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CPU Senior High holds Academic Excellence Awards Ceremony

By Cyrus A. Natividad

Senior High School students pose for a commemorative photo.

Central Philippine University Senior High School held its Academic Excellence Awards Ceremony on July 29, 2019 at the Rose Memorial Auditorium. This is for the school year 2018-2019. The program started with an opening prayer and devotional led by Rev. Zeus Familiaran, SHS Bible Teacher.

In her welcome remarks, Engr. Dimpna Castigador OIC, Office of the President congratulated the parents of the Honor Students and acknowledged them for the achievements of their sons and daughters in Senior High School. She also challenged the honorees and told them, “You have a big responsibility to honor your parents, because without their efforts and sacrifices you would not be receiving your honors today.”

OIC for the CPU Office of the President Engr. Dimpna Castigador welcomes the awardees and their families.

Prof. Nenita Mino, SHS Filipino teacher gave the awards to the honor students, classified with High Honors and with Honors. Intermission numbers were rendered by the CPU Dance Company and selected Senior High School Students.

Prof. Edgar E. Eriman, Principal, SHS in his closing remarks, encouraged the parents to “continue in supporting and motivating their children so that they will continue to be successful in whatever path they choose to pursue.”

CPU Senior High School Principal Prof. Edgar Eriman and Asst. Principal Prof. Ma. Corazon Nievales hand a certificate to an awardee.

The program ended with the singing of the Alma Mater song lead by Mrs. Linnie Rose Estante, SHS Filipino Teacher.

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The Golden Jubilarians: Making More Memories Day 6 – Last Day (A Weekly Series)

By Sarla Ferrer-Duller and Emelda Frange-Valcarcel

Golden Jubilarians with Delia Gumban-Daus and husband Steve at the Delia Mansion and Gardens.

Memory … just like the famous song from the Broadway musical Cats, the Central Philippine University (CPU) College of Nursing class of 1969 AKA the 69ers, dreamed of the old days and remembered that life was beautiful then as they commemorated their Golden Jubilee from February 7 to 12, 2019. Attended by 25 69ers and some 12 husbands, the class reunion was celebrated in the provinces of Iloilo and Antique, and in six different venues: CPU; Iloilo Mission Hospital (IMH); Tambaliza/Pan de Azucar Island in Concepcion, Iloilo; Dingle, Iloilo; San Jose, Antique; and Pavia, Iloilo.

Day Six – 12 February 2019. Pavia, Iloilo (by Emelda “Daday” Frange Valceral)

It can be best described as the “icing on the cake” day of the six-day reunion. Fully aware that it was the last day of the reunion, the group resolved to make it fun and enjoyable. Hosted by Delia Gumban-Daus and husband Steve, at the Delia Mansion and Gardens, the venue is situated between the cheerfully painted lime yellow-green ancestral house and the new terracotta and cream Mediterranean-inspired mansion. There were interesting garden nooks and corners and an abundance of varieties of plants and fruit trees. The weather was pleasantly sunny to our delight, notably to the “sun worshipper” Dieter Kraseman, Lucille Palabrica’s husband. The cool breeze was felt from the river beside the house even through the high fences.

The Jubilarians enjoyed the lunch fare of laswa, fresh lumpia, chicken tetrazzini, beef stroganoff, valenciana, escabeche, pancit bijon, beef ribs, adobo and shrimps served under a sprawling mango tree, in peach/brown colored tablecloths over round tables. For desserts, there were star apple, alupe, chico, guinatan, suman, lanzones, maja blanca, fruit salad, and mango. Thanks, Angel, for supplying the sweet mangoes for several days for us to enjoy.

Memories are one of life’s cherished possession, someone once said. Reminiscing our college and dormitory years, rekindled friendships as we shared bittersweet memories of our unique experience as Centralians, and as student nurses with an internship in IMH and Capiz Emmanuel Hospital. Our looks may have changed, but our fond memories remained the same, and all the more made significant because we were sharing them with friends and kindred spirits. Collectively, we were grateful for our many blessings personally and professionally both in the homeland and abroad. We shared travel plans, we talked about children and bragged about grandchildren and hardly discussed problems or maintenance medications. On our last reunion day of togertherness, we chose to regress and transported ourselves back in the day when we were teens aged between 16-20 years old, full of dreams, hope, and energy. We asked each other: Were you a fan of Susan Roces or Amalia Fuentes? We wondered how we survived our tours of duty as student nurses, although sleep-deprived yet we were able to bounce back and attend our firt-period class. We recalled Miss Tupaz bringing us sandwiches for our lunch during our nursing board exam in Manila. We remembered Dra. Hofilena’s teaching style and her writing encouraging notes on our test papers. We remembered Dr. Viterbo’s wit and wisdom, scrubbing for prolonged surgeries of Dr. Muyco’s thoracic, and Dr. Padilla’s neuro cases (and green jokes). Oh yes, how Akay in the Kitchen and Boning in Central Supply intimidated us as student nurses especially during our junior year. And more…

Switching gears, we played the Siomai, Siopao, and Suman with flamboyant actions accompanied by shrieks and laughter. We also played the Balay ni Belay that was a little bit challenging to one’s concentration especially when the onlookers tried to distract by teasing the players. Congratulations to the winners: Cochiao and Lydia. By the way, who else got the third Texas T-shirt? (Senior moment!)

Indeed, time files, and before we knew it, our rides were already fetching us. It was 5:00 P.M. Once again, we joined hands and sang Blest Be the tie, had our group pictures taken yet under the tree, in front of the Bahay Kubo, fountain and mansion and said good bye to each other for at least ten (10) times. We bagged some plant cutting and seeds, the green mangoes we harvested off the tree, and of course the customary Ilonggo “Putsiko” for the food to go. Other loots included handmade bracelets and necklaces by Edith Villaruz. More hugs and hysterical laughter as we waved, “until next reunion!”

We parted with sensory overload, full of nostalgic memories and great experiences! Once again, thanks to our hosts Delia and Steve Daus, the Organizing Committees in Iloilo, classmates and their spouses in attendance and God for our safe travels and provisions to be able to attend out 50th college reunion. I was such a gift and profound blessing!

Post Note:

“No distance of place or lapse of time can lessen the friendship of those who are thoroughly persuaded of each other’s worth.” – Robert Southey

While we sorely missed our classmates who were unable to join us to celebrate our Golden Jubilee due to illness and other compelling priorities, however, we were blessed with the presence of the following 69ers and husbands who attended some or all activities. Above all, we thank the Iloilo-based Planning and Organizing Committee: Angel Robles (coordinator), Angie Majaducon, Lucille Krasemann, Lydia Robles, Miray Pedregosa and Ruth Griño, for your hard work behind the scenes in making our 50th fun and memorable event!

Hasta luego, fellow 69ers…and let the memory live again!

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CPU College of Nursing batch 89 reunites after 30 years

By Francis Neil G. Jalando-on with notes from Geoffrey Leysa

The College of Nursing Batch 89 is getting ready for the whitewater rafting.

The CPU College of Nursing batch 1989 had their 30th reunion at Glenwood Springs, a resort city in Colorado last June 27 to 30, 2019.

The Centralians who gathered for fellowship, recollection, and fun with their classmates and families first gathered at the house of their classmate and organizer of the group, Joy Obedencia. They then proceeded to Rifle Falls. The triple 70-foot waterfalls flowing over a travertine dam on East Rifle Creek is situated in a 48-acre park. After this adventure they checked in for the night at Glenwood Springs.

Live.Love.Laugh – a great theme for a reunion and a greater reminder for as we face life every day.

The CPUBSN 89 gathered for a reunion at Glenwood Springs, a resort city in Colorado.

They dared to enroll at CPU 30 years ago, and together they dared to row the rapids of Colorado.

The next day they hiked for 3 hours towards the Hanging Lake, an area in Glenwood Canyon which is rich with wildlife and striking turquoise waters. After the long hike full of stories about their time in the CPU campus and current events, they proceeded to the Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park. They explored the ancient underground caves at the Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park.

On the third day, these Centralian nurses and their families decided to spend their day enjoying whitewater rafting on the Colorado and Roaring Fork Rivers in Glenwood Springs. After the exciting experience, they went to soak in the Iron Mountain Hot Springs while enjoying the company of each other.

Before they went their separate ways on June 30, the assembled Centralians had a photography session with a professional. It was indeed a reunion worth remembering.

http://cpu.edu.ph

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CPU Welcomes Freshmen, New Students during Annual Orientation

By Rusieljs G. Lunasco

1st year COED students cheer for their college.

Over three-thousand new students and college freshmen were welcomed by university and student government officials during the General Orientation last July 4-5, 2019 at the Rose Memorial Auditorium. The Office of Student Development and Programs as well as the CPU Republic spearheaded the said event.

The program started with a devotional by Rev. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on, CPU Director for Communications. He shared an acrostic of CPU to the students: C – Commitment to Jesus Christ, Christian Mission and the Christian Church; P – Partners in proclaiming the gospel of Jesus Christ; U – Unity of Scientia et Fides.

Singer-song writer and CPU alumnus, Ethan Loukas performs one of his hit songs.

In his opening remarks, CPU President Dr. Teodoro C. Robles welcomed the students and encouraged them to explore the complexities of college. He also advised them to be open to learn new things and to stay strong and resilient despite all the difficulties and demands of academic life at Central.

“Do not be afraid to fail or to make mistakes. They are part of life. They will make you grow. But never make this reality as an excuse to not strive for excellence. Believe in the goodness of humanity but also trust your instinct when dealing with new people. Most importantly, have faith in the Lord Almighty for many may our plans be, it is His purpose that will prevails” Robles said.

CPU Vice President for Finance and Administration, Dr. Florence Bogacia briefed the students of emergency measures in case of an earthquake and explained to them their tuition payment and insurance. They were also introduced to the various units under the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs.

After the orientation proper, the students were given a welcome party by the CPUR and the University Church.

The orientation also featured several performances from alumnus and singer-songwriter Ethan Loukas and various cultural groups such as the CPU Handbell Ringers, the CPU EXCEL Chorale, CPU Dance Company and the CPU Symphonic Band.

Held annually, the General Orientation welcomes new students and college freshmen to the university. They are introduced to university and student government officials, staff and the different sites on campus.

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CPU joins City Wide Tree Planting Activity

By Rusieljs G. Lunasco

(from left) CPU College of Arts and Sciences Dean Dr. Stella Fernandez with CPU Safety Officer and Chairman of CPU Sustainable Committee Mr. Prim Vergara III, CPU Sustainable Committee Member  and Director  for Institutional Advancement Engr. Dimpna Castigador former Iloilo City Assistant Prosecutor and current member of CPUAAI BOT Atty. Jeremy Bionat.

Central Philippine University in cooperation with the CPU Sustainable Campus Committee joined the City-Wide, Multi-Sectoral Tree Planting Activity spearheaded by the Office of the City Mayor, last July 13, 2019 at the circumferential road along Jaro District.

Mr. Prim Vergara III, CPU Safety Officer and Chairman of the Sustainable Campus Committee, Engr. Dimpna Castigador, CPU Director for Institutional Advancement and member of the said committee and Mr. Jojee Roy Juarez, CPU Internet Services Administrator and Director of the CPU College Red Cross Youth were accompanied by members of the CPU ROTC and CPU Biological Society, headed by Prof. Analie Gilongos and Dr. Stella Fernandez respectively

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PRC and CPU collaborate in 2019 Blood Olympics

By Cyrus A. Natividad

A Red Cross Volunteer extracts blood from a donor.

This year’s Blood Olympics activity held at Central Philippine University has generated a higher volume of blood donation compared to the previous year. Philippine Red Cross Iloilo Chapter Representatives Joji Esper Marmolejo-Autajay, CPU-RN (CSR Health Services), and Kim Bryan Diez, RN, Blood Donor Recruitment Officer (PRC-Western Visayas Regional Blood Center) attributed the increase to the enthusiastic support of students, faculty and staff of the university, and the active partnership of PRC and CPU in the blood donation drive.

In an interview with the PRC representatives on CPU TV’s Looking Forward, Marmolejo and Diez recounted the support and role of Central Philippine University to the success of Iloilo Red Cross operations for 16 years. They also acknowledged the instrumental role of Jojee Roy T. Juarez, CPU Internet Services Administrator and Director of the CPU College Red Cross Youth, for the blood donation drives of PRC through the years.

Donors sign up for registration at the 2019 Blood Olympics.

In the same interview, James Peter T. Trasporto, OIC – Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs, likewise acknowledged “that the partnership of CPU with Philippine Red Cross has done much in sustaining emergency response for preciously needed blood donations”. The talk show also touched on the critical issue of Dengue outbreak and preventive measures needed by the University to protect the students and everyone in the campus.

Due to the need for precious blood supply during dengue situations, the Philippine Red Cross and Central Philippine University proactively hold blood donation campaign drives such as the annual Blood Olympics.

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CPU Junior High School observes earthquake drill

By Cyrus A. Natividad

JHS Students evacuated at the Big Field during the earthquake drill.

More than 1,400 junior high school students and faculty members of the CPU Junior High School actively participated during the earthquake drill last July 16, 2019.

JHS Principal Prof. Janet Jalbuena called it a practice drill – preparatory to a bigger earthquake drill. “The next earthquake drill will involve students from different departments,” Security Officer Jonathan C. Tumalay said.

JHS Faculty assemble in the Big Field during the earthquake drill.

The sound of the school bell signaled the start of the drill at 2:45 p.m. wherein the students performed the “duck, cover, and hold” exercise.

From the Junior High School Building, students, faculty and staff proceeded to the CPU Big Field, their designated evacuation area.

The Junior High School earthquake drill ended up with a debriefing at around 4:00PM headed by CPU Incident Management Team chaired by Vice President for Finance and Administration, Dr. Florence P. Bogacia.

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CPUAA Midwest, USA Chapter holds its annual picnic

By Yolanda P. Jain

The CPU Alumni Association of Midwest, USA Chapter in their Annual Picnic last July 14, 2019.

CPU President Dr. Teodoro C. Robles, together with Mrs. Angel Robles, visited the CPU Alumni Association of Midwest, USA Chapter during their Annual Picnic on July 14, 2019 at Sundown Blackwell Forest Preserve North Shelter, Winfield Rd, Warrenville, Illinois.

Alumni coming from as far away as Ontario, Canada (Linda Oro Freisen and husband Paul), Florida (Dr. Manny Palada), Oklahoma (Derla Guzon Erwin) and from Indiana and Florida (Nellie Obligacion and her daughter and son in law) attended the momentous event with fellow alumni and friends from the Chicagoland area. There were 100 alumni and guests who attended the picnic.

The alumni enjoyed a delicious array of Filipino dishes compliments of the chapter that were enjoyed by all!

The highlights of the picnic were the visit of CPU President Dr. Robles and the book launching of Oliver Almonares’ book: “THE RESCUE God’s Amazing Grace.”

President Robles gave us an update of the “latest happenings and news” about 3 followed by Flora Cudiamat, CPUFOAA President’s invitation to attend the Alumni Grand Homecoming in CPU this coming February 5 to 9, 2020. May Celiz Rogers, CPUAA Midwest USA Chapter President welcomed the alumni and guests to the Annual Picnic.

Members of the CPU Alumni Association in Midwest, USA with University President, Dr. Teodoro Robles.

Oliver was also our featured speaker during our Devotional part of the picnic, “Worship Thru Songs, Scriptures and Stories” when he shared his “life story”, his testimony of how under his command, the 15th Philippine Scout Ranger Company, was able to rescue the American Missionary, Gracia Burnham kidnapped by the Abu Sayyaf! And his own “Amazing Rescue” from “self-centered ambitiousness to selfless service, defiance to submission, indifference to love and rot to redemption!”

It was truly the Central Spirit that binds us together as we ended the program with a big circle of alumni and friends holding hands while singing “Blest Be the Tie that Binds”, after which Perla Londres Waters gave the closing prayer.

(Special thanks: to Kayla Tejero for her beautiful rendition of “How Great Thou Art”, to Linda Penacerrada Chang for the opening prayer, to Florence Mapeso Abiera for leading the singing, to Joy Bolinas Sia and Ruby Nunez Liu for leading the games.)

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The Golden Jubilarians: Making More Memories Day 4 (A Weekly Series)

By Sarla Ferrer-Duller and Emelda Frange-Valcarcel

The Golden Jubilarians during the 2nd Worship Service at the University Church.

Memory … just like the famous song from the Broadway musical Cats, the Central Philippine University (CPU) College of Nursing class of 1969 AKA the 69ers, dreamed of the old days and remembered that life was beautiful then as they commemorated their Golden Jubilee from February 7 to 12, 2019. Attended by 25 69ers and some 12 husbands, the class reunion was celebrated in the provinces of Iloilo and Antique, and in six different venues: CPU; Iloilo Mission Hospital (IMH); Tambaliza/Pan de Azucar Island in Concepcion, Iloilo; Dingle, Iloilo; San Jose, Antique; and Pavia, Iloilo.

Day Four – 10 February 2019. San Jose, Antique

February 10, 2019, was God’s Grace Sunday and most Jubilarians attended the 9:30 AM worship service at the University Church after which they dined with the recipients of the God’s Grace Program, a work-study programs sponsored by President Ted Robles. Around 1:30 PM, the group was set to go to the next activity/venue, in another province some 101.5 kilometers away in San Jose, Antique. After freshening up, they were ready for the night’s event that laid ahead.

Zenaida (Paday) Catague-Tubaniosa and hubby Jess in their beachfront mansion surrounded with various verdant ornamental plants had readied the sumptuous catered all-you-can-eat dinner, overflowing beverages. The all-coordinated trimmings provided a festive party ambiance unique to Antique with a hired deejay playing the nonstop background music to the listening pleasure of attendees. Invited local Antiqueño talents, composers and celebrities entertained the Jubilarians and guests with songs sung mostly in kinaray-a and folk dances agilely and graciously performed by the local high school students in their festal Maria Clara and other native costumes.

Golden Jubilarians during the Candle and Prayer Ceremony in Antique.

Then came the most-awaited highlight of the evening: the Prayer and Candle Ceremony in memory and honor of the four classmates who had returned to their Creator: Nanette Garganera who died who lupus during our senior year, Nana Jutare from cancer, Linda Sindico-Musharaf from complications of diabetes mellitus, and Edith Saludes from an unknown cause. Paday and Jess prepared a semblance of an altar specific for solemn ceremony: lace-covered table, a candle and a flower arrangement in front of each graduation picture of the four classmates. During the Prayer Ceremony, classmates took turns reading verses/prayers and responsorial Psalms off a booklet that Jess prepared for this special occasion. Sarla gave a short introduction about the practice of lighting candles in memory of departed classmates. The lighting of candles gave us time to reflect on our relationships with them as well as brought focus and comfort for us who believed in the practice. After the short introduction, one by one of classmates and some spouses stepped up to the makeshift altar, briefly prayed and lighted a candle for each classmate. May you four eternally rest in God’s peace!

The Candle Lighting Ceremony was followed by merriment- dancing, dancing, and more dancing to the boogie tune of In The Mood, and other music for ballroom dancing to the discretion of the deejay. Meanwhile, the attendees incessantly went back and forth to the buffet table, refilling their plates and just minding their own business. Meanwhile, on the side line, Betty Triño-Polido and husband Willie looked like they were seriously practicing a dance routine, and oblivious to the lookers.

The day’s good times rolled to an end for tomorrow would be another reunion day!

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Central Spirit leads her home (LTJG Palmares Story)

By Nestle G. Taala 

CPU College of Nursing Alumnus, Lieutenant Junior Grade (LTJG) Tiffany Ann Palencia Palmares.

Central Philippine University, known to produce students equipped with exemplary Christian education, serves not only as a mere institution in which students learn and go, rather an abode, a home where Centralians remember to pay a visit no matter how far they have wandered.

The life of Tiffany Ann Palencia Palmares, a Centralian alumna, speaks not just of God’s calling but of God’s leading as well, and how He works mysteriously in the lives of His people.

Before serving the Philippine Navy full-time, Lieutenant Junior Grade (LTJG) Tiffany Ann Palencia Palmares was a Bachelor of Science in Nursing student batch 2011 of Central Philippine University and graduated as Cum Laude. Furthermore, she was able to bring pride and honor to CPU College of Nursing and the whole Centralian community when she placed 7th out of 22,760 successful examinees in the December 2011 Nurse Licensure Examination with a rating of 84.60%. Truly, the doors for such profession would easily be opened because of her said achievement. However, since God has the master plan, she only had eight months of experience in the nursing field.

Lieutenant Junior Grade (LTJG) Tiffany Palmares with Navy Reservist Diether Ocampo, CPU College of Nursing Dean, Atty. Salex Alibogha and College of Nursing faculty, staff and students.

Thereafter, LTJG Palmares decided to enter and serve in the Philippine Navy, not as navy nurse or military nurse but a line officer. She trained for almost ten months and was assigned as tactical officer which gave her the opportunity to train incoming and aspiring navy like she was before. On 2017, LTJG Palmares also took the opportunity to learn and to be trained as a pilot. “By the grace of God” she passed the said training with an award as Best in Academics. She also received numerous Military Merit Medals, Military Commendation Medals and Letter of Commendations. Currently, she is a co-pilot of Agusta Westland 109E Naval Helicopter; Admin and Publication Branch Chief, Office of the Naval Air Staff for Admin and Personnel; and Assistant Admin Officer, Office of the Commander, Naval Air Group, Philippine Fleet.

On July 16, LTJG Palmares visited CPU and the College of Nursing as her way of saying thank you to those who were instrumental in her college years. Likewise, she shared in an interview, “Although I wasn’t able to apply all the things I’ve learned in nursing school in the military, the discipline, like for example in inspections, was also very similar to what was taught to me in nursing: you follow rules and you will never go wrong.”

LTJG Palmares, a Centralian registered nurse who pursued her career in serving Philippines and her people as part of the navy, shared that Central Spirit is something which cannot be seen but one can feel.  “I really can’t define it. I think it’s about feeling welcome whenever I come back.” Whenever she hears a new colleague who is also a Centralian, their bond becomes automatic. According to her, Central Spirit is a feeling; it is love for Central and for fellow Centralians.

Truly, wherever someone chose to meander, the Central Spirit will always take every Centralian home – to our beloved Central Philippine University.

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CPU Conducts University-Wide Dengue Preventive Measures

By Rusieljs G. Lunasco

Dengue preventive measures such as thermal fogging were conducted in all areas around the campus.

Central Philippine University conducted a University-Wide Dengue Control Measure operation last July 19-20, 2019. Office work and classes in all levels were cancelled to give way for the said program.

“To address the dengue outbreak in the city and other areas in the province, we opted to drastically approach the situation with a pest control measure, which we coined as dengue control measures,” said Mr. Prim Vergara III, CPU Safety Officer.

University Unit Directors and Heads, led by Vice President for Finance and Administration Dr. Florence Bogacia had an emergency meeting on July 18 at the Henry Luce III Library. It was decided that classes and office work will be cancelled on the 19th and 20th, so the dengue control measures could fully take place.

Thermal fogging being carried out in one of the classrooms.

Dengue preventive measures such as thermal fogging and residual spraying were carried out during the said dates. Dormers and residents on campus were advised to leave their homes from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm on July 20.

“This is not something we could eradicate overnight. We are continually monitoring all areas on campus and we will do follow-up residual spraying,” Vergara said.

Last July 23, sumilarv, a chemical, was deposited in sedated water areas around the campus. It is applied by broadcasting to areas where water has accumulated to kill mosquito wrigglers right at the source.

Iloilo province was placed under a state of calamity on July 24, due to a rise in the number of dengue cases.

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Carnaje, bags 3 medals at WCOPA 2019

By Rusieljs G. Lunasco

Carnaje poses for a photo at the Long Beach Performing Arts Center.

hn Bryan Carnaje, a CPU Master of Business Administration (MBA) student from 2015-2019, bagged three medals during the World Championships of  Performing Arts (WCOPA) last July 12-21, 2019 at the Long Beach Performing Arts Center, Long Beach, California, USA.

Carnaje won gold medal as well as champion of the world in the Country and Western Music category and division, respectively, silver medal in the Latin category and bronze for the Original Works category.

“I feel so happy and blessed. It’s truly an honor to represent the Philippines in the world stage,” Carnaje said.

Carnaje, with fellow WCOPA Champion Jed Madela.

Prior to joining the WCOPA, Carnaje worked as a Human Resource Officer at a construction firm and was enrolled in the MBA Program of the CPU School of Graduate Studies.

“I sacrificed a lot for the competition. I had to resign from work and put graduate school on hold. It was really difficult,” Carnaje said.

Aside from preparing for the competition, Carnaje also had to raise funds to cover for his travel expenses and allowance. He said he is “forever grateful” to all his family and friends who supported him.

“I am thankful to everyone who helped me throughout this journey, most especially the CPU community; to Dr. Teodoro Robles and my Graduate School family,” Carnaje said. He also shared that he was able to affirm the “Central Spirit” through the generous hearts of Sir Geoffrey Leysa and the CCINAA (CPU-Capiz Emmanuel Hospital-Iloilo Mission Hospital Nurses Alumni Association) who made sure he was well-taken care of during his stay in the US.

“I dedicate my WCOPA win to CPU, to the Ilonggos and all the Filipinos,” Carnaje said.

World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA) is an Olympic-style international meet for aspiring singers, musicians, dancers, variety artists, actors and models. Contestants from over 60 countries join the said competition each year.

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CPU BS in Social Work joins Project Kings

By Nestle G. Taala

CPU Social Work Students with Nursing Students from National University of Singapore in Badiangan.

Selected Fourth Year students of Central Philippine University Bachelor of Science in Social Work, who are currently on their practicum, together with their faculty facilitated the Medical Mission activity of YMCA Singapore in Badiangan, Iloilo on July 22.

The Medical Mission is one of the activities under Project Kings – a title given by the partner of YMCA Singapore, the Nursing students of National University of Singapore. They conducted a consultation which included checkup for vital signs, blood pressure, blood sugar and many more. The people of Badiangan also received free medicines. On the other hand, the BS in Social Work students were able to listen to the concerns of the beneficiaries of the said activity and assess some important matters.

Nursing students from NUS also brought medicine supplies for the locals.

The group then visited the House of Hand-loom weaving in Iloilo at Barangay Cabayugan, Badiangan as well as the site for Bolo-making in same municipality where both Singaporean and Filipino participants enjoyed themselves.

Professor Carol Kay Blando, CPU Social Work faculty, organized the programs of YMCA Singapore during their entire visit in Iloilo. She noted that the experience of their practicum in national and international linkages are helpful in their communication and interviewing skills, in facilitating activities and in delivering programs and services to those who are in need thereof.

YMCA Singapore in partnership with YMCA of Iloilo, Inc. had visited and conducted activities in Lanit, Asilo de Molo, Iloilo Provincial Hospital and Sustenance Abuse Training Rehab Center.

Moreover, they also engaged the Palanguia National High School and Badiangan National high School for Community Education in Teenage Pregnancy.

Prof. Joel Galicia, faculty; Eleazar R. Blando, YMCA of Iloilo, Inc. General Secretary; Andrew Leo, Program Director, YMCA Singapore; volunteer doctors and workers; as well as Centralian Officials gave effort and rendered their presence to make the event a success.

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RCECC hosts Chinese Professor from Henan Polytechnic School

By Cyrus A. Natividad

Chinese students and CPU officials, faculty and staff with Prof. Huilai Zhi (center).

Professor Huilai Zhi from Henan Polytechnic University School of Computer Science was at Central Philippine University from July 23 to 24, 2019 as Resource Speaker for a couple of seminars entitled Event Relationship Analysis Based on Formal Concept Analysis and Machine Learning Paradigm: Implementing Reinforcement Learning to Various Computing Disciplines. Both seminars were at the CPU Educational Media Center.

An Introductory Lecture Seminar entitled “Analysis, Formulation and Implementation of Algorithms into System Development” was also given by Hui on July 22 during the opening program. He was welcomed by CPU Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Irving Domingo L. Rio and was introduced by CPU BS IT and BS IS Department Chairman Rea P. Balontong.

The Resource Speaker, Hualai Zhi was born in Luoyang, Henan Province, China. He is currently an Associate Professor of Henan Polytechnic University.

Zhi finished Bachelor’s in Computer Science and Technology from Jiaozuo Institute of Technology in 2003, his Master’s Degree in Hydraulic Engineering from Xhihua University in 2007 and his Ph.D. Degree in Engineering from Shanghai University in 2010.

His current research interests include granular computing, and formal concept analysis among others.  He has published more than 20 academic papers in Chinese Journal of Computers, Chinese Journal of Electronics and International Journal of Machine Learning and Cybernetics.

The Review, Continuing Education and Consultancy Center of Central Philippine University continues to bring in Valuable and Related Seminars for Students, Faculty and Staff. For inquiries and reservations contact RCECC at Tel No. (033) 329-1971 loc. 1008/fax no. (033) 329-0265 or email rceccsec@cpu.edu.ph

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CPU Grad School holds Students General Orientation 2019

By Cyrus A. Natividad

Graduate students during their orientation last July 13, 2019 at the Educational Media Center.

Central Philippine University School of Graduate Studies held its general orientation for students on July 13, 2019 at the Educational Media Center – with 678 students enrolled in different programs in Doctoral and Masteral Degrees.

Dr. Rowena M. Libo-on, Dean, School of Graduate Studies opened the program by presenting the rules and systems requirement, examination and grading of the Graduate Studies Curriculum. Libo-on encouraged the students to be keen on their studies and completion of requirements. The Coordinators of the various tracks in Masteral and Doctoral programs were also given time to present and accommodate questions on particular issues as regards their curriculum.

The CPU School of Graduate Studies offers the following courses:

Doctor of Management major in: Public Management, Developmental Management, Business Management, Tourism and Hospitality Management.

Doctor of Education major in: Administration and Supervision, Curriculum and Instruction, Guidance and Counseling.

Doctor of Ministry major in: Church Leadership and Management, Pastoral Counseling and Clinical Pastoral Supervision.

Master in Public Administration (Thesis and Non-Thesis), Master of Arts in English, Master of Arts in English Language and Literature, Master of Arts in Sociology, Master of Science in Social Work, Master of Social Work (Non-Thesis), Master in Business Administration major in Tourism and Hospitality Management, Master in Business Administration (Thesis and Non-Thesis), Master in Computer Science (Non-Thesis), Master of Science in Computer Science (Thesis), Master of Divinity, Master of Ministry, Master of Theology, Master of Arts in Education major in: Administration and Supervision, Filipino (Thesis), Mathematics, Physical Education (Thesis and Non-Thesis), Physics, Master of Science in Guidance and Counseling, Master in Library and Information Science, Master in Library and Information Science major in Theological Librarianship, Master in Education major in Filipino (Non-Thesis), Master of Engineering major in CE, ChE, EE, ME, Master in Engineering major in Engineering Education with specialization in ChE, CE and ME, Master of Arts in Nursing, Master in Agricultural Economics, Master of Science in Agriculture major in Agronomy.

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The Golden Jubilarians: Making More Memories Day 5 (A Weekly Series)

By Sarla Ferrer-Duller and Emelda Frange-Valcarcel

The Golden Jubilarians pose for a photo during Lucille Palabrica Kraseman’s birthday in Antique.

Memory … just like the famous song from the Broadway musical Cats, the Central Philippine University (CPU) College of Nursing class of 1969 AKA the 69ers, dreamed of the old days and remembered that life was beautiful then as they commemorated their Golden Jubilee from February 7 to 12, 2019. Attended by 25 69ers and some 12 husbands, the class reunion was celebrated in the provinces of Iloilo and Antique, and in six different venues: CPU; Iloilo Mission Hospital (IMH); Tambaliza/Pan de Azucar Island in Concepcion, Iloilo; Dingle, Iloilo; San Jose, Antique; and Pavia, Iloilo.

Day Five – 11 February 2019. San Jose, Antique. Happy Birthday, Lucille Palabrica  Kraseman!

Those who stayed in the hotel woke up and took an early dip in the nearby beach while Paday and Jess prepared, packed and brought breakfast to the beach house where the rest of the classmates were billeted. Breakfast was devoured as quickly as it was served. Shortly after, the long table broke up into smaller interest groups. In one group, classmates were telling funny stories about their experiences in a foreign land especially during the first year of acculturation. Some were sharing their life stories on how they transcended challenges and hard knocks as immigrants. Grandmas bragged about their children’s children. Others were laughing over kwentong barber, adult-rated jokes, while some opted to just the watch the kids at play in the beach whiling the time away for the next activity/venue.

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Not in the shadows anymore

By Francis Neil G. Jalando-on

In an article on April 1946 by The Central Echo, one headline says, “They Cast a Powerful Shadow on the Campus.” They have been called “shadows” because oftentimes the American missionaries were always featured in the news. These three “shadows” were Urbano Nequin, the Registrar and Secretary; Mariano Caipang, the Comptroller; and Prof. Juan Sornito, the Supervising Engineer. They were described as “Great souls these – but unknown.” It is then the responsibility of the new generation of Centralians to know more about these people.

Let’s get to know more about these distinguished Centralians.

Urbano Nequin was described as “Faithful, strict custodian of the college records. Chief consultant of the administration and far-flung policies.”

Linnea A. Nelson and Elma S. Herradura in their book Scientia et Fides The Story of Central Philippine University published in 1991 told “The Saga of the Nequins and the School Records.” It recounted how Mr. Urbano Nequin and his family secured the records of the Registrar’s Office. When they knew that war would be coming to Iloilo, Mr. Nequin decided to bring his family to the hills of Calinog. Rev. R. Fred Chambers, President of CPC during that time, came to Calinog with a jeep and delivered the records that Mr. Nequin prepared for transport. They put the records in a cave in which their nipa house stood. Later they secured the records by putting it inside an empty metal water tank. Mr. Nequin joined the guerrillas, and it was up to Mrs. Teofila D. Nequin to take care of the records. When there was rain, Mrs. Nequin and their small children would roll the tank to their house. When alerted that Japanese soldiers will come in their area, they would roll the tank back to the cave again. When the war was over, they put the records inside the pillows, wrapped them with banana leaves and secured them at the top part of their house. It was a miracle that when CPC opened its doors in 1946, all the records of the Registrar’s Office were intact. And as of this time, all records before World War II are still with us.

Mariano Caipang was remembered for “His mastery of college finance placed Central Philippine College ‘in the black’ in spite of dire predictions. He is the campus reconstruction administrator.” If you wonder what “in the black” means, it is the opposite of “in the red” – operating in a loss. This tells us that Mr. Caipang did a marvelous job as a Comptroller after the war – balancing the books of the school while pouring money into the reconstruction of the campus after destruction brought by World War II.

One of the notable things that Mr. Caipang did was to preserve the records of the Business Office before and during World War II. Together with the cashier, Mr. Jovito Gonzales they inventoried all the physical properties of CPC before the hostilities arrived in Iloilo. Every weekend, Mr. Caipang would bring the records to Leon for safekeeping. Upon knowing that the Japanese soldiers were coming, Mr. Gonzales took the college cash box, put it in a large sack together with canned goods. He was then able to ride the last bus going to Leon. Together with Mr. Caipang, they ingeniously buried the sack with the cash in an open toilet pit. Later, when the war was over, the money that they hid was used for the immediate repairs of the campus.  CPC would later receive war reparations under the Philippine Rehabilitation Act of 1946 due to diligent pre-war inventory efforts of Mr. Caipang.

Many alumni also testified about the compassion of Mr. Caipang. He would often sign promissory notes when poor but deserving students cannot pay their tuition fees on the prescribed time. These alumni who would come back during reunions in the campus would always visit Mr. Caipang and thank him for what he has done. Later, Mariano Caipang became the Vice President for Finance when CPC became Central Philippine University. He served CPU for 40 long distinguished years.

Prof. Juan Sornito, on the other hand, was greatly remembered for “He reconstructed five buildings on the old campus.” It was indeed a short statement, but the magnitude of what he has done speaks volumes. In another article, The Central Echo bannered this headline: “Back to the Old Campus. Destroyed Buildings Now Repaired; Prof. Sornito Is Guiding Engineer.”

In order to appreciate what Engr. Sornito has done, we have to describe the results of the war: “All buildings and equipment were levelled to the ground or reduced to ashes, except for six modern concrete structures, shells of which remain standing either lightly or badly damaged. They are: Valentine Hall (administration and classrooms), Lopez Hall (mess hall for boys), Franklin Hall (boy’s dormitory), Roblee Hall (Science building), Weston Hall (girl’s dormitory), and the President’s House. Words cannot describe the extent of the damage done. All that can be said is that the destruction is TOTAL in capital letters.” All of these were reconstructed and were ready for the classes that started on July 1946. Engr. Sornito worked closely together with Comptroller Caipang and Meliton Sornito as foreman. The Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Don Ramon Lopez, was also tasked to oversee the overall reconstruction effort.

The Central Echo gave tribute to these three men – “These men carry more than their ordinary load for which they get no salary; they go out of their way and do a lot more things than many people know, testimony of their talents and their consecration. We have seen Mr. Nequin fall ill at his desk, Prof. Sornito sleep at 2 o’clock in the morning pondering over engineering figures, Mr. Caipang hiking in the rain in shirt sleeves collecting pledges and looking after the campus property.”

These people played a big role in Central’s history. And when we remember them, and learn lessons from them, they’re not considered “shadows” anymore.