By Rusieljs G. Lunasco
Central Philippine University honored the life of former Board of Trustees’ Chairman, Atty. Perfecto Yasay Jr. in a Virtual Memorial Service held this morning, July 24, 2020.
Yasay graduated from CPU with a degree in Bachelor of Arts in Political Science in 1966. He served as Chairman of the Board of Trustees from 2001-2005 and was a member of the CPU Corporation from 1998 until 2008.
“It is our culture and customary practice to honor alumni who made significant contributions to our university,” said CPU Corporation and Board of Trustees Chairman Atty. Von Lovel Bedona. He also noted that Yasay’s achievements and how they brought great honor and prestige to Central Philippine University.
“We will remember Jun Yasay for his contributions to society, to our university, to the youth and countless others whose lives were touched by his actions in public service,” said Dr. Teodoro Robles in his words of sympathy.
CPU Corporation member Mr. Francis Grino, a close friend, recalled their bond and remembered Yasay’s time as Chairman of the Board of Trustees.
Yasay was the former Secretary of Foreign Affairs of the Philippines and was assigned Associate Commissioner of Securities and Exchange Comission in 1993 and became the chairman from 1995 to 2000.
In 1996, he was awarded the Distinguished Centralian Award in Public/Government Service in recognition of his outstanding achievements as a law practitioner, civic leader, and high government official.
by Edwin C. Laru-an
Lopez is a member of the CPU Football Tertiary Men’s Team.
Name: Wrenz Ivan Lopez
Nickname: Pogi
Height: 6’0”
Grade/year: Grade 12
Team: Football Tertiary Men
Playing Position: CDM/CB
Coach: Engr. Bob Rommel Javellana
Hometown: Lambunao, Iloilo
Achievements:
Palarong Pambansa 2016(NCR) 4th place
Champion United Football League Youth 2016
Borneo Cup 2016 2nd Runner up
Champion NCRA FA Cup 2017
Champion Uday 2016-2019
Best Defender Uday 2018
Champion ILOPRISAA 2017-2019
ISSC Meet 2018 2nd place
Menpora Cup 2018(Indonesia) 1st Place(Plate)
ISSC Meet 2019 4th place
WVPRISAA 2018-2019 1st Runner up
WVPRISAA 2020 Champion
Hobbies: Football, Watching Anime, Video Games
Favorite Player: Lionel Messi and Sergio Busquets
Most Memorable Game:
WVPRISAA 2020, Roxas City Capiz. We won against USLS Bacolod despite losing our first game. In our final match, I was able to convert a goal in the extra time after a one all score in the regulation.
Principle in Life:
“Live while you’re alive because when you’re dead you are not living.”
What can you say as a player of CPU Golden Lions:
I could say that it is very overwhelming to play for the CPU Golden Lions.
Why did you choose CPU:
I chose CPU because it has the best sports program in football among private schools here in Iloilo. CPU always takes good care of their athletes by providing what they need and give importance to academics.
By Cyrus A. Natividad
Pastor Jonan who previously worked for Central Philippine University as Executive Secretary is now based in New Zealand with his family.
Pastor Jonan Castillon, former CPU Executive Secretary, created the Ministry Appreciation and Participation Toolkit (MAP Toolkit) for pastors and ministry leaders. The New Zealand Baptist Multicultural Inclusion Ministries (NZMIM) has added the MAP Toolkit to their ministry toolbox.
The New Zealand Baptist Multicultural Inclusion Ministries has added these ministry participation tools to their ministry on July 2020.
Steve Davies, NZMIM team leader, cited Jonan as “one of our recommended ministry partners whom we believe has a lot to contribute to the multicultural movement of churches in Aotearoa- New Zealand.” The NZMIM is one of the national ministries of the Baptist Churches of NZ.
Castillon got the vision of creating a ministry toolkit in 1992 while working as a researcher in Antique. Gathering lessons learned from his life as a pastors’ kid, from his work and ministry experiences, he was able to organize the MAP Toolkit, which is a fascinating resource designed to help pastors and ministry leaders organize and manage the ministries and programs of the church.
As a fresh Bachelor of Theology graduate in 2001, some of the questions that arose in his mind are, how he will be able to manage the institutional or organizational side of the church; how would he lead and empower the church to achieve its vision. “The toolkit hinges on the principle of creating maps so that church members will have a guide to appreciating and participating actively in the ministry,” said Castillon.
Jonan, his wife, Jewel and their daughter, Jadyn lives in Timaru, NZ. They are members of the Wilson Street Baptist Church. Castillon works as a consultant at Waugh Infrastructure Management Ltd., an infrastructure management consulting company. He graduated the Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering in 1989 and Bachelor of Theology in 2001, both from Central Philippine University.
You may download the MAP toolkit in this link: https://multiculturalresponse.com/download/5554/
By Engr. Isagani J. Jalbuena
The CPUAAI Board of Trustees during the Presidency of Engr. Isagani Jalbuena.
Looking back, as I ended my term of office, there were four (4) additional new alumni chapters that were organized, bringing the total chapters to 160 worldwide. We have 125 local/Philippines chapters and 35 chapters for US, Canada and other countries.
There were two (2) college graduations in a year that I attended. I administered the Alumni Oath of Membership to a total 3,229 new graduates. They were given tokens as souvenirs/gifts for being a new member of the CPUAAI. We see to it that we give due recognition to outstanding graduates through the “Pasidungog.” To further recognized alumni that top their respective Board Exams (1st place to 10th place ), the association extended Certificates of Appreciation and financial rewards.
The CPU Alumni Affairs Office is the usual venue where we meet and greet an alumna or alumni chapters. The office is manned by the energetic and able Ms. Tina Marie Hortelano, our Alumni Liaison Officer.
I recall that in every alumni meeting, we usually start with a prayer and a short devotion to bring us in the presence of God. Every member of the Board is assigned to prepare for this. The moment makes us nearer to God and helped me in my journey as a Christian, in general and developed my total well-being as a person, in particular.
I was privileged and fortunate that in my term of office, when there was no COVID-19 yet. I was able to attend the 2018 CPU Global Reunion in Chicago, USA hosted by the CPU Federation of Alumni Association Inc. (CPU FOAAI) through the invitation of then President Mrs. May Celis-Rogers. It was a momentous experience meeting and interacting with several Alumni and their respective chapters. I also met my Elementary School Classmates for the first time in 54 years. Before the reunion, my niece and her family hosted a city tour and I experienced the famous Chicago River Cruise. As a true blooded Lion, I also took the opportunity to visit the Lions Clubs International (LCI) Headquarters at Oak Brook, Ill., USA, and I also did not miss the famous Nike Center of Michael Jordan.
In 2019, I was invited to the Induction of Officers of the CPUA UAE Chapter in Dubai. The group also invited my wife and Ms. Tina Marie Hortelano. My sincere thanks to the invitation through Mildred “Tabing” and Farruck Majeed. Ms. Tina Hortelano, my wife Dr. Lucita and myself enjoyed the warm camaraderie of Centralians in Dubai. The group toured us to sightseeing tourist areas like the Miracle Garden. We also enjoyed the Dessert Challenge. We experienced, for the first time, sand bashing on board a 4×4 SUV and riding a camel. We were also treated to experience what it feels to be at the top of Burj Kalifa Tower, the tallest building in Dubai.
The University Day Celebration is not complete without the Annual Alumni Homecoming and General Assembly Meeting. It is during this affair that we ratify the CPUAAI Board Resolutions, approve the Financial Report and elect the new set of board members that will replace the term ending board members. The new CPUAAI board of trustees then elects its new set of officers with a term of two (2) years.
We were not able, however, to hold an Annual Homecoming in September 2020 and 2021 due to the pandemic. But in February 2020, the university spearheaded the Grand Alumni Homecoming, in cooperation with the CPUAAI. The affair was highlighted with warm fellowship amongst Centralians and was able to raise over several millions of pesos from the Search of the Alumni Queen. The down side was, some of the alumni who extended their stay in the country, experienced the first locked down due to the pandemic and had problems returning home at their respective residences abroad.
My most memorable Alumni Homecoming and General Assembly was in 2019 when the CPUAAI Board of Trustees approved to invite and honor the Centralian Generals of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. The affair was highlighted when the Generals honored their former teachers, and when General Custodio Parcon, Jr. ( Ret.) donated his Medal of Valor to the University. We also conducted a Testimonial Lunch to Honor Atty. Ramon Larupay Muzones, 2018 National Artist for Literature. Likewise, we would like to convey our heartfelt appreciation to the Muzones Family for donating the National Artist for Literature Medal to the university.
The Annual Alumni Homecoming is not complete without the Search for the Alumni Queen. Since this is a fund raising activity, part of the proceeds of the event was donated to CPUAAI for its proposed project(s) and part is returned to the respective departments who joined the search.
“Work and no play makes Jack a dull boy” as they say. The Centralian Golfers in cooperation with the university and the CPAAAI conducts an annual Golf for a Cause Tournament that coincides with the annual CPU October Foundation Day. Proceeds of the golf tournament were released to deserving student athletes in coordination with the University Sports Office.
The Festival of Lights and Music at Central is celebrated annually and is one of the major events of the CPUAAI before the December break of the students. The event was started by then CPUAAI President Dr. Glenn A.M. Catedral in 1991 when the campus was adorned by Christmas lights and decors. The opening of the Festival of Lights attracts thousands of city and non-city residents inside the campus to attend the event. Because of this, the City of Iloilo, in a Resolution sponsored by then CPUAAI Director, and concurrent association President, Atty. Joshua Alim, declared CPU as a Tourism Site. During the pandemic, the Festival of Lights and Music was celebrated virtually sans the grand fireworks display. The preparation for the Festival of Lights gave me some sleepless nights. We, at the CPUAAI have to make both ends to meet the approved budget. We did a lot brainstorming on what will be the Christmas décor and lights. We also have to prepare the nightly program for two weeks together with the different departments and colleges. But thanks be to God, we always meet the dateline for the schedule opening of lights.
As an Ex-Officio member of the CPU Board of Trustees and CPU Corporation, I was privileged also to attend and interact in their respective meetings. Likewise, I was invited to different CPU BOT activities and affairs. Among others, the renaming of the CPU Administration Building to Dr. Rex Drilon Hall, the CPU Elementary Building to Dr. Agustin Pulido Hall, and the Development High School Building to the Dr. Juanito Acanto Hall. I was also invited to attend the unveiling of marker for the Dr. Lejo Brana Packaging Engineering Building ,and the dedication and Inauguration of the new multi-storey Senior High School Building.
In a nutshell, it was a privilege, an unforgettable experience, an opportunity serving the CPUAAI and giving back to my Alma Mater. All of these have contributed to my personal development.
To God be the Glory!
Mabuhay CPUAAI !
By Rusieljs G. Lunasco
1A model wearing Las Islas Boracay, a facemask inspired by the beautiful beaches of Boracay.
College of Nursing alumni and designer Marc Carcillar has been making waves for his local take on face masks.
Carcillar the designer behind the brand, Marcopilipino, launched Las Islas, a collection of handcrafted facemasks with designs inspired by islands of the Philippines.
Some of his designs are inspired by La Union, Boracay, and Guimaras.
2Designs from Las Islas ELYU features the festive energy and growing agro-tourism industry of La Union.
Fiesta and Ubas, reversible facemasks under Las Islas: ELYU features La Union, a surfing destination in Ilocos Region. Carcillar wanted to incorporate the province’s festive energy and its booming agro-tourism in the collection.
Las Islas: Boracay, the first face mask released in the collection takes inspiration from the beautiful beaches of the island.
3 Las Islas Guimaras a reversible face mask that represents the sunrise and sunset of the island.
5A facemask from Marikit, a recently launched collection from Carcillar.
The two sides of Las Islas: Guimaras, a reversible face covering with intricate tribal details, represent the sunrise and sunset of the island.
Aside from Las Islas, Carcillar has also launched two facemasks collections namely Balangaw and Marikit. Fabrics sourced for all the designs are limited and can only be produced in minimum pieces.
For each facemask sold, 25% of its proceeds will go to project PAG-ASA, a four-stage initiative to ease the effect of COVID19 to affected sectors. Farmers, weavers, and seamstresses are the beneficiaries for the said project.
Carcillar graduated from the College of Nursing, Central Philippine University in 2011. He also took up dressmaking at Slim’s Fashion and Arts School.
By Cyrus A. Natividad
Evelyn Rose Catilo is the former CPU Rotary Club of Jaro Centraline President.
Evelyn Rose A. Catilo (CPU BSMT 1979) is one of the Rotary International’s nominee for the “Exemplary Life-Changing Rotarian Award”. She is the former CPU Rotary Club of Jaro Centraline President and Assistant Governor for Zone 2 ( 2019-2020); Treasurer for the Council of Presidents for Zones 1, 2 and 3 of District 3850.
Catilo is a symbol of strength and honor to the Club and to the people around her. She has a passion for excellence, and is committed to service that changes lives. She began her Rotary Journey in 2013 when she was invited for membership by the CPU Rotary Club of Jaro Centraline.
She served as President of CPU-RCJC twice (Rotary Year 2016-2017 and 2018-2019). She also received important Rotary awards; among them, The Governors Excelllence Award, Top 10 Public Image Award and one Presidential Citation Award. Centralian Evelyn Rose Catilo is a Paul Harris Fellow of Rotary Club International. She is currently CPU RCJC’s Membership Officer.
By Nestle G. Taala
Director of the University Research Center (URC), Dr. Mary O’ T. Penetrante (D. Mgt.) and Director of CPU Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence (CPU-CTLE) Dr. Ananias Sabijon were selected as resource persons during a Seminar-Workshop on Designing Modules for Meaningful Learning: Coping with the New Normal held on July 2-3, 2020 at the ISCOF Barotac Nuevo Campus, Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo.
In line with one of its major functions as a university – that is extension, and to strengthen linkages with other institutions of learning both in public and private, specifically State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) and other Private Higher Education Institutions (PHEIs), Central Philippine University shared expertise to Iloilo State College of Fisheries (ISCOF) by sending two of its university directors to serve as resource persons during a Seminar-Workshop on Designing Modules for Meaningful Learning: Coping with the New Normal. Both university directors were invited by the ISCOF President to the seminar-workshop that was held on July 2-3, 2020 at the ISCOF Barotac Nuevo Campus, Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo.
The said speakers from CPU, who were approved by CPU President Dr. Teodoro C. Robles, were: Dr. Mary O’ T. Penetrante (D. Mgt.), Director of the University Research Center (URC), who facilitated the topics and activities on Digital Instructional Strategies for Flexible Learning and eLearning Tools for Specific Types of Knowledge. Dr. Penetrante finished her Doctor of Management at CPU. She also earned a postgraduate degree on Outcomes-Based Learning and Curriculum Development from Ontario College Teachers Postgraduate Program, at George Brown College Toronto, in Ontario, Canada. Furthermore, other than being a director and professor at CPU, she has served as a College Professor in Business Computer Application, Database Management, and Project Management at the Center for Business, George Brown College, in Toronto, Canada. At present, she is a professor at the CPU School of Graduate Studies.
Another speaker, Dr. Ananias C. Sabijon, Jr., (Ph.D. in Education, major in Curriculum Development) facilitated the topics and activities on Revising the Education Landscape; Instructional Design and Module Development; Instructional Materials and Designing Modules for Learning; and Assessing and Enhancing the Instructional Module.
Dr. Sabijon finished his Ph.D. in Education at West Visayas State University, and has received training as a Science and Educational Administration specialist from recognized mentors at Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU), Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, SAR; and at Valparaiso University (VU) in Indiana, USA, as a United Board for Christian Higher Education in Asia (UBCHEA) fellow. He was the Region VI winner/awardee of the Dr. Juan Salcedo Science Education Award, and was the 9th placer in the national level. At present, he is the Director of CPU Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence (CPU-CTLE), and a faculty of the CPU School of Graduate Studies.
Other than the opportunity to share their knowledge and expertise to the participants and to learn from them as well, Dr. Penetrante and Dr. Sabijon have been thankful for the warm welcome extended to them by the ISCOF academic community led by their President Dr. Godelyn G. Hisole (SUC President II), a Centralian or an alumna of CPU. Dr. Hisole finished her Doctor of Management (DMgt.) degree at CPU School of Graduate Studies.
A total of 50 seminar-workshop participants were purposely chosen by the organizers from the five campuses of ISCOF namely: the Main campus, the Barotac Nuevo, the Dingle, the Dumangas, and the San Enrique campus. The selected participants will become trainers in their respective home campuses.
The seminar-workshop was part of the Iloilo State College of Fisheries-Collaborative Action in Response to Educational Setback (ISCOF-CARES), especially during this time of pandemic and as different types of learning institutions (including ISCOF) face the new normal. Meanwhile, Dr. Emelyn B. Ligasan, ISCOF-CARES Project Leader, coordinated the successful holding of the seminar-workshop.
By Nestle G. Taala
The virtual signing of MOA of CPU and PNP was done last January 21, 2022.
As part of its mission, Central Philippine University commits to be of service to the community through various collaborations and engagements with different sectors, both in local and abroad. Hence, a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between CPU and Philippine National Police Training Service — Regional Special Training Unit 6 (RSTU6) was made and entered into on January 21, 2022.
This partnership shall undertake the implementation of Training Programs, and the Technical Assistance and Advisory Services to the Philippine National Police Training Service Regional Special training Unit 6.
In particular, CPU will assist the PNP Training Service RSTU6 in improving their pedagogy and digitization of training modules. Furthermore, CPU is expected “to provide resource persons – experts in the field of pedagogy and digitization of modules and evaluation tools from the College of Education, Graduate School and College of Computer Studies; to conduct pre-test and post-test to the trainees; and to design a training program specifically to enhance the delivery of the training modules.”
The signing ceremony was held virtually wherein CPU was represented by Dr. Teodoro C. Robles, University President; Dr. Irving Domingo L. Rio, Vice President for Academic Affairs; Engr. Levi De Los Santos, Jr., Director, Community Engagement and Service-Learning Center; Dr. Merle Junsay, Dean, College of Education; Prof. Ma. Christina A. Quijano, Dean, College of Computer Studies; and Dr. Raquel L. Polec-eo, Director, CPU Guidance Services Center. On the other hand, PCol. Jonathan Pineda, and Advisory Councils, Alan Clyde Galan, Engr. Jeru Samilo and Lalaine Ismael represented RSTU6.
Dr. Robles, in his message, is delighted “to be able to provide this necessary services, and that the Advisory Council has endorsed CPU.” He added, “Exemplary Christian Education for life is our vision, and in whatever we do, whether it is the training or education of our students or for any entity that will seek our assistance, our personnel are always happy to provide excellent quality education and in this case, whatever training assistance we can provide to the PNP.”
As a university dedicated to carry out its programs, CPU lives up its mission and vision statement through partnerships, fellowship, and cooperation such as this recent undertaking.
By Cyrus A. Natividad
Engr. Rhett Baldonado tests the “No Touch – Mass Faucet” system.
A “No Touch – Mass Faucet” system was installed near the health control station at CPU’s main gate. It provides personnel and guests the water for washing hands. “A hand washer doesn’t need to touch the faucet; clean water runs through by stepping on the foot-switch under the washtub, “according to Mr. Prim Vergara III who leads the health monitoring center.” “These Four units of non-touch water system provide efficiency and convenient hand washing as an improved health protocol”, he added.
Engr. Rhett Baldonado, Supervisor, Director for Facilities, supervised the construction of the said system. He also added that the design of the “No Touch – Mass Faucet” system was from Mr. Edwin Cortuna of the CPU Motorpool.
Alcohol pumps are still present near the Main Gate while a new automatic alcohol dispenser can be found at the entrance of the Rex D. Drilon Hall (Administration). The health monitoring center has been installed at the CPU gate area for health and security reasons. It has stationed security personnel around the clock since the COVID-19 pandemic started in March 2020.
By Cyrus A. Natividad
Dr. Glenn A. M. Catedral shares his plans for the YMCA Iloilo.
The YMCA of Iloilo, Inc. held its Induction and Installation of Officers on December 22, 2021 at the YMCA Iloilo Gymnasium. Dr. Glenn A. M. Catedral, former CPU Alumni Association, Inc. President, is the newly elected President of YMCA, Iloilo.
The other newly elected officers: Judge Arturo G. Doronila, Vice President/Corporate Secretary; Dr. Manuel B. De Asis, Treasurer; Judge Edgardo L. Catilo (Centralian), Asst. Treasurer; Atty. Ruben M. Torres, Auditor; Engr. McRay R. Ortaliz, P.R.O. and Members: Mr. Jose Leo B. Contreras, Atty. Edgardo R. Elechicon (Centralian), Mr. Jose V. Layson, Jr., Mr. Alan C. Lim, Engr. Wilson Cua Locsin, Atty. Edgar P. Parker, Jr. Mr. Rito Carlos L. Pena, Dr. Nelson A. Pomado (Centralian), Ms. Fene C. Pabilona (Centralian), Youth Representative.
The newly inducted officers bared plans for YMCA Iloilo this year. Refurbishing of the YMCA Iloilo facilities, Revival of the General Membership and Reorientation of Vision and Mission statements of the YMCA PARIS BASIS were among the plans.
Mr. Eleazar R. Blando, a Centralian, is the current General Secretary and Concurrent Program Coordinator of YMCA Iloilo. In an interview, he said, “Despite of the challenges brought about by the COVID 19 pandemic, the YMCA of Iloilo continues to be relevant in providing services to the youth and its clientele. The continuing basis of the work and witness of the Young Men’s Christian Association is expressed in the Paris Basis, as adopted by the delegates of the First World Conference in Paris in 1855, and reaffirmed by the 6th World Council of YMCAs in 1973: “The Young Men’s Christian Associations seek to unite those young men who, regarding Jesus Christ as their God and Saviour, according to the Holy Scriptures, desire to be his disciples in their faith and in their life, and to associate their efforts for the extension of his Kingdom amongst young men.”
Any differences of opinion on other subjects, however important in themselves, shall not interfere with the harmonious relations of the constituent members and associates of the World Alliance.
YMCA of Iloilo, Inc. is a non-profit organization. It is located on Iznart St., Iloilo City near the Iloilo Provincial Capitol.
By Rusieljs G. Lunasco
(from left) Charles Novo, Engr. Jeriel Militar, Dr. Teodoro Robles, Hector Jaime Ledesma, Ernest Florenz Quitalig and Lemuel Ben Belasoto. The team presented the project to Dr. Robles on July 13 at the Conference Hall, Dr. Rex D. Drilon Administration Building.
CPU graduates Charles Marc Louise Novo (BSME 2020), Hector Jaime Ledesma (BSECE 2020) together with University of San Agustin BSME students Ernest Florenz Quitalig and Lemuel Ben Belasoto with the support of Central Philippine University, ISAT-U Research Hub and WVSU MC has successfully run experiments on the first phase prototype of their version of Bag Valve Mask or BVM-based ventilator.
The team presented the ventilator to Dr. Teodoro Robles, who approved the funding of the project on Monday, July 13, 2020 at the Conference Hall, Dr. Rex D. Drilon Administration Building.
“I was mainly tasked to design the mechanism of the device. Along the way, we’ve made a number of revisions and a series of tests until we reached the function that we desire. We struggled with the parts locally since it took a while to find and get them,” said Charles Novo.
He also added that he and the team are glad to see their hard work paid off and they are very thankful for the support of CPU.
For Hector Ledesma, “working on the ventilator had its ups and downs.” “There were moments where I thought I could never fix the electronics when each day another chip ceased to work, but with the help of my new friends I was able to figure things out in the end,” he added.
Ledesma shared how he was inspired by stories of frontliners and how he wanted to do something to help with the pandemic.
The results will accompany a proposal for further development and testing which will be submitted to the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region 6.
The project was funded by Central Philippine University with the approval of President Teodoro Robles, with technical support of Engr Jeriel Militar of PSME-PANAY; Dr. Richard De Leon of ISAT-U Research Hub; and Dr. Dave Gelito, III, Dr. Ronnie Samoro, Dr. Anjuli Jaen, Mr. John Dignadice, III and Engr. Jacobs Lacson of WVSU-MC.
By Cyrus A. Natividad
Atty. Joshua Alim is remembered for his slogan of “Dream, Strive, Succeed”.
“When people welcome you with a hug and smile coming from them with all sincerity, you are inspired to serve them more.” This was the sentiment of former Iloilo City Councilor and CPU Alumni Association President Atty. Joshua C. Alim. He added that, “The real essence of a true leader is to produce more good leaders. I want to continue my program for the youth.”
Although advised by close friends not to run anymore, Atty. Alim filed his Certificate of Candidacy (COC) for city councilor in the coming elections 2022, just a few days after he was discharged from a hospital. Although he was suffering from a kidney disease and was supposed to undergo kidney transplant in Ireland, where his wife Leni Miane and children Carmela Patrice and Joss Aira lives, he was determined to serve another term as a City Councilor.
On the early Saturday morning of January 15, 2022, Atty. Alim returned to his Creator. He left a legacy of public service and leadership. The City Council mourned his death, while Iloilo City Mayor Jerry P. Treñas in a statement said,” We were never together in most of my political battles, but I always respected you.”
Alim served as Iloilo City Councilor for 18 years (1995-2004)(2010-2019). He passed and authored 56 ordinances, 3,210 resolutions and delivered 67 privilege speeches at the Iloilo City Council. He was a former Floor Leader and Chairman of several committees. Atty. Alim was famous for his anti-smoking advocacy and his concern for the Iloilo City urban poor. One of his Resolutions was declaring Central Philippine University as a Tourism Site. It was unanimously approved by the Iloilo City Council, and CPU remains as the only University in Iloilo City with a Tourism Site status.
Alim was born on September 13, 1964 in Surallah, South Cotabato. He obtained his Master of Laws from San Beda College Manila, and his Bachelor of Laws and AB Political Science Degrees from CPU. He also earned his Master in Business Administration Degree from the International Academy of Management and Economics (Makati). He passed the BAR Exam in 1990 and the Realtor’s Board Exam in 1992.
He served CPU as Professor at the College of Law. Prior to his entry in politics, Alim was radio reporter and anchorman at Bombo Radyo, Iloilo. Later he was host of the “Central Point Talk Show” on the CPU Cable TV Channel. Since 2020, he was the President of the Central Philippine University Alumni Association, Inc. (CPUAAI).
A portion of resolution of sympathy passed by the CPUAAI Board of Trustees says,
“WHEREAS, as President of the Central Philippine University Alumni Association, Inc. (CPUAAI) since 2020 and its Trustee for many years; and as member of the Central Philippine University Board of Trustees from 2020 to 2022, he (Atty. Joshua Alim) exhibited dedicated leadership and faithful membership through exemplary support to the programs and projects of CPU and the CPUAAI;”
In a letter posted in the website of CPU, Atty. Peter Irving C. Corvera, Chairman of the CPU Board of Trustees wrote,
“It is with profound sadness that the CPU Board of Trustees conveys it deepest sympathies to the family and friends of ATTY. JOSHUA C. ALIM, an incumbent Trustee of the Board, who passed away last January 15. Atty. Alim was an active leader of the University, having served as a member of the CPU Corporation and the President of the CPU Alumni Association, among others. He was a distinguished alumnus and member of the faculty who served as Iloilo City councilor with utmost passion where he championed his several advocacies which brought honor to the University.
Borrowing from his guiding principles in life, we could say that Atty. Joshua indeed “Dreamed, Strove, Succeeded”. He will be missed in the Board of Trustees, but his memory and legacy will always be remembered.”
Indeed, Atty. Alim owed his success to his principles “Dream, Strive, Succeed”. He will not be forgotten as a great Centralian Leader.