Welcome Address delivered by Francis Immanuel O. Fuentespina, with High Honors, during the 89th Graduation Ceremony of the CPU Elementary School

Francis Immanuel O. Fuentespina, with high honors, encourages the graduates to trust in the timing and purpose of God for their lives.

Dr. Teodoro C. Robles, our university President; Dr. Irving Domingo L. Rio; our Vice President for Academic Affairs; Ms. Ruth G. Fernandez, the university Registrar; Atty. Doriedel Gimotea Losañes, our distinguished guest speaker; Dr. Carmen P. Santos, H.D. (honoris causa), our basic education consultant; Pastor Cris A. Sian, Senior Pastor, University Church; Pastor Alfred C. Morales, Coordinator, Student Recruitment; to our ever dynamic and hardworking principal, Prof. Janet P. Jaco; Ms. Susan Herga, our beloved Assistant Principal; to our dear teachers; parents; fellow honorees and awardees, good morning.

In Jeremiah 29:11, God said: “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.”

Today marks the 89th graduation rites of the CPU Elementary Department, and once more, a fresh new batch of finishers will be sent off its portals on towards the different high schools in Iloilo to start a new chapter of their lives. Although many will still stay in CPU, many others will choose a different school for their desired campus. It is a bittersweet feeling to leave our Alma Mater.

For most of us, the six years of coming to school early, or beating the familiar sound of the Central Hymn every start of the period, the resounding voices of students echoing the hallways, the fun camps, cultural and talent shows, CEW’s, U-day or U-week celebrations, festival of lights, sports fests, summative tests, periodic exams, card-giving days, Family Day celebrations, daily classes with our beloved teachers, and even friendships—all these will come to pass, but 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 mentally and emotionally developed and spiritually equipped, with the guidance and painstaking teachings of our advisers and subject teachers.

Though others may find heartaches in not achieving what they desire —where some may find some circumstances as unfair or difficult, or there are not so good relationships within the community—be reminded that the main objective is to not give up on your dreams, and to not believe that failure is permanent, or that there is a finish line to success.

I may not have some of what I wished to achieve, yet there are so many other good things that I have unexpectedly gained. Sometimes, we plan and work on things to reach a particular goal. It is good if we gain positive results, but sometimes better opportunities are given to those who have experienced failures because it motivates them even more not to give up in pursuing their dreams, and it makes them more appreciative of their achievements. Maybe because they are continually striving and working hard, but I would like to say more so, because it happens in God’s perfect will and perfect timing.

So learn what we can learn, in every lesson, and in every occasion, and in every experience. Use each learning to make ourselves better in the sight of God. God knows ultimately what is best for you and me.

So, today marks the culmination of several years of our hard work, of days of studying hard and learning our lessons, yet, let us not forget that even as we find ourselves in trying situations, we did enjoy many times and many moments in this school. It has been and will always be a part of our growing up years.

Today is a day of celebration, a recognition of our achievements and victories, of commemorating how we labored through and enjoyed our younger years. Through the help and guidance of our parents, the often unperceived hard work of our teachers and the nurturing atmosphere of our Alma Mater, finally, we have reached our initial goal.

May we all find ourselves under the guiding and protecting hands of our Lord, that our wisdom, knowledge, skills and talents, be used and directed for His ultimate glory. May the Holy Spirit be in us always, so that we can always approach God in prayer and expect for His righteous answers.

So in this moment of celebration, where achievements are recognized and honor is given to whom it is due, it is with great pleasure that I welcome you all to another milestone of the CPU Elementary Department.

Welcome, to the 89th graduation ceremonies of the CPU– Elementary Department for the academic year 2017-2018! Congratulations to us all, graduating students. May God bless us all, and Good Morning!

CPU College of Theology and His Sanctuary of Glory hold Pastor and Church Leaders Conference

Rev. Dr. Daniel Cheah encourages the leaders to step up in prayer, faith and action.

With the aim of empowering and equipping church leaders, the Central Philippine University College of Theology together with His Sanctuary of Glory, a church in Kuala Lumpur Malaysia, held “Leaders of Destiny, Step Up, Step Out”—a pastor and church leader’s conference at the Educational Media Center on April 12-13, 2018.

For the welcome and greeting, CPU College of Theology Dean, Rev. Bernabe C. Pagara acknowledged the guests and the speakers of the event. He then encouraged the attendees to apply what they have learned from the seminar into their respective ministries. After which, Dr. Florentino Alerta II explained the statement of purpose of the seminar. The Voice of Truth Worship Team from Alimodian, Iloilo then led the praise and worship.

The seminar featured guest speakers Rev. Dr. Daniel Cheah and Rev. Deborah Ong, senior pastors of His Sanctuary of Glory. Both speakers delivered a powerful message about the importance of leadership and service in the church, encouraging church pastors and church leaders to serve their ministries with excellence and passion.

CPUR Night includes Oath Taking and Turn Over Ceremony of incoming officers


Commissioner Rhea Peñaflor together with 2017-2018 CPUR President and Vice President Jan Christian Española and Sidrik Gotico together with the current CPUR President and Vice President, JM Suelo and Anthony Niguas.

Central Philippine University Student Republic held its Oath Taking and Turnover Ceremony during the CPUR Night on April 5 at 6 in the evening at the Alumni Promenade and Concert Park. The officers were inducted by Commissioner Rhea Peñaflor from the National Youth Commission.

Dr. Teodoro C. Robles, CPU President, shared his expectations from the student officials and members of CPUR. In his message, Dr. Robles mentioned possible changes that the new set of officials could make. He thought that this could be possible if the new officers from different parties can make contributions that would benefit the whole “Republic.”

Commissioner Peñaflor encouraged the new CPUR officials to continue on and improve what the outgoing student administration has started. She enjoined their cooperation despite coming from different political parties.

Dr. Margen Java, Director for Student Development Programs, appreciated the outgoing officers for a “job well done” at coordinating and working successfully with the different campus organizations.


NYC Commissioner Rhea Peñaflor leading the oath of office.

Responsibilities of the outgoing CPUR officers were turned over to the newly elected student officials. The symbolic Gavel was turned over by outgoing President Jan Christian Española, outgoing Prime Minister Charles Arthel Rey and outgoing Vice President Sidrik Gotico to incoming Vice President Anthony Niguas. The symbolic Mace was turned over by the outgoing Prime Minister to the incoming senators. This school year’s prime minister will still be voted upon by the newly elected senators.

Newly elected CPUR President John Michael Suelo received the Key of Responsibility from Outgoing President Jan Christian Española. In his acceptance speech, Suelo thanked his predecessors for paving the way to progress. “We will formulate more effective programs and projects for the students and the CPUR government.” Suelo also disclosed his plans to the student-citizens of the CPU Student Republic. It includes the strategy they will use to conduct the orientation for the new students and a week-long leadership training of the new CPUR officials. This year’s set of CPUR officers are expected to perform well, with their work student and students’ welfare program.

The CPU Student Republic is the oldest student government organization in the Philippines.

CPU dedicates Agustin A. Pulido Hall

At 86 years old, Dr. Agustin A. Pulido continues to inspire the Centralian community with his passion and dedication to excellence.

Honoring the longest serving president of Central Philippine University, CPU renamed and dedicated the CPU Elementary School Building as Agustin A. Pulido Hall on April 12, 2018.

The ribbon cutting ceremony was led by Dr. Agustin A. Pulido himself who was president of CPU for 25 years (1971-1996) and CPU President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles.

Dr. Robles highlighted the role of Dr. Pulido in ushering the university to greater heights. “We are here to honor a man who has served Central Philippine University for most of his professional life in the history of the university. He has served the university as president for 25 years and 10 years at Silliman University.” Dr. Robles further talked about Dr. Pulido’s love for CPU and his continued commitment to help the university even after his retirement. “Dr. Pulido’s love for CPU led him and Dr. Doris [Dr. Pulido’s wife] to reside near the university. I am very thankful that during my tenure, we still have Dr. Pulido in the Board of Trustees and in the corporation. His valuable knowledge and practical experience has really helped the present administration through many challenges.”

CPU President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles and Dr. Agustin A. Pulido led the ribbon cutting.

The marker was then unveiled by Dr. Pulido and Dr. Robles along with the Atty. Von Lovel D. Bedona, Chairperson of the CPU Board of Trustees. Dr. Robles also presented Dr. Pulido with the coffee table book, “Faith and Commitment,” published as a token of gratitude for Dr. Pulido’s dedication and excellent service to the university. The coffee table book committee is composed of Prof. Anna Mae Zerrudo, Rev. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on Prof. Kay Gallo, Keziah Huelar, Mark Clemens Ortaliz and Mrs. Ramona Elevado.

Pastor Alfred C. Morales, Student Recruitment Officer, then led the act of dedication.

CPU President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles, in his messages, highlighted the valuable contributions of Dr. Agustin A. Pulido to the university.

In his response, Dr. Pulido thanked the CPU administration for the recognition and the efforts in organizing the event. “Doris and I thank all of you for your presence here this morning and the CPU Administration for scheduling the event today, which is Doris’ 86th birthday. Soon after I moved to CPU in 1971, we realized and agreed that we needed to improve the elementary school. It was realized that we needed a three-storey building and this is now the completed structure. ”

Dr. Pulido encouraged the attendees to ponder on their lives and their God-given purpose. “Life must be lived forward and understood backward. I thought it was a very meaningful statement—you live your life forward, you don’t know what’s going to happen and you look back and reflect and you begin to understand why things happened.”

Dr. Agustin A. Pulido and Dr. Dorothy B. Pulido together with their CPU family.
Dr. Agustin A. Pulido together with Atty. Juanito M. Acanto, CPU President from 1998-2008 and current President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles.
The event also highlighted the 86th Birthday of Dr. Dorothy B. Pulido, the supportive and loving wife of Dr. Agustin A. Pulido.

Recounting his experience as president of two universities, Central Philippine University and Silliman University, Dr. Pulido shared the humorous story of a Japanese professor who visited CPU during his term. After he moved to Silliman, he met the same Japanese professor who recounted, “You know ever since I walked into this office, I have been wondering how two presidents could look so alike.”

Ending his speech, Dr. Pulido thanked the committee who labored on the coffee table book for their perseverance. He also spoke of his gratitude to those who helped make the book possible and those who organized the event. He thanked God above all for having shown him His favor and faithfulness throughout the years. “Above all, we thank the Lord for all these. May God be praised.”

CPU Elementary School holds Recognition Day, Honors and Awards Day, and 89th Graduation Ceremony

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.”

CPU Junior High School holds Recognition Day, Honors and Awards Day, and Moving-Up Ceremony

CPU President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles encourages the graduates to carry the banner of CPU high and proud, wherever they may be.

Students from the Junior High School who have competed and achieved in different fields received recognition on March 26, 2018 at the Rose Memorial Auditorium. There are seven awards categories including Literary-Musical, Academic, Journalism, Leadership, Scouting Awards, Special Awards, and Sports and Athletics.

The program started at 8:00AM with the processional of student awardees, guests, Junior High School administrators and the marshal. Mrs. Sandraliza D. Espinosa and Honey H. Parreño led the invocation and singing of the National Anthem respectively.

Dr. Irving Domingo L. Rio, Vice President for Academic Affairs congratulates the awardees for their hard work and commitment.

Dr. Florence P. Bogacia, Vice President for Finance and Administration, in her inspirational message, challenged the students to work and fight all obstacles and hindrances on their way to the future.

Honey H. Parreño conducted the singing of the Alma Mater Song, which was followed by the singing of the CPU High School Hymn. The program ended with a closing prayer led by Pastor Lloyd U. Basco and the recessional.

The masters of ceremonies for the event were Mrs. Erma Joy M. Garanganao, Prof. Christine Joyce A. Lacson, Dr. Arlene D. Pet, and Prof. Lloyd U. Basco.

Prof. Janet S. Jalbuena with the Junior High School awardees and their parents.
A salute to our graduates! Central Philippine University is proud of you!
Karen Joy S. Oscares, Ranked No. 1 with High Honors, Special Science Class delivers the batch response.

For the Honors and Awards Program, Dr. Irving Domingo L. Rio, Vice President for Academic Affairs, congratulated the awardees for their hard work and efforts. “To graduate with honors is not a matter of chance but a matter of intention. You have built a bridge to your dreams that have been accomplished by your hard work and efforts.”

Prof. Jessica B. Canaman and Dr. Samuel C. Herbolarion shared their message as parents of the awardees. They thanked the CPU community for nurturing and mentoring their children to be exemplary Christian learners.

The distribution of awards was led by Prof. Janet S. Jalbuena, Junior High School Principal; Engr. Rey L. Balogo, PTA President, School Year 2017-2018; and Dr. Carmen P. Santos, Basic Education Consultant. Awards included were Academic, Scholarship, Leadership, Special and Cash Awards.

Krizia C. Villavicencio, Ranked No. 2, Regular Class delivered the welcome address in behalf of the Regular Class.
Arrianne Leigh D. Segovia, Ranked No. 2 with High Honors, delivered the welcome address in behalf of the Special Science Class.
CPU Junior High School completers in their Moving Up Ceremony at the Rose Memorial Auditorium.

During the Moving-Up Ceremony, CPU President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles, congratulated the parents, teachers, and students for their achievement and perseverance.

Arianne Leigh D. Segovia, Rank No. 2, Special Science Class and Krizia C. Villacencio, Ranked No. 2, Regular Class, gave the welcome addresses.

Guest Speaker, Dr. Romeo A. Orcajada, Jr., alumnus, CPU High School Class 1988, in his message, inspired the graduates to pursue excellence no matter where they came from. He also encouraged them to offer their best to God, their families, and the community.

The response in behalf on the graduates was given by Karen Joy S. Oscares, Ranked No.1, Special Science Class and Tincy Jeay B. Canaman, Ranked No.1, Regular Class.

The closing prayer and benediction was then led by Rev. Roger T. Quimpo.

CPU joins World Water Day 2018

CPU President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles with Prof. Levi De Los Santos Jr., Director of the CPU Community Engagement and Service Learning Center (CESLC) and Maria Belinda E. De La Paz, Chief Operating Officer of Haribon Foundation.

With the aim of promoting environmental protection through water conservation, the Community Engagement and Service Learning Center with its Biodiversity on Wheels (BOW) Project in partnership with Haribon Foundation joined other educational and environmental institutions in celebrating World Water Day 2018 at the West Visayas State University College of Agriculture and Forestry on March 20, 2018.

Centralian BOW Rangers participated in the said event with the promise of more dedication in promoting water conservation. The goals of World Water Day 2018 are to reduce water pollution, floods and droughts, preserve aquatic resources, and protect aquatic flora and fauna.

Celebrating World Water Day at Lambunao, Iloilo.
The Biodiversity on Wheels promotes an educational forum for environmental conservation.

It can be recalled that CPU signed a Memorandum of Agreement with the Haribon Foundation, Conservation of Natural Resources, Inc. and the Department of Education-Schools Division, Province of Iloilo on November 8, 2017. The parties agreed to collaborate on efforts and maximize awareness on biodiversity conservation through various environmental training programs. CPU will lead the implementation of “Biodiversity on Wheels” using the HARI Eco Van, in at least 10 elementary and secondary schools around the Iloilo Province. DepEd, on the other hand, will assist CPU in the implementation of BOW.

CPU is already implementing the BOW program in various elementary and secondary schools in the province.

CPU Kindergarten holds Graduation 2018

Vice President for Student Affairs, Rev. Joniel Howard H. Gico congratulates the parents, teachers and students for another milestone.

About 77 pupils graduated from Kinder 2 on March 16, 2018 at the University Church. The program started with a processional at 8:30 in the morning with the pupils, faculty, staff and guests. Selected K-2 Pupils rendered an opening prayer through a dance. The National Anthem was conducted by Daniel E. Glory of K-2 Gentleness.

Aiden Reyes of K-2 Kindness made the Opening Remarks. In his speech, Reyes reminded his classmates that “[o]ur graduation is a celebration of learning. It marks the start of another existing adventure for grade school”.

Rev. Joniel Howard H. Gico, Vice President for Student Affairs, greeted the parents and guests and delivered his message to the students. Gico pointed out to the students that God knows everything about each of them—even the number of their hairs. He also referred to the verse in Jeremiah 11:29 about Gods plans for them, “For I know the plans I have for you; plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

The CPU Kindergarteners singing their graduation song “God has a Plan for Me.”

After this message, Prof. Hannah C. Siosan, CPU Kindergarten Principal, presented the graduating class. Rev. Gico confirmed the graduates.

The Somosierra family, including Prof. Prel Faith, Grace, Kaye, Joel, John Carlo and Phil Ivan, then delivered a special number for the graduates.

Prof. Siosan and Rev. Gico distributed the certificates with the advisers, Mrs. Vina Luz P. Lopez of K-2 Kindness and K-2 Gooodness; Prof. Prel Faith V. Somosierra of K-2 Gentleness; Miss Carla S. Abogadil of K-2 Mercy.

A dance number from our graduates.

Kristelle Lucianni M. Flores of K-2 Mercy made her closing remarks and this was followed by the singing of the graduation song, “God Has a Plan for Me.” The Alma Mater Song was conducted by Jandy Marie A Desamero of K-2 Kindness.

Pastor Ruth G. Lunasco, Christian Education Director, University Church, prayed for the graduates. Recessional followed with the guests, graduates, faculty and staff.

Prof. Esther Rose A. Romarate, University Kindergarten alumna and Department of Languages, Mass Communication and Humanities professor, hosted the program.

What to do during an earthquake?

Centralians simulating quick response action during the earthquake drill.

A 2-hour campus wide earthquake drill participated by all departments and offices was held on Monday, March 12, 2018.

One of the important objectives of an earthquake drill at Central Philippine University is to test the readiness and evaluate the capability of everyone in the university when there is an earthquake. Everyone from the Administration down to the lowest rank and file employee had to follow standard procedure during the drill.

CPU Medicine students participating in the earthquake drill.
A first aid simulation was also conducted during the earthquake drill.

Participants secured themselves by observing the drop, cover, and hold policy while the siren sounded around the campus. This sound was an indicator that an earthquake was in progress. The procedure had to be followed until the chair announced that the earthquake drill was over. VPFA Florence P. Bogacia is chair of the CPU Disaster Management Committee.

The big field is the designated evacuation area in case of an earthquake.
Centralians awaiting instructions during the earthquake drill.
The emergency response team in action.
Vice President for Finance and Administration, Dr. Florence P. Bogacia leading the response team.
The committee at the Incident Command Post.

Two weeks before the earthquake drill, video presentations on what to do during earthquakes were shown during the Christ Emphasis Week convocations held at Rose Memorial Auditorium on February 23 to March 2, 2018.