilo 2018.
In her facebook post, Gatilogo thanked her family, friends, and mentors for their fervent support. She also encouraged her fellow youth to pursue their dreams with courage and hard work: “We should never be afraid to pursue our dreams in life no matter how difficult the challenges are because we have the potential within us. Life has been and will always be full of hardships but we should always remember that success is not final, failure is not fatal; it is the courage to continue that counts.”
In 2017, Gatilogo was hailed as Miss Junior High School and placed 3rd Runner Up during the search for Mr. and Miss CPU 2017.
Wheelband on the other hand advocated for mental health and social media responsibility. She was crowned as Miss Haw-as Festival Queen 2018 in her hometown, the Municipality of Dumangas.
by Keziah G. Huelar
An innovator in the field of education – Dr. Bernabe C. Cocjin hase been an active part of the academe.
The Convention Baptist Minister’s Association awarded CPU President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles; CPU Board of Trustees Chairman, Atty. Von Lovel D. Bedona; Filamer Christian University Board of Trustees Chairman and CPU College of Law Dean, Atty. Zacarias D. Bedona Jr., former President of West Visayas State University, Dr. Bernabe B. Cocjin; and CPU Board of Trustees member and Corporate Secretary, Mr. Carl De La Peña, the Distinguished Pastor’s Kid Award during the CBMA 78th General Annual Assembly held at Filamer Christian College on January 16, 2019.
Atty. Von Lovel D. Bedona presently serves the CPU Community as the Chairman of the CPU Board of Trustees.
This year marks the 1st Pastor’s Kid Award, it will now be an annual part of the CBMA General Annual Assembly to recognize pastors’ kids who have excelled in their chosen fields and have contributed their time, talent, and treasures to developing communities and strengthening Baptist institutions.
The awardees have excelled in the fields of law, business, and education, inspiring generations of pastors’ kids not only to persevere in their faith but to also dedicate their lives and successes to the glory of God.
Atty. Zacarias D. Bedona Jr. is the current Dean of the CPU College of Law.
In behalf of CPU President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles, Rev. Francis Neil Jalando-on, Director, CPU Office of Communications received the award.
Mr. Carl De La Peña is currently serving the CPU Board of Trustees as member and its Corporate Treasurer.
The said award is initiated by the CBMA to appreciate the contributions of pastors’ kids not only in the ministry but in the community as well. It is also the aim of the Distinguished Pastor’s Kid Award to raise a generation of young Baptist believers dedicated to excelling in and living a life testifying to the goodness of the Lord.
The CBMA is a national organization of pastors serving the churches and institutions of the Convention of Philippine Baptist Churches.
By Francis Neil G. Jalando-on
The vision of a great Central – Dr. Drilon was know for his love and unwavering dedication to lead the university to greater heights.
Dr. Rex D. Drilon has the distinction of being the first Filipino president of Central Philippine University. He was president of CPU from 1966 up to his death in 1971. Every year, in February, CPU honors his legacy by having a Dr. Rex D. Drilon Day. This year the celebration will be on February 21, 2019.
Perusing the old Centralites, here are three things that I have learned from Dr. Rex D. Drilon.
First: We must walk with a purpose.
Dr. Drilon is remembered as someone who would always say, “Centralians, walk with a purpose.” He is telling us to always seek God’s will in our lives.
Dr. Drilon wrote, “The World Outside is greedy, parasitic, deceitful, selfish, slanderous, quarrelsome—also kind, generous, noble, truthful, if you know how to reach hard enough beyond the superficies. You will be discouraged at first, but you need not be. For with your training at CPU, you are theoretically armed with the weapons of Christian character and Christian liberal-minded intellect that can make the difference in the eternal contest between the forces of darkness and the forces of light.” (Centralite 1968)
Second: We must learn to listen.
Dr. Drilon said, “The burden of my message is simple. In this day when the country is on fire, we must talk less and do more. The university world, as well as the outside world, is in terrible agony because we talk too much and do too little. Everybody is talking and nobody is listening. We must learn to listen so we can cure ourselves.” (Centralite 1971)
Third: We must always remember the CPU badge.
“The CPU badge that you will carry all your life long is a badge of honor…
You tarnish that badge and you tarnish yourself and your precious heritage.
You live up to it and you place all that is best on a pedestal for the world to see and perhaps to emulate…
We who remain on the campus will watch you make your mark in the world – a world that will test you by means fair and foul as to the kind of man or woman Central Philippine University has prepared you to be.
Stand fast by your Christian principles…, but in doing so do not be self-righteous. Self-righteous people are not trusted and they do not go very far.
When you do all these things – and more – you will be the salt of the earth wherever you will be and whatever you do – big or small.
Remember – always remember your CPU badge!” (Centralite 1969)
Thank you Dr. Rex D. Drilon for your words of wisdom.
By Cyrus A. Natividad
One of the best mini concerts in Iloilo last Christmas was performed at the Victory Plaza, Municipality of Santa Barbara by the Central Philippine University Symphonic Band.
The local government unit made the people of Santa Barbara happy by sharing the holiday blessings to them through a night of music and entertainment entitled Home for Christmas Concert as part of the Pamaskong Handog ni Mayor Doc Para sa Bayan project of the Santa Barbara mayor, Dr. Dennis S. Superficial, last December 21, 2018.
A Symphony of Centralian Talent – Mr. Ascencion O. Bautista led the stunning performance of the band.
The concert was made possible through the coordination of the mayor’s office and the efforts of Mr. Alfredo Y. Alas-as, Sta. Barbara Municipal Administrator and OIC- Office of the Municipal Mayor. CPU Symphonic Band leader, Mr. Ascencion O. Bautista, was then called to coordinate with the Sta. Barbara Tourism Office.
University President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles; Cultural Affairs Coordinator, Ms. Crista Huyong; and the CPU Symphonic Band were acknowledged by the Mayor during the said event. Mr. Bautista was particularly appreciated for his expertise as band director, arranger, and conductor.
By Cyrus A. Natividad
Filamer Christian University in Roxas City, Capiz will be the venue of the 78th CBMA General Assembly. Photo Credit: Filamer Christian University
The Convention Baptist Ministers Association Assembly will be held on January 14 to 17, 2019 at the Filamer Christian University in Roxas City, with the theme: “Share the Promised Land” with the text found in Joshua 1:1-10.
On Monday, January 14 (Day 0), there will be a Sports Fest, which will include basketball, chess, and table tennis games.
Day 1, January 15, is for the arrival and registration, from 8 to 11 AM. Participants will be greeted with free flowing coffee, an acoustic jam, and an art exhibit. Lunch will be served from 11 AM to 1 PM. An input on “Basic Parliamentary Procedure” will be shared by Atty. Zacharias D. Bedona, Jr. at 1:30 PM.
The Opening Celebration follows at 6 PM; after which, dinner and will include cordialities, speeches—the State of CPBC and the State of CBMA—and the presentation of the theme and text.
Day 2 and onwards will be filled with activities, including business meetings, reports, and valuable historical lectures on Baptist Ministries by speakers Prof. Kristoffer R. Esquejo, faculty, University of the Philippines Diliman; Dr. Bernabe B. Cocjin, former University President of West Visayas; Rev. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on, Director for Communications; Dr. Jerson B. Narciso, CPBC General Secretary; and Pastor Elizer G. Geromiano, President, CBMA.
The closing celebration will be from 7 PM to 10 PM on the Day 3, Thursday, January 17.
By Cyrus A. Natividad
Central Philippine University Review and Continuing Education Center and Consultancy (RCECC) will conduct a public seminar entitled “Engaging in Cultural/Indigenous Studies: Challenges and Opportunities” on January 24, 2019 at the Educational Media Center, CPU.
The seminar is in line with RCECC’s goal of providing its clients—schools, universities and colleges—with timely topics relevant to the needs of researchers, students and professionals. Also on January 29-31, an in-house seminar on Terrorism Awareness and Car Bomb Threat Management will be conducted by RCECC for CPU faculty and staff at the EMC.
RCECC’s Director, Dr. Lenny Rose P. Mucho, explained these upcoming events during her appearance as guest in CPUTV’s public affairs program Looking Forward last Wednesday, January 9.
Trainings, seminars and review classes are among the list of services the RCECC have extended to public and private institutions. RCECC started as a Review Center in 2008 under CHED Executive Order 556. It originally envisioned a globally-competitive Review and Continuing Education Center for exemplary licensure examination performance and life-long learning reflective of Christian principles.
The mission of RCECC is to provide excellent review and training programs by competent facilitators using state-of-the-art facilities for the reviewees and the community. Their goals also include providing training programs focused on governance, administration, social services, economic development, other certain skills, as well as international conferences.
RCECC is also an implementing arm for the Human Resource Development of CPU. Apart from the providing internal support to CPU departments and offices, it has also established linkages with the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCAA), and USAID.
Dr, Mucho added that developments are being planned for RCECC. These include provision of dormitories for in-house review and other state-of-the-art facilities as well as the hiring of competent personnel, a pool of reviewers, coordinators, and facilitators for the center.
By Nestle G. Taala
The CPU Chemical Engineering Batch 1982 together with the College of Engineering Dean, Engr. Danny C. Molina.
The Chemical Engineering Batch 1982 celebrated their first ever Grand Reunion on January 8-10 at the Diversion 21 Hotel, Iloilo City. It was their first time to finally meet each other again after 37 years.
On June 2018, their batch representative, Susan Presaldo-Jovero, wrote a letter to Dr. Robles informing him about their activity. Since then, the class had been zealously preparing for the said event.
The three-day activity was filled with fun and excitement. On January 9, they went back to CPU and toured around the campus; they visited the Alumni Office and their beloved college, the College of Engineering.
By Keziah G. Huelar
Batch 2003 enjoying a night of food, friendship and fun.
Centralian Engineers of Batch 2003 donated 55,000 pesos to the Central Philippine University College of Engineering during their Grand Alumni Reunion held at the Diversion 21 Hotel on December 28, 2018.
The said donation is for the advancement and development of the college’s activities and programs. In behalf of the college, the donation was received by Engr. Walden S. Rio, former Dean of the CPU College of Engineering.
Former CPU College of Engineering Dean, Engr. Walden S. Rio, received the donation in behalf of the college.
Engr. Alberto A. Java, faculty, CPU College of Engineering expressed his admiration to the batch for their unwavering love and support for the college.
The batch responses, delivered by Engr. Winthur Marabe, Engr. Joanne Rey Andrada, and Engr. Reyben Rubio, strengthened the alumni’s strong support in the endeavors of CPU.
On the other hand, Engr. Rosie Jane Puig-Siosan assured the college that its alumni officers will continue to find ways to uplift and promote the Central Spirit among its batch members.
Incumbent Batch President, Engr. Rosie Jane Puig-Siosan welcomed the batch to their Grand Alumni Reunion.
During the said reunion, the batch also elected their new set of officers namely:
The New Batch of Alumni Officers.
President: Elaine June O. Delonguines
Vice President: Joan Ruth Barcenal-Cabansagan
Secretary: Yeseil Sumalde-Sacramento
Treasurer: James Russel Obregon
Muse: Riza Para-unda-Pelopero
Escort: Gideon Marfil
By Keziah G. Huelar
Gearing up for more connections, the CPU Libraries is partnering with international organizations to expand its services.
The American Theological Library Association has appointed Prof. Cynthia T. Peleña, CPU Director of Libraries as part of their International Theological Education Task Force. The aim of the said committee according to ATLA is: to strengthen and connect theological and religious studies librarians worldwide by identifying sources, creating educational opportunities, and developing skill enhancement materials through collaborative efforts.
Prof. Peleña is the lone member coming from South East Asia. She together with 12 other committee members will be working together to promote international awareness and availability of theological materials.
Established in 1946, ATLA, according to its website, (https://www.atla.com/about/Pages/default.aspx) is a: a professional association of over 800 individual, institutional, and affiliate members providing programs, products, and services in support of theological and religious studies libraries and librarians. ATLA’s ecumenical membership represents many religious traditions and denominations.
The university is optimistic that this involvement will expand CPU’s academic and cultural partnership with other libraries around the globe. With the expanding international connections of the university every year, it aims to provide quality library services at par with international standards.