CPU College of Agriculture all set for 2017 Grand Alumni Reunion

The Central Philippine University College of Agriculture, Resources and Environmental Sciences is ready for its 2017 Alumni Grand Reunion to be held on October 20-21, 2017 at the Bacolod Pavillon Hotel, Bacolod City.

Highlighting the theme “CPU Agri Alumni Soaring High Towards Global Agri-preneurship,” this year’s grand reunion will feature exhibits, seminars, and other exciting events.

According to Director Larry Nacionales, President of the CPU College of Agriculture Alumni Association, alumni and guests alike can look forward to a fulfilling two-day activity. “This will probably be our biggest grand reunion yet. The Negros Chapter of the CPU Agriculture Alumni Association headed by Mr. Roberto “Francis” Jalando-on, Jr. will be hosting the event in Bacolod City. We have planned a lot of exciting and learning-filled activities for our alumni and guests.” CPU President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles; CPU Board of Trustees Chairman, Atty. Von Lovel Bedona; the CPU Alumni Association, Inc. President, Mr. Dan Dorillo; and the members of the CPUAAI will be coming over to support the event.

*Director Larry Nacionales, President of the CPU College of Agriculture Alumni Association talks about the activities during the COA Alumni Grand Reunion.*

On the first day, outstanding alumni will showcase their expertise in simultaneous seminars. Dr. Jaime Cabarles, Dean of CPU CARES, will discuss about native chickens; Mr. Tim Arandela will lecture about GAP Production of Coffee cum Cost and Return Analysis; and Engr. Ed Cañuto will talk about Entrepreneurship. On the other hand, Dr. Manny Palada will talk about Medicinal and Aromatic Herbs for Improved Health Nutrition, Dr. Isagani Catedral will lecture on Mushroom culture and production, and Engr. Benie Cangrejo will share his expertise in Packaging Technology.

In the evening, a cultural affair entitled, “An Evening with Mayor Bing,” will showcase CPU’s finest talents. Performers will include Katchry Jewel Golbin, 3^rd Place Winner, France Got Talent; the CPU Hand Bell Ringers; the U-Day Champion of the Men’s Barbershop Quartet; and the CPU Sari-Saot Dance Troupe.

The second day will feature an excursion around Bacolod City’s historical and tourist sites and the “Governor’s Night”—a gala dinner together with Negros Occidental Governor, Gov. Alfredo G. Maranon, Jr. CPU Professors and Instructors who have taught at the College Agriculture will also be honored and recognized in the same dinner. The oath taking of newly elected officers will then follow.

Dir. Nacionales shares that the event is CPU’s commitment to creating a pool of connected alumni that strengthens and contributes their skills and talents in the agricultural industry. “We want to continue our advocacy of discovering new skills and sharing them with other fellow agriculturists. We want to continue to grow and to promote Centralian education especially in agriculture.”

Centralian alumna is Lingkod Bayan Awardee

Prof. Lucia L. Lastimoza, a CPU graduate of Bachelor of Science in Agriculture Batch 1975, was one of the Presidential Lingkod Bayan Awardee. The award was given by by President Rodrigo R. Duterte at the Rizal Ceremonial Hall, Malacañang Palace on September 20, 2017 during the 117th Civil Service Anniversary.

She received a cash incentive, a gold medallion and a presidential plaque with citation signed by the Philippine President. She received the award because of her exceptional and extraordinary contribution in preserving the patrimony of the nation through her protection and conservation of endangered fauna in the island of Panay, particularly in the highlands of Lambunao. Her Mariit Foundation project focuses on nurturing fauna which are on the verge of extinction.

On the anniversary of the Civil Service, an award for outstanding work performance is given to elected and appointed officials and employees holding permanent, temporary, coterminous, contractual and casual status of employment in the government, whether stationed in the Philippines or abroad. There are two award categories for outstanding work performance: the Presidential Lingkod Bayan Award (PLB) and the CSC Pagasa Award. PLB is given to an individual or group of individuals with exceptional or extraordinary contributions resulting from an idea or performance that had nationwide impact on public interest, security and patrimony. The contribution may be a suggestion, innovation, invention or superior accomplishment. The CSC Pagasa Award is for “outstanding contribution/s resulting from an idea of performance that directly benefit more than one department of the government.”

BGen Tyne Bañas: Looking back and looking forward in the Central Spirit

*Brigadier General Tyne Bañas with his wife, Nelia Bañas in front of the CPUAAI Office.*

Brigadier General Tyne Bañas visited CPU on Monday morning, October 2, with his lovely wife, Nelia, from General Santos City. He shared his insights, expressed his gratitude, and reminisced his experiences in CPU. The General is one of three sons of a former CPU teacher, Rev. Prudencio Bañas. He studied at CPU Kindergarten School in 1977 and finished his High School in CPU in 1981. He spent 2 years taking up Mechanical Engineering in CPU before he was admitted to the Philippine Military Academy. He graduated from PMA, Class of 1987, and was deployed to several assignments, even serving as an army officer in General Santos City for 18 years, before becoming a Brigade Commander at Camp Agaab in Sarangani Province, Camp Evangelista in Cagayan de Oro City.

He attributed part of his military success to the ROTC training he underwent in CPU, where he imbibed Christian values and integrity—two important pillars in living a Christian life. Bañas recalled the wisdom he earned from spiritual convocations and Sunday school in CPU. He would share these with his officers and men, encouraging them to do these on a regular basis. Love, friendship, and generosity are important ingredients in his career as a military officer. His group has volunteered in humanitarian efforts in Panay, especially during disasters and calamities. These, he considers, part of his Christian mission.

Bañas believes that the Central Spirit is present when everyone shares something in common. “I often observe this in times when other people learn that I am a Centralian. Anywhere we go, Centralians are accommodated and welcomed,” he added.

*Brigadier General Tyne Bañas reads a copy of the Centralian Link as Public Relations Officer Cyrus Natividad shares to him about the new highlights of the publication.*

Asked what he could extend to the CPU ROTC Unit in view of the decrease in enrolment brought about by a new military curriculum, he suggested that there be more exposure for the cadets through advocacy programs and dissemination of information. He would like to include the cadets in a complementary study program which he is going to prepare for the CPU ROTC Unit.

BGen Tyne Bañas is presently based in Fort Bonifacio, Metro Manila with his family. His three sons, TJ, RJ and EJ, are all professionals. One of them is following in the military footsteps of their father.

Golf for a cause: How Centralian golfers keep the Central Spirit burning

*CPU Golfers actively participate in the celebration of CPU’s 112th Founding Anniversary.*

The CPU Alumni Golfers Association will hold its 15^th CPU Invitational Golf for a Cause Tournament as a tribute to the 112^th Foundation Day of the University. The tournament will be on October 7, 2017 at the Sta. Barbara Centenary Golf Course, Sta. Barbara, Iloilo.

The association’s contributions to Central Philippine University are notable. The following are the CPU Alumni Golfers Association’s major projects:

Provided a 21” Color TV to the CPU Junior High School as instructional equipment
Contributed a 21” Color TV to the CPU Elementary for use as instructional equipment
Gave a DVD player to the Municipalities of Badiangan and Janiuay as instructional equipment for their students.
Provided financial assistance to the annual CPUAAI Festival of Lights and Music at Central
With CPUAAI, jointly sponsored the payment of miscellaneous fees of indigent but deserving public high school graduating students from the Municipalities of Badiangan, Janiuay, and Leon in Iloilo with priority in availing the Work Student Program if they pursue their college degree in CPU

First RCJC-CPU Homecoming Run – a success!

*Ready, set, go! Runners make their way after CPU President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles fires the starting gun.*

The Rotary Club of Jaro Centraline’s Homecoming Run on September 29, 2017 was a resounding success, owing to the support and participation of the CPU Administration, the faculty and staff, and the CPU Alumni Association, Inc. The other Rotary Clubs of Iloilo were also instrumental in bringing runners to join the fun run.

The Major Sponsorship of Allianz PNB Life Insurance and other donors contributed much to the promotion and success of the event. Centralian Police Senior Superintendent and Iloilo City Police Director S/Insp. Henry F. Biñas gladly registered twenty of his police officers to join the Homecoming Run. They were at CPU at 5:00 AM to join the Zumba dance and attend a short program at the starting area in front of the Loreto Tupaz Building in CPU.

Dr. Teodoro C. Robles, CPU President, fired the starting gun to commence the 4-kilometer race. Passing through the Gate 7, the runners ran along Benigno Aquino Avenue Service Road, towards Barangay Sambag in Ungka, Jaro, Iloilo City and back to the campus. Medals and cash prizes were awarded to the winners for the Men and Women Categories afterwards.

Promoting and covering the event were CPU TV, CPU social media and publications (including the Weekly Centralian Link), along with the newest CPU equipment—a drone camera. This is thanks to the generous efforts of all the personnel under the Office of Communications.

Rotarian Jude Marsh Grande, current RCJC President, looks forward to a bigger Homecoming Run event next year. The Rotary Club of Jaro Centraline thanks everyone who participated and supported the RCJC-CPU Homecoming Run 2017 for the success of the event. To God be the Glory!

Nursing Batch 1977, CCINAA launch Natividad C. Caipang Memorial Lecture

*For the glory of God – CPU Batch 1977 celebrates at the success of the first Natividad C. Caipang Memorial Lecture Series.*

To commemorate the life and works of the late Dean Natividad C. Caipang, the College of Nursing together with the CPU Capiz Emmanuel Hospital and Iloilo Mission Hospital Nurses Alumni Association, launched the Natividad C. Caipang Memorial Lecture Series and International Balik-Turo Program of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Class 1977-Ruby Jubilarians.

Highlighting the theme “Building a Culture of Excellence through Empowerment, Diversity and International Alliance for God’s Greatest Glory,” the lecture aimed at enriching the participants’ knowledge, attitudes, and skills in building a culture of excellence through encouraging each other, recognizing and respecting differences, and forging alliances throughout the world as exemplified in the life of Dean Natividad Campillo-Caipang.

*Dr. Phebe L. Pendon shares that Dean Caipang is the epitome of excellence and perseverance.*

In his welcome address, CPU President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles, thanked the College of Nursing and its alumni for initiating the talk. After which, Atty. Salex E. Alibogha, Dean of the College of Nursing, encouraged the participants to learn from the life of Dean Natividad Campillo-Caipang.

Dr. Phebe L. Pendon talked about the life of Dean Caipang, sharing the legacy she had left behind. “Dean Caipang is the epitome of a Proverbs 31, the wife of noble character. She was working as a nurse full time while taking care of her children. She specialized in community health nursing and became a professional educator. Determined and focused, she has enabled us to carry on to become the person that we are today.”

Cynthia Mendoza, CCINAA, gave an audio visual presentation on the launching of the lecture series.

*CPU President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles thanks Class 1977 for initiating the memorial lecture.*

For the memorial lecture, Ms. Nadiene Caipang Catedral, Class 1977 and daughter of Dean Caipang, talked about “Pathway to Excellence: Empowering Nurses for God’s Glory.” For the first lecture in the plenary session, on the other hand, she discussed the “Current Trends in Critical Nursing and Transaortic Valve Replacement or Implantation.” Ms. Lilian June De la Fuente-Veloria talked about Case Management while Ms. Asuncion Mabaquiao lectured about TeamSTEPPS.

For the afternoon lectures, Ms. Jocelyn Estante-Karns discussed Robotics Surgery; Ms. Marian Virgie Ferrer-Gumayan talked about the AIDS Surveillance Research Project of CPU Kabalaka, Philippines; Mr. Josere Calfoforo-Dayao lectured about Small Medium Entrepreneurship in Canada while Ms. Herminia Abonador-Evangelista shared about Small Medium Entrepreneurship in Florida.

*The memorial lecture ended with a singing of songs of worship to the Lord.*

The synthesis and closing remarks were given by Dr. Phebe L. Pendon. She credited the success of the symposium to the efforts and the faith of her batch mates and the CPU Nursing community. “To God be the glory. God has really helped us since the beginning. I think that this event is a result of our individual closeness to the Lord and our closeness to each other—through our harmony, we have achieved this.”

In recognition of her outstanding contributions to the nursing profession and health education, Dean Natividad Campillo-Caipang received the Distinguished Centralian in Nursing during the 93rd University Day of Central Philippine University in 1998.

Dean Caipang received her BSN (Post-Basic) and MA in Education from CPU in 1954 and 1962 respectively. Her 17 years as dean of the CPU College of Nursing had brought the college into its current status of distinction, recognized both here and abroad. Under her deanship, the college attained full accreditation status, offered the MA in Nursing Program, and became very active in community health outreach.

She had served as PNA governor for Region VI and was a four-time chapter president of PNA-Iloilo, the first and only chapter to attain the Hall of Fame status. She co-founded the Council of Administrators in Nursing Education in Western Visayas and was its first chairperson.

In 1997, Prof. Caipang received the Anastacia Giron Tupas Award, the most prestigious award in the nursing profession. She was cited as “a professional nurse whose seeds of patience and perseverance brought forth fruits of opportunities in leadership and service in the academe.” She had received various awards from the PNA Iloilo Chapter, the Association of Deans of Philippine Colleges of Nursing, Region VI, and the most recent, from CPU, Capiz Emmanuel Hospital, and Iloilo Mission Hospital Nurses Association. No wonder, she has been listed in the Who’s Who in the World and the International Who’s Who in Education as early as the 80’s.

The 2^nd Natividad C. Caipang Memorial Lecture will be spearheaded by the Nursing Batch 1978.

A night of the gypsies, bohemians and muses

*CPU President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles and his wife Ma’am Angel Robles during the Almuni Night.*

Gypsies, bohemians and muses abound during the Alumni Night held at 7 in the evening at Hotel del Rio on September 30, 2017.

The program started with an invocation. Dr. Robles welcomed the guests, thanking everyone for their presence that makes evening affair thoroughly enjoyable and entertaining every year as part of the Alumni Homecoming celebrations. The University President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles showed his enthusiasm for the affair by donning a unique headgear completing his bohemian look.

*Ma’am Angel Robles together with Prof. Evangelica Diesto-Padernilla and CPUAAI President, Mr. Dan Dorillo.*

Alumni Queen, Ms. Charity Daine A. Gamboa from the CPU High School Class 1984 together with CPU President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles, his wife, Ma’am Angel Robles and CPUAAI President Mr. Dan Dorillo.

*Candidates of the 2017 Alumni Home Queen Pageant showcased grace, wit and talent during the Alumni Night.*

Dinner was served as the Technocrats Band played timeless music for everyone. Mrs. Flora Grace Cudiamat, CPUFOAA President, prayed for the food. The guests were next entertained by the CPU Sari-Saot Dance Troupe.

The Alumni Queen Pageant delighted everyone as representatives came from the CPU faculty. Each contestant did her best to showcase her beauty and talent. Dinner paused for a few minutes as winners were announced:

Alumni Queen 2017 – Ms. Charity Daine A. Gamboa, Junior High School/HS Class 1984
First Runner Up – Prof. Norma Luz Vencer, College of Arts and Sciences

Second Runner Up – Ms. Valerie Ruth Diesto, College of Nursing/BSN Class 1977
Third Runner Up – Prof. Nelia Bonete, College of Business and Accountancy

Fourth Runner Up – Ms. Necil Magno, College of Education
Fifth Runner Up – Ms. Alyza Marie Halago, College of Hospitality Management
Sixth Runner Up – Ms. Precy Sanchez, College of Medical Laboratory Science

CPUAAI holds Alumni Homecoming 2017

Previous CPU President, Dr. Juanito M. Acanto together with Present CPU President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles, Chairman CPU Board of Trustees, Atty. Von Lovel D. Bedona together with the members of the CPU Board of Trustees.

On September 30, 2017, CPU Alumni from different parts of the country and abroad, once again gathered at Rose Memorial Auditorium to reminisce the past, enjoy the moment, and plan for the future. The gathering is meaningful every year as every Centralian anticipates to meet with an old pal, an old classmate, or even an old soul mate from his/her campus days.

This year’s theme is “Centralians Sharing 3T’s (Time, Talent and Treasure) for One CPU at 112”.

*Past CPU President Dr. Agustin A. Pulido, his wife, Dorothy Pulido and CPU Vice President for Student Affairs, Rev. Joniel Howard H. Gico.*

*Dr. Teodoro C. Robles together with the CPU Alumni Association Inc. President, Mr. Dan Dorillo and members.*

*CPU High School Batch 1972 reunites after 45 years.*

*Good to be back – the alumni of the CPU College of Nursing rekindles their Centralian bond with batchmates.*

The Alumni Homecoming celebration started at 8:30 AM and everyone was seated with their Alumni chapters, classes, or batches. Meeting, greeting and updating one another became more enjoyable because of the tasty pamahaw served: coffee with native delicacies such as suman latik, puto bumbong, and ibus.

The invocation was delivered through a song by Ms. Katchry S. Golbin, a Centralian France Got Talent winner. The meditation followed, led by the College of Theology and the University Church. The National Anthem and the Alma Mater songs were conducted by Ms. Crista S. Huyong. The CPU Symphonic Band took part in the celebration by playing for a special dance production number of the CPU Sari-Saot Dance Troupe.

Dr. Teodoro C. Robles, CPU President, delivered his welcome remarks and announced that there would be a global reunion of Centralians in Chicago in 2018, and a grand global reunion on the campus on February 2020.

The alumni were then delighted to a surprise duet from Ms. Golbin and Iloilo City Councilor and CPUAII member of the Board of Trustees Atty. Joshua Alim. Then the Alumni Roll Call began as the CPUAAI Corporate Secretary Engr. Rey L. Balogo read the list of Alumni present; the recognition of Centralian Achievers followed afterwards.

During the second part of the program, the Alumni Fellowship, Engr. Vitini O. Idemne and Ms. Crista S. Huyong led the Central Songs Challenge—Sing that Central Song! There were fun and games, snacks, and a lot of door prizes raffled off.

At 11 AM, the business meeting was called to order. Atty. Noel C. Siosan, Jr., 2016 CPUAAI Corporate Auditor, read the minutes of the previous business meeting for approval. It was followed by the reading of the President’s report by CPUAAI President Mr. Dan Dorillo. Dr. Robles updated the Alumni and thanked the benefactors and donors of Central Philippine University during “The CPU President’s Time.” Mrs. Flora Grace Cudiamat, CPUFOAA President, also gave an update about the activities of the CPUFOAA, and promoted the upcoming Global Reunion 2018 in Chicago through a video.

A hearty lunch was then served by the College of Hospitality Management. After which, the Jubilarians were acknowledged on stage. The awards were next given to the winners: major door prizes were raffled before the program ended at 3:00 PM. Rev. Roger T. Quimpo, Associate Pastor, led the closing prayer and benediction.

In the CPUAAI election for the five members of the CPUAAI Board of Trustees, the following were selected: Engr. Vitini Edhard Idemne, Atty. Joshua Alim, Rev. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on, Atty. Noel Siosan, Jr., and Atty. Alejandro Somo.

CPU Alumni Invitational Golfer Tournament tees off on October 7

Centralian golf enthusiasts may opt to extend their stay in Iloilo after the Grand Alumni Homecoming as the CPU Alumni Golfers Association (CPU AGA) holds its Invitational Golfer Tournament on October 7, 2017 at the Sta. Barbara Centenary Golf Course, Sta. Barbara, Iloilo.

According to CPU AGA Secretary Engr. Isagani J. Jalbuena, the event will have a Barrel Tee Off Time from 6:00 AM to 11:00AM. Trophies will be awarded for Open Category, Men, Open Category, Ladies; Open Category Seniors and all Centralian Men and Ladies. The awards will be given in the evening at the Iloilo Golf Course and Country Club, Sta. Barbara, Iloilo.

New PA for Western Visayas is a Centralian

*Jane Javellana will be serving the Ilonggos as Presidential Assistant for Western Visayas. Photo Credit: Jane Javellana.*

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte has a new Presidential Adviser for Western Visayas. Centralian Jane Javellana, an Ilongga businesswoman and entrepreneur, was given the new appointment. A native of Jaro, Iloilo City, Javellana is a graduate of Central Philippine University High School. She finished her BS Accountancy at the University of San Agustin, and her Master’s Degree from the University of the Philippines. She was one of the lead organizers of Duterte’s presidential Campaign in Lapaz, Iloilo City in 2016.

Her office is under the Office of the Presidential Assistant for Western Visayas. Her duties involve coordinating with different agencies in Western Visayas “to hasten the resolution of immediate concerns, issues and problems of communities in the region.” She added that “Duterte is a working president, and if the problems are identified, he wants it immediately resolved.”

She pointed out opportunities for employment and infrastructure projects, summing up her office’s function as the “bridge between the people of Western Visayas and the President.” The Panay Negros Bridge, international port and tourism are among her priority concerns.

Javellana’s appointment took effect on August 1, 2017, but she started her official duties on September 11.