The CPU Symphonic Band greets Centralians at the main gate during the opening of classes.
More than 6,000 students went back to school on June 18, 2018, the first day of school for the collegiate level at Central Philippine University. The CPU Symphonic Band, stationed at the Half-moon Drive near the Main Gate, welcomed the students with upbeat songs despite the heavy rains that morning. The students smiled and flashed thumbs-up signs at the band members in return to express their appreciation. The band has been doing this for three years already to enliven the first day of school and to cheer up students as they return from vacation. Meanwhile, the pre-collegiate departments already started classes last June 4, 2018.
The CPU Republic officers welcoming the students on June 18, 2018.Centralians arriving during the first day of college classes.
As of June 21, 2018, the records of the Office of the Registrar showed that the total number of enrollees in the pre-collegiate level is 4,340. It has surpassed last year’s enrollment of 4,032. The Senior High School’s population is now 1,757, surpassing last year’s record of 1,536 students. The Elementary Department’s current enrollees are 832 compared to 779 last year while the Junior High School Department’s population is 1,597 compared to 1,552 last year. The current number of students for the Kindergarten Department is 154 compared to 165 enrolled last year. Currently, there 6,395 enrolled in the various colleges of the university. As of publication date, CPU has a total of 11,082 enrollees.
The administration officials are hoping that CPU can surpass last year’s number of enrolled students since the enrollment (for college students) is until June 29, 2018.
The CPU College of Pharmacy aims to create a tradition of producing excellent pharmacists.
Welcoming our new pharmacists to the professional world – the Professional Regulation Commission Board of Pharmacy, Professional Regulation Commission Region VI in collaboration with the Central Philippine University College of Pharmacy held the Oath-Taking Ceremony of New Centralian Pharmacists at the Educational Media Center on April 25, 2018.
The invocation was led by Rev. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian, University Chaplain. It was then followed by the welcome remarks by CPU President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles who inspired the new pharmacists to carry the CPU banner with excellence and honor.
After which, Mrs. Darlene Joy J. Marañon, RN, RPh, MN, Acting Dean of the College of Pharmacy introduced guest speaker, Ms. Blesilda T. Magsangcay, MPA, Supervising Professional Regional Officer, Officer-in-charge of PRC Region VI.
Ms. Masangcay’s encouraged the new pharmacists to excel in their chosen field and to exude passion in their professional practice.
Dean Marañon presented the 31 new Centralian pharmacists after which Ms. Masangcay led the oathtaking. The reading of the Code of Ethics of Registered Pharmacists was done by Adelsis S. Canones, RPh.
The response was then given by Magie Rose J. Hinojales, RPh and Lord Darwin G. Villaruel, RPh.
Continuing the tradition of nursing excellence – the College of Nursing Graduating students will carry the banner of Central all throughout the globe.
Central Philippine University College of Nursing held the Pinning of the CPU Nursing Seals on their graduating students on April 19, 2017 at the University Church. Eighty-eight graduating students received their pins to symbolize their entry into the nursing profession.
The processional started at 8:30 AM. Rev. Roger T. Quimpo, Associate Pastor for Outreach, University Church, led the invocation. On behalf of the university President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles, Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Irving Domingo L. Rio gave the welcome remarks. He congratulated the students and parents for pushing through the difficulties in school. He also encouraged the graduating students to pursue their careers in nursing. He reminded them of how fortunate they were to have finished their nursing courses from CPU.
Charlie D. Baldon, Graduate Program Coordinator, introduced the guest speaker, Police Senior Superintendent Lemuel P. Nalangan. S/Supt. Nalangan described his life as “a matter of choice” long after 24 years of graduating from the CPU College of Nursing. He was a graduate of CPU BSN Class of 1994. He is currently Chief of Health Care Plans and Activities at the Philippine National Police, National Headquarters.
Police Senior Superintendent Lemuel P. Nalangan. S/Supt. Nalangan with the faculty and staff of the College of Nursing.
Nalangan recalled his memorable times in CPU and how he was prepared for the nursing career. He thanked his teachers and the school administrators during his college days. “I trusted in the education that CPU had given me.”
Although he believes that as a Centralian nurse, he should care for his patients as if they were family, he also recounted his dark experience in relation to his job with the PNP. “While my heart was to care for people, going along with soldiers at war in Mindanao was nightmare. But those experiences and trainings in combat were something that tempered my spirit, my heart, and made me strong physically, intellectually and emotionally.”
He expressed admiration to the graduating nursing students, and wished them all the good things to come in the future.
After the message, Atty. Salex E. Alibogha, Acting Dean of the College of Nursing presented the candidates for Pinning; pins were given to the pinners.
Joelah V. Rio, Academic Coordinator, led the recitation of International Code of Ethics for Nurses. The Scholarships and Awards were presented by Nelida L. Lamasan, Chairperson, Scholarships and Awards. Luke John L. Panaguiton, Governor, AHS Student Council 2017-2018 gave his response on behalf of the students.
The BSN Batch 2018 next sang their Class Song, “We’ll Make It Through,” followed by the benediction by Rev. Quimpo.
CPU President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles addresses the elementary graduates. He thanks the parents for trusting CPU with their children’s education.
A salute to our elementary graduates, awardees, parents and teachers—The Central Philippine University Elementary School held its Recognition Day, Honors and Awards Day, and Graduation on March 26, 27, and 28, 2018 respectively at the Rose Memorial Auditorium.
During the recognition program, Prof. Janet P. Jaco, Principal, CPU Elementary School, thanked the students, parents and teachers for another year of hard work, perseverance, and commitment to God and Centralian excellence.
CPU celebrates the 89th Graduation Ceremony of the CPU Elementary School.
The event acknowledged the performance of exemplary students who have excelled in the school year 2017-2018. Recognition was given to the Brightest Pupil in Class, Most Well-Behaved Pupils, Most Friendly Pupils, Most Well-Groomed Pupil, Most Industrious Pupils, Most Well-Groomed Pupils, Most Industrious Pupils, Most Courteous Pupils, and Star Reader Awardees.
Special Awards were also given to elementary pupils who represented the CPU Elementary School in various city, regional, and national competitions and searches.
For the Honors and Awards Day, Rev. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on, Director of the CPU Office of Communications, led the opening prayer. In behalf of CPU President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles, Dr. Irving Domingo L. Rio, CPU Vice President for Academic Affairs, gave the words of welcome.
Francis Immanuel O. Fuentespina, with high honors, encourages the graduates to trust in the timing and purpose of God for their lives.
In his message, Dr. Rio congratulated the parents, students and teachers for their hard work and commitment to excellence. “My dear students, you are here together with your parents, relatives and guardians because you have vigorously pursued knowledge with a commitment to graduate with honors. That commitment to excel in your academics has been made possible by your hard work and perseverance.”
The elementary pupils were then given their respective academic and non-academic awards from grades one to six.
For the 89th Graduation Ceremony, CPU President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles, welcomed the 161 graduating pupils, parents and guests to another event testifying God’s faithfulness to the students and to CPU. He thanked the parents for trusting the university with their children’s education.
The university welcomes the graduates to the CPU alumni community.Moses John C. Hermosura, with High Honors, delivers the response in behalf of the graduates.Soaring high for CPU – the elementary graduates will embark another journey as they enter the portals of high school life.
In his welcome address, Francis Immanuel O. Fuentespina, with high honors, highlighted Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.” He encouraged his fellow graduates to trust in God’s plan and purpose in their lives. Fuentespina also thanked CPU for the lessons and the values he learned. “The beautiful memories will always remain. Some of us may find their best experiences in the CPU Elementary, as we have slowly grown into better individuals, more learned, more knowledgeable, more emotionally and mentally developed and spiritually equipped.”
For her inspirational message, guest speaker, Atty. Doridel G. Losanes, alumna, Bachelor of Science in Commerce, congratulated the graduates and their parents and CPU Elementary School for another milestone. In her message, Atty. Losanes inspired the graduates to pursue success by committing their plans to the Lord. “As you prepare to move on the next level, Junior High, it is but natural to think back a little about your experience in elementary. You have worked hard and accomplished much in your time in school. Continue to work hard, be patient and respectful and smile. You’re off to great places. Today is your day. Your mountain is waiting so get in your way.”
Central Philippine University commits itself to producing exemplary Christian learners for life.
Celebrating the faithfulness of the Lord in the lives of our graduates—Central Philippine University held its 90th Graduation and Commencement Exercises at the Rose Memorial Auditorium on April 22 and 23, 2018.
The event began with the overture, played by the CPU symphonic band with Mr. Ascension O. Bautista conducting. For the words of welcome, CPU President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles commended the graduates for hard work and sacrifice. “I gladly welcome all of you to the commencement exercises of the school year 2017-2018. You have now completed your college education and will now embark on your professional journey. This graduation ceremony is indeed a wonderful event to celebrate your achievement. This is now your reward for committing yourself to completing the task at hand even if it meant a lot of hard work and sacrifice.”
Dr. Robles went on to encourage the graduate to acknowledge the Lord as the source of all purpose and favor. “But let the recognition of your achievement be tempered with the realization that without God, we are nothing. He is the source of all wisdom and strength—a life lived apart from God, no matter how filled with success, is a life wasted. We challenge you to make a difference by your commitment to do what is right. Nothing shapes your life more than the commitment you choose to make. They can develop you or destroy you, but either way, they will define you.”
CPU President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles, in his words of welcome, highlighted the importance of faith in God in order to live life to the fullest.
CPU Vice President for Finance and Administration, Dr. Florence P. Bogacia introduced the guest speaker, Ms. Perla Guillergan Londres Waters, a 1967 magna cum laude graduate of the CPU College of Arts and Sciences. She is the founding president of the CPUAAI-Midwest (Chicago) USA Chapter and the current chair of the CPUFFOAA’s Grant-in-Aid and Recognition Endowment program.
In her message, Ms. Waters encouraged the graduates to be courageous and optimistic about their future. “Your tool kit, your education and experience, has prepared you for some things in life, but your heart and spirit will carry you farther than you ever imagine. Commit to the journey, not the outcome. Perfection is almost always impossible to attain. Know you will make mistakes, but don’t get bogged down in analyzing failures. Acknowledge your shortcomings, learn from your mistakes. With diligence, with determination and passion for excellence, with integrity, move on.”
Celebrating a milestone in the lives of our graduates – family, friends and guests together with the graduates make their way outside the Rose Memorial Auditorium.
She also highlighted the importance of loving and taking care of oneself by immersing oneself in the Word of God. “One of my favorite devotional writers, Holly Gerth, dedicated a passage from her book, You’re Made for a God-sized Dream, to her own daughter who was graduating at that time. I would like to read parts of it to you and I hope that you will be inspired. She wrote, ‘Dear dreamers and graduates, before you ever came into being, God called your name. He formed you with love and intricately designed part of who you would become. You truly are made in an amazing and wonderful way.’”
After the message, Dr. Robles gave the conferral of degrees and the investiture of hoods to the College of Arts and Sciences, College of Business and Accountancy, College of Education and the Graduate Programs. He was assisted by Miss Ruth G. Fernandez, Registrar and Ms. Emerald Joy E. Perucho, Assistant Registrar.
For the response on behalf if the graduates, Marjorie Rice, BSEd-Mathematics, summa cum laude, expressed her joy and gratitude to her family, the university and, most importantly, to God for the favor and guidance. “Graduates, you should know that your parents are very proud of you today. They have high hopes for you, and they believe in you, and you are making them proud by showing what you can do. Take a look at them now, and you can see them smiling. These commitments and the follow-through that your parents completed is where the bulk of the credit for this graduation belongs. Let us continue to become a channel of blessings and inspiration to the people around us. Let us continue to keep the Central Spirit alive in us and above all, let us continue to live according to the will of God. All of us will carry the badge of honor to beat our limits and go beyond boundaries.”
The prayer for the graduates was then led by Rev. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian, Senior Pastor, University Church, followed by the pledge of the alumni into the CPUAAI by Engr. Isagani J. Jalbuena, President, CPUAAI, and the benediction by Rev. Roger T. Quimpo.
On April 23, 2018, the second part of the Graduation and Commencement Exercises, Dr. Robles in his second words of welcome, congratulated the graduates and their parents for their dedication and perseverance. “As I look at you today in your graduation gowns, I sense a profound joy. I also look at your parents with deep respect and admiration for sending you to college to finish your degree. I admire them even more for aspiring you to obtain a degree from this institution.
Dr. Robles also thanked the parents for trusting CPU with the education of their children. “Yes, I know life may have been rough for you, challenges were numerous along the way, but your parents persisted and rested their faith in you and in CPU so that we will be able to give you the kind of education that will steer you to greater heights.”
Centralians make their way towards the Rose Memorial Auditorium for the Graduation Ceremonies.
After which, CPU Vice President for Student Affairs, Rev. Joniel Howard H. Gico introduced guest speaker Mr. Ronald Zack Managing Partner of Zack and Schmitz, PLC. Mr. Zack is a summa cum laude graduate of the Juris Doctor program of the Western State University, College of Law, Fullerton, California. He is a much sought-after speaker on medical and legal concerns.
Opening his message, he commended the strong bond of Centralians around the globe. “Despite the distance they remain close to this day—a testament to CPU’s bonds that exist between its alumni.” Mr. Zack who is married to Centralian, Erlinda Arlos from Concepcion, Iloilo, a 1969 graduate of the College of Nursing, thanked CPU for meeting his wife. “Had it not been for CPU, Erlinda may not have traveled to United States as a nurse and I may not have my best friend and the love of my life.”
Mr. Zack encouraged the graduates to never stop learning. “Your education is just beginning—you must keep on learning.” He shared major principles that will guide one’s plans in life and that, according to him, everyone should keep in mind, “First, everyone is different; second, things change; and lastly, keep the ultimate end in mind—everybody dies.”
He highlights that we should never compare ourselves to others and that we should recognize the unique and special plan God has for each one of us. One should also be adaptable to change and be optimistic about the future. By keeping the ultimate end in mind, Mr. Zack encouraged the graduates to make every moment count and offer it to God knowing that what we do in this lifetime may echo throughout eternity. “I have experienced successes and failures. I value my failures far more than my successes… My point is that I+ve studied many subjects and tried many different careers. Sometimes that’s what it takes to find the path you will eventually follow. Sometimes that’s what it takes to find the path God wants you to follow. And sometimes, that is the path God wants you to follow. And I believe nothing I’ve ever studied and nothing I’ve ever done as an occupation has been wasted. It all has some application to what I am doing now and what I will do in the future.”
After his message, Dr. Robles gave the conferral of degrees and the investiture of hoods the College of Agriculture, Resource and Environmental Sciences, College of Computer Studies, College of Hospitality Management, College of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Medicine, College of Nursing, College of Pharmacy, College of Engineering, College of Theology, College of Law and Graduate Programs. He was assisted by Miss Ruth G. Fernandez, Registrar and Ms. Emerald Joy E. Perucho, Assistant Registrar.
Engr. Isagani J. Jalbuena, President, CPUAAI led the pledge of alumni.
For the response on behalf of the graduates, Jason Lewis U. Chan, BSSE, magna cum laude, congratulated his fellow graduates. “This moment is for all of us, the graduates! I may not know your struggles throughout this journey. People might have different perceptions of your course. Some may look up to it, some may not. I believe that no course is easy and they all prove challenging, but do not be discouraged by what others say. Be proud of the course you have finished! Be proud of the degree you now hold in your hands! I may not know most of you here, but I can truthfully say that I’m moved by all of you graduates at this moment. I’m joyful to see so many of us graduating because I know of the effort we have all put in, the countless tears we have shed, precious memories of studying with our friends, days of laughter and of sadness. All those unforgettable memories have led up to this moment. Be proud, hold your head up high, we made it, we deserve it.”
The prayer for the graduates was then led by Rev. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian, Senior Pastor, University Church, followed by the pledge of the alumni by Engr. Isagani J. Jalbuena, President, CPUAAI, and the benediction by Rev. Dr. Bernabe C. Pagara, Dean, College of Theology.
Central Philippine University is inviting family and guests to join us in the celebrating the faithfulness of God in the life of our graduates in the Baccalaureate Service to be held at the Rose Memorial Auditorium 8:30 AM on April 22, 2018 (Sunday). The baccalaureate speaker for the service will be Rev. Dr. Armando S. Kole, President, Convention Baptist Bible College and Member of the CPU Board of Trustees.
The commencement exercises for the College of Arts and Sciences, College of Business and Accountancy, and College of Education will after which be held on 3:00 PM of the same day. The commencement speaker will be Ms. Perla G. Londres Waters, Financial Advisor and Member of the CPU Corporation.
On the other hand, the commencement ceremonies of the College of Agriculture, Resource and Environmental Science, College of Computer Science, College of Hospitality Management, College of Nursing, College of Pharmacy, College of Engineering, College of Theology and College of Law will be on April 23, 2018 (Monday), 3:00 PM at the Rose Memorial Auditorium. The guest speaker will be Mr. Ronald Zack, Esquire and Managing Partner of Zack and Schmidtz, PLC.
Let us witness this grand event of another milestone in the lives of our Centralian graduates!
This year’s Pasidungog: Honoring the Graduates of 2018 is expected to bring out the best pop musical show in the university with what Central Philippine University Alumni Association, Inc. (CPUAAI) President, Engr. Isagani J. Jalbuena, calls “a blow out for the graduates.” CPUAAI and the CPU Administration, in cooperation with the CPU Student Republic (CPUR), decided to involve the “now generation,” or more popularly known as the millennials, to make the event timely and more relevant.
“The young people will be a significant crowd at the Half Moon Drive in CPU,” Jalbuena said. Pasidungog will be on April 20 at 6 PM at the Half Moon grounds. The highlight of the event will be “Jamming at Central” where the College of Engineering Band and the University Senior High School Band will showcase their acts. DJ Alvie and DJ Los Padilla will follow with another special performance. A singular number by the CPU Sari-Saot Dance Troupe with Jan Floyed Gelario, Centralian Star 2017, will also take center stage. The program will be hosted by Mr. Geroel Salvador and Ms. Kay Arden Gallo.
Engr. Jalbuena, on behalf of the Alumni Association, and Dr. Teodoro C. Robles, on behalf of the University, will give their welcome remarks during the Opening Program. CPUR President 2018-2019, Mr. John Michael Suelo, will deliver his message before the award and recognition of Ms. Raphah Ganubay Cortel, board topnotcher at the 2017 Psychometrician Licensure Exams.
Rev. F. Neil G. Jalando-on, Director, CPU Office for Communications will deliver a prayer for the graduates of 2018.
Pasidungog is held every year to recognize and honor the graduates of Central Philippine University and recent Board Exam passers of CPU.T
Ambassador Sung Y. Kim talked about the importance of stregthening people to people ties.
Establishing closer ties – United States ambassador to the Philippines Mr. Sung Y. Kim visited Central Philippine University on April 20, 2018. He had a courtesy call with CPU President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles, after which he spent time with a Centralians for an open forum at the 4th Floor Henry Luce III Library.
For the opening remarks of the forum, Dr. Robles spoke about the historical and cultural bond of the university to the United States, as the school was established through the efforts of American Baptist Missionaries. “We are all eager to listen to Ambassador Kim this morning. It has been a tradition of U.S. Ambassadors to visit our university since we host one out of the 14 American Corners in the country. Ambassador Kim is the third ambassador to visit. We are happy to have him today to talk on issues that affect our relationship with the United States.”
Centralians eagerly listen as Ambassador Sung Y. Kim.
Ambassador Kim talked about the Philippine’s deep ties of the Philippines with the United Sates. He highlighted Asia as an exciting region for economic and social development. “Currently, Asia holds 25% of the Global GDP, in the next few years the percentage is expected to reach 60%.” He also talked about strengthening U.S. and Philippine relations through cultural and educational exchanges among the youth.
There are about four million Filipinos staying in the United States and 300,000 American citizens in the Philippines, this According to Ambassador Kim indicates the kind of relationship between our two states – “A relationship that bases its strength on people to people ties, transcending economic and political agreements.”
CPU President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles and CPU Board of Trustees Chairman Atty. Von Lovel Bedona together with Ambassador Sung Y. Kim.CPU Vice President for Finance and Administration Dr. Florence P. Bogacia together with Ambassador Sung Y. Kim.
He also talked about the recent cultural heritage conservation training program held in Iloilo last April 17-20, the goal of which is to train participants on best practices of conservation management planning, including historical research, legal frameworks, architectural and materials documentation, conditions and hazard assessments, and conservation policy-setting.
After his message, Centralians asked questions regarding EDCA, diplomatic relations between U.S. and the Philippines, environmental, political and economic issues and future projects and partnership between the two nations.
Dr. Jaunito M. Acanto CPU President from 1996-2005 led the ribbon cutting with present CPU President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles and CPU Board of Trustees Chairman, Atty. Von Lovel Bedona.
In honor of the hard work and dedication of Dr. Juanito M. Acanto, Central Philippine University’s third Filipino president from 1996-2005, the university renamed the Junior High School Building into Juanito M. Acanto Hall on April 19, 2018. Former CPU President Dr. Agustin A. Pulido and incumbent CPU President Dr. Teodoro C. Robles, as well as Board of Trustees Chairman Von Lovel Bedona and members of the Board, were present at the ceremony.
Dr. Acanto was born on April 5, 1937 in Barrio Badiangan, Janiuay, Iloilo to Baptist parents, Ruperto Acanto and Tabitha Maca. Christened with the name Juanito by his parents, the boy grew up to become a brilliant lawyer. He passed the Integrated Bar Examinations in 1961, and worked in his legal profession, eventually becoming a Municipal Judge of Janiuay, Iloilo. Dr. Juanito M. Acanto also served as Dean of the CPU College of Law from 1993-1997. In June 1998, the Board of Trustees elected him as President of Central Philippine University. He had served Central Philippine University for 18 years, including nine years as CPU President and other positions in the College of Law and as Regular, Ex-officio Member and Chairman of the Board of Trustees.
A legacy of hard work and gratitude – Dr. Juanito M. Acanto thanks the CPU community for the honor of naming the Senior High School Building after him.
Dr. Acanto made a stint in public service after he was elected Board Member of the Province of Iloilo from 1988 to 1998 and from 1980 to 1986. He was a well-respected public servant of his Ilonggo constituents
Dr. Acanto obtained his Doctor of Philosophy in Public Administration from The International School of Missouri, USA in 1998; his Master of Management, Major in Public Management, from the University of the Philippines in the Visayas in 1990; his Bachelor of Laws at Central Philippine University in 1961; and his Associate in Arts (Pre-Law), also at Central Philippine University in 1957.
Dr. Juanito M. Acanto with his CPU family.
The Junior High School Faculty and Staff prepared a short program. Dr. Teodoro C. Robles welcomed everyone and acknowledged Dr. Acanto, the Honoree, before the unveiling of the marker. In his message Dr. Robles made mention of the importance of remembering people behind the progress and development of an institution, adding that “it is not enough to name buildings in honor of the missionaries; it is also important to name a building in honor of a former CPU President, being that this project was realized during his term of office”.
A Litany of Dedication was read after the unveiling of the marker. In his response, Dr. Junito M. Acanto mentioned the blessings that God showered upon Central Philippine University during his watch. He was sentimentally thankful for the remarkable development that made CPU more beautiful.
He looked back to the memorable times and mentioned the Smile Hill to be his inspiration. “All this blessings were sent by God to the University during my time,” said Dr. Acanto.
Atty. Keenan Rhys Y. Jurilla, Public Attorney II, Iloilo City, District Office encouraged Centralians to dream big.
Honoring excellence—Central Philippine University Senior High School held its EXCELlence Awards for its graduating students on April 18, 2018 and its Dedication Service and 1st Commencement Exercises on April 19. All events took place at the Rose Memorial Auditorium.
For the EXCELlence Awards, Rev. Joniel Howard H. Gico, Vice President for Student Affairs, gave the opening remarks. Dr. Gico congratulated the awardees for their hard work and persistence; he also highlighted the role of the parents in their children’s academic success.
Prof. Ana Mae Cantel, CPU Senior High School faculty, introduced guest speaker Atty. Keenan Rhys Y. Jurilla, Public Attorney II, Iloilo City, District Office 1. In his message, Atty. Jurilla talked about the determinative factors for success, the first of which is the support of the family. He talked about how his grandparents supported him in his studies. He also emphasized the need for parents to understand that every child is unique in their own way. “I remember getting a grade of 65 in TLE because I needed not know how to make a small chair. I did not submit my project. That became a catapulting point for me to study harder. Lucky me, my granny never pressured me. She would always tell me to do my best. If you cannot make it, just try again. Perhaps she already had the idea that we could not put a square peg in a round hole.”
The second factor is dreaming big. “When I was in elementary, I was already thinking about what I wanted to be when I grew up. I had already decided to be a lawyer. At that time I already had a concept of justice where I hated oppression, injustice, and inequality.” Atty. Jurilla challenged the awardees to pursue their dreams with passion and faith. The third factor is hard work. According to Atty. Jurilla, a little sacrifice today would mean a celebration tomorrow. “If you persevere, a great reward is coming your way. Never mind the missed parties, for later, once you have become successful, you would be the one who’d get tired of all the parties and travels that would be offered to you.”
And the last factor is to have the proper attitude and to practice the law of gratitude. “It is said that practicing the law of gratitude will reform and transform your entire universe.” Atty. Jurilla encouraged the awardees to always have a thankful attitude.
The message was then followed by awarding of certificates was then given to the academic, non-academic, literary-musical, and sports and athletics awardees.
Prof. Edgar Eriman, Director of the CPU Senior High School, in his closing remarks, congratulated the awardees and encouraged them to pursue greater heights for CPU and the glory of God.
The event was hosted by Prof. Kay Arden Gallo.
A moment of silence – through a prayer, the graduates expressed their gratitude to God as the source of all success.
Celebrating the faithfulness of God to our senior high school graduates—After the processional, the Dedication Service for the graduating students was opened with the Prayer of Adoration led by Worship Leader, Rev. Zeus Familiaran. Song Leader, Engr. Vitini Edhard Idemne led the graduates and the congregation in hymns of praise for the faithfulness of the Lord. Nicole Anike D. Dorgu, with high honors, then read the Word. The Senior High School Chorale rendered the Sung Word and the Musical Response while Eleanel Ruthvirl Idemne gave a Musical Offering.
The message entitled “Make Decisions on Hope” was delivered by Rev. Dr. Melvin M. Mangana. He highlighted the importance of making decisions anchored in Christ. Rev. Mangana encouraged the graduates to trust in the plans and purposes of God. “We can grow out of our failure and our mistakes and that means that we can have hope.”
Rev. Magana further talked about the importance of avoiding rotten thoughts. “In life in general and in normal circumstances, we do not eat rotten food because it will make us sick. Yet in terms of the mind or the intellect, we eat rotten, poisonous, and dirty thoughts every day. And we know that when we absorb rotten thoughts we get sick, depressed, anxious, outraged and… overwhelmed.”
According to Rev. Mangana, there is a growing need to take care of our mental health. “We want to be seen as fresh and clean on the outside but we are filthy inside. Against this similar background, the author of Hebrews makes the positive notion of hope very valuable and viable for us—as we practice proper mental hygiene, we shall be able to live in a healthy world… and we are to teach mindfulness and how to deal with depression and anxiety.”
In order for us to make decisions on hope, Rev. Mangana shares that we need three things: first, to hold fast to the right values; second, to fix our hope in Christ; and lastly, to rely on the faithfulness of God.
After the message, a dedicatory prayer for the graduating students, parents, and teachers was led by Rev. Zeus M. Familiaran.
CPU President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles congratulated the graduates, the parents and the entire SHS faculty and staff.
Ode to the graduates—for the historic first Commencement Exercises of the University Senior High School, CPU President Dr. Teodoro C. Robles gave the Words of Welcome. Dr. Robles talked about the challenge of Senior High School education and the joy of CPU in triumphing over the obstacles. “It was only four years ago that we realize that for this university to survive, we needed a Senior High School. We, however, did not realize how large it would become. But the parents all over the country responded by sending their children to study here in CPU. The partnership and confidence of the parents have helped us in this noble achievement.”
He went on to talk to the graduates about their journey after their senior high school education. “CPU has given you excellent education towards being released to the real word. You will leave this institution with a heart of service.”
After which, Prof. Eriman introduced the guest speaker, Dr. Earl Jude Paul L. Cleope, Dean, College of Arts and Science, Silliman University. Dr. Cleope congratulated the graduates, parents and teachers for their accomplishments. “There has never been anyone else like you. You have gained the permanent merit of being the first K-12 graduates. You, my dear graduates, are indeed a special pioneering class. We can all feel the great excitement and joy but after all this celebration is also to ask the question where will you go from now.”
Dr. Earl Jude Paul L. Cleope, Dean, College of Arts and Science, Silliman University encouraged the graduates to trust in the plan and timing of the Lord.
Dr. Cleope encouraged the graduates to make daring and courageous choices. “Your future is very much grounded on what you want to do and where you want to go. The options are indeed unequally uncertain but what sets you apart from all the others with your Christian education here in CPU is your faith in Christ. Always remember that your character is more important than your competence.”
He goes saying, “Hebrews 10:23 says, ‘Let us hold unwaveringly to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful.’ In Robert Frost’s ‘The Road Not Taken,’ he says: ‘Two roads diverged in a wood, and I, I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference.’ It is daring and courageous choices that make a difference in humanity.”
After the commencement message, Dr. Robles confirmed the graduating students and led the awarding of the diplomas. He was assisted by Prof. Eriman and Ms. Ruth G. Fernandez, University Registrar.
Rose Memorial Auditorium is filled with Centralian Senior High School graduates.
The response on behalf of the graduates was then given by Aila Rose F. Asuelo, with highest honors. In her message, Asuelo shared her experience as a senior high school student. She also thanked the university, her family, friends, and above all, God for making her journey memorable and worthwhile. She also shared her formula for surviving senior high school. Being the pioneer batch is no easy feat. “Two years, during my speech, I said that it was grit that defined my JHS experience. However, as I entered senior high I realized that grit is not enough. It is grit plus grace plus God.”
After the response, the graduates sang their graduation song “A Million Dreams.” The prayer of dedication was then led by Rev. Gico followed by the induction of the graduates to the CPU Alumni Association, Inc. by Engr. Isagani J. Jalbuena, President, CPUAAI. Following the induction is the singing of the CPU Hymn by Ms. Crista Huyong, Cultural Affairs Office, and the benediction by Rev. Roger T Quimpo, Associate Pastor for Outreach, University Church.
The graduation program was hosted by Prof. Kay Arden Gallo and Rev. Rodmar Lilla.
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