The Personnel Office conducted an overnight seminar-workshop for the new employees of CPU last October 25-26, 2000 at the Spring of Joy, Buenavista, Guimaras.

Led by Mrs. Gloria I. Arriola, Personnel Officer, the group of about 47 assembled at the Half Moon Drive around 8:00 and together left for Guimaras. The group was composed of 15 staff, 28 faculties, 2 from the Personnel Office, 1 from the Educational Media Center and the speaker, Miss Valerie Ruth Diesto.

The seminar’s theme was "Fill My Cup" based on John 4:14 which says, "But whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life."

The group was oriented on "What CPU stands for" and "Corporate Values" by the speaker. Dr. Alma Frondoza, our host, taught the group about "What John 4:14 means". The new faculty and staff were given the chance to know each other more deeper than just the face and the name tag in the Acquaintance Time. They were made to make their own mission and vision statement. They had the time to respond to John 4:14 by praising God during the Praise and Worship time. The night was not complete without a dip at the pool.

Early in the cool morning an organized exercise at the pool and a quiet time for reflection was conducted by the host. After breakfast most of the participants had their first experience playing volleyball with their butts on the floor. The seminarians had the opportunity to watch a touching video "The Molder of Dreams". It was an eye opener especially to the faculty. Some participants cried after watching the movie. Indeed, it was a learning experience. Just before they left, the group had a tree planting session of mahogany seedlings provided by the host.

When asked if they will recommend this kind of activity in the future, they answered with a resounding "yes"! A participant commented, "The training was indeed excellent. It was not only for getting to know each other but really gives us the true meaning of what we are at CPU. It gives us hope and makes us dream dreams". They left Spring of Joy with joy springing from their hearts, with fond memories, and cups filled.

CERTIFIED! CRIS CYRIL Balladares about to receive his certificate of attendance from Mrs. Gloria Ariola, Personnel Officer (reading the citation in the certicate) and organizer, Mr. Ruth Valerie Diesto, Speaker and Dr. Alma Frondoza, host of Spring of Joy, Guimaras Islands while the other participants await their turn.

This is a showdown! While others show them up, others show them down. The seminarians in action.

This is a hold-up! An early morning exercise will hold the seminarians up till they leave for home later in the afternoon.