The Discipline of Faith and Passion

*Mr. Gallos pose behind contructions going on at Camp Higher Ground. As treasurer of the CPBC, he hopes for more projects in the future.*

John 10:10 speaks about Jesus wanting us to live life to the fullest. Apart from the promise of salvation, God has a deep desire that our life will experience His goodness and His love in the land of the living, bearing fruit his faithfulness that through us others may be blessed as well.

Mr. Agripino Gallos’ life is a testimony of the Lord’s goodness. In 1969, he entered the portals of CPU as a working student to study commerce. “I studied in CPU because it gave opportunities to students like me who had limited income to study and earn at the same time. To work and to study at the same time is hard but if you are determined to really finish your studies, you will persist.”

During his high school years, Mr. Gallos brought himself closer to God which was completed when he studied in CPU. Finally, after working 25 years at Energizer Philippines he now devotes his time as a Professor of the CPU College of Business and Management and Treasurer of the Convention of Philippine Baptist Churches. “My stay in CPU molded me as a Baptist. So after I worked and have already helped my brothers and sisters, I promised myself to serve my remaining energy and services to help the church and the CPBC. I was also inspired by a lot of friends to take the position of Treasurer of CPBC. Rev. Jalando-on encouraged me to take the position and be a part of CPBC.” With his learnings as a commerce student at CPU and through his experience and expertise in the field of financial management, Mr. Gallos was able to serve the CPBC with passion and excellence.

*A man of persistence and faith, Mr. Gallos has inspired young Christians to serve God through their passion.*

According to Mr. Gallos, his stay in CPU made him develop a strong sense of Centralian camaraderie. “Even when we were in college we would always look forward to the CPU U-Day. Being the President of the CBA Alumni Association, the participation of our alumni is strong. I am part of the organizing activities of the association. And I look forward yet again to this year’s alumni homecoming.”

Before taking up the teaching profession, Mr. Gallos was a Sunday School teacher at Jaro Evangelical Church. “I am a Sunday School teacher for 17 years and a Lay Preacher at Jaro Evangelical Church. After taking up Diploma in Christian Ministry, I believe that when you are a pastor and a teacher you have to share your experiences as a Christian be it in a classroom or at church. We have to show people how God works in our lives. When our Sunday School teacher, Rev. Angelina Buensuceso died, she left to me all the Sunday School modules, which made me become a regular Sunday School teacher at church, it also made me realize that I had a passion for teaching.”

When asked who in the bible inspires him to serve God, Mr. Gallos shares that it is the life of Paul that encourages him to have a discipline in both faith and passion. “I would like to follow the footsteps of Paul, that even though he did not start as a preacher, in fact he was a persecutor of Christians later on he was converted by God. I relate to the life of Paul because I think I was late in doing the ministry for the Lord. But for me what is important on doing the ministry of the Lord, you have to dedicate your life in serving him, being strong despite the challenges and obstacles along the way.”

His life is a story of how our passion can be used to serve the ministry and to share the Word of God. As an enthusiast of tennis, Mr. Gallos shares that he would at times share the Word of God to his tennis friends whenever they would play. “I would play tennis to unwind and in the court, I would share the word of God to my friends, so it is also part of my ministry.” Mr. Gallos’ plays tennis at the CPU Tennis Courts. There he encourages other Centralians not only to live healthy through sports but to live healthy in the spirit as well.

To strengthen our faith through our passion is a feat a Christian must conquer. As what Luke 11:33 says: No one lights a lamp and then hides it or puts it under a basket. Mr. Gallos’ life is an inspiration to Christians, encouraging others to let their passions shine for the glory of God.

RCJC’s Induction of Officers: A night of Centralians and Rotarians

*RCJC Officers and new members, with guests pose after the Induction.*

The Rotary Club of Jaro Centraline (RCJC), the special Alumni Chapter of Central Philippine University celebrated its 24th Year Anniversary with their Induction of Officers and New Members on July 19 at the Westown Hotel, Smallville Complex in Mandurriao, Iloilo City.

The event brought together Centralian Alumni guests and visiting Rotarians – showing an all too familiar Central spirit throughout the program. Prominent among those present were CPU Alumni Association President and Keynote Speaker Mr. Dan P. Dorillo; CPU Office of Communications Director, Rev. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on with his inspiring wife, Hermely; Dr. Lorna Grande, Dean, CPU College of Business and Accountancy, and wife of newly inducted RCJC President Jude Marsh Grande; Past RCJC President PP Trinidad “Trenz” Sorongon, former Coordinator of CPU Lifestyle Management Center; PP Freddie “Butch” Salvania and former CPU Faculty Lydia “Lyds” Grio; RCJC Out-going President Salvador “Budz” Senorio; RCJC Past President Evelyn “Rose” Catilo, PP Rose “Marie”Aguirre; and RCJC Chairman for Public Image, RTN Cyrus a. Natividad, CPU Media Relations Officer.

*Newly Inducted President Jude Marsh Grande challenges the new set of RCJC officers and members.*

The program started at 6:30 PM with an invocation led by Reverend Jalando-on. An interpretative dance prayer by Past President Aguirre followed. PP Evelyn Catilo made the welcome remarks. The group of talented Centralians called the 3’s Harmony which included Jones Somosierra of the Office of the University President, Jason Pagunsan, former Acting Director for Communications and Pastor Rodel ‘Boy’ Dianala, former University Library Management Information Manager, entertained everyone with popular folk songs from the 70’s. Their musical performance made the sumptuous dinner even more enjoyable to everyone. The trio has also performed contemporary music in many events for the University.

*Keynote Speaker CPUAAI President Dan Dorillo at the podium.*

The RCJC new set of officers were inducted by Rotary District 3850 Assistant Governor Joy Visitacion. The Rotaract Club of Jaro Centraline (RCJC Junior Club) Officers were inducted at the same time by AG Gerald Jones Berondo.

*AG Joy Visitacion inducts the new set of RCJC officers.*

In his Keynote Speech, CPU Alumni President Dorillo expressed optimism that the alliance of the Rotary Club of Jaro Centraline with CPUAAI will be able to help push the many campus and community projects of Central Philippine University.

Outgoing President “Budz” Senorio in his Valedictory Address encouraged members of the RCJC and the Rotaract to cooperate and choose the right direction in pursuing good projects for their club. He thanked the members for sustaining their existence and pursuit of success for RCJC.

*AG Gerald Jones Berondo Inducts New members of the Rotarct Club (with their RCJC Sponsors).*

President Grande thanked his fellow Rotarians for electing him and asked members to continue on the community service which has always helped their adopted communities. He promised to do his best for the Club and to realize the vision of “Service above self” and to concretize the universal motto of Rotary International for Rotary Year 2017-2018 which is “Rotary: Making a Difference.” The program ended at 10:00PM.

The Duet of Life and Music

By Keziah G. Huelar

*Chris John entertained ASEAN guest during the 29th SSEAYP International General Assembly held at the CPU Rose Memorial Hall.*

After two deep breaths, Chris walks towards the center stage. He pauses, skims the crowd and finally lifts up his violin – his music fills the Rose Memorial Hall, background lights of blue and green entwine as he plays music that entrances the soul and captures the senses.

Chris John de Guzman was born to a family of medical practitioners. With both his parents as doctors, one might expect that his journey would lead him to the world of human anatomy and lab coats, however the beat of his heart was in sync with a different passion.

Chris learned to play the violin when he was 10 years old. It was a start of a lasting affair with music. “I took violin lessons at Iloilo Baptist Church with my friends. There was something about playing the violin that made me feel free. It is my form of self-expression. I believe that my skill and passion in playing the violin is a gift from God.”

With persistence and motivation, Chris became the only student in his batch to continue training. His teachers saw his potential and endorsed him to be mentored by the great Ilonggo violinist Gil Lopez Kabayao.

His experience with the great violinist honed his skills to greater heights, his passion was refined with discipline and fervor. “For four years I trained under the guidance of Mr. Gil Lopez Kabayao. It was truly an honor to be mentored by him. At first I was intimidated because he’s well known as a musician but within a couple of training sessions with him I became at ease.”

Because of his finesse and skill, Chris has performed in various musical events. His talent was also recognized by the global community as he hold three titles of winning gold for playing the violin in the International Student Convention.

After graduating from high school as class valedictorian, Chris was offered music scholarships to study abroad however due to health reasons, he stayed in Iloilo. “I dont believe that me not being able to study abroad is a lost opportunity. I believe in God’s plan and his purpose”.

For his college education, Chris considered a lot of things – eventually it was his passion of bringing out the best in others that made him realize that he wanted to be a teacher. “My parents own a school, and for a year or so, I volunteered as a teacher. There, I realized that I enjoy assisting students and helping them learn. Music is definitely a part of me but teaching is what I want to do.”

Because of this, Chris studied at Central Philippine and took up Bachelor of Science in Special Education. When asked why he particularly chose CPU for his tertiary education, Chris shares that it was the Centralian spirit of faith that made him fall in love with the university. “CPU is known not only for the quality education it offers, but it is more popular for being a Christian university that centers to develop not only skill but knowledge as well.”

Being part of the Centralian community, Chris has been perfoming for almost every Centralian event. His latest performance was in Pasidungog 2017, a tribute to the graduating class. For Chris, every performance is a memorbale event of service to the Centralian community and showcasing his talent for the glory of God. “I believe that I was born to play the violin. This is my God-given talent and I will use this to serve others, for them also to appreciate music.”

When asked what advice Chris would have for young people who also dream of becoming like him, Chris shares that it is hard work and determination that will make them harness their passions in pursuit of excellence. “They should work hard, and be disciplined. Constant practice is necessary and most of all they have to love what they are doing and do it all for the glory of God.” After college, Chris plans to take up Music Theraphy and use his skills in both education and music to help specially-abled children in Iloilo.

Jaro Football Club finishes their 3-month long tournament

*The champions flashing the number 1 sign.*

Every Saturday for 3 months, the Centralian football players attacked, passed, defended, tackled, had a corner kick, committed a foul, dribbled, completed a give and go play, and made a goal in the 9-aside Football Tournament of the Jaro Football Club. The tournament kicked-off last April 8, 2017 and the ball was last kicked to the goal on July 8, 2017.

The championship match last July 8, 2017 was between Team D and Team B. After a competitive game and score of 6-2, Team D emerged as the champion. Team D is composed of Gisson Paul Seloterio, Wesley Hortelano, Atty. Joseph Celiz, Marc Hermel Agriam, Eduardo Alfaras, Filomeno Sonza Jr., Julian Raphael Abastillas, Brian Chad Alba, Antonio Velario IV, Raphael Joseph Paz, Hazael Giles Cejar, Wells Ruud Lego, and Joseph Michael Ong. The second place Team D is composed of Kent Cabarles, Erwin Baylon, Lemuel Guillergan, Raphael Gadong, Stephen Capati, Biboy Llanora, Russel Sodusta, Alex Balladares, Japhet Batir, Windel Malay, and Chris Balladares.

*The second place team with their trophy.*

The Jaro FC, composed of Centralians, decided to hold a tournament to strengthen the fellowship and relationship of CPU alumni through this friendly football competition. Most of the players were former varsity players and some are alumni who are football enthusiasts. They decided to have 5 teams labeled Team A to Team E. The team composition is a mixed of CPU Football Varsity Alumni, CPU students, and football-fanatic Centralians. The format was 9-aside, double round robin, and they used a portion of the football field near the Centennial Walkway as their pitch.

CPU BSN Class of 1992 at 25!

By Joyce Ong Arana

*BSN Class 92 Gala Dinner and Dance in San Antonio, Texas.*

The CPU Bachelor of Science in Nursing class of 1992 recently celebrated their silver reunion in San Antonio, Texas last June 22 to 25, 2017. In attendance were 45 batch mates from the states of Arizona, California, Connecticut, Florida, Illinois, Maryland, Michigan, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Texas and Washington, and from London, United Kingdom, with a total of 96 people, including family members.

*A chartered boat ride at the river walk.*

*The reunion core group and organizers.*

*The batch that eats together, stay together.*

The much-awaited four-day event included private tours at the Natural Bridge Caverns, the historic Alamo, chartered boat ride at the scenic San Antonio River Walk, lunch at an authentic Texan BBQ restaurant, a country experience at a Honky Tonk place, Meet and Greet dinner and a farewell brunch at local restaurants. The pinnacle of the reunion was the Gala Dinner and Dance on June 24 at Rio Plaza, River Walk, San Antonio, where the batch mates danced the night away. This 25th reunion was made possible through the efforts of Joyce Ong Arana, Gladys Mijares Soriano, Mary Jane Mayang Huelar, Robert Von Divinagracia, Phares Miles Huelar and Marie-Vic Palu-ay.

*Private tour of the historic the Alamo.*

*Lunch at the Texan Brown B Que Restaurant.*

*A private tour of the Natural Bridge Caverns.*

*A fun boat ride with Class 92 batchmates.*

It was such an emotional parting for everybody on the last day. However, this saying holds true for us, “Like branches of a tree; we grow in different directions, yet our roots remain as one. Each of our lives will always be a special part of the other´s.” – author unknown

CPU Elementary Batch ‘73 and HS Batch ‘77 hold Ruby Reunion

*Remembering memories and making them last.*

With the theme “Kit-anay, Kadlawanay, Kan-anay”, CPU Batch 1973 and High School Batch 1977 rekindled the Central Spirit of camaraderie as they held their Ruby Reunion at the Central Philippine University campus and Partner’s Paradise at San Joaquin on July 7-8, 2017.

*CPU President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles welcomes the batch.*

The batch had their meet and greet at the CPU Educational Media Center. The event was graced by CPU President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles who welcomed the Centralians in his opening remarks. He thanked the batch for always remembering CPU and carrying the Central Spirit wherever they may be. Also, present at the gathering, is Ms. Nona S. Dominado, the Principal of CPU High School Batch 1977. She recalled the memories she had with the batch and encouraged them to excel wherever life takes them.

*The importance of praying for one another – the batch prays for the high school and elementary teachers.*

On the same day, the group went to Partner’s Paradise at San Joaquin for their out of town excursion. During their evening session, Doc. Tino Alerta lead the devotional which was then followed by a group singing led by Girlie May Sublado Acorda, games and a bonfire session.

*The batch together with their High School Principal, Ms. Nona S. Dominado.*

Early 5:00 am on July 8, 2017, the batch enjoyed an early morning dip and stroll on the beach. Another round of games and activities were held showcasing the different talent of the alumni. For the morning devotional, Engr. Butch Eguico led the reading of the sharing of the Scriptures.

*The batch flashes their smile at the University Church.*

The batch is now preparing for their participation in the September 30, 2017 Alumni Homecoming.

Centralian Engr. Grande is the new President of the Rotary Club of Jaro Centraline

*Family of Centralians giving their best for God´s glory. (L-R) L J, April Grace , Dr. Lorna Grande, Mark Joseph, Engr. Jude Grande, and Tim.*

Centralian Engineer Jude Marsh Grande, former faculty of the CPU College of Engineering was elected President of the Rotary Club of Jaro Centraline for Rotary Year 2017-2018. Grande who is a Pastor’s kid is a successful Engineer, Contractor and a Real Estate Broker. He is married to Dr. Lorna T. Grande, Dean of the CPU College of Business and Accountancy.

His induction as President of the Rotary Club of Jaro Centralian (RCJC) comes as no surprise, as he has been an active and generous leader of the Club since he joined RCJC. “The driving force behind his membership in Rotary is the principle of sharing, service to humanity (service above self) and professional enrichment.”

The Rotary Club of Jaro Centraline is a special Alumni Chapter of Central Philippine University. Most of the club’s members are alumni of CPU. The RCJC induction will be held on July 19, 2017 at Westown Hotel in Smallville, Mandurriao, Iloilo City.

Engr. Grande started out his success from being a CPU work student as Library Student Assistant (LSAP Chapter) from 1977 to 1982, and finished his Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering. He passed the board exams in 1995 and joined CPU as a faculty in the Civil Engineering Department until 2006.

He is currently engaged in the construction business and has successfully connected to the real estate industry since 2014 as PRC Licensed Broker. Among his construction projects are the Convention of Philippine Baptist Churches (CPBC) Centennial Building, Katipan Hall in Camp Higher Ground, and around 500 houses at the Habitat for Humanity relocation site in San Isidro, Jaro.

Engr. Grande is a church leader and a Pastor’s Kid. As such, he is supportive of the new generation of pastors in their respective ministries. His advice to Pastor’s Kids who are studying at CPU is to keep their faith in Jesus Christ and never stop believing in Him.

Engr. Grande continues to share his time, talent and treasures as an expression of his commitment to Jesus, his personal Lord and Savior.

Preparations for the CPU College of Agriculture Grand Reunion are underway

The College of Agriculture Alumni Association continues to meet in various places in Negros to prepare for the Grand Reunion of the College of Agriculture alumni on October 20-21, 2017 at the Bacolod Pavillon Hotel with the Theme “CPU Soaring High Towards Global Agripreneurship.”

On June 10, 2017, the officers of CPU College of Agriculture Alumni Association Negros Chapter and some alumni went to Kabankalan City for their meeting. The meeting was hosted by Mr. Geovani Gatoc at DMAX Restaurant. The updates were given by the officers led by Roberto “Francis” Jalando-on, Jr., the chapter president. In that meeting, the group was surprised when an elderly gentleman came into the restaurant. He said his sister in Capiz told him to join the alumni meeting in Kabankalan. She got the message from a text from the CPU Office of Communications. Because of the Central Spirit, Mr. Eliseo “Boy” Elumba who is already more than 70 years old came all the way from La Castellana. He has been attending meetings from then on.

*The organizers of the College of Agriculture Grand Reunion are distributing the tarps to strategic areas in Negros announcing the event.*

After the meeting, the group decided to pass Hinigaran and visit an alumnus who is sick. The group had the opportunity to pray for Rolando Tupas. The prayers and visit brought a radiant smile from him. His wife, Lory Causing-Tupas attended two more meetings after the visit and will soon be hosting an alumni meeting at their home on July 29, 2017. The group is looking forward to having Rev. Joniel Howard H. Gico, the CPU Vice President for Student Affairs, as the guest of honor.

*CPUCA Alumni Meeting in La Carlota City last June 12,2017.*

Two days later, on June 12, the group once again had a fellowship lunch in La Carlota City at the residence of the Negros Chapter’s President, Mr. Roberto R. Jalando-on, Jr. It seems that the Grand Reunion is the culmination of a series of mini-reunions from Pavia, to the CPU Campus and many parts in Negros.

*CPUCA Alumni Meeting in Kabankalan City.*

Last July 1, 2017, the CPU College of Agriculture Alumni Association Negros Chapter met at Nena´s Manokan near Bacolod Doctor´s Hospital. This is the place where they hold their monthly fellowship. The elderly alumni are enthusiastic and faithful attendees. One alumnus quipped “The Central Spirit is thicker than blood.” In this meeting, the group was visited by the President of the CPU Alumni Association, Inc., Mr. Dan Dorillo.

On July 22, 2017, 3:00 pm the La Carlota City CPU Alumni Chapter will meet at the residence of Mr. Ed Castaneda. Everyone who is in the area is invited to attend.

The organizers of the October reunion will print the final program by the end of July. Two places for field trips are already identified: Campuestohan and Mambucal for the Second Day while on the first night, the main attraction is “CPU´s Finest” featuring the winners of the U-Day 2017 and some of the CPU Cultural Groups like the Cultural Center of Philippines´ accredited artist, the CPU Handbell Ringers.

For more information about the Grand Reunion, please contact the following persons: Delma Umadhay – 09205190506, Roberto R. Jalando-on – 09203268505, Stergein May Gico-Aurelio – 09124742389.

Committee begins its preparation for the CPU Alumni Homecoming

*The Rose Memorial Auditorium will be the venue of this year´s Alumni Homecoming.*

Preparations have started for the 2017 Alumni Homecoming and General Assembly Meeting. Mr. Daniel P. Dorillo, CPU Alumni Association, Inc. President called the Committee members that include Department Heads, Deans, and Principals to an initial meeting on July 10 at the BOT Conference Room. This was in view of bigger and better alumni gathering at Central Philippine University on September 30, 2017. The Committee is co-chaired by Dr. Anita U. Ellenberger.

Taken up at the meeting were concerns and suggestions on how to “bring home” more alumni to this year’s homecoming. Other issues include security and order. It was pointed out that the seating arrangement at the Rose Memorial needs to be improved in preparation for a bigger turnout of attendance this year. The theme “Centralian: Sharing 3T’s (Time, Talent and Treasure) for One CPU” was chosen among the suggestions and will be presented to the Alumni Board for approval.

One suggestion was to convene the Chapter Presidents and representatives of alumni batches to discuss ways to improve attendance. Dorillo suggested that Alumni Chapter Presidents should be given a hand to invite and see to it that more members of their chapters will come. The presentation of U-Days best – winners of selected cultural contests will be performing. Tarpaulins will also be put up in different areas in Panay and Negros to announce the Alumni Homecoming, as well as an aggressive campaign in social media and news outlets.

Dorillo hinted at calling for more meetings in order to address any other matters with regards to the Alumni Homecoming. The organizers are praying and hoping that many alumni will be “coming home” this September 30, 2017.

Dr. Carmen Pama Santos donates a covered gym to CPU

Central Philippine University Santos Gym — *Perspective of the CPU Elementary Covered Gym donated by Dr. Carmen P. Santos.*

The CPU Elementary Department has been dreaming of having a covered gym. This dream is now becoming a reality as Dr. Carmen Pama Santos donated an amount for the construction of a covered gym.

The construction of the 936 Square-Meter area covered gym started in the middle of April 2017. According to Engr. Noel Tablason, the Construction Manager, the budget for the covered gym is 9 million pesos. He also added that the construction progress is on target to be completed on September 2017 in time for the University Day activities. The construction includes the renovation and modification of the current multipurpose stage.

*Those who pass through Gate 6 can see the construction of the Elementary covered gym.*

Mrs. Carmen P. Santos has been a generous donor to CPU throughout the years. Her family donated the Santos Park in front of the Johnson Hall, an area where students gather to study and have fellowship.

*The progress of the construction of the covered gym.*

Dr. Santos received the B.S.E. major in Mathematics, summa cum laude, from CPU in 1963 and two years later the M.A. major in English. Later, on October 15, 2006, CPU conferred a Doctor of Humanities honoris causa degree to Dr. Santos.

*The open quarangle is where the Elementary covered gym is now being constructed.*

It can be recalled that she joined the CPU faculty for ten years, and then became Principal of Iloilo Central Commercial High School for many years. She is a leading business figure in Iloilo, especially in the petroleum business.

*Honor students pose with their benefactor Dr. Carmen P. Santos.*

Her commitment to Exemplary Christian Education for Life (EXCEL) is demonstrated by her serving in the CPU Corporation, Board of the CPU Alumni Association, and president of the Alumni of the College of Education (ACE).