Rotary Club of Jaro Centraline celebrates 25 years of service

By Cyrus A. Natividad

The 25^th “Year of Service” celebration of the CPU Alumni Association Special Chapter-The Rotary Club of Jaro Centraline (RCJC) was held last Sunday evening, July 29, 2018, at Gerardo’s, The Castle Hotel on Bonifacio Drive, Iloilo City. It was attended by the officers of the club and other notable people in Iloilo City. Both the Rotarians and Rotaractors (Youth Chapter of RCJC) consider the event as a historic assembly of RCJC’s past presidents.

Seated at the presidential table was Rotary District 3850 Governor, Mr. Lindon See Diet, the guest speaker and inducting officer at the event; Current CPU Alumni Association President, Engr. Isagani J. Jabuena; Charter President, Dr. Andresito Millamena; Outgoing RCJC President Jude Marsh R. Grande; and Incoming President RCJC President, Mrs. Evelyn Rose A. Catilo (see related article).

President Grande, R.I. (Rotary International) of 2017-2018, banged the gavel and called the event into order. The program started at 6:00 PM, with Centralian, Pastor Jec Dan Borlado, leading the invocation. Dr. Lorna T. Grande, Dean, CPU College of Business and Accountancy, acknowledged the Rotarians and guests.

Dinner was then served. All the while, the affair was being shown live on widescreen TV, courtesy of the CPU Office of Communications, which provided coverage of the program with Mr. Dionisio Coronado and his team from CPUTV.

A brief history of the Rotary Club was read by the RCJC Charter President shortly after dinner was served: The Rotary Club of Jaro Centraline was founded by Dr. Andresito “Nonong” Millamena, also a member the CPUAAI Board of Trustees and CPU Corporation, in 1993. He served as Club President from 1993 to 1994.

Some of the Centralian past Presidents have also served at Central Philippine University in different departments and offices. Among them are the late CPU BOT Chairman Narciso “Narcing” Maravilla who served as RCJC President from 1997 to 1998; Ricardo “Ric Patricio, Planning Officer, Office of CPU President) and RCJC President from 2004-2005; Alma “Tita Doc” Frondoza, Asst. Dean of the College of Medicine and served as Chapter President of RCJC from 2005 to 2006; and Dr. Fely P. Chin, former Vice President for Academic Affairs and who served RCJC from 2006 to 2007; Novy Lagradilla, CPU Alumni Association Liaison Officer and served as Chapter President from 2008 to 2009; Freddie “Butch” Salvania, Franklin Hall Dormitory Coordinator and served as RCJC President from 2010 to 2011; Johnny “JV” Villanueva, faculty and served from 2012 to 2013; and Jude Marsh R. Grande, Engineering faculty, 2017 to 2018, and served as RCJC President.

It was a “Night of the Presidents” as the past presidents of RCJC, since it was founded in 1993, were invited to the affair and were awarded with personalized gold medals by new RCJC President Catilo.

The newly inducted officers of the RCJC are: Evelyn Rose Catilo, President; Trinidad “Trenz” Sorongon, President Elect; Jude Marsh Grande, Secretary; Rotarian Lorna T. Grande, Treasurer; Cyrus A. Natividad, Chairman for Public Image; Lyds Grio, Director for Membership; and Budz Senorio, Chairman, Rotary Foundation.

In his message, President Grande promised to do more, having been elected as the current Club Secretary. Under his leadership, RCJC was able to initiate and sustain a feeding program to the indigents and youth of Barangay Tirador in Janiuay, donate desks to selected schools, launch youth and sports program with which he was able to mobilize a Fun Run in support of Central Philippine University’s Alumni Homecoming in 2017, and other various socio-civic projects.

President Evelyn Rose Catilo delivered her inaugural speech with a commitment to extend more to the needy and do her best to make RCJC a worthy cause. Mrs. Catilo selflessly facilitated, among others, a gift-giving activity to indigent communities at Christmas and medical missions intended to support senior citizen in selected communities.

The Inducting Officer DG See Diet who has been visiting Rotary Clubs in Iloilo City admired the cooperation of the Rotary Club of Jaro Centraline and CPU Alumni Association, Inc. He expressed gratitude to Central Philippine University for the support it has been giving to RCJC.

Engr. Isagani J. Jalbuena, CPUAAI President, delivered his message of support to the Rotary Club of Jaro Centraline, “As a Special Chapter of Central Philippine University Alumni Association, your club is assured of support and cooperation on any activities and partnerships during my leadership.”

The program was hosted by Miss Camelle Frances M. Romero, Administrative Officer, CPU Office of the President.

CPU Med Tech Alumna Batch ’79 is new RCJC President

By Cyrus A. Natividad

*Mrs. Evelyn Rose Catilo is the new president of the Rotary Club of Jaro Centraline.*

Newly inducted Rotary Club of Jaro Centraline (CPUAAI Special Chapter) President Evelyn Rose Catilo is a B.S. Medical Technology graduate of Central Philippine University, Batch 1979.

Evelyn worked at the Iloilo Mission Hospital. She is a pioneer technician of the Heart Station Department. She was later sent to the Philippine Heart Center for Asia to train on ECG Interpretation and also to perform a D-2 Echo and Stress Test.

Carrying her true Central Spirit, she made sure to involve herself in worthy causes and charitable outreach. Thus, in 2014 she joined the Rotary Club of Jaro Centraline and started participating in outreach programs for indigent communities.

Evelyn is an exemplary Centralian much as she is a very active Rotarian. On her second time as RCJC President, Catilo promises to follow this year’s Rotary International motto “Be an Inspiration.”

Evelyn Rose Catilo is married to Wenifredo Orbe Catilo and together, they have 3 children.

CPUAA North Eastern USA holds Alumni Picnic

By Keziah G. Huelar

*Summer Picnic of the CPUAA North Eastern USA with its president Rev. Felix Colinco (first from right, in blue) and Ms. Gladys Pearl H. Gico-Jabalde (sitting fourth from right).*

The Central Philippine University Alumni Association of North Eastern USA held an alumni summer picnic at the Calvary Baptist Church of Clifton, New Jersey on July 21, 2018.

Invited guest speaker, Ms. Gladys Pearl H. Gico-Jabalde (CPU BS Nursing Batch 1977) in her message entitled “Just Do It,” talked about the importance of obedience and gratitude in one’s walk with the Lord. She shared the favorite Bible verses of her parents, Mrs. Pacita Huelar Gico, a graduate of CPU Baptist Missionary Training School, and Rev. Jose T. Gico, Jr., a graduate of CPU College of Theology, as well as that of her aunt’s, Mrs. Felicidad B. Huelar, a graduate of the CPU College of Education.

She shared her experiences as a pastor’s kid waking up early to attend Sunday Service. According to her, one’s faith is not only a passionate endeavor but a faithful discipline one must work with fear and trembling. Mrs. Jabalde shares that “obedience of the Word of God is the mark of a true Christian.”

Mrs. Jabalde also encouraged fellow Centralians to continually share the message of the salvation: “My daddy said to me, ‘You do not stop telling others about the Lord. You continue until you die to the end. Tell your spouse, children, brothers, sisters, coworkers, neighbors, friends, everyone. Do not be ashamed to share the good news with them. That’s your responsibility as a believer. The Lord will teach you, equip you, empower you, mold you and help you on what to say. The Holy Spirit is going to be with you all the way. Just continue His work.’”

Recollecting on the wisdom of her parents and aunt, Mrs. Jabalde shared that when they were still alive, she was able to preserve their conversations about God and the Bible through a recording teddy bear. She shared the sound clips of the said conversation during the picnic.

As a family of Centralians serving the Lord, Mrs. Jabalde highlighted the importance of families not only in strengthening and encouraging one another, but in helping each other fulfill their purpose in the Lord.

At the end of her message, Mrs. Jabalde read a poem entitled “Do It Anyway” by Mother Teresa.

CPU DHS Class 1988 celebrates Pearl Anniversary

By Keziah G. Huelar

*Remembering memories and making them last – the CPU DHS Batch 1988 celebrates their Pearl Anniversary.*

An ode to 30 years of Centralian camaraderie—The Central Philippine University Development High School Class of 1988 celebrated their Pearl Anniversary by conducting a three-day event filled with different activities from July 20 to 22, 2018.

Ninety (90) alumni from the Batch 1988 gathered together to rekindle their Central Spirit. The batch held a Pinoy Olympics showcasing beloved childhood Filipino games. They also danced the afternoon away at Prism Nightlife in Smallville, Mandurriao and enjoyed a nostalgic meal at Netong’s Batchoy. The batch also had a reunion with their beloved teachers at Tatoy’s-Atria.

*A dance intermission given by the alumnae during the Gala Night at Casa Real.*

With the theme “An Evening in Black and White,” Batch 1988 held their gala night at Casa Real. Together with friends and family, they reminisced their time at CPU, celebrating the Central Spirit and, more importantly, the faith that CPU taught them to cherish. They also looked forward to more celebrations with fellow Centralians.

As part of giving back to the community, the batch held a feeding program and gave out school supplies in the Municipality of Dumangas. The said outreach was spearheaded by Hon. Ronaldo Golez, Mayor, Municipality of Dumangas and alumnus of the said batch.

CPU BSN Class 1993 holds Silver Jubilee Celebration

By Keziah G. Huelar

*Members of the CPU BSN Batch 1993 at Washington D.C.*

The Central Spirit at the Capitol—The Central Philippine University Bachelor of Science in Nursing Class 1993 held their Silver Jubilee Celebration at Washington D.C. on July 29 to 31, 2018.

During the said get-together, 63 Centralian alumni rekindled their friendships and recalled their nursing days at CPU. Apart from touring the different historical sites such as the White House, the group held a family picnic at the Embassy Church and a gala night at the National Union Building.

Section D was the most represented section with 17 alumni. Jonathan Gapilango was hailed as Silver Reunion King while Mary Love Magbanua was crowned as Silver Reunion Queen.

*CPU BSN Batch 1993 Section D together again after 25 years.*

CPU President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles, in his message to the batch written in their program, said, “Your 25th Reunion is a testament of how blessed you have been these past years and how privileged CPU is to have you as alumni. I hope that this occasion be filled with glittering eyes and glamorous smiles as you exchange stories of the good old days and as you celebrate God’s greatest glory and enduring grace.”

The Reunion Planning Committee was composed of Vivian Piang-Canneti, Overall Chair; Jonathan Gapilango Vice Chair; John Xerxes Estenor, Gala Chair; Mary Love Magbanua and Marilyn Junin-Jabasa, Gala Co-Chairs; Florigyn Gonzales-Cordero, Finance Chair; Voltaire Buenjemia, Communications Chair; Patricia Palonpon-Heramis, Picnic Chair; Carol Joy Limoso-Cabahug, Tour Chair; Elipido Sandig and Leo John Espinosa, Logistics Chair.

CPU takes pride in its strong community of alumni around the globe. As Centralians gather to celebrate the Central Spirit, they place at the center Christ which is the heart and foundation of CPU.

CPU celebrates 10th Global Reunion

With reports from Gabriel Ortigoza, Flora Grace Guillergan-Cudiamat, and Emelda Frange–Valcarcel

*CPU President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles and his wife, Ma’am Angel Robles together with Centralian alumni.*

Celebrating the Central Spirit across the globe—Centralians, 550 in total, came from different alumni chapters and associations around the world to gather together as Central Philippine University commemorates its 10^th Global Reunion at the Crowne Plaza Chicago O’Hare Hotel on July 5-8, 2018.

With the theme “Fostering CPU’s Legacy: Let the Central Spirit Shine,” Centralians rekindled their friendships and shared their testimonies during the three day reunion. This year’s global reunion was spearheaded by the
CPU Federation of Overseas Alumni Association-Chicago Chapter .

CPU President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles, thanked the CPU alumni for their undying love and support for the university. He also highlighted the accomplishments of the university and the contributions of the alumni in funding constructions and scholarships. Dr. Robles also expressed his gratitude to the alumni for carrying the CPU torch with faith and excellence in whichever part of the globe they may be. According to the alumni present, Dr. Robles gave a powerful yet simple testimony of how he transcended all of the trials in life and responded to his mission of accepting the challenging task of being the university president instead of just enjoying retirement with his wife, Angel, in their Wisconsin home.

*These boots were made for rockin! The CPU North Texas Alumni Chapter.*

*Members and officers of the CPUAA Midwest USA – host of the 10th Global Reunion.*

*CPU College of Nursing Batch 1972 attending the 10th Global Reunion.*

Also gracing the event is honorary Centralian, Dr. Aaron Alfred Lee. In a concert entitled “An Evening with Music,” Dr. Lee serenaded Centralians. It can be recalled that Dr. Lee performed at the Rose Memorial Auditorium, CPU Campus on February 8, 2018.

For the first evening devotional, Engr. Eddie C. Cañuto shared his experiences as a working student of the CPU Libraries. According to Engr. Cañuto, to help support his studies he worked 2 hours every day for 75 centavos per hour as payment. He was able to graduate with a degree in Engineering and placed 7^th in the Engineer Licensure Exam. At age 55, he retired from his engineering profession, sold all his engineering equipment to live a simple life in the farm, and pursue his passion to spread the Word of God.

Engr. Cañuto established Ephrathah Farms, an organic farm also engaged in agri-tourism in Iloilo. There, he enjoys teaching people how to grow organic fruits and vegetables. He shared that the most important thing he does in life now is to teach people the love of Christ. He encouraged his fellow alumni to trust in the promises and the timing of God.

*CPUAAI President, Engr. Isagani J. Jalbuena thanks the CPU alumni community for their continuous love and support to the university.*

Another devotional speaker who shared his testimony was Rev. Dr. Elmo D. Familiaran. In his message entitled “From Whence We Came,” Rev. Dr. Familiaran highlighted the importance of trusting God through remembering and obeying His Word: “Said another way, not only do we have the capacity to remember the past, but our experience in the present is informed and shaped by what we have previously felt, tasted, learned; and our memory of the past and our experience of the present come together through time to give us a vision of the future not yet realized but only imagined in our spirit and soul.”

He also emphasized the importance of taking root in Christ as the foundation of one’s purpose, “Without the consciousness of that story, we will not have roots; and if we do not have roots, we will be living lives devoid of identity and purpose. Our story is the power that sustains our spirituality, and it is so important for the vitality of our faith for today, more than ever, that it is nourished by the memory of our roots.”

The three-day reunion ended with Centralians filled with encouragement from one another and with the Word of God. The next CPU Worldwide Reunion will be on February 5-7, 2020 at the CPU campus.

*CPU President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles leads the oath taking of the newly elected CPUFOAA Officers for 2019-2020.*

The following are the newly elected CPUFOAA Officers for 2019-2020:

President: Flora Grace Guillergan-Cudiamat

1st Vice President: Rod Gonzales

2nd VP for US: May Celiz-Rogers

2nd VP for Canada: Norma van Dusen

2nd VP for Australasia: Joseph Beloria

2nd VP for Middle East/Africa: Mildred Majeed

2nd VP for Europe: None

Regional Vice Presidents

Region 1: Lee Plagata

Region 2: None

Region 3: Lilian Lau

Region 4: None

Region 5: Manuel de la Fuente

Region 6: Rufino Gonzales

Region 7: Easter Arora

Region 8: Lydia MacDonnell

Region 9: Dot Cuales

Region 10: Leynebelle Leysa

Corporate Secretary: Yolanda Jain

Asst. Corporate Secretary: Dianabin Penacerrada

Corporate Treasurer: Melba Debulgado

Corporate Auditor: Kathy Kriewall

Board of Directors (At-Large):

Melinda Boice
Elma Divinagracia
Rick Falco
Erlinda Galanto
Tito Gervacio
Pio Go
Lilia Magdamo

Webmaster: Rodney Gicana

CPU BS BIO batch ’83 holds 35th Year Reunion

*Back in the arms of Central – CPU BS Bio Batch 1983 revisits the CPU Campus.*

Thirty Five years has been a fruitful period of time, and which was the reason why the CPU BSBio Alumni Batch ‘83 held a Reunion at Damires Hills in Janiuay, Iloilo on April 30 to May 1, 2018. They had their names registered at the CPUAAI Alumni Hall, from 8 – 9 in the morning before making a courtesy call to the CPU Life Science Department (LSD), and the University President. They made a tour of the CPU campus as well.

*CPU BS Bio 1983 with faculty and staff of the CPU Life Sciences Department.*

A Thanksgiving Lunch for the BS BIO Alumni was held at the Life Science Department Function Hall. The exciting trip to Damires Hill in Janiuay followed after lunch.

The Fellowship Dinner at Damires Resort was enjoyed by everyone. It was exquisitely prepared by the committee. Dr. Vita Gasataya and Mr. Nonet Jaconob hosted the program. The invocation and National Anthem was led by Mr. Virgilio Gemoto. Dr Susana Amiscuawelcomed the BS Bio alumni present.

A memorable video – slide presentation related to the events and experiences of the BS Bio alumni was played; the presenters and the attendees were acknowledged; a toast followed with an acoustic entertainment.

Prizes were raffled off before the awarding ceremony. Dr. Daniel Aguilar Jr. made his closing remarks. Everyone enjoyed the Video Challenge before they called it a day.

On the second day – May 1, a “team building/bonding was held after breakfast. The alumni formed groups had a sharing and learning time with one another.

*Paying it forward – CPU BS Bio Batch 1983 donates a Panasonic refrigerator to the CPU Life Sciences Department.*

The CPU BS Bio Alumni Association then held its Election of Officers and planning session for their next reunion. The group made a Tour of the City after the meeting

CPU BS BIOLOGY BATCH 1983 ALUMNI ASSOCIATION OFFICERS FOR 2018-2019:

President: Dr Caroline Arroyo

VP for Luzon: Nonet Jagonob

VP for Visayas: Arla Arenga

VP for Mindanao: Dr Miriam Gilaver-Pamonag

Secretary Lani Palmares;

Tresurer Dr Ermelinda Villanueva

Communications Officer: Jose Mari Tendencia

Alumni donate to CPU

The Centralian Spirit of Generosity—The Central Philippine University Federation of Overseas Alumni Associations, Inc. donated $3,400 to the university on March 1, 2018. Rachel Villanosa and her family donated $2,000 of the said amount to the CPUFOAA Grant-in-Aid and Recognition Endowment Fund while $1,000 came from Evelyn Turalba to be added to the College of Nursing Virtual Laboratory Project. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing Class 1979 gave $400 to the said project also.

The said amount was presented to CPU President Dr. Teodoro C. Robles by Mrs. Perla G. Londres Waters, former president of the CPU Federation of Overseas Alumni Association, Inc. (CPUFOAA).

Alumni Imelda G. Quimpo and Michael F. Quimpo donated $55 dollars; $30 of which is for the renovation of the tennis court and $25 for the Occupational Safety Program. The said amount was turned over by the couple on March 1, 2018.

On March 4, 2018, the CPU Alumni Association Midwest Chapter, headed by Mrs. Mae Celiz Rogers, donated $700 to the God’s Grace Project of the University Church.

The university recognizes the role of Centralian alumni around world in propagating the Central Spirit. Thus, the Central Philippine University Federation of Overseas Alumni Association and CPUAA Midwest USA is inviting all CPU alumni around the globe to attend the 10^th CPU Alumni Global Reunion to be held at Crowne Plaza, Chicago O’Hare, Rosemont, Illinois on July 5-8, 2018. This year’s global reunion will banner the theme “Fostering CPU’s Legacy-Let the Central Spirit Shine!”

Alumni are expected to be part of this grand event of rekindling the Centralian flame of friendship. Let us celebrate the Central Spirit with pride and joy as we gather together and immerse ourselves in the years of camaraderie and faith that CPU has helped shape.

For more information on the event, please check www.2018cpuglobalreunion.com for the itinerary and registration.

CPU hopes that more donations will be raised to complete the Nursing Virtual Laboratory Project before 2018 ends. For your donations and inquiries, please call (033) 3291971 loc. 1037 (College of Nursing Secretary’s Office) or loc. 2107 (Faculty Room), or email nursing@cpu.edu.

For other inquiries about CPU’s other projects and donations drive, please email communications@cpu.edu.ph.

Gerry Escolta: Labor is honor

*Escolta with his friend and former co-worker Mr. Cyrus Natividad.*

From a humble working student at Central Philippine University, Gerry A. Escolta has realized his dream of becoming a Certified Public Accountant. He is now a CPA who owns the G. Escolta Management Consultancy Services that provides management consultancy services to several companies in Sta. Rosa City Laguna and parts of Metro Manila.

His hardships and difficulties during his college days only made him more determined to pursue his plans to finish college and become a CPA. Escolta recalls that he would wake up very early from the municipality of Passi where he came home to every weekend and catch one of the few jeepneys that go to Iloilo City every Monday. Escolta finished his Bachelor of Science in Accountancy at Central Philippine University in 1981 and succeeded to pass the CPA Board Exam in Manila the following year.

He came back to CPU very recently to visit friends, former classmates, particularly his co-work students at the Student Service Enterprise. He did not forget his work 40 years ago—checking the enterprise stocks and serving his customers with courtesy. He studied his lessons diligently during work intervals and learned from the accounting process of the enterprise as well.

Escolta believes in quality and to have studied at CPU is a fortunate experience. He constantly thinks about how he could have succeeded if not for the Work-Study Program of Central Philippine University.

He emphasized that “labor is honor.” Labor was what made him a deserving work-student, a determined career person and now a very successful Certified Public Accountant.

Escolta revisited CPU with a plan to organize a Student Service Enterprise Alumni Association (CPU SSEAA). For those who have been a work student before and assigned to the SSE, please contact Gerry Escolta on this number: 09155477296.

Eric Otayde: A journey of success that began in CPU

*CPU Political Science Alumni Association President Eric Otayde with Former CPU President Dr. Agustin A. Pulido.*

The President of the CPU Political Science Alumni Association (PSAA), Eric “Noy” Otayde, takes some time to visit his old friends and classmates at Central Philippine University when in Iloilo City.

He drives his own car from Antique, and, as the President of the CPU Political Science Alumni Association, he calls up his PSAA officers one by one, making use of extra time apart from his many appointments in Iloilo City, to update and plan for this Special Alumni Chapter. While a hard working ranking official of the province of Antique, Otayde is a multitasker who seriously works for the advancement and development of his province.

A seasoned government official of Antique, Otayde comes from a political family. “Pres. Noy” as he is called by PSAA circle has his humble beginnings in CPU. He was a Bachelor of Arts graduate of Political Science 1984. He was President of the CPU Political Science Students Organization during his college days and the Governor of the College of Arts and Sciences. His involvement in the CPU Student Republic must have a political training ground for a colorful career in governance in Antique after his graduation.

He has served as Provincial Board Member of Antique and Appointed Adviser for Semirara Coal—a difficult task which he handled intelligently especially during calamities and labor situations. He was also appointed as Member of the Tripartite Monitoring Team for Environmental Compliance. His love for public service continues for the betterment of his people and province. His current work for Antique is being the Public Information Officer and Executive Director of Binirayan Festival 2018. While serving as Public Information Officer, he had a public service program on radio.

Taking a night cap in Iloilo City with this CPU alumnus is always an interesting and valuable experience. He updates us on his job and shares his experiences with powerful corporate entities. He is a close friend to the likes of coal and construction magnate, the late David Consunji, Senator Loren Legarda, former Governor Sally Perez, and a string of government officials and businessmen.

“It took me a long time to reach this far, but in every step I made, I feel the Central Spirit within me; I recall the kindness of God and how He prepared me for this career through the training and knowledge I earned from Central Philippine University,” said Otayde.

From his humble beginnings in CPU, Eric “Noy” Otayde accomplished the wishes of his proud parents, Victoria and Maximo Otayde of Sibalom, Antique.