CPU holds 90th Graduation and Commencement Exercises

*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.

CPU Senior High School holds EXCELlence Awards grade 12 students, Dedication Service and 1st Commencement Exercises

*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 1^st 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.

COE dominates Centralian Fest: League of Legends Tournament 2018

Victory!—The Central Philippine University College of Engineering reigned supreme in this year’s Centralian Fest: League of Legends Tournament 2018 held at Cyberzeen Zone on February 12, 2018.

The College of Engineering battled in the championship round against the College of Arts and Science, who placed second while the University Senior High School bagged third place. Hannibal Leonard “Me Hannibal” Pasamanero was hailed as the tournament MVP.

*Hannibal Leonard Me Hannibal Pasamanero, from the College of Engineering emerged as the Tournament MVP.*

*Five on five – the different colleges battle their skills in League of Legends Tournament 2018.*

The League of Legends Tournament 2018 is one of the activities held by the CPU Republic in line with the College Week.