by Glaiza Joie D. Aranda
Rev. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian, Senior Pastor, University Church, encouraged Centralians to do their work as unto the Lord.
A Pre-employment Training Seminar for the graduating students was conducted on September 13 and 14, 2018 at the Rose Memorial Auditorium in Central Philippine University, sponsored by the Career Placement Office in partnership with CPU Alumni Association Inc. and the University Church.
The seminar started with a prayer, followed by the singing of the National Anthem. Graduating students of 2018 and 2019 participated in this training that aims to teach the students the skills they would need to get a job and expose them to some real-life work situations after graduation.
Speakers from their different fields of expertise shared their knowledge in job hunting and the biblical learnings associated with their work experiences. One of the speakers reminded the students to “put God first in everything you do.” On creating a good impression on the employer by taking care that one looks good or dresses well, the speaker emphasized that it is “character that matters.” Speakers also mentioned that although a company could hire great workers, Christian workers are still better, not only for the skill that they may possess, but more importantly, the values and character that they hold.
Centralian asking a question during the open forum.
To strengthen this point, another speaker alluded to some great corporate leaders who became successful because they used the principles of Jesus. According to Dr. Lejo C. Braña, a CPU alumnus, the formula to success is the 6 I’s and 3 G’s. The 6 I’s include the following: interested, involved, investment, intense, inspiration and improvement. The 3 G’s, on the other hand, refer to the grace and goodness of God. Rev. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian, Senior Pastor of University Church, said that success should be based on biblical principles. We should make the Scriptures as our guide in making godly choices.
Towards the end of the pre-employment seminar, Rev. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on, Director of CPU Office of Communications, reminded the Centralians that the University Church was designed similar to the Malay Balangay Boat, which implies unity among Centralians in rowing towards the same direction. Students may leave Central Philippine University but the vision of CPU—that is, Exemplary Christian Education for Life—must be lived out. The legacy of EXCEL is not just to know what is right and wrong but to live a Christian life worthy of emulation. As St. Paul wrote, “Imitate me as I imitate Christ.” In terms of honesty, integrity and hard work, people will look up to Centralians as examples to be followed. He continued by challenging everyone: CPU gives the legacy that gives life, not just in this lifetime but life for eternity. When one thinks of the Central Spirit, one should think and look back to the vision of CPU.
Centralians eagerly listening to the lecture.
The CPU Alumni Association Inc., headed by their President, Engr. Isagani Jalbuena, also presented the members of the Board of Trustees, and all the activities and projects of the organization. He also challenged the soon-to-be alumni to attend homecoming activities and to join an alumni chapter wherever they would be later on.
Certificates of appreciation were given to the invited speakers: Dr. Lejo C. Braña, Rev. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on and Rev. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian. Those involved in organizing this seminar included the chair and co-chair of PETS Committee, Career Placement Officers, Ms. Rouella Cheyenne C. Aberia, and Mr.Stephen A. Yuson, respectively; the Director of the Guidance Services Center, Ms. Raquel L. Polec-eo; and the Vice-President for Student Affairs, Rev. Joniel Howard H. Gico.
The Pre-employment Training Seminar ended with a conviction that the participants gained knowledge and positive learnings that would be helpful in their chosen career and in their life’s journey.
By Cyrus A. Natividad
The College of Computer Studies Softball Team with their coach, Mr. Mark Clemens Ortaliz.
As we watched the intramurals unfold for the CPU-Day 2018 games at Central Philippine University, we became participants—thinking about struggles and victories in our own distant or recent pasts.
From where I was watching a basketball match between two college teams, I recalled the lessons from our Physical Education teacher way back in college. He always reminded us to “play as a team”—meant to encourage us to help each other—“win or lose.” He conditioned our minds to “do our best” together so that all of us felt the thrill of victory and got to bask in the light of winning.
Ball is life – a basketball game between the College of Pharmacy and the College of Medical Laboratory Science.
In any competition, we need to value ourselves and our teammates, combine our talents and abilities to make not just one, but everyone a winner. Our coach in any sports event we joined had the responsibility to strategize and then teach the team the game plan. One of the things I recall our coach telling us is this statement: “I am your coach. You may not always agree with me, but I’m the decision maker. You are obliged to implement my decision.” In planning strategies for the game, coach always gives the final say.
The team’s goal, on the other hand, was to execute the game plan in order to win. Every team is different, and every game is different. Therefore, it was necessary to know our team’s strengths and weaknesses, as well as that of our opponents’. The individual members had to adjust to one another and play together as a team. Division was simply bad sportsmanship.
Spiking prowess – College of Engineering Volleyball player aiming for gold.
The other principle we learned from our good coach was that each player should not only know the rules, but to also play by the rules. It should help a lot that each player doesn’t limit himself/herself to learning only the rules but applies those rules to his/her assignment. A team that doesn’t abide by the rules could get penalized, lose points, and thereby lose in the end.
The best games I’ve watched were those played by evenly matched opponents. I’ve talked about winning, but the reality is that in every game, there is a winner and a loser. There is no sense in trying to win if the possibility of losing doesn’t exist as there will be no motivation to improve. Nevertheless, I think that there is still beauty and grace even if a team loses when each member has done his/her best.
To all our CPU athletes—May God bless you!
By Rodney Gicana
Centralians with former College of Computer Studies Dean, Rodney Gicana (standing).
Alumni members of the Central Philippine University Alumni Association of Greater Toronto Area (CPUAAGTA) attended the Philippine Colleges and Universities Alumni Association (PCUAA) Autumn Dinner Dance on September 15, 2018 at the Kalayaan Cultural Cultural Community Centre in Missisauga, Ontario, Canada.
The annual event is a fund raising endeavor in support of the PCUAA activities. The organization was founded to foster friendship and unity among Filipino alumni associations in the Greater Toronto Area.
The names of the members are Edwin Frank Arroz (CPUAAGTA Chapter Vice President), Jun Faldas (CPUAAGTA Board of Directors), Kellah Dayao (CPUAAGTA Chapter Trasurer), Jade Yocogco (CPU Alumna, Kella’s sister), Rodney Gicana (CPUAAGTA Chapter Webmaster), Faith Hope Gicana (CPUAAGTA Chapter PRO), and Lisha Charity Gicana (CPU Kindergarten Alumna).
For more information about CPUAAGTA please visit their website: http://www.cpuaatoronto.com
By Keziah G. Huelar
Centralian Iñigo D. Garingalao promoting his advocacy for a smoke-free Iloilo.
For his outstanding commitment to public service, Centralian Iñigo D. Garingalao, Executive Director of the Iloilo City Anti-Smoking Taskforce, was awarded one of the regional winners in the 2018 Search for Outstanding Workers under the Honors and Awards Program, Dangal ng Bayan Category at SM City Iloilo on September 6, 2018.
The said award is given to outstanding public official and employees “for performance of an extraordinary act or public service and consistent demonstration of exemplary ethical behaviour,” who have created an impact to the organization or to the public, and who have served the cumulative years of service in the government vis-à-vis their accomplishments.
To recognize his achievements and contributions to the community, the city government, in its Resolution No. 2018-536 dated September 11, 2018, congratulated Garingalao for being a recipient of the prestigious award.
Garingalao is a 1974 graduate of the CPU Elementary School, a 1978 alumnus of the CPU High School, a batch 1986 graduate of CPU Agricultural Engineering, and received his Diploma in Christian Ministry in 2011.
By Cyrus A. Natividad
The Alumni Homecoming committees for 2018 met together on September 20, 3:00 PM at the Alumni Affairs Office Board Room. About a week before the highlights of the CPU Alumni Homecoming, CPUAAI President Engr. Isagani J. Jalbuena made sure that all members of the respective committees are working hard to achieve their goals for this year’s homecoming. Jalbuena also encouraged everyone to contribute good ideas and suggestions to help make the homecoming successful.
Among the highlights of the homecoming is the reunion at the Rose Memorial Auditorium where old classmates and friends could meet and reminisce the good old days. Alumni can expect various presentations as well as recognition for those who have contributed to upholding the Central Spirit in their various professions. These will be followed by the election of new officers.
The fun and excitement will continue in the evening at 7:00 PM at the Grand Xing Imperial Hotel in downtown Iloilo on September 29, 2018. The highlight of the evening affair is the Alumni King and Queen pageant.
The Alumni Homecoming has always been something that old Centralians look forward to every year. See you at the events!
By Keziah G. Huelar
CPU College of Law contestant during the English Oration Competition.
With the theme “Be a Centralian A.S.S.E.T.: Accountability to Self, Society, Environment Today and Beyond,” Central Philippine University celebrates the University Day 2018 in various venues inside the CPU Campus from September 17-29, 2018.
In sports, literary, and musical competitions, Centralians showcased their skills and talents highlighting the Central Spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie. The English literary contests, namely—oration, extemporaneous speech, declamation, and character interpretation—and the Filipino literary events—declamation, oration, extemporaneous speech, and binalaybay—were held at the Alumni Promenade Concert Park.
Women’s Trio Singing Competition contestants proudly wearing their Filipiniana.
Simultaneously, the musical competitions—male quartet, women’s trio, and others—were held at the Rose Memorial Auditorium.
Aside from these, Centralians could still look forward to more exciting events, such as the Mr. and Ms. CPU’s Talent Night on September 21, 2018 at the Rose Memorial Auditorium and the crowning of Mr. and Ms. CPU 2018 during the pageant night on September 25, 2018 at the same venue.
A battle of the words will also ensue on September 25, 2018 as the top colleges and units compete for the debate finals.
A passionate expression – a Binalaybay contestant performing his heartfelt piece.
On September 27, 2018, the University Picnic will be held around different venues in the campus. The Street Dance Competition, the Battle of the Bands and the Folk Dance Competition will also be held on the same day.
The CPUAAI also invites all CPU alumni to the 2018 Alumni Homecoming and General Assembly on September 29, 2018, 8:30 AM at the Rose Memorial Auditorium. The Alumni Night will be held at the Grand Xing Imperial Hotel on September 29, 2018, 7:00 PM. On the other hand, CPU’s 113th Foundation Day Memorial Service will be held at the Philippine-American Cemetery on October 1, 2018, 6:00 AM.
With the theme, “Fostering CPU’s Legacy: Let the Central Spirit Shine,” let us proclaim the goodness of the Lord in our university and His favour in our lives.
Dr. Antonio S. Yap, founder and Chairman of the Benita and Catalino Yap Foundation, encouraged Centralians to pursue excellence in their endeavours.
The Central Philippine University College of Business and Accountancy, in partnership with the Benita and Catalino Yap Foundation, held a seminar entitled “Understanding Social Development: CSR-Based Social Entrepreneurship” at the Rose Memorial Auditorium on September 11, 2018.
The opening prayer was led by Rev. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on, Director, CPU Office of Communications. It was then followed by the singing of the National Anthem conducted by Mrs. Crista S. Huyong, Director, CPU Cultural Affairs Office.
For the welcome remarks, Dr. Florence P. Bogacia, CPU Vice President for Administration and Finance, shared the strong bond of the university with the Benita and Catalino Yap Foundation: “It is a blessing that we are partnering with the Benita and Catalino Yap Foundation in the conduct of the social enterprise campus tour. The foundation espouses not only CSR [corporate social responsibility], but more importantly, personal social responsibility. Our society needs students, graduates, professionals, and citizens with a true understanding of what our responsibility is.”
Dr. Antonio S. Yap, founder and Chairman of the Benita and Catalino Yap Foundation, thanked CPU for the warm welcome. He also inspired the participants to celebrate life through a perspective of faith by pursuing to do what is good: “We believe that every single one of you matters—whatever we are, we have a chance to do good.”
Ms. Marian Bartolome, Communication Officer, talked about the background and awards programs of BCYF.
The seminar showcased a talk from Mr. John Michael P. Lava, Ayala Young Leader and Head of the Visayas and Mindanao Operations of Deloitte. He shared about the Deloitte CSR Youth Awards. Lava also highlighted the importance of CSR and he recognized the university’s help in the promotion of CSR.
The talk was followed by a panel interview, consisting of innovative leaders from the community and all over the country. The members of the panel shared their ideas and their grassroots application of CSR as a medium of changing communities.
The event was made possible through the earnest efforts of the program committee led by Dr. Lorna T. Grande, Dean, College of Business and Accountancy.
By Keziah G. Huelar
Mr. Ted Ferrer, founder and President of Generika Drugstore receiving a certificate of appreciation from CPUAAI President, Engr. Isagani Jalbuena and the CPUAAI Previous President, Mr. Dan Dorillo.
A display of sportsmanship and athletic prowess—The Generika-Ayala Lifesavers held a volleyball sports clinic for the elementary, high school, and college students of Central Philippine University. The team also played an exhibition match against the CPU Golden Lions. Both events were held at the CPU Gym on September 7, 2018.
Ilonggo fans were ecstatic to see a showcase of volleyball prowess between the two teams. The friendly game was won by Generika-Ayala, 25-14, 25-22, 25-23, 25-21, 15-4. Last year, the teams also faced off in Bingawan, Iloilo.
The CPU Golden Lions and the Generika-Ayala Lifesavers.
Present during the game were Generika-Ayala Lifesavers coach Sherwin Meneses and players, Carol Ann Cerveza, Shiela Marie Pineda, Angeli Pauline Araneta, Mikaela Lopez, and Marivic Velaine Meneses, Jane Orendain, April Ross Hingpit, and CPU alumni, Fiola Mae Ceballos.
The 2018 National PRISAA Champion, CPU Golden Lions, was represented by Shyrel Ambrocio, Ritchelle Amuan, Beatrice Arabia, Daniela Eguico, Danika Galila, Glezel Anne Ledesma, Je-Ann Magnetico, Riza mae Serrano, Jolina Torres, and Eunice Guevarra.
CPU Sports Director Edwin Caro Laru-an expressed his heartfelt thanks to the Generika-Ayala Lifesavers for sharing their time and expertise.
By Cyrus A. Natividad
Dr. Jaime C. Cabarles, Dean, College of Agriculture, Resources and Environmental Science shares his insights to Mr. Cyrus A. Natividad, host, CPU’s Looking Forward.
Central Philippine University College of Agriculture—now the College of Agriculture, Resources and Environmental Sciences (CARES)—not only changed its name but has evolved into a research institute for CPU.
Along with the practice students avail from the University farms, CPU students also participate in community outreach and activities that promote resource generation in partnership with identified LGUs. This project, initiated by Cabarles, is helping poor communities and farmers in selected areas in Western Visayas.
As part of the work-study program of CPU during his college days, Dean Cabarles has had experience in laboratory research and farm management. He finished his post graduate studies namely: Master in Agriculture in 2005 from West Visayas State University and his Doctor of Philosophy from the University of the Philippines-Diliman in 2009 His biggest achievement, thus far, is being declared the National Winner of the 2014 CHED Republica (Outstanding Research and Publication Award for Natural Sciences and Agriculture Category).
Dr. Cabarles’ work was further rewarded when CPU implemented his research program for a sustainable free-range chicken production in the farms located in Leon and Zarraga. CHED recognized that Cabarles’ research made significant contributions to the advancement in the field of agriculture and to the goals for development of the nation.
By Cyrus A. Natividad
Participants and speakers of the OBE Seminar.
A seminar-workshop with the objective of developing a roadmap for the full implementation of Outcomes Based Education in all units and colleges of CPU was held on September 10, 2018 at the Educational Media Center in CPU. This seminar is in compliance with CHED Memorandum Order number 46 series of 2012. Another aim of the seminar-workshop is to enhance the Quality Assurance (QA) of the University, particularly for its graduates.
CPU’s heritage, theology, and core values were first presented by the Office of Communications Director, Rev. Francis Neil Jalando-on. The Dean of the College of Engineering, Engr. Dany C. Molina, then gave an overview of the University-wide OBE Implementation Program.
The legal basis of the University was presented by the Dean of the College of Nursing, Atty. Salex Alibogha. After which, the Dean of the College of Education, Dr. Merle L. Junsay, discussed the societal needs and relevance of OBE. The workshop on CPU’s mission and vision was conducted by Dr. Ananias C. Sabijon, Jr., Director, Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence.
The participants presented their output and synthesis after lunch. This was followed by Engr. Molina’s review of CPU’s OBE framework to reacquaint the deans and unit heads. Two OBE advocates from every college were then identified, and an advisory board for every program of the University was created.
At the end of the seminar-workshop, the institutional outcomes that Central Philippine University should expect from its graduates were identified as Christian character, nationalism, stewardship, technological competence, and scholarship.
The seminar-workshop was hosted by Prof. Esther Rose Romarate, Chair, Department of Languages, Mass Communication, and Humanities.
By Keziah G. Huelar
Rev. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on, Director of the CPU Office of Communications and member of the CPU Sustainable Committee encouraged the elementary pupils to be good stewards of the environment.
“Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart on it” (Proverbs 22:6).
With the aim of teaching the CPU elementary students the importance of environmental stewardship, the CPU Elementary School held a campaign entitled “War on Waste—Trash to Cash.” The said project was launched on September 11, 2018.
The campaign was an initiative of the CPU Sustainable Campus Committee composed of Mr. Prim Vergara III, Technical Assistant to the President and Occupational Safety and Health Officer; Rev. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on, Director, CPU Office of Communications; Engr. Jeriel Militar, Department Chair, Mechanical Engineering Department, College of Engineering; Engr. Aries Romallosa, Department Coordinator, College of Agriculture, Research and Environmental Science; Dr. Stella Fernandez, Dean, College of Arts and Sciences; Mrs. Hermely Jalando-on, CPU Purchasing Officer; and Engr. Amy Castigador, Director, Office of Institutional Advancement.
CPU Elementary School students working together to help clean the CPU Campus.
The launching began with a devotional led by Rev. Jalando-on. His message highlighted the importance of taking care of the environment by: A—Accepting that God is the owner of the world and that is why it is important to be good stewards of His creation. B—Believing that God can do great things through everyone. Everybody has a role in preserving the beauty of the environment by sharing one’s time, talent, and treasure. Lastly, C—challenging others to join. The task of saving the environment will be easier and more enjoyable if family and friends join in.
The devotional was then followed by the opening remarks of CPU Elementary School Principal, Prof. Janet P. Jaco. In her message, Prof. Jaco encouraged the elementary pupils to love and protect the environment by participating and promoting the “War on Waste—Trash to Cash” advocacy.
“Trash to Cash” encourages CPU elementary students to gather recyclable materials in exchange for cash. The said materials will be sent to a materials recovery facility.
After the program, the elementary students, armed with gloves and trash bags, conducted a clean-up all around the CPU campus.
By Cyrus A. Natividad
Guest speaker, Sen. Bam Aquino shared his insights and perspective regarding the TRAIN Law.
Central Philippine University Republic (CPUR) organized a youth forum on Philippine economic situation as a means to shed light on the country’s current economic plight. The forum was held on September 7, 2018 at the Alumni Promenade and Concert Park from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM. The pioneering initiative was done by the Office of the CPUR President in cooperation with the Office of Senator Bam Aquino.
The forum was attended by student leaders of other schools and universities in Iloilo City. Prof. Patrocinio Pudadera, CPU faculty, gave an overview of the TRAIN Law and tax reforms in the country.
Senator Bam Aquino then talked about the consequences of the passage of the TRAIN law, the economic challenges that the government is facing due to inflation, and the role of the youth in today’s economic situation. One of the highlights in Aquino’s message is his comparison of the current price of rice and that of three months ago. He explained how the TRAIN law affected the price of rice and that of other basic commodities.
Aquino has been recognized as one of the Ten Outstanding Young Men of the Philippines in the category of Social Enterprises and Community Development. He is also the author of Republic Act 10679 known as the Youth Entrepreneurship Act. The youth forum was part of the Iloilo leg of Aquino’s interaction with the youth and students on issues related to the economy.
CPUR President John Michael Suelo first thanked Dr. Robles for his support to the CPUR and the students of the University. Suelo then commented regarding the forum that “we should be grateful for this support and privileged to engage in a discussion on issues concerning our current economic situations.”
CPUR Senator Niegil Liboon introduced the keynote speaker.