Judge Mark Anthony R. Polonan shared his testimony to the School of Graduate Studies, and the College of Law.Planting seeds of faith in our future Centralian lawyers—The University Church, together with the Central Philippine University College of Law, held a convocation service at the Educational Media Center on August 15, 2018.
For the welcome remarks, Atty. Zacarias D. Bedona, Dean, CPU College of Law, thanked the students for their participation and the University Church for initiatives that promote CPU’s vision of producing exemplary Christian learners.
It was then followed by the explanation of the text and theme by Rev. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian, Senior Pastor, University Church. According to Rev. Sian, this year’s theme, “Relentless,” is all about the relentless love of God who pursues us: “‘Relentless’ is defined as continuing without being weak. How good it is to know that God keeps on reaching out to us. It is the desire of the University that through this Christ Emphasis Week celebration, we will make the pursuit of God the topmost priority.”
Ptr. Mary Grace F. Labis, Associate Pastor of the University Church, then read Luke 15:1-32, which contains the parable of the Lost Sheep, the parable of the Lost Coin and the story of the Prodigal Son. After which, Tammy Enriquez, JD-3, introduced the convocation speaker, Hon. Mark Anthony R. Polonan, Judge 8 of the Municipal Trial Court in Cities.
In his message, Hon. Polonan talked about how the relentless love of Jesus was shown in the three stories, particularly in the characters of the shepherd, the woman, and the father: “These are three subjects sharing one emphasis, one overall outcome. Always remember that God is in the darkest, deepest parts of your lives. He wept when you wept.”
He also reminded the law students about the unlimited grace of God, “The relentless love of God is the patient love of God. Remember, you are never too sinful for God to forgive. You are never too dirty for God to cleanse.”
Ending his message, Judge Polonan talked about the importance of having a relationship with God and to feel his relentless love and grace.
The closing prayer and benediction was then led by Rev. Sian.
The highlight of every CEW is always the proclaimed Word of the Lord.
Celebrating Christ as the Cornerstone of Central Philippine University—The University Church, in partnership with the different colleges and departments, highlighted the theme “Relentless” anchored on Isaiah 54:10 and Matthew 28:20 during the First Semester Christ Emphasis Week of the school year 2018-2019.
Starting them young- CPU Kindergarten students listen attentively to their CEW speaker
Held on August 10-17, 2018, the week-long celebration, filled with praise and worship and accompanied by the sharing of God’s Word, is a testimony of CPU’s commitment as a university anchored in faith.
According to Rev. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian, the theme encourages the CPU community to make the pursuit of God a priority. In the era of persistent distractions and temptations, it is important to feel the constant pursuit and faithfulness of God: “God keeps reaching out to us so He can win us to Himself. Our theme encourages the CPU community to make the pursuit of God the topmost priority as God has been relentless in his bid to save us from ourselves.”
Rev. Sian shares that the theme encourages us to work on our faith with fear and trembling, “We should also be relentless in our pursuit of holiness. It should be the proverbial pearl of the great price of our prayers.”
Convocation speakers Pastor Russel Ban, Pastor Jasper Martin, Rev. Lennie Ruth Sombilla, Rev. Adiel Caspe, Pastor Franz Hestia Love Joy Quimpo-Leysa, Pastor Keith Dune Gallos, Rev. Dr. Jerson Narciso, Pastor Jamilo Pendo, and Hon. Mark Anthony Polonan all shared the love of God through the empowering message of God’s relentless love.
The CEW is a testimony of God’s relentless love to CPU and the Centralian community’s dedication to make Christ as the center of the university.Shout unto God a song of praise – the CPU Elementary School students leading the praise and worship.
According to Harissa Junio, BSBAMM4, this year’s CEW is a testimony of the continuing journey of the university: “As a Centralian, I take heart in the fact that CPU has been holding activities like this to share the Word of God. It continually reminds me that beyond my academics, my purpose is really to pursue God and to share his Word to others.”
A first year college student of CBA, Lyka Derayunan shared, “The CEW experience is unique. You will not probably experience this in others schools. I did not regret enrolling in CPU. I will tell others about this.”
Jam-packed, the Rose Memorial Audituriom is filled with students and faculty during the CEW.Heart of worship – the CPU Junior High School leads the praise and worship session.
As the university moves forward to celebrate 113 years of God’s goodness, the Christ Emphasis Week is a reminder of its long tradition of faith. It is also a challenge to the CPU community to never forget our roots—in Christ—and that beyond the goal of producing excellent professionals, the heart of CPU’s existence is to glorify God through the lives of its students, faculty, staff, and alumni.
Christ Emphasis Week is here again. The First Semester 2018 CEW will be held from August 13 to 17. The University Church Pastoral Staff is tasked to organize the week-long spiritual activity for the students, faculty, and staff—bringing out a new challenge and another opportunity for individuals to commit to Jesus Christ.
Isaiah 54:10, as the Scripture reference of the CEW, expresses relentless love: “Thus says the Lord, ‘The mountains and hills may crumble, but my love for you will never end. I will keep my promise of peace.’” Referring to the Lord’s message in this verse, relentless could mean eternal. God continues to pursue us no matter what we do.
The CEW is just a part of the mission of CPU every semester to introduce Jesus Christ to students, faculty, and staff and also to enhance the spiritual maturity of Centralians.
Let us pray for our speakers: Pastor Russel Ban, Pastor Jasper Martin, Rev. Lennie Ruth Sombilla, Rev. Adiel Caspe, Pastor Franz Hestia Love Joy Quimpo-Leysa, Pastor Keith Dune Gallos, Rev. Dr. Jerson Narciso, Pastor Jamilo Pendo, and Judge Mark Anthony Polonan.
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.
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.
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.
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.
CPU takes pride in its tradition of producing excellent pharmacists throughout the years.
“If you cannot be seen, see to it that you can be great; there is no substitute to being great.” This was how the guest speaker Gilda R. Rivero started his challenge to 85 students who received their pins from the CPU College of Pharmacy. The students were about to enter the crucial years of college life: their third year in BS Pharmacy.
The Pinning Ceremony of the BSPH Batch 2019 was held on March 15, 2018, Monday, at the University Church. The program started at 9 A.M. with the processional. The invocation was led by Rev. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian, Senior Pastor, University Church, and was followed by the Pambansang Awit and Alma Mater Song.
Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Irving L. Rio (on behalf of the University President Dr. Teodoro C. Robles), welcomed the parents, guests, faculty and students. He acknowledged their enthusiasm in pursuing success in the College of Pharmacy.
Ma. Jaen A. Jamistas, faculty, introduced the guest speaker, Gilda R. Rivero, former Dean of the College of Pharmacy, University of San Agustin. Rivero delivered an inspirational message meant to inspire and equip the candidates. She told the candidates to “dream like Jose Rizal, to have a critical mind, to think of your dream.”
Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Irving Domingo L. Rio encouraged the students to carry on the Centralian spirit of excellence.
“I was a board top-notcher,” Rivero added, “and once I landed on top, I never allowed things or anyone to bring me a notch down. I prayed to be number one and I made it.” She stressed to the students the need to “pray hard, work hard, and study hard!” Rivero, who feels 25 years old at 75, believes that “as man proposes, God disposes.”
Rivero, who heads the Pharmacist Association in Iloilo City, has worked with several pharmaceutical organizations and companies as consultant and lecturer.
Dr. Rio and Darlene Joy J. Marañon, Dean of CPU College of Pharmacy, presented a Plaque of Appreciation to the guest speaker. Dareen Joy B. Taytayon, Community Internship Coordinator, presented the Community Pharmacy Internship Institutional Guidelines. Dean Marañon presented the interns for the Pinning.
Dr. Irving Domingo L. Rio, Vice President of Academic Affairs and Darlene Joy J. Marañon, Dean of CPU College of Pharmacy presented a Plaque of appreciation to the Guest speaker, Gilda R. Rivero.
Jan Noelle Estilo Ang, on behalf of the class, delivered a response to the challenge. It was followed by the class singing Bruno Mars’ song “Today My Life Begins.” The program closed with the benediction by Rev. Sian.
The White Coat Ceremony of the College of Pharmacy was held on March 6, also at the University Church. It is where the candidates are cloaked with their white coats to symbolize the start of their proper training as future pharmacists.
Hon. Ferjenel G. Biron, Representative of the 4th District of Iloilo, gave the inspirational message. The Congressman, who is a pharmaceutical businessman, congratulated the candidates, inspiring them to keep working to succeed in the pharmaceutical industry in the future.
Dr. Rio presented the Certificate of Appreciation to Congressman Biron. Rev. Sian made the dedicatory prayer and benediction, followed by the Philippine Pharmacy Hymn and the recessional.
Rev. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian, Senior Pastor, University Church.
In line with the celebration of Christ Emphasis Week, the Central Philippine University College of Law held its biannual special convocation at the Educational Media Center (EMC) on February 28, 2018.
For the words of welcome, College of Law Dean, Atty. Zacarias D. Bedona Jr., shared the anecdote about Mr. Philip Bliss. “In 1958, one of the best and popular singers was Philip Bliss. Years later, the descendants of Philip Bliss sent Mr. Albert B. Smith a letter. The letter contained the story of young Philip and his teacher Mrs. Murphy. Before he learned to read and write, Mrs. Murphy made the children memorize Psalm 23. One time, the children were made to recite the verse, and Philip recited the lines, ‘surely good Miss Murphy will follow me all the days of my life.’”
Dean Bedona shared that this year’s CEW text, Psalm 23, is a verse close to his heart because it was his wife’s favorite before she died. “This verse is also very dear to me because I would sometimes read the verse as, ‘[S]urely goodness and Mercy will follow me all the days of my life.’ Mercy is the name of my wife. I hope that tonight you will encounter God in a very special way.”
For the message, University Church Senior Pastor, Rev. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian, talked about loneliness and depression as one of the leading issues the youth face today. “Amos 8:11 talks about a famine. It says, ‘‘Be certain of this, the time is coming,’ says the sovereign Lord.
‘when I will send a famine through the land—not a shortage of food or water but an end to divine revelation! People will stagger from sea to sea, and from the north around to the east. They will wander about looking for a revelation from the Lord, but they will not find any. In that day your beautiful young women and your young men will faint from thirst. These are the ones who now take oaths in the name of the sinful idol goddess of Samaria. They vow, ‘As surely as your god lives, O Dan,’ or ‘As surely as your beloved one lives, O Beer Sheba!’ But they will fall down and not get up again.’’”
According to Rev. Sian, there is a special mention of the youth in the said verse. “The verse talks about beautiful young women and young men and it speaks about your generation, and how vulnerable the times are in this stage of your life. I am not saying the previous generation is better but nowadays the temptation is greater and the desire to satisfy is met with temporary solutions to a permanent problem.”
Rev. Sian shares about the 2018 Grammy Awards in Madison Square Garden, New York. “During the 2018 Grammys, one of the nominated song of the year was “1-800-273-8255”—this is the hotline number of the National Suicide Prevention Lifetime. The song talks about a man wanting to die and then on the other side someone talks to him that it’s not the end, that there is hope. Every day, the hotlines received around 6,000 to 7,000 phone calls and it only speaks of the magnitude of depression. A lot of people are calling for help and a lot of people are in despair.”
He goes on to talk that the root cause of depression and loneliness is that people have forsaken God. “If you hunger for food, it can be remedied, but the famine of the soul does not have a solution from a human perspective. There is no shortage in the preaching of the Word of God. There is a famine in hearing. Because of our rejection of God, the consequence is meaninglessness and desperation. The solution is to go back to God.”
Ending his sermon, Rev. Sian told the story of Ernest Hemingway’s “The Capital of the World.” In the story, a man and his son, Paco, had an argument and the latter ran away. The father looked for Paco everywhere and after failing to find him, eventually published a post in the newspaper saying, “Paco, meet me at Hotel Montana at noon on Tuesday. All is forgiven! Love, Papa.” On the said day, the man went to the said hotel and to his surprise he found 800 young men named Paco. “There is a deep hunger for forgiveness. Picture God as a loving father who calls us home. Our hearts are restless until we find rest in Him.”
Dr. Alfred Aaron Lee, world-renowned musician shares his testimony during his concert at the Rose Memorial Auditorium.
Dr. Aaron Alfred Lee during his piano concert at the Central Philippine University Rose Memorial on February 8, 2018 shared the message that the symphony of life is composed of diverse melodies of highs and lows that intertwine our hearts to the choices that lead us to our purpose. Life is therefore a song—a duet with our Creator, an infinite harmony of grace and thanksgiving.
A pre-CEW event—For the words of welcome, CPU President Dr. Teodoro C. Robles thanked Dr. Lee for sharing his time and talent to the university. “This is indeed a rare opportunity for us to listen to a great performance from a world-renowned artist. We’re happy that Dr. Lee, who is an honorary Centralian, will perform for our entertainment. We decided that since our Christ Emphasis Week is in the last week of February, we will call this a pre-CEW event. I thank the students and guests for joining us tonight.”
CPU President Dr. Teodoro C. Robles thanked Dr. Aaron Alfred Lee for once again sharing his talent to CPU.
Christ Emphasis Event will be held on February 26 to March 2, 2018.
Rev. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian, in his message, talked about this year’s CEW theme entitled “With You Always.” He shared that the theme is a response to the growing percentage of youth who experience depression. “This coming February 26 to March 2, we will again celebrate the Christ Emphasis Week. Our theme for semester highlights the text in Psalm 23:4, which says, ‘Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.’ We are cognizant of the fact that behind the façade of great technological and scientific innovation that grant us remarkable capacity to travel, communicate, and explore the world, a lot of people are still lonely.”
According to him, this year’s CEW is about reaching out to those who are experiencing depression and anxiety. “We are aiming to minister to those who are undergoing tough times by tapping into our spiritual resource in the Scriptures. We are also aiming to increase the awareness of the Centralian community on this topic of loneliness and to encourage the hearers that there is a need for us to create a safe haven, caring and compassionate, where our uniqueness is honored and respected, our gifts are celebrated, and our brokenness is restored by the power of God.”
Rev. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian, Senior Pastor, University Church talked this year’s CEW theme “With You Always”.CPU President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles and Ma’am Angel Robles with world-renowned musician, Dr. Aaron Alfred Lee.
Music and testimony—Before the performance proper, Dr. Lee shared his love for CPU and his devotion to Christ. “My first trip in the Philippines was to visit CPU. I consider this university my home away from home. The focus of my life, if you know me well, is Jesus. When you hear Christ Emphasis Week, you need to know who that Christ is—and that Christ is Jesus. The most important person of tonight’s program is Jesus.”
The two-hour concert showcased Dr. Lee’s musical prowess and his commitment to share the love of Jesus to others. In the middle of his performance, Dr. Lee talked about the importance of knowing the purpose of one’s gift. “It’s good to know what talent you have. Every one of us has been given a talent but it is better to know why the talent is given—to know the purpose. Having the talent is no good if you don’t know the purpose; knowing the purpose is greater. How you use your talent is very important.”
Dr. Lee performed classic Christian hymns, a couple of his compositions, and for his finale song, he played John William’s “Across the Stars” from Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones. Humorously, before playing, Dr. Lee remarked, “I will play Star Wars but let us not go to the dark side but to the side of the light.”
To the delight of Centralians, Dr. Lee’s concert was a testimony of encouragement and grace. His musical talent has inspired a generation of dreamers and his love for Christ has helped others pursue Christ and His purpose. An adopted son of Iloilo City and an honorary Centralian, Dr. Lee will always find a home at Central and a stage for his testimony to be shared.
“Dr. Aaron Alfred Lee hails from Malaysia, but has been residing in the United States of America since 1991. He received his degree in music composition from the University of North Texas of Denton, Texas, USA and an honorary Doctorate of Music from the Central Philippine University of Iloilo, Philippines. His success as a composer, arranger, performer, and vocalist has earned him many awards and accolades, plus an extensive experience of traveling around the world as a renowned musician. However, he considers being known as the ambassador of the Gospel of Christ the most thrilling, and the highest position in life.
“For Dr. Lee, his conversion to Christianity at the age of 17 remains his best experience of all. His supernatural encounter with the Lord Jesus appearing to him has caused him to forever consecrate his life to God, and dedicate all his talents to serving Him. Sharing his testimonies of God’s grace working in his life constantly makes it real for the world to see the existence of the one true God who still communicates and is present in the lives of the faithful today.”
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