CPU holds Foot Parade and University Picnic

By Keziah G. Huelar

*The CPU College of Law Junior students during the University Picnic. Photo Credit: Mark Greg Salaya*

Celebrating 113 years of the Central Spirit—CPU’s annual tradition of holding the University Foot Parade early in the morning from CPU to Jaro and conducting a CPU Picnic continues as Centralians from different colleges and units showcased their own interpretation of honoring God for his faithfulness to the University. The opening parade highlighting the Central Spirit ended at the CPU Big Field where a short program was conducted where CPU President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles, officially opened the festivities. The picnic then followed suit, where the colleges and units held different events and activities at their assigned areas around the campus on September 26, 2018.

*All Blue – The College of Business and Accountancy during the Street Dance Competition.*

*The Senior High School giving a passionate performance during the Street Dance Competition.*

With plenty of fun, food, and friendship, the event highlighted the Central Spirit by emphasizing unity in diversity. Centralians showcased their skills through the street dance and the folk dance competitions. In the street dance competition, participants from different colleges and units swayed and bopped their way around the CPU Campus, dressed in their creative ensemble. The folk dance competition, on the other hand, showcased the beauty of Filipino culture through the dancers’ graceful steps and traditional costumes.

*The CPU Street Dance Competition showcases the fun and energy.*

*An audience of Centralians at outside the Rose Memorial Auditorium witnessing the Street Dance Competition.*

Aside from the dance competitions, the Battle of the Bands was also held. Centralians gathered at the Big Field to support their representatives and rock to awesome tunes. It has been a tradition in this competition to play at least one song of faith testifying that Christ is and will always be the cornerstone of the university.

The CPU U-Day Foot Parade is a showcase of the Centralian Spirit of friendship and Christian values.

The CPU VPFA Office staff during the Foot Parade.

Glorifying Christ for 113 years, the University Picnic is a testament of the continued celebration of faith and excellence, a tribute to God for blessing CPU.

Commencement Exercises held for the College of Medical Laboratory

Cyrus A. Natividad

*CPU President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles congratulated the graduates along with their parents, mentors and family.*

The Commencement Exercises for the graduates of the SY 2017-2018 of the College of Medical Laboratory was held on Sunday June 24, 2018 at the Rose Memorial Auditorium. The program started at 3 PM with an Overture by the CPU Symphonic Band with Mr. Ascenscion O. Bautista directing.

The graduating class of 2018, CPU Board of Trustees and CPU Corporation members, officers of the administration, dean, faculty, and program participants were at the processional, following the entrance of colors by the CPU ROTC cadets. The National Anthem was then sung with Ms. Crista S. Huyong conducting the “Lupang Hinirang.”

University President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles, welcomed the guests, members of the corporation and the Board of Trustees, faculty, staff and candidates for graduation. He also acknowledged the presence of the CPU Alumni Association, Inc. (CPUAAI) President, Engr. Isagani J. Jalbuena. Dr. Robles encouraged the graduates to acknowledge their teachers, their parents, and even their classmates, reminding them that “without them, you would not have become what you are today.” He challenged the graduates not to rely on themselves alone, but to be guided by the unseen hand of God. Furthermore, Dr. Robles asked them to always remember to give thanks to the Lord. He ended his message with a reminder, “Do not forget that education is a life-long process.”

*Engr. Isagani J. Jalbuena, President CPUAAI led the alumni pledge.*

Dr. Domingo L. Rio, Vice President for Academic Affairs, introduced the guest speaker, Mr. Ronaldo E. Puno, President of the Philippine Association of Medical Technologists (PAMET). Puno congratulated the graduates and told them that “if there are people to be honored here today, they are your parents.”

He gave an inspiration by telling the graduates about his life story. He was a student who struggled in order to graduate in college. In challenging the graduates, Puno told them, “You just have to study hard and prove to the world how fortunate you are to have your parents and loved ones to support you. In the real world every minute matters; your patience is the reason for your existence, your license and success as a medical technologist. Your true success will be defined by how you handle yourself and manage time.”

*Guest speaker, Mr. Ronaldo E. Puno, President of the Philippine Association of Medical Technologists (PAMET) encouraged the graduates to pursue excellence in their professional career.*

*The graduates of the College of Medical Laboratory Batch 2018 make their way inside the Rose Memorial Auditorium.*

Emilyn Lou A. Isiderio, BMLS alumna 2017, rendered a musical number before the conferment of degrees. Dr. Robles was assisted by Charissa June G. Deocampo, Acting Registrar and Emerald Joy E. Perucho, Assistant Registrar in conferring the degrees on the graduates.

Daryl Jasyl L. Cañon, Summa Cum Laude, delivered the response on behalf of the graduates. Rev. Roger T. Quimpo, Associate Pastor, University Church, offered a Prayer of Dedication which was followed by the Alumni Pledge by Engr. Isagani J. Jalbuena, President, CPUAAI.

Ms. Huyong once again led the singing of the Alma Mater Song. Rev. Quimpo said the Benediction. The event ended with the exit of colors and the recessional of the graduates 2018, members of the Board of Trustees and CPU Corporation, officers of the Administration, deans, faculty, and program participants.

CPU College of Pharmacy and PRC hold Oath-Taking Rites of New Centralian Pharmacists

*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.

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 89^th 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 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.

U.S. Ambassador Kim visits CPU

*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 4^th 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.

CPU Junior High School Building renamed Dr. Juanito M. Acanto Hall

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.

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’ 86^th 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

Special Awards were also given to elementary pupils who represented the CPU Elementary School in various city, regional, and national competitions and searches.

The elementary pupils were then given their respective academic and non-academic awards from grades one to six.

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.