Christ as the Center – members of the Convention gathered together to make a human formation of the CPBC acronym.
United through faith and love anchored in Jesus—The Convention of Philippine Baptist Churches held its 6th Biennial at Central Philippine University from May 22-24, 2018.
With the theme “Partnering in Mission: Venturing Beyond Familiar Spaces,” the event gathered 962 participants from 372 churches. Baptist pastors and leaders all over the country came to rekindle Christian friendship and to further equip Baptist leaders in advancing the work of the Lord throughout the globe.
CPBC General Secretary, Rev. Dr. Jerson B. Narciso with Baptist Ministers from Korea.
In his message to the CPBC, CPU President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles, recognized the university’s partnership with the Convention in producing exemplary Christian learners, “Indeed, working with the Convention has truly developed a deeper desire for the university to pursue and support programs that empower men and women whose lives have been dedicated to serve the ministry and whose response to the call of mission is hoped to have inspired others, especially the younger generation, to take the path less traveled.”
The first day of the convention featured an opening parade and Kinasadya where members of the convention made a human formation of the acronym CPBC in the CPU Football Field. It was then followed by the Gathering of Praise and Opening Celebration.
In his keynote address, CPBC General Secretary, Rev. Dr. Jerson B. Narciso, welcomed the participants to the 6th CPBC Biennial Assembly, “How beautiful and pleasant it is when all of God’s children live and work together in unity in the household of God.”
He then went on to talk about this year’s theme that highlights unity and partnership among the members of the convention: “I want you to take note that we are witnessing a significant breakthrough of God’s people coming together from different churches and places here and abroad to share the common vision of reaching out to more people through the Living Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ.”
CPBC Palawan in blue during the opening parade.
The members of the Negros Kasapulanan of Baptist Churches Inc. were all smiles during the parade.
Leading the parade is the Luzon Convention Baptist Fellowship.
The Iloilo Kasapulanan Baptist Churches Inc. brimming bright in red.
The Antique Kasapulanan Baptist Churches Inc. pauses before continuing the parade.
According to Rev. Narciso, the annual assembly is one of the venues of CPBC member to immerse themselves in Christian fellowship and to equip themselves for God’s mission: “I am confident that through this time of engagement, worship, learning, sharing, and reflection we will all be enriched, encouraged and equipped by our varied and unique experiences as we respond to the challenges of the ministry in our time.”
On the second day, the convention held the dedication of the CBPC Ministries Building at Fajardo, Jaro. It was then followed by the Morning Worship with Rev. Edwin Lam as speaker, Biblico-Theological Reflection by Rev. Danilo Borlado, and a lecture by Rev. Dr. Ann Borquist, Rev. Taku Longkumer and Kate Longkumer. The evening gathering featured guest speaker Rev. Ngwedia Paul Mszia, President of the Baptist World Alliance.
During the last day, Rev. Filipe Espindola spoke during the Sanctuary Hour. Interest Groups were also held, catering to different church ministries: 150 participants attended the Ministry with the Homeless with Mrs. Ruth Callanta, 126 participants joined the Ministry with LGBT with Pastor Danilo Borlado, 126 participants attended the Ministry with People Living with HIV-Aids with Prof. Rea Angelica Villeza, 150 participants attended the Ministry with the OFW and their families with Pastor Mary Malou Borlado, 100 participants joined the Ministry with Disaster Survivors with Ms. Henna Caipang, 84 participants attended the Ministry with Person in Conflict with the Law with Pastor Wilson Andion, 100 participants for Doing Mission to Sports Interest Group with Pastor Randy Camponion, 58 participants attended the Corporate Safekeeping with Atty. Zacarias Bedona Jr., and 66 participants attended the Financial Literacy with Mr. Jay Galang.
The closing celebration held the communion and installation of a new set of CPBC Board of Trustees and Officers with Rev. Felix Tingson as guest speaker.
The achievements of the Convention in 2016-2018 include the institutional review and assessment, the proposed amendments to the CPBC by-laws, the testimonial and turning over ceremony for Benjamin Shun Lai Chan and Lesley Turley, the revival of the Manugbantala publication, revival of the Palawan Mission, the Magtanong sa GS Program, the initiated Camp Higher Ground Restoration Fund Campaign for the rehabilitation of Camp Higher Ground, the first International Mission Conference in Hong Kong, the construction of CPBC Ministry Building, production and printing of CPBC Primer, distribution of free hymnbooks, partnership with Vietnam Baptist Convention, a liturgical guide published in coordination of CBMA, and the Save Marawi Fund.
By Cyrus A. Natividad
The CPU Information Center Building which houses the Info Center and the Office of Communications.
As part of its safety measure against the COVID-19, Central Philippine University is currently implementing protocols that do not allow outsiders to enter the University premises; except for the faculty and staff, and those who have authorized appointment with the administration or any of its departments and offices that require to transact personally.
On its part, the CPU Information Center serves its clients online, especially at this time when the person-to-person transaction is prohibited. In its aim to maintain quality service, CPU Information Center provides the need for information, updates, and assistance to students, parents, and guests who can only be grateful for the responsive, quality service. Mrs. Hannah Lee Canlas and Ms. Ina Bernales who have served for a long time at the Information Center have collated the frequently asked questions and would answer the inquiries accordingly. The Information Center is usually the first stop of an inquiry. If it requires the answer of a respective department, the personnel would make a referral. Like for example a request of a Transcript of Records will be referred to the webpage of the CPU Registrar’s Office, and a request of a statement of account at the email addresses of the Business Office.
Ms. Ina Bernales (left) and Mrs. Hannah Lee Canlas (right) answering queries regarding enrollment as well as other concerns.
During the online enrolment, the CPU received as much as 400 inquiries in a day via email, social media, and telephone.
The CPU Information Center has an online and telephone service available at 8:00 in the morning to 12:00 noontime, and from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM – Monday to Friday. The Information Center building is located just across the CPU Main Gate and besides the Rex D. Drilon Hall. The Information Center is under the supervision of the CPU Office of Communications.
For queries, you may call or send an e-mail to CPU Information Center.
E-mail: infocenter@cpu.edu.ph
Landline: 033-330-7216, 033-330-7278 local 2129
Mobile number: 09217602647
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By Rusieljs G. Lunasco
Dr. Felice Garingalao- Molina served as the former President of Central Philippine University Alumni Association Inc. from 2014-2015. She is also a faculty member of the College of Medicine and heads the Microbiology and Parasitology Section, a position she’s held since 2004.
In honor of her valuable service in the fight against COVID-19, former Central Philippine University Alumni Association Inc. (CPUAAI) President Dr. Felice Garingalao-Molina (Kindergarten ’73, Elementary ’79, High School ’83, BSMT ’87) was awarded as the Most Courageous and Resilient Frontliner by the Philippine College of Physicians-Western Visayas Panay Chapter.
The award was given to PCP members who continue to bring hope and inspiration to the residents and impart knowledge and virtues in pursuit of excellence amidst the pandemic.
Dr. Molina is currently the Chairperson of the Infection Prevention and Control Unit at Western Visayas Medical Center (WVMC). Since 2011, she has been the national Vice President for the Philippine Academic Society for Microbiology and Parasitology.
From 2014-2015, she served as the President of Central Philippine University Alumni Association Inc. (CPUAAI). Molina also heads the Microbiology and Parasitology Section of the Central Philippine University College of Medicine.
She finished her kindergarten, high school, elementary, and college education at Central Philippine University. She graduated Doctor of Medicine at West Visayas State University in 1992.
By Rusieljs G. Lunasco
Drone shot of the CPU campus.
To ensure that the delivery of online classes will not be heavy and stressful for students and faculty members, Central Philippine University has transitioned to a hybrid learning schedule for the first semester.
Only the collegiate level will be adopting the new schedule. The School of Graduate Studies and the Colleges of Medicine and Law still keep their regular schedules in holding online classes as well as all the basic education departments.
“It would be difficult for the faculty to teach 9 subjects in one semester which is equivalent to 18 weeks. It was decided that the semester will be divided into 3 sub-terms,” said Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Irving Domingo Rio.
In hybrid scheduling, the semester will be divided into 3 sub-terms of 6 weeks each (or the equivalent number of class days). This means that the students’ subject loads are also divided into 3. Each sub-term will be devoted to one-third of the student’s load or subjects. Example: a student with 7 subjects will take those subjects on a 2-3-2 schedule. For the first sub-term, the student will focus on 2 subjects only, rather than 7 if classes were delivered traditionally. For the second sub-term, the student’s classes will be for his/her 3 other subjects, and the last sub-term will be devoted to the student’s remaining 2 subjects.
Classes will be conducted regularly from Monday to Friday. NSTP/ROTC classes are still scheduled on Saturday. The Hybrid Schedule is reflected in the students’ account at my.cpu.edu.ph.
Centralian Pride – CPU hails four Centralian TOSIA awardees. Photo Credits: JCI Regatta
Birthday girl and TOSIA Awardee – Nestlee Taala is all smiles during the awarding ceremony. Photo Credits: Nestle Taala
Faith, honor and excellence—Nestle Taala, a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication senior from the College of Arts and Science, John Elmer Loretizo, 5th year Bachelor of Science Software Engineering from the College of Engineering, and Meliza Louise Javellana and Honey Parreño from the University Junior High School were hailed as TOSIA awardees during the Ten Outstanding Students of Iloilo Awarding Ceremonies held at Robinson’s Place Iloilo on March 18, 2018.
CPU Junior High School TOSIA finalist, Meliza Louise Javellana, was awarded as TOSIA Artisan for exemplifying creativity in her bid book submission.
They passed the preliminary screening of this year’s search for the Ten Outstanding Students of Iloilo Awards spearheaded by JCI Regatta. The stages of the competition include The Stopover: Preparation, Starting Up The Engine: The Road to Excellence, a leadership seminar, The Checkpoint, Nomination and Portfolio Screening, TOSIA Roadblock: Essay Writing Round and The Detour: Interview Round, The Pit Stop: TOSIA Bootcamp and lastly The Finish Line: Awarding Ceremonies.
John Elmer Loretizo with family during the TOSIA awarding ceremony. Photo Credits: John Elmer Loretizo
Meliza Louise Javellana with her family. Javellana was awarded as TOSIA Artisan for her creative bid book submission.Photo Credit: Meliza Louise Javellana
TOSIA 2018 aims to recognize student leaders who excel in academic, community, leadership and faith—four pillars in creating positive change. The annual search for outstanding is held in partnership with Department of Education Iloilo and Iloilo City Divisions and the Commission on Higher Education Region 6.
By Rusieljs G. Lunasco
Commencement Speaker Province of Iloilo Governor Arthur Defensor Jr., emphasized the importance of integrity in the legal profession in his address to the graduates.
The Central Philippine University College of Law held its first virtual Baccalaureate Service and Commencement Exercises on September 5, 2020.
The ceremony marked the official conferral of Juris Doctor degrees to 33 students.
“We recognize the value of such a time-honored tradition and we will not allow the pandemic to deprive you of the recognition you deserve,” said CPU President Dr. Teodoro C. Robles in his opening message. “Today we honor you, your mentors and parents, and everyone who has journeyed with you.”
Dr. Robles also emphasized the values of Christ-likeness and justice to the Class of 2020.
“As Centralian lawyers and Christ-followers, your sense of justice is bestowed upon you by our Creator. He is loving, kind, and merciful and he is also righteous, holy, and just, and all of those you must be as well. Remember that justice is one of the core values of your alma mater.”
This year’s Commencement Speaker, Province of Iloilo Governor Arthur R. Defensor Jr., a lawyer himself, talked about the importance of having a strong moral compass in the legal profession.
“When you become lawyers, people will look up to you for guidance. You will have the power to wield the law, either to protect it and defend what is right or use the law to oppress the vulnerable. May you use it not to condone what is bad. Do not be ensnared by the evils around you, but do good even when you are all alone, standing for what is right.”
“The legal profession is not only a means of livelihood, it is a vocation that is honorable. You must not taint it for reasons such as fame, wealth, and grandeur. As Supreme Court Associate Justice Estela Perlas-Bernabe said in her address to the passers of the 2018 Bar Examinations, Never compromise your integrity. At the end of it all, in whatever opportunity you choose, your integrity is non-negotiable.”
Jikko Solano Belejerdo, who gave the response in behalf of the Class of 2020, reflected on one’s identity and how a person’s worth should not be measured by his/her achievements and titles. He talked about the uniqueness of every person’s life journey.
“This society has to break the culture of measuring and categorizing someone’s worth based on his career path, status, or whatever issue he is suffering from. Everybody’s journey is significant. We may lead to different directions, take different steps, hold on to different beliefs, nevertheless, it is about our will, courage, and faith. Our differences should give us room to cultivate acceptance and respect, not judgment and condemnation. We are not our issues nor are we our struggles.”
“I want to remind those whose identity has mainly been about their achievements or titles. We are not defined by our title. We define our title. My fellow graduates, never settle to being just a lawyer, when we can be God-fearing lawyers, compassionate lawyers, honest lawyers, generous lawyers – not just lawyers. We define our title. We are not our achievements. We are who our God says we are. “
The College of Law virtual Baccalaureate and Commencement Services can be viewed on the official Facebook page of the CPU TV Channel.
To watch the full ceremony click the link below:
https://www.facebook.com/140064646624739/videos/314772033285278/
During the University Week, ISO showcased the different cuisines of member countries in a food booth. Photo Credits: Park Beom Cheol
Central Philippine University is internationally known not only for its exemplary Christian professionals but also for its hospitality to everyone who enters its portals from whichever part of the globe they may have come. For years, the university has welcomed students from every part of the continent. It has become a global corner where Centralians, regardless of language and background, come together to experience the “central life.”
With the growing number of foreign students every year, CPU created the International Students Organization (ISO), a student group catering to the needs and concerns of foreign students. Park Beom Cheol, current ISO President, shared that his stay in the university has been more memorable because of the said organization.
Park, a graduating Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication student, has been a Centralian since 2010. According to Park, he chose to study in CPU after visiting the university because of a football program. “I was studying in Dasmariñas when I visited CPU back in 2006 to play football. I liked the university atmosphere and also the fact that it is a Christian university. I chose Mass Communication because I want to be a sports reporter.”
ISO held a Christmas Party for the Kopino kids. Photo Credits: Park Beom Cheol
As President, Park, along with his fellow officers, has been spearheading programs that promote cultural awareness of the different countries represented by their members. They also conduct outreach activities to different communities in the city.
One of their activities is reaching out to Kopino (Korean-Filipinos) children. They organize arts and crafts sessions, storytelling, and book drives to create a healthy and fun learning environment. “Together, with a local church, we reach out to the children and hold activities for them. Most of the Kopinos have been left behind by their Korean father but we want to assure them that there are people who care for them. We want to motivate them.”
During the celebration of the university week, the organization also set up a food booth showcasing the different cuisines of the members’ countries.
ISO members and officers during the University Parade. Photo Credits: Park Beom Cheol
Currently, ISO has 80 members and to unite the group, Park said it was important to promote an environment where diverse ideas and opinions could be heard. “We have 80 members from 16 different countries. It’s really important that we listen to them and to address their concerns and to motivate them to participate.”
Park encourages other foreign students in CPU to be positive and to make the most of their stay in the university. “It is really hard at first but I want to encourage and motivate foreign students to voice out their concerns. ISO will be there for you. Don’t be afraid to share your difficulties because there are people who will help you.”
He also advises them to trust in God’s plan. “Be patient and positive. Everything depends on God’s plan. Changing plans is okay but do not change your goal. Change how to get there; do not change where God is leading you.”
Park’s study in the university made him appreciate Filipino culture and values and he gladly shares his experiences with fellow Koreans by writing in “Manila Seoul,” a feature page in the website www.srook.net. Here, Park promotes Iloilo City as a fun and friendly place for Koreans to stay at or visit.
International Student Organization A.Y. 2017-2018
President: BeomCheol Park (John)
e-mail address: beomkey91@yahoo.com
e-mail address: beomkey91@yahoo.com
Internal Vice President: Chaelim Hong (Cherry)
e-mail address: richcl110210@gmail.com
e-mail address: richcl110210@gmail.com
External Vice President: Saad Alaa S. Abdel Azim
e-mail address: abdelazim.saadalaa@gmail.com
e-mail address: abdelazim.saadalaa@gmail.com
Secretary: Nahyun Kim (Rachael)
e-mail address: skgusdldhk@naver.com
e-mail address: skgusdldhk@naver.com
Assistant Secretary: Dan Mark C. Tumbagahon
e-mail address: dm.tumbagahon@yahoo.com
e-mail address: dm.tumbagahon@yahoo.com
Treasurer: Sun Yu Lee (Sophia)
e-mail address: sm04080@naver.com
e-mail address: sm04080@naver.com
By Rusieljs G. Lunasco
Ryan Dave is currently the web administrator for the Central Echo.
Ryan Dave Poral, a 2nd year BA Communications student, recently produced a documentary for ABS- CBN’S #KwentongQuarantine.
His 8-minute documentary, entitled “Libangan” chronicles his grandfather’s pastime during this pandemic.
“Lolo Leodegario has a very interesting story. Farming and planting were his pastime even when he was still a young boy and it was also what helped him send all his children to school,” he said.
Poral took part in ABS- CBN’S #Kuwentong Quarantine Workshop Season 2. The two-day webinar webinar focused on how to make documentaries using a mobile phone. They also discussed visual storytelling, editing, and writing documentaries especially during this time of pandemic where we are not allowed to immerse ourselves in the ”outside world” entirely.
“I chose my own grandfather as my Case Study due to accessibility. We weren’t encouraged to go about because of the risk. And I have to say that I made the best decision in choosing lolo. He is passionate and dedicated to his pastime. Every day, he would go to the empty lot his children and siblings bought for him just to plant. This hobby of his has helped his family and other people.” He said when asked about his reasons for choosing his grandfather as case study.
Poral hopes that through his documentary, people will realize how a simple hobby of planting could be a big help in a time of crisis.
“Food security has never been more prevalent than today and I hope that by watching the documentary people will be encouraged to grow our own food because it can really help, especially at a time like this.”
Batch 2019 Centralian Nurses in their capping ceremony.
On a bright Friday morning of December 2, long lines of young ladies in their white uniform marched through the aisle of the University Church, their hands clutching replicas of Florence Nightingale’s lamp – reminding us of the service of Nightingale to wounded soldiers during the Crimean war. The Lengendary Florence Nigthtingale – the nurse’s inspiration of service and icon of hope.
More than 140 Nightingales of the ` generation now’ (CPU College of Nursing and Health Sciences), marched inside the University Church to receive their symbolic caps. The Capping is a significant moment to prepare the students for their actual nursing duties at the Iloilo Mission Hospital and other preferred local hospitals. The future nurses also listened to the motivational speech of Dr. Robert Ponje, Unit Head at the Iloilo Provincial Hospital – also a nurse by profession.
CPU is ranked No. 7 in the November 2016 National Nursing Licensure Exams. It is also the only school to be in the top 9 in Western Visayas./ CAN
By Cyrus A. Natividad
Dr. Florentino P. Alerta II shares that we must have faith in Jesus Christ as we cope with stress brought by the pandemic.
The prevailing COVID-19 pandemic has left many people in unhealthy conditions — mostly stress. CPU Lifestyle Management Center Director and Iloilo Mission Hospital Medical Staff Training Consultant, Dr. Florentino P. Alerta II shared some insights on coping with stress during a crisis.
First, he believes that “it is normal to feel sad or stressed, or overwhelmed during a crisis.” He said that “it is good to talk to people you trust, or talking to a counselor would be healthy. It can bring relief to a depressed person.”
“Beating stress in the ‘new normal’ requires one to maintain a healthy lifestyle, proper diet, sleep, exercise, and social contacts with friends and family,” he said. He also advised that “Alcohol, smoking, or other drugs should not be used for dealing with emotions”.
Dr. Alerta, who is also a pastor, also emphasized that we have to strengthen our faith in God and put our hope in Jesus Christ. We should always pray to God and read the Bible because it will certainly help us in coping with this pandemic.
Lastly, do not forget to talk to your supervisor about any concerns. You should also remember that if you start to feel unwell, talk to your doctor immediately.
Dr. Alerta is also the current Vice President of the Central Philippine University Alumni Association (CPUAAI).