By Rusieljs G. Lunasco
The panelists during the online orientation held on May 26 at the Educational Media Center.
Central Philippine University gave an Online Leaning Orientation to its full-time and part-time faculty via a Youtube live stream on Tuesday, May 26, 2020. The panelists were at the Educational Media Center while the faculty members were at their respective homes.
The orientation was held in preparation for the incoming summer class starting July, and also for the 1st Semester on August.
“Central Philippine University will make sure that all faculty have acquired the needed skills in online instruction before the start of the next school year,” said Dr. Irving Domingo Rio, CPU Vice President for Academic Affairs.
Prof. Antonio Montanio Jr., Prof. Peter Cambronero, Prof. Jonathan Razon, and Prof. Alvin John Gustilo gave an overview of the technical training on distance learning and teaching.
More than 200 part-time and full-time faculty members tuned in to watch the orientation. They also interacted with CPU President Dr. Teodoro C. Robles and the panelists during the open forum.
You may watch the full orientation at 
.
by Edwin C. Laru-an
Celine is a member of the Swimming Elementary Girls Team.
Name: Jillian Celestine F. Bata
Nickname: Celine
Height: 5’ 2”
Grade/year: GRADE 7
Coach: Liza Vito
Team: Swimming Elementary Girls
Hometown: ILOILO CITY
Achievements:
2019 ILOILO PRISAA MOST BEMEDALLED SWIMMER ELEMENTARY GIRLS
2019 ILOILO INTEGRATED MEET MOST BEMEDALLED ATHLETE ELEMENTARY GIRLS SWIMMING
Hobbies: WATCHING KPOP AND SWIMMING
Favorite Player: JOSEPH SCHOOLING
Most Memorable Game:
2019 WRAA, MADWAVE REGIONAL QUALIFYING MEET, BATANG PINOY NATIONAL FINALS, 2019 ILO PRISAA AND INTEGRATED MEET.
Principle in Life: “Patience is a Virtue.”
What can you say as a player of CPU Golden Lions:
I will continue to do my very best to give honor and pride to CPU. I am so grateful to God to be part of this university.
By Rusieljs G. Lunasco
Alma Mater Awardee and Bachelor of Theology graduate Onesiforo Berina Jr., during his speech at virtual commencement ceremony.
Central Philippine University made history as it aired its Virtual College Commencement Exercises on Thursday, May 28, 2020.
The ceremony marked the official conferral of degrees to 727 students.
“As much as we wanted to push through, we could not rest the health of our faculty members, staff, students, and their respective families. Hence today, in observance of physical distancing, we are gathered not in the big field but in front of our computers and phones to witness and honor the sacrifices and accomplishments of the Class of 2020,” CPU President Dr. Teodoro Robles said in his words of welcome.
Dr. Robles also talked about the power of hope in uncertain times and encouraged the students that better days are ahead.
Alton Bigelow/Alma Mater Awardee and Magna Cum laude graduate Onesiforo B. Berina Jr., echoed the same sentiments.
BS Pharma graduate Kirstel Joy Moreno also watched her online graduation at home with her mother.
“Definitely, it is heartbreaking, but if we continued to dwell in the thought on how devastating the conclusion to our college life is, because of the absence of a physical graduation rite, one that we have been dreaming of, we would surely miss the chance of appreciating the truth that this pandemic does not have the power to take away the memories we made together, our goals, our aspirations and the essence of living.”
An inspirational message was given by the Senior Pastor of the University Church, Rev. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian.
BSIT Graduate Mizpah Rotas tuned in to watch the virtual commencement at Weston Hall.
At the conclusion of the ceremony, CPU Alumnus and Warner Music Philippines Artist Ethan Loukas gave a bittersweet rendition of “This is Not Goodbye”.
As of writing, more than 80,000 viewers tuned in to watch the commencement ceremony.
CPU is the first university in Western Visayas to air its Virtual Graduation.
Here is the link to the virtual graduation so that you may watch again — click here
By Meriam Garrido Amy, BSN RN MPH, and CPUAAGTA: Press Relation Officer
Centralians from Toronto had their first face to face gathering since the pandemic started.
Central Philippine University Alumni Association of Greater Toronto Area (CPUAAGTA) hosted its Thanksgiving and Christmas Party on November 13, 2021 at The Kalayaan Center in Mississauga Ontario, Canada.
This alumni event is the first face to face one in the last 18 months. It was attended by a diverse generation of alumni family and friends spanning from 7-month-old to 84 years old. Dr. Faith Gicana oversaw the program and did a great job as an emcee. Norma VanDusen, president of the chapter, opened the evening with a warm welcome and updates of the various activities of the greater Toronto area chapter.
Before I gave the inspirational message on “Navigating Thanksgiving/Christmas Amidst global pandemic”, Dr. Christine Pearl Daquiado, the chapter’s auditor, introduced me. It was a humbling experience to deliver the heart and reason why we need to celebrate Thanksgiving and Christmas amidst pandemic crises. The gift of forgiveness through Jesus Christ. It is through that forgiveness that God sent His son to us as a special gift. Jesus’ birth gave us hope, love, peace, and joy. A challenge that without forgiveness there is no Christmas. Thanksgiving and Christmas are best celebrated if we let go of our emotional grudge. Forgiveness is a special gift we can give to ourselves and others. It is emptying our hearts with bitterness to make room for healing, freedom, happiness, and peace. A call to give a special gift this Christmas that does not require wrapping. Gift of time to help those in need.
The various speakers during the CPUAAGTA Thanksgiving and Christmas Party.
The Bahandi singers featured two pieces that they had been working on as a collaborative project with singers from Kenya and composer Ryan Cayabyab “Munting Sanggol.” It was such a delight to hear them again. The president of CPU Federation of Overseas Alumni Association (CPUFOAA) Rodrigo Gonzales gave an update and the challenges of finding a global reunion host. The Toronto Chapter originally planned to host 2022 event and later postponed it to 2023. It was cancelled due to the uncertainty of the pandemic. There is still an ongoing discussion on this, and the President of FOAA will have more information after their December meeting.
The second part of the program was the dinner reception. It was a feast. The lechon donated by Garry VanDusen sealed our taste buds for an authentic Filipino dining experience. The room was full of excitement and energy as the evening progressed. The games were fun, engaging, and suitable for all ages. The Traditionalist on table 4 and the Millennials on table 9 got really animated. Both groups received the first prize.
A random survey was conducted after the event, and respondents indicated among the highlights was the face-to-face encounter, reconnecting with friends, family, and fellow alumni. It was good to meet the six first-time alumni attendees. Family and guests caught the spirit of the Centralian Connection. The Central Spirit is almost as contagious as the Covid-19 virus. The bond shared by the alumni that evening migrated beyond Toronto. Some posted pictures on social media and reported that they might organize their own CPU alumni group in their area.
The planning and preparation for this event were daunting. There are strict guidelines and protocols that we needed to follow. As officers of Toronto Chapter, we put our heads, hearts, and hands together. Every detail and specks were covered. These are challenging times, but the team pulled together. Everything about this gathering is different but the spirit of Thanksgiving and Christmas was truly reflected on last Saturday’s event.
Congratulations CPUAAGTA for a successful and enchanted evening. We hope to see you all next year. Indeed, the Central Spirit is a highly contagious virus.
by Rusieljs G. Lunasco
Graduating students and completers from elementary to college level shared their thoughts on how COVID-19 has affected their final year in school. Virtual graduation and moving-up ceremonies are scheduled to air for them and their families, but the thought of not being able to say their proper goodbyes and make the most out of their last days in school has made a significant impact on what should have been an important milestone in their lives.
Johanne F. Villeza
“I felt bad when the graduation was cancelled because it was the most awaited moment in our elementary life. We were excited to go up the stage and receive our diplomas just like the other graduates before us. Elementary graduation happens only once in our lifetime and it means we are ready to move up to High School. I thought after the quarantine we would still have our graduation and I still could have met my friends and classmates, so I was disappointed that we won’t have one anymore and we were not able to say goodbye to each other. But I also felt the need for the quarantine because if CPU had not cancelled the graduation ceremony many people could have gotten sick of the COVID-19, so it’s ok. I just hope that the pandemic will end soon so maybe I can still see my classmates and friends.”
-Johanne F. Villeza
Elementary Department
With Honors
Excel Hope S. Faraon
“Nobody asked for the COVID-19 pandemic and it became a force majeure to all. Being a supposed junior high school completer this 2020, I was saddened by the unfulfilled and long-awaited end of this school year. Having spent my 4 years with the Special Science Class batch 23, we all dreamed of marching together as we reach the end of a successful high school life while wearing our SSC sash and with our parents beaming with happiness to see us finishing our current journey to move on to the next one. But the silver lining is that we are addressing the safety of each and every one. It may be sad that we had to end our years together like this but it’ll be even sadder if any one of us got affected by the COVID-19. I do hope that the batch 2020 has yet to celebrate their graduation someday when all is safe. God has been with us and sustained us throughout this world crisis.”
-Excel Hope S. Faraon
Junior High School Department
Special Science Class
With Honors
Samantha Faye G. Herbolario
“The pandemic took away the biggest event we, the Student Council, should supposedly hold which is our SHS Week and of course it took away our Graduation Ceremony.
When I heard the news, I was very devastated since these big events got cancelled. The thought of ending this school year with our big plans with the students enjoying and the thought of having to march in the stage of the Rose Memorial Auditorium to get that diploma hurts so bad since it would never happen.
But we can never control what just happened. Aside from the big events that COVID-19 took away, it also took thousands of lives. The whole world is suffering because of this virus.
What we can contribute to help is to stay at home and to pray for our Lord to heal the world.
Nevertheless, congratulations batch 2019-2020! We may not have that ceremony we were dreaming of, but do know that God has a plan for all of us. “
-Samantha Faye G. Herbolario
STEM
Senior High School Department
Outgoing Governor, Senior High School Student Council
Onesiforo B. Berina Jr.
“The vibe of a Graduation Ceremony is so meaningful not only for me but also for my fellow college students. It marks an end to our strenuous student life and a beginning to a more complicated journey–the real world.
This pandemic may have robbed us of that much-awaited moment when we are supposed to wear our togas and receive our diplomas while our loved ones gladly watch us.
Yes, its absence feels so heartbreaking, but this must not stop us from rejoicing. Its absence cannot take away our dreams, our life goals, and our essence for living. And the fact that we are able to survive college, is worth celebrating.
Batch 2020, the battlefield is waiting for us and through the values instilled to us by our beloved Central, we shall conquer it!”
-Onesiforo B. Berina Jr.
Bachelor of Theology
Magna cum laude
Alton Bigelow Alma Mater Awardee
By Francis Neil G. Jalando-on
CHED Chairman Prospero “Popoy” de Vera and CPU officials posed with CPU bikers and other bikers from HEIs in Iloilo City.
The Commission of Higher Education (CHED) launched their program of “Padyak para sa Ikaayong Lawas kag Libre nga Edukasyon” by having a bike ride around Iloilo City on November 25, 2021.
More than 20 bikers from Central Philippine University joined CHED Chairman Prospero “Popoy” de Vera biking from one university into another. The bikers from CPU, Iloilo Science and Technology University and John B. Lacson University first went into the Iloilo Pier to welcome the CHED delegation coming from Bacolod City.
A short program at the West Visayas State University kicked start the bike ride. Chairman de Vera advocated the use of the bike as a means of transportation and exercise.
After the brief launching, Chairman de Vera and CHED officials led the way and were followed by more than 100 bikers from CPU, ISAT-U, WVSU, USA, UP Visayas, and JBLU. The group went first to the University of San Agustin, then University of the Philippines Visayas, John B. Lacson University and then to Central Philippine University. The bikers used the bike lane in which Iloilo City is famous of.
At CPU, Chairman de Vera was met by CPU President Dr. Teodoro C. Robles and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Irving Domingo Rio.
The bikers ended their ride at ISAT-U.
By Cyrus A. Natividad
The command center at the main gate.
As Central Philippine University prepares for the summer classes and the start of the new school year, we will look back at the timeline of the “lockdown” period and the current preparations of the university as the Enhanced Community Quarantine status was turned into General Community Quarantine. We will see how safety and security are observed inside the campus, particularly, the protocols that were put in place by the CPU Incident Management Team (IMT).
On March 14, 2020, NSTP classes were suspended as the university lockdown was ordered by CPU President Dr. Teodoro C. Robles. Later on, in compliance with Executive Order No. 053, series of 2020 issued by Hon Mayor Jerry P. Treñas on March 17, 2020, CPU cancelled classes in all levels and work at CPU until April 14, 2020. Final Examinations for programs under the jurisdiction of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) were also cancelled (per CHED advisory No. 3 dated March 11, 2020).
CPU Occupational Safety and Health Officer Mr. Prim Vergara III manning the command center.
Guidelines and safety protocols were issued for health and security. A campus-wide sanitation was undertaken for 3 days, from March 17 to 19. Social distancing of not less than 1 meter was required, and gathering of more than 4 people were not allowed. Only the Main Gate (Gate 2) was used for entry and exit. Only one entry and exit point were used in buildings with multiple entrances and exits. Adequate security personnel were assigned to attend to visitors and vehicles at the gate. No persons other than those connected or have prior scheduled appointments with the university were allowed to enter the campus. Visitors are entertained at the gate.
Before April 14, Iloilo City Mayor issued an Executive Order that the Enhanced Community Quarantine in Iloilo City has been extended until April 30, 2020. Consequently, the start of classes for Summer 2020 was postponed until further notice. Office work at CPU during the extension period has also been cancelled.
On April 30, 2020, the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Disease (IATF) declared the extension of Iloilo City under Enhanced Community Quarantine status for the period May 1-15, 2020. This was followed by an Executive Order No. 068 Series of 2020 by the Office of Iloilo City Mayor in consonance with the IATF declaration. As a result, the cancellation of Office Work at CPU was also extended until May 15, 2020.
Starting May 16, 2020, Iloilo City was put by the National Government in a General Community Quarantine. Hence, essential personnel were able to come back starting on May 20, 2020.
In a memorandum dated May 16, 2020 from the Office of the President, the General Policies and Procedures for the New Normal were laid down. Healthy measures such as washing of hands with soap or with alcohol, stepping on foot bath and temperature check by the guards are strictly implemented at the Main Gate. Dr. Robles also emphasized the wearing of face mask as part of the University Dress Code (No Face Mask, No Entry). Face to face interactions must be avoided as much as possible. There are also demarcation lines during the biometric logging in to comply with social distancing. Going out of the University during lunch break is discouraged unless it is an emergency. Food and personal package deliveries are to be dropped off only at the gate. Meetings are also done through video conferencing. Medical emergencies shall be catered to by the University First Aid Responders through contact numbers 330-7296 or 330 7297; non-First Aid cases shall be directed to the nearest hospital and medical consultation with the University Physician on duty will be done online. All university personnel are also required to fill out the Daily Health Monitoring (DHM) form as mandated by the Department of Labor and Employment. This is now the “new normal” at the CPU campus.
The committee is headed by CPU Vice President for Administration and Finance, Dr. Florence P. Bogacia. Here are the members with their corresponding roles: Mr. Prim Vergara (Safety, Search and Rescue Officer), Jojee Roy Juarez (Red Cross – Medical Service), Engr. Rhett Baldonado (Fire Brigade), Dr. Ma. Carmen Salcedo (TRIAGE) Jonathan C. Tumalay (Security), Rev. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on (Communications), Carmelle Frances Romero (Media Relations), Donald Lebrilla (Documentation), James Peter T. Trasporto (Evacuation Management), Hermely A. Jalando-on (Supplies & Logistics) and Engr. Howard De Leon (Electrical System).
By Cyrus A. Natividad
Pastor Joshua Zonita is the author of “Banished.”
A book launching activity was organized by the College of Theology for a couple of books written by Professor Joshua C. Zonita and Professor Rea Angelica F. Villeza on November 24, 2021 at the University Church, CPU. The books published by Centralogos are entitled ‘Banished’ by Zonita and ‘Thrive’ by Villeza. Both are faculty members of Central Philippine University College of Theology.
Zonita is recognized by the Globe Ecumenical Theological Institute (GETI) of the World Council of Churches as one of the emerging Theologians in ASIA. With a passion to seek the truth, Zonita was able to found a youth ministry program in the campus. He integrates his music and writing talents so that there is a campus ministry to focus on student behaviours, trends and values formation. This led him to write the book ‘BANISHED’. The book teaches how to train and demonstrate the truth’, Zonita explained.” BANISHED is subtitled “Rediscovering Jesus in a Fast, Furious and Fantastic Culture.” Among the other books by Zonita, the “Betrayal of Secrets: When doubt and Faith Collide” was also available for sale during the launching.
‘THRIVE’, the book by Villeza provides ‘a devotion to grow your faith’. Her book, according to Villeza is a result of her experiences during the COVID 19 pandemic. She has a passion of compiling her reflections, thoughts and inspirations and typing them on her cellphone Diary App on a day-to-day basis. These were important materials for her book.
She realized that her ‘morning walk on the campus, gave her a chance to pick up ideas of things and plants and the chance to take pictures along the paths she walked on the campus. She said that “there’s almost no one walking around except me but, sooner I realized that the University President Dr. Ted Robles and his wife Angel also walk around the campus every morning.” These walks and pictures of the campus were part of her inspiration. Villeza added that her book “THRIVE” is a tool for a steady spiritual journey.
Prof. Rea Angelica Faulan-Villeza, author of “Thrive” with VPSA Dr. Esther Rose Romarate.
The Book Launching started with a testimonial video of CPU Theology Students expressing their appreciation and gratitude to Central Philippine University; how happy they are to have studied at CPU College of Theology. A Musical Introit was rendered by John Alejaga.
Dr. Esther Rose Romarate, CPU Vice President for Student Affairs, in behalf of the Administration, delivered her Welcome Remarks. She thanked God that despite the trouble in the world, Pastor Zonita and Pastor Villeza were able to write books. She thanked the College of Theology for organizing the Book Launching.
University Senior Pastor Cris Amorsolo V. Sian appreciated the authors for putting their ideas in writing. He encouraged everyone to write. He shared a comment which says, “If you are waiting for the inspiration to write, you are not a writer, but only a waiter.”
Dr. Bernabe Pagara thanked Dr. Robles for approving the holding of the event. He also thanked the Pastors and members of the College of Theology who are in attendance. He acknowledged Rev. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on, Director of the Office of Communications, for the support of his Office.
After the authors introduced their books, Pastor Justine Palmes-Mije and Rev. Joshua Roy Torrecampo gave their book reviews.
The event which was streamed live via the CPU TV Channel Facebook page was hosted by Pastor Mary Grace Franco-Labis, a faculty of the Religion and Ethics Department.
By Rusieljs G. Lunasco
Onesiforo Berina Jr. from the College of Theology, is this year’s recipient of the Alton Bigelow Alma Mater Award.
Bachelor of Theology student Onesiforo Berina Jr., bagged the Alton Bigelow Alma Mater Award, the highest distinction given to an honor graduate of the University.
Berina, who will be graduating magna cum laude, hails from Sagay City, Negros Occidental.
“Honestly, I’m still overwhelmed and full of amazement. I can’t help but thank God, the giver of all good and perfect gifts,” said Berina. He also added that he is grateful for all the help, support, and encouragement of his family, friends and mentors, the College of Theology, and the Central Echo.
Berina was a former Editor-in-Chief (2017-2018) and Associate Editor (2019-2020) of the Central Echo and a member of the University Church Choir. He has represented the Convention of Philippine Baptist Churches in various seminars spearheaded by the National Council of Churches in the Philippines.
Aside from being the Alma Mater Awardee, Berina is also a recipient of the Iwag Award for Journalism (Philippine Information Agency) and the Central Echo Award of Excellence for Journalism.
By Cyrus A. Natividad
CPU and CPUAAI are getting ready for the annual Festival of Lights at Central.
The Christmas celebration at CPU would not be complete without the attractive display of lights at the campus. This year’s Opening of the Festival of Lights and Music at Central is scheduled on the 10th of December, with the theme, “Lights of Hope at Central”.
Preparations are done with possible ‘add-ons’. A nightly ‘online cantata’ from the University Church is possible. However, confirmation will still be announced. A short program with limited guests will be held near CPU’s main entrance as part of the health protocol requirement, but everyone can watch it live on CPU TV Channel Facebook page.
On December 17, a full-length ‘Post-Covid 19’ online Variety Show will be presented by the CPU Cultural Affairs Office under the direction of Prof. Crista Sianson-Huyong. Centralians await the cavalcade of Christmas Carols and Songs of Hope by the Excel Choral, with musical and instrumental performances by the Hand Bell Choir and CPU Symphonic Band. Also on the list are Dance Sport exhibitions with Guest performers-Elementary and Senior – High Dance Troupes. In addition, the Centralian Visual Artists Society (CenVAS) which is under the Cultural Affairs Office will present a virtual CenVAS Sketch Exhibits.
“Throwback”, a collage of photos of previous Campus events and celebrations before the pandemic will be shown online (courtesy of the CPU Cultural Affairs Office). Asked about her concept, Huyong said that, “As we await another year of prosperity, let us look back to the joyous past and look forward to another journey of hope, with Central Philippine University.”
She added, “I have another theme for that special day on December 17: “Light of Hope for a New Tomorrow – Ilaw ng Pag-asa sa Bagong Umaga”.
By Rusieljs G. Lunasco
Last Semester’s Commencement Ceremony at the Rose Memorial Auditorium.
727 college graduates of the Class of 2020 will be honored in an online commencement ceremony to be scheduled sometime this May.
“The online graduation ceremony is CPU’S gift to her beloved students for all their hard work and sacrifices in finishing their degree. We also want to honor the parents and all the special people who were with our graduating students all throughout their college journey, said Commencement Committee Chairperson and University Registrar Ms. Charissa June Deocampo.
The university will also recognize 3 students who will graduate summa cum laude, 7 who will graduate magna cum laude, and 18 who will graduate cum laude.
The schedule for the online graduation ceremonies for Elementary and the Senior High School as well as the moving up ceremonies for the Kindergarten and Junior High School will be announced soon.
To see the complete list of college graduates, please see the link below:
By Nestle G. Taala
The Center for Christian Education, situated beside the University Church, was dedicated last November 21, 2021.
Central Philippine University held the dedication service of the Center for Christian Education of the University Church on November 21, 2021.
From its groundbreaking eight years ago, the Christian Education edifice has finally been erected beside the University Church.
In his words of inspiration, University President Teodoro C. Robles thanked the people “who made this project possible” and hoped that “the mission of this church continues and there will be full use of this facility in the service of the Lord.” On the other hand, Atty. Von Lovel D. Bedona, CPU Board of Trustees Chairman from 2017 to 2021 expressed his gratitude to God that this project has come to a realization and reminded everyone to maximize the use of the new building as a steward of God’s property and assets for His mission.
Led by the University Church Senior Pastor Rev. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian, the Center for Christian Education was dedicated “for worship, prayers and praise for teaching young and olds and preaching of the everlasting gospel, for the comfort of all who mourn, strength to those who are tempted and light who seek the way.”
This two-storey building has for its function the chapel for mortuary, rooms for Sunday School, halls, among others. Furthermore, this aims to cater to different church auxiliary organizations in holding their events.
The University Church and the CPU, in general, recognized and expressed “deep appreciation for the donors, and its builders with gratitude to God.”