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Centralians in Mass Media Alumni Association conducts interviews with visiting CPU Alumni

CPUAA College of Nursing alumna Lucia Suchikul.

About being a Centralian, Yasay reiterated his pride and said that “Central Spirit is the power within oneself that enables me to connect with anyone in any situation, particularly for the love and support of Central Philippine University and its Alumni.” He added that “CPU is like a Central Processing Unit that lets us do great things for God and the Institution.”

Forty Centralians of Northern California Alumni Chapter led by its President, Cathy Leyble Kriewall, and members took time to express their admiration for Central Philippine University. In an interview at the Rose Memorial Auditorium, where they registered on Wednesday, February 5, Kriewall observed how CPU developed through the years. “These new buildings are impressive, “noting that these were mostly built by gift (donations) from the alumni.

Centralians in Mass Media Alumni Association conducts interviews with visiting CPU Alumni

CPUAA Northern California chapter members during the motorcade for the Alumni Grand Homecoming 2020.

Centralians in Mass Media (CMM) Alumni Association conducted interviews with visiting Centralians during the Grand Alumni Homecoming 2020. Among the interviewees were former Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary and former Central Philippine University Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Perfecto Yasay, Jr (CPU Political Science -1967).

He is a distinguished CPU alumnus and served as Chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission, during the Estrada administration. The diplomatic Centralian who had spent many years in public service intelligently responded to questions from members of the Centralian Media at the CPU Alumni Office – with CMM President Rufino ‘Pinoy’ Gonzales, Cyrus Natividad, and Jason Pagunsan. He was also asked questions about his family, his personal opinions on urgent matters of concern to the state and society; including his role in government and foreign relations.

CPU hosts first BOT Night

Tawag ng Tanghalan Finalist and College of Engineering alumnus JM Bales performed his signature songs.

It was a night of fun and dancing as guests enjoyed performances from balladeer Dr. Jesse Penacerrada, Warner Music Philippines Artist Ethan Loukas, Tawag ng Tanghalan finalist JM Bales, and WVPRISAA Dance Sports Champions Mico Andrei J. Hechanova and Aleia Robbyn Muyco.

During the program, the Board of Trustees also presented their proposed project of the CPU LED Wall Display project to be put up in the Main Entrance and the Flag Pole Rotonda. Announcements will be put up in the said LED Walls instead of printing them in tarpaulins. The project has an estimated cost of PHP 5,000,000.

The university is accepting donations. You can donate to the following accounts:

Peso Account:

BPI (Bank of the Philippine Islands) Branch: Solis Street, Iloilo City Account Name: Central Philippine University Account Number: 924-8173-48

Dollar Account:

BPI (Bank of the Philippine Islands) Branch: Solis Street, Iloilo City Account Name: Central Philippine University Account Number: 9244-0001-31 Swift Code: BOPIPHMM

Note: Donation must be deposited/remitted in the name of Central Philippine University. The donor is advised to inform the University (through [email protected]) of his/her donation by sending a copy of the bank transaction or any pertinent info.

The BOT Night was hosted by Atty. Peter Irving C. Corvera, and Ms. Carmelle Frances M. Romero.

CPU hosts first BOT Night

Alumni and friends pose for a commemorative picture.

Atty. Peter Irving C. Corvera, Vice Chairman of the CPU BOT, explained the reason behind the BOT Night. He said that it was the first time in the history of CPU that such an event happened. The main reason is to introduce the BOT Members to the alumni and all officials of the university. The Chairman of the CPU BOT, Atty. Von Lovel D. Bedona, acknowledged everyone and stressed that all alumni of CPU are VIPs or Very Important Persons.

“The Alumni has a very important role in this university,” said CPU President Dr. Teodoro during his greetings. He also expressed his thanks to the alumni and gave credit to their support to the success of the university. Dr. Robles also gave a brief report through an audio-video presentation.

CPU hosts first BOT Night

Atty. Peter Corvera and Ms. Carmelle hosted the first-ever CPU BOT Night.

Central Philippine University hosted its first-ever Board of Trustees Night on Thursday, February 6, 2020, at the Iloilo Convention Center.

The Board of Trustees Night was held in honor of the Board of Trustees, the Administration, the Corporation, Deans, Principals, Department Chairpersons and Unit Heads of the university as well as alumni coming from different parts of the world.

Thousands gather for Grand Alumni Homecoming Opening Celebration

A massive fireworks display concluded the opening night of the CPU Grand Alumni Homecoming 2020. (Photo Courtesy of Joshua Enriquez).

The crowd enjoyed the beautiful fireworks display and performances from Award-winning actor Cesar Montano (who is set to play Rev. Delfin Dianala in “Freedom Fighters” an upcoming Hollywood film that will feature the Hopevale story) Warner Music Philippines’ artist and College of Education Alumnus Ethan Loukas, the CPU Symphonic Band, the CPU Dance Company, CPUAAI, and various alumni chapters.

There were more than 1,500 Centralians who registered in the CPU Grand Alumni Homecoming.

Thousands gather for Grand Alumni Homecoming Opening Celebration

Dr. Teodoro Robles and Mrs. Angel Robles led the Golden Wedding Anniversary celebrants who were given due recognition.

Aside from members of active alumni chapters, various high school and college batches were also present in the event.

Attendees from youngest to oldest were recognized as well as couples celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary. Dr. Teodoro and Mrs. Angel Robles were among the Jubilarian couples.

Thousands gather for Grand Alumni Homecoming Opening Celebration

It was a barrio fiesta atmosphere during the Opening Night at the Big Field.

Alumni from different parts of the country and the world gathered for the Barrio Fiesta Opening Celebration of the Grand Alumni Homecoming on Wednesday night, February 5, 2020, at the Big Field.

In true Barrio Fiesta fashion, the field was reminiscent of a big Filipino party, with banderitas and hand-woven decor.

“It has always been my dream to hold the Alumni Homecoming here in CPU,” said CPU President Dr. Teodoro C. Robles in his welcome remarks. The Alumni Homecoming has been held in different parts of the world and it’s the first time in several years that it has made its way on the main campus. Dr.  Robles also thanked the alumni for their constant support to the university and its ongoing projects.

CPU Work Student Alumni Association celebrates Grand Alumni Homecoming 2020

Members of the CPU Work Student Alumni Association (from left) Mr. Cyrus Natividad, Mr. Nick Gazo , Mrs. Joy Laos  and Dr. Alberto Java.

The CPU Work Student Alumni Association, Inc. will be together again on February 4, 2020, a day before the Grand Alumni Home Homecoming 2020. The work students’ reunion will be held at the Alumni Promenade Park starting with registration at 4:00 PM. The program, dinner, and fellowship will follow after that.

Dr. Alberto Java, WSAA President in an interview acknowledged that “the reunion of work student alumni go beyond just revisiting our Alma Mater, or bonding and enjoying with former co-workers, classmates and Centralian friends.” He added, “I acknowledge the desire of our fellow alumni to be committed to continue helping the current work students in CPU.”

“Many of the CPU work students realized their dreams because of hard work,” Java said. “The testimonial part of the program will give the work students a chance to tell their stories of success, and look back to the time they went to college through the work-study program.”

The CPU Work Student Alumni Association’s Officers are doing their best to organize, coordinate and realize their grand reunion 2020.

CPU Work Student Association Officers

President                     Dr. Alberto Java

Vice President             Nicolas D. Gazo

Secretary                     Ruth G. Fernandez

Asst. Secretary            Fely D. armadillo

Treasurer                     Isidra A. Provendido

Asst. Treasurer            Emcy J. Sanchez

Auditor                       Venancio C. Parcon

PRO                            Richard C. Jaligon

Board of Directors:

Vilma J. Murillo

Cathyrine G. Baylen

Danilo P. Adolfo

Joy Suerte Laos

Elvie T. Napolis

Ma. Justa L. Pallo

Ricardo B. Fernandez

CPUAAI updates on developments and activities of CPU Grand Alumni Homecoming

Less than a week before the start of Grand Alumni Homecoming on February 5, 2020, the CPUAAI Publications Committee Chairperson, Daniel “Dan” P. Dorillo answered questions and queries from alumni all over the world in the January 29 episode of Looking Forward, CPU’s Public Affairs Program.

Dorillo detailed on the activities and program of the grand event from February 5 to 9. “The interesting celebration is above all reasons why the ‘Homecoming’ is worth coming home and joining with, said Dorillo. “Everyone must be looking forward to the day they will meet their long, lost classmates with news and stories on their memorable moments during their time at Central.”

“In most of the meetings and fellowships during the celebrations, the alumni must enjoy the lunches, dinners, snacks, native delicacies,” Dorillo added.

Dorillo announced some of the highlights of events during the Grand Alumni Homecoming 2020.

February 5, at 6 AM there will be a Motorcade Pamukaw by the Centralian Bikers Group, from CPU to Sta. Barbara. The Registration of Alumni and distribution of kits will be on the first day from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM as the opening of exhibits starts at 9:00 AM at the Henry Luce III Library. A brunch with alumni Chapter Presidents will be held from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the Educational Media Center (EMC). A Grand Parade and presentation of Alumni Chapters will be held at the Big Field from 6:00 PM onwards and the opening ceremonies, fellowships, and socials collectively called ‘Barrio Fiesta.’ A spectacular fireworks display will also follow.

On February 6 (next day), a Motorcade will start from CPU en route to the city and back. The rest of the day events will include the fellowship lunch at the University Gym, cultural show and recognition of Centralian Luminaries at the Rose Memorial Auditorium and CPUFOAA Business Meeting at the 4th Floor, Henry Luce III Library. One of the most awaited events is the GMA Kapuso Show (Exclusive for CPU students, faculty, staff, and alumni) at the Big Field.

The Gala Night and Coronation of Alumni Queen, and Induction of CPUFOAA Officers will be held at the Grand Xing Imperial Hotel in Iloilo City on Friday, February 7 with special performances by Totong Villaruz Band, Mr. Christian Bautista, and Mr. Jose Mari Chan.

February 8 (Saturday), will be a Free Day for all alumni who would like to make a trip to any Part of Panay and Guimaras, or take a rest. On the last day February 9 (Sunday), a Worship Service will be held at the University Church.

Dorillo is inviting all the alumni worldwide and is grateful to all Alumni Chapters who are showing their full support to the CPU Grand Alumni Homecoming. As planned, Dorillo and the committee will print-out a special newsletter entitled “The Central Beacon” for the duration of the homecoming celebration.

Pastor Tranquilino Dumdum: On Patience and Faith

On September 1, 2019, Sunday at about 3:30 pm, Rev. Tranquilino Dumdum was on his way home to Iloilo City from Concepcion where he preached at Brgy. Puntalis Baptist Church. He met an accident on a highway in Brgy. Santiago, Barotac Viejo. A wayward delivery man unexpectedly took over the lane, with his tricycle fastened to an iron grill pigpen, hitting Pastor Dumdum’s motorcycle.

The sudden impact threw Pastor Dumdum about two meters away; his motorcycle crumpled with his broken protective headgear. He realized that his kneecap was also broken.

He came back shortly to his consciousness with an unbearable pain felt in his leg and his body trembled. “But my spirit was unbroken”, he said. “I called on God, then my wife, relatives, and friends whose phones were out of signal. Bands of people were coming as bystanders quickly pulled me off the road. “No!” I said to one of the first aiders, “Don’t pull my legs.” I used to be a first-aider, so I got to lecture them at that fleeting moment with what has to be done first with my broken leg,” Dumdum recalls.

His church members, fellow pastors, and Centralian friends were at the Iloilo Mission Hospital in a short while. “God sent me His provision; I never looked at my hospital bill, I didn’t see the amount. I only saw the hearts of Christians and Centralians who were with me during that time of pain.” Help came pouring in from a lot of people whom Pastor Dumdum had previously helped, and from churches, he had served before.

“There were repeatedly some deep moments of regrets. A desperate thought was creeping in my mind. I thought I will end my life”, he said. “I recall a moment when I was lying on the road, waiting for the ambulance to come, and really surmised later that the Lord has enrolled me in a very difficult course of life. I believe that He would sustain me in this course, and I will be strengthened in the higher calling for God’s mission. I am reminded of Christ on the cross,” Pastor Dumdum reiterated. “I have a new lease in life now and I will be stronger than ever”, he added.

To Pastor Dumdum, “every adversity has a corresponding opportunity that comes to every man.” “God is there and He will provide me with everything I need,” he said. He is thankful for coming back gradually with a normal condition, eager to work for the Lord again.

The essence of what happened to me, Pastor Dumdum said is an insight that “Patience is not about how long I can wait, but with what kind of attitude I have while waiting.”

Pastor Dumdum is a pioneering minister of the Puntalis Baptist Church in Concepcion. According to him, the construction of Puntalis Church was funded by ‘Cast Thy Bread International’ Agency of Billy Graham in Amsterdam. Pastor Dumdum also said that he personally received the amount of Twenty Five Thousand Dollars from Billy Graham.

Pastor Tranquilino has been instrumental in the development and growth of other Churches, such as Toboso Evangelical Church in the Municipality of Toboso, Negros Occidental. The Church was founded by his father, Inocencio Dogomeo Dumdum and his mother Rosa Gantalao Mahilum. Inocencio was the first councilor of the Municipality of Toboso.

He is happily married to Josephine Galon who is also a Pastor and a College of Education Graduate. They have four children: Soula Dumdum Sanchez, Dorim Greg Dumdum, Rai Dumdum Espino and David Dumdum. All of their children are Centralians. He and his wife are residing in Zarraga, Iloilo.

Pastor Dumdum was born in Toboso on July 27, 1955. He studied in the CPU College of Theology from 1972 to 1974 and served as Pastor since 1977.

College of Theology alumnus leads relief operation for Taal eruption victims

Pastor Russell Ban, an alumnus of the CPU College of Theology, together with  Hinobaan, Negros Occidental Councilor Jason Tupas, led relief operations for victims of the Taal volcano eruption on January 16, 2020.

62,000 face masks were delivered to the residents as well as hand towels, 3 generator sets, goods, toiletries, used clothes, and water containers.

“Saludo po kami sa lahat ng donors and volunteers, nang dahil sa inyo may munting galak at tuwa sa mukha nang nasalanta nang pag alburoto nang Taal, Ban said on his Facebook post.

Ban and Tupas are both members of the Brotherhood of Capiz Riders. The group is accepting donations such as canned goods, water container and diapers for the second wave of their relief operations in Batangas.

For more information kindly contact LOVE- VA FLOW c/o Jason Tembrevilla Tupas (Negros) and Lorilee Candaliza Aguirre (Panay) at 09214484348.

CPU Alumnus to swim across Iloilo-Guimaras Strait

from left to right: Mr. Dan Gerona, Acting Registrar Ms. Charissa June Deocampo, Facilities Maintenance and Services Supervisor Engr. Rhett Allan Baldonado, Doctor of Management Student Mr. Xu Bin and Office of Communications Director Rev. Francis Neil Jalandoo-on.

Proceeds of the “Swim for a Cause” will be given to the God’s Grace Program of the University Church which will help give free meals and housing to struggling work students.

“I was a working student myself, so I know the hardships that they are going through,” said Gerona in an interview with Office of Communications Director Rev. Francis Neil Jalando-on. “Aside from raising funds for the work students, I also want to promote swimming as a life skill,” he added. Gerona is also an inventor of a Floater Paddle which is being used by swimming schools across the USA. You can visit https://floaterpaddle.com/ for more information.

Gerona (fifth from left) with other participants for the upcoming Centralian Swim for Life during their practice.

“Swim for a Cause” is spearheaded by Gerona and the CPU College of Agriculture Alumni Association and will be the first event of the Grand Alumni Homecoming on February 5, 7 am at the Fort San Pedro. As of now, those who confirmed to join him are a gym instructor, a scuba diver, a retired seaman, a swim coach, a teacher in a maritime school, and a doctoral student of CPU.

CPU Alumnus to swim across Iloilo-Guimaras Strait

Dan Gerona, a 1978 graduate of the BS Agriculture program, will attempt to swim across the Iloilo-Guimaras Strait on February 5, 2020 for the benefit of the Work Students of CPU. The distance from Fort San Pedro to Jordan, Guimaras is about 3.6 kilometers.

“This is the first year that we are doing this and we hope to do it annually,” Gerona said. “We have talked to government officials in Iloilo and Guimaras and they have been very supportive of this endeavor,” he added.

CPU Senior High School Principal updates on enrolment

The Senior High School Department is preparing for the influx of students for this coming School Year 2020-2021. Prof. Edgar A. Eriman, SHS Principal. “As of this School Year we already have 1,003 enrolled in Grade 11, and 900 in Grade 12,” he said.

“The department now is looking forward to reaching 1,500 enrollees for Grade 11, and 1,000 enrollees for Grade 12,” Eriman disclosed. The new Senior High School can accommodate 2,500 students if it extends its classes up to 7:00 PM.

The SHS has a unique position in terms of the Sports program of the University. Grade 11 students play together with the varsity of Junior High School while the Grade 12 students are with the College Varsity teams.

According to the observation of parents, the Central Philippine University Senior High School is most preferred in Iloilo City because of the facilities like air-conditioned classrooms, competent teachers, and educational strands offered. The following are the strands: Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM); Accountancy, Business and Management (ABM), Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS).

So that you are assured of a slot in the next school year, you may pay now a reservation fee of P500. The reservation for slots has started last October and as of this time, there are only 100 slots available.

JEC Konoinia Centralians led gift-giving activities

The Koinonia group Jaro Evangelical Church which is composed of Centralians led gift-giving activities in several communities of Iloilo on December 17 and 18, 2019.

Gifts were distributed on the first day, December 17 in Calajunan, Mandurriao, Kalye 2, Lapuz and Creekside Baptist Church, Dungon C. On Day 2, December 18 the distribution of the gifts were at the Riverside Community Chapel in Pavia, Pagsangaan Baptist Church, Pavia, New Life Community Church Leganes Outreach, Zarraga Evangelical Church Outreach, Palanguia Outreach, Pototan, Barotac Nuevo Evangelical Church, and Dumangas Baptist Church, Tabucan.

The outreach group is a Christ-centered organization based in Jaro Evangelical Church with members who are mostly Centralians. It is anchored on partnership and service related to the church mission. The church group was organized and had its first induction of officers in 2012. Since then the Koinonia group has been active in community work.

The group is guided by their 5SW (Service, Study, Support, Sharing, Socializing, and Worship). Koinonia is a Greek term which means “fellowship.”

Book Fair 2020 opens at Henry Luce III Library - CPU

Faculty, staff observe the different book displays in the HLL Lobby.

Central Philippine University Book Fair 2020 opened on Wednesday, January 15 with the theme “I want Books! Let’s Go Read!” at the Henry Luce III Library Lobby.  The Book Fair is an annual activity that provides current reading materials, quality books, and resources to the students, faculty, staff, and researchers. There is a large selection of book display on every subject interest. It is an opportunity for the deans and professors to select, evaluate, recommend and update library materials in their field of specialization.

The Opening Program started at 9:00 AM at the Knowledge for Development Center after the Registration of Book Exhibitors. Mr. Christian C. Mosqueda, Library Staff, led the Opening Prayer and was followed by the Pambansang Awit led by Cultural Affairs Coordinator, Ms. Crista Huyong.

University President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles, thanked the University Libraries for organizing this year’s Bookfair. Dr. Robles reminded participants that, “It is incumbent for everyone to know the new products.” He acknowledged former CPU High School Librarian Emma de la Cruz for helping Henry Luce III Library as a consultant.

Director of Libraries, Prof. Maria Cynthia T. Peleña, explained the rationale of the Book Fair. Peleña also clarified CHED’s requirement that 20% of the total collection of books should be published in the last 5 years. “The University Library contributes to the excellence of board examinations,” Peleña added.

The Book Fair was formally opened with the cutting of ribbon, with Dr. Robles, Dr. Irving Domingo Rio, Prof. Peleña, Mrs. de la Cruz, the Deans, and Department Heads.