August - September 2006
NEWS and ANNOUNCEMENT
CPU aids Guimaras oil-spill cleanup
Central Philippine University has pledged its support to the ongoing clean-up of the massive Guimaras oil spill.
The University is currently gathering various relief goods and materials necessary for the clean-up. Items such as corn cobs., dry grasses, old fishing nets, rice straw, vegetable sacks, coconut husks, and plastic straws needed for the construction of oil spill booms are utilized to help stem the tide of oil slick from the coast of Guimaras.Fundraising projects are also on-going.
The Guimaras oil spill is an ongoing environmental and economic disaster that started August 11, 2006 . It is dubbed as the worst oil spill the Philippines has ever seen.
SEAFDEC, CPU sign MOU on aquaculture info and research
Southeast Asian Development Center (SEAFDEC) – Aquaculture Department (AQD) and Central Philippine University signed a memorandum of understanding on aquaculture researches, and related matters on August 16, 2006 at the Educational Media Center Conference Room.
The memorandum of understanding strengthens the partnership between CPU and SEAFDEC. It seeks “acceptable arrangements for stationing of staff members and trainees” . It aims to promote and undertake researches in aquaculture that are relevant and appropriate in Southeast Asia , and train reserachers and technicians.
Dr. Ilda Borlongan, faculty member of the Department of Chemistry-College of Arts and Sciences at CPU is heading this 12-month project.
CPUFOAA constitution and by-laws ratified
Central Philippine University Federation of Overseas Alumni Association recently ratified its constitution and by-laws.
Eleven overseas alumni chapters ratified the said constitution and by-laws.
Here they are with their contact persons:
CPUAA—North TX
(Val Gonzales)
CPUAA—Northern CA
( Johnny Ancheta)
CPUAA—Greater Toronto Area (Rick Falco/Edwin Arroz)
CPUAA—Midwest Chicago)USA
(Joel Juarez/Flora Cudiamat)
CPUAA—South TX
(Gene Duremdes),
CPUAA—BC/WA State
(May Vail Lee)
CPUAA—Montreal
(Millie Francisco/Maggie Calcetas),
CPUAA—Australia
(Mauro Somodio)
CPUAA—Europe
(Gideon Regalado)
CPUAA—MN
(Ramon Puerto/EstherConnelly)
CPUAA—TN
(Nora Ramos)
On the other hand, the following chapters requested for affiliates:
CPUAA— NE USA
(Hera Cresencio)
CPUAA—UAE
CPU FOAA President Perla Guillergan Londres thanked the members of the Executive Board and Advisers for their “valuable support, counsel, and encouragement” , the Chapter Presidents and Regional Vice Presidents, and also the By-Laws Committee who are willing to undertake the necessary job.
Central's Laurels
New CPAs
LADIGOHON, Andre
LOBO, Ma. Crisanta Maricel
MEYANDIA, Lea
MONDRO, Vernesa
NARZO, Maylyne
New MEDICAL TECHNOLOGISTS
ALISEN, Julie Ann
BIBAOCO, Michelle Marie
CALOYLOY, Beberly Marie
GOLVEO, Vanessa
PADOJINOG, JG
PUERTO, Babylyn
RABANG, Sarah Jean
REYES, Melissa
SALANIO , Ma . Novie
TOGONON, Reuben
NEW NURSES
8th Place- Rio , Carielle Joy V.
AGUADO, Maricel S.
AGUJITAS, Uriel J.
ALBANIA , Dona Christianie A.
ALMENIANA , Ma . Feorelie G.
ALVAREZ, Jan Patrick A.
ARBOLEDA, Honnie Lytte A.
ARCEÑA, Aissah Maia B.
ARELLANO, Darr B.
AROSTIQUE, Eric Smith M.
ARPA, Rianie E.
BAUTISTA, Elynor Grace B.
BRAVANTE, Nicy G.
BRAZAS, Cindy G.
CABALLERO, Junenard C.
CALMERIN, Ayesha C.
CIUDAD, Tomas D.
DE LA PEÑA, Barbie Grace D.
DEXIMO, Jr. Joel Andrew A.
DOLAR, Christine A.
DONASCO, Nova Lynia R.
DUSARAN, Audrey Rose D.
FADOL, Felzar Jay E.
FIRMALINO, Mary Rose D.
GALLANO, Vholtaire E.
GALLARDO , Ma . Chryslean O.
GALUEGO, Noe Julius J.
GEMAO, Aileen Jade E.
GENTICA, Louchel G.
GUMBAN, Gywwyn G.
HERMOSISIMA, Kyle Kirby A.
HILARIO, August Vincent S.
HUELE, Eva Joanne T.
HEULE, Genevieve E.
HUERTAS, Hermilou M.
JANAY, Sheena Mae L.
JANGAYO , Ma . May Ranielle L.
JASTILLANO, Jenny D.
JAVIERO, Ian Kris P.
JORDAN, Melvin V.
LANIOG, Catherine S.
LASANAS, Lourene E.
LEGASPI, Apple Dream S.
LOAZADA, Charlaine B.
LUCES, Lucille S.
LUMAJEN, Jana Mae V.
LUMASAG, Fel Aisah L.
MABAQUIAO, Denette B.
MACALINO, Hedgel Faith J.
MACUNDO, Iryne M.
MAGTURO, Feorie P.
NONATO, Joan P.
ORQUIOLA, Kristel
PERALTA, Gizell B.
PINUELA, Roderick J.
QUIMBA, Jared P.
QUIROBIN, Leppzy Grace D.
RENDAJE, Maricar B.
RESANO, Conie V.
REYES, Ralph Dave C.
REYES, Ivy A.
ROBLES, Eva M.
SALARDA, Beau Teryll S.
SANCHO, Paul Vincent L.
SERVIDAD, Gileece L.
SIBLAG, Joseph Stalin C.
SILVELA, Bernadine L.
SOQUEÑA, Anie Sol J.
SOTARIDONA, Ryan F.
SUA, John Mark H.
3rd runner-up
ABS-CBN ILOILO INTERSCHOOL
NEWSCASTING COMPETITION
AlEJANDRIA, YURI
(AB MASSCOM 2)
CHAMPION, LOGO-MAKING CONTEST FOR THE CPU BIRTHING CENTER
EFRAIM ALFARAS of CPU PRESS
CHAMPION, SLOGAN-MAKING CONTEST FOR THE CPU BIRTHING CENTER
ISIDRO GOLIS of CPU PRESS
WINNER, Association of Private Higher Education Institutions (APHEI)- Region VI LOGO-MAKING CONTEST
EFRAIM ALFARAS of CPU PRESS
PLAQUE OF RECOGNITION
(from the city of iloilo )
for
THE outstanding performance
in the international mathematics competition
Pamillo, Ray John
(CPU HS IV)
CPU HS' 72 celebrates 34th year in Nevada global reunion
Thirty-five members of the CPU High School Class of 1972 gathered in Las Vegas , Nevada on August 3-6, 2006 to celebrate their 34th year global reunion. Twenty-nine participants came from different regions of the United States , two arrived from the United Kingdom , three travelled from the Philippines ,and one flew from British Columbia , Canada .
The three-day get together was filled with warmth and camaraderie. On the PAGTILILIPON NIGHT on August 4 at the home of Nene and Moonyeen Orlina, class members enjoyed delicious Filipino food, endless conversations, and karaoke. During this event, the class approved its Constitution and Bylaws, ratified the guidelines for the Benevolence Fund, and set the term of officers. Current officers include: Irma May Fernandez de Leon (President); Tim Gabio (Vice President); Miriam Javier de la Fuente (Secretary/Treasurer), and; Joshua de Leon (Archives/Logistics Director).
On August 5, the group enjoyed a tour of The Hoover Dam, a civil engineering wonder that has tamed the Colorado River and generates hydroelectric power utilized by three states - Nevada , California , and Arizona ; then a stop at the Ethel M Chocolate Factory, a home of fine chocolates. The day was capped by a Dinner Dance at Fong’s Garden Restaurant, where the guest speakers included Mrs. Evangelica Padernilla and Mr. Porfirio Mayordomo. The affair started with an Invocation delivered by Rev. Elmo Familiaran, followed by an a capella rendition of ‘The Star Spangled Banner’ and ‘Pambansang Awit ng Pilipinas’ by Michelle Orlina (daughter of Nene and Moonyeen Orlina). Ruth Dorillo led the devotional and gave inspiring remarks about the ‘Purpose Driven Life’. Irma Fernandez de Leon, president of the group, gave the Opening Remarks, followed by a message from Fredgel Padernilla, representing the CPU HS 1972 Alumni Association in the Philippines . Mr. and Ms. CPU HS Class 1972 34th Year Reunion Joshua de Leon and Miriam Javier-de la Fuente, respectively, were crowned at the event. The reunion ended on a Sunday with an outdoor early Familiaran.
The group will have its 36th Global Reunion in British Columbia , Canada in 2008. All class members are encouraged to check the website at http://cpuhs1972.com.
REMEMBERING TOTIK
Known as “Totik” to those close to him, Dr. Genaro D. Diesto, Jr. was a true friend to his peers, a pastoral presence to his parishioners, a mentor to many Asian colleagues, and a hero to his own children. He was both artistically-gifted and intellectually-inclined. But most of all, he was a humble, peaceable servant of Jesus Christ. Dr. Diesto’s passion for evangelism was evident in his regular participation at annual evangelism and world mission conferences at Green Lake, Wisconsin as workshop leader on topics of evangelism and intercultural ministries. He planted and pastored the Filipino Evangelical Church of Los Angeles in 1986 and helped start two other congregations in Southern California and one in Houston, Texas. Aside from being a co-pastor (1999-2004) and later senior pastor (2004-2006) of Temple Baptist Church in Los Angeles, Dr. Diesto served the American Baptist Churches of Los Angeles region in a variety of capacities: Director of the American Baptists in Higher Education at University of Southern California (1999-2002) and Asian Ministries coordinator. He also served the wider Asian American Baptist family as regional caucus coordinator (1998-2005) and member of NM’s Asian Ministries Team (1994-1998).Dr. Diesto was an alumnus of Central Philippine University, Iloilo City, Philippines, , where he took his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science (1972) and Bachelor of Divinity (1975), cum laude. He then proceeded to earn his Master of Arts in Theological Studies at Northern Baptist Theological Seminary, Lombard, IL (1979) and Master of Theology (Systematic Theology) at the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago (1983). He finished his Doctor of Philosophy in Inter-Cultural Studies degree at Fuller Theological Seminary, Pasadena, CA (1998). His doctoral dissertation, “The Effects of Colonial Mentality on the Religious Consciousness of Filipinos,” earned him the 1998 Contextualization Award given by the School of World Mission at Fuller. Dr. Diesto had delivered lectures and sermons both here in the US and in the Philippines because of his expertise in the fields of mission and contextualization. As one of the inaugural lecturers of the Theodore A. Keaton Annual Lectures at the American Baptist Seminary of the West and co-sponsored by the Asian American Center at ABSW in February, 2002, Dr. Diesto challenged Asian American Christians to find their own theological voice rather than remain captive to the persisting legacy of western superiority. Alas, Dr. Diesto’s own voice was silenced this June 12, 2006 as he succumbed to a three- year bout against stomach cancer. Following the trails blazed by our departed Asian American Baptist greats, Genaro’s or Totik’s legacy to us was his faithfulness. His example was that of servant leadership. His enduring memory was his friendship. He is survived by his wife, Jean Te Diesto, and their three children: Chaim, Asher, and Iana. It is just fitting that we honor his life and his memory in our first ever Asian Caucus convention as he was one of us and in many a sundry ways he lived our struggles, saw our vision, said our prayers, did our work, served our cause and lifted our generation. Borrowing from the classics, we ask ourselves this, “A titan walked amongst us, when comes such another?”
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This article about the late Dr. Genaro Diesto, Jr. was written by Pastor Kenneth Kho (BTh ‘89). Dr. Diesto was also honored by the Asian American Baptist Caucus in Washington, U.S.A.
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Two alumni chapters remit donation for CPUFOAA WSSP/God’s GRACE endowment
As part of the CPU Federation of Overseas Alumni Association’s pledge to raise $100,000 for the WSSP/God’s GRACE Endowment Fund this year, two chapters brought their donation of $3,000 on September 4, 2006 .
The contribution came from the CPUAA North Texas ($2,000) and CPUAA Midwest USA ($1000), both chapter-members of the Federation (see related article on page 3). Emelda Varcarcel, CPUFOAA Regional Vice President and one of North Texas ’ leaders presented personally the donation to Dr. Acanto. Hours later, Ms. Flora Cudiamat, Midwest USA President, came to Dr. Acanto and gave their chapter’s donation check.
M y Fellow Alumni,
I am happy to greet you on behalf of the Central Philippine University Federation of Overseas Alumni Associations (CPUFOAA).
Last year, alumni from all over the world joined together, with great rejoicing, to celebrate 100 years of God’s faithfulness to our Alma Mater. CPU has come a long way. Now we are in the middle of the first year of the next 100 years—and the successful future that we all envision depends as much upon us, Alumni, as it does on the more obvious aspects of educating the future leaders of the global community. We have a great opportunity to build on the strong heritage of the past. To do that, we have to continually reinforce the “Central Spirit”—that unique bond that links us as one, in purpose, in ideals, in values, in Christian love.
I am honored and humbled to be associated with you. Since I assumed the Presidency in August of 2005, the Federation’s Constitution and By-Laws was ratified by a huge majority of the overseas chapters; the support for the Work Study Service Project/God’s GRACE initiative is going well; the alumni database has undergone a massive, and continuing, clean up; the Federation web site is getting ready to be re-launched; support for the Alumni Homecoming Banquet, sponsored by our Mother Chapter, has continued; and effective channels of communication, facilitating information exchange and dialogue, has been established within the Federation leadership, among the alumni chapters, and with CPU.
In the near term, the focus of our work will be fourfold: to enhance the linkages that we have with our alumni—to do the best we can to locate all our overseas alumni and connect them with a chapter or group; to establish new chapters and strengthen existing ones; to forge stronger links with CPU not only through our financial support but through the transfer of ideas, knowledge and expertise; and to encourage each other to maintain the highest level of personal performance, so that all who meet us will know from whence we came and be blessed.
We hope to hold another global reunion within the next year or two to enable all of us to reconnect in a direct and real way with our fellow alumni from all over the world. You will hear more about this as time goes on, as well as, the other initiatives that are currently being considered, to enhance the capabilities of the Federation to support its membership and our Alma Mater.
I appreciate the hard work and dedication of many men and women whose support have enabled the Federation to complete its many tasks. Much still needs to be done, and your contribution is vital to the desired outcome that we hope for. Please be generous with your ideas, and as your work permits, your time as well. I look forward to working with you.
May our labors honor our school and glorify our Lord.
S incerely,
Perla Guillergan-Londres
President
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CPU co-hosts NRCP seminar on bioinformatics
National Research Council of the Philippines (NRCP), an agency under the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), has chosen Central Philippine University to co-host, as part of its Outreach Program, an Awareness Seminar on BIOINFORMATICS, on June 8, 2006 at the Educational Media Center .
The University Research Center under Dr. Randy Anthony V. Pabulayan and the Life Sciences Department under Dr. Luisito T. Conducta, headed the CPU group.
Bioinformatics is a rapidly evolving multidisciplinary field, merging biology and the life sciences with computer sciences and allied physical sciences through the intervention of information and communication technologies.
Topics included an Introduction to Bioinformatics, Its Application to Biotechnology, Animal Breeding, Geographic Information Systems, Comparison of Gene Sequences, Paternity Suits and Diagnostics. |
CPUAA-UAE grants scholarship
Central Philippine University Alumni Association-United Arab Emirates Chapter started offering a scholarship grant this school year 2006-2007.
The said scholarship is called The CPUAA-UAE Scholarship. The recipient-scholar will receive PhP5,000.00 every semester until graduation. One additional scholar will be chosen every school year henceforth.
CPU Scholarship Office Director Dr. Margen Java will take charge of the screening of applicants but the final approval lies with the current CPUAA-UAE Scholarship Grant Coordinator Mildred Majeed.
The qualifications are as follows: 1) at least second year college student this first semester AY 2006-2007; 2) must have no failing grace/INC/dropped/left subject before the grant and until graduation in order to maintain the scholarship, and; 3) must be financially in need (Work Students can apply and still maintain their work study scholarship). |
Third CPU Journalism Week promotes peace
Central Philippine University has always been supportive of the student press.
Through the Publication and Information Center and the Publications Committee, the University held its 3rd Journalism Week this August in line with Press Freedom Month. With the theme “Peace Journalism for CPU in the next millennium”, the week-long activities were participated by campus paper writers, advisers, and even interested alumni.
Antonia Koop, International Coordinator of Peace and Conflict Journalism Network (PECOJON) graced the assembly and spoke about the value and function of peace journalism. According to Koop, peace journalism is a state “when editors and reporters make choices of which stories to report and how to report them which create opportunities for society at large to consider and to value non-violent responses to conflict”. She ended her talk by stating that “the challenge of peace journalism is to facilitate peace without losing Journalism”.
The succeeding days were spent in various activities- media quiz bowl, book writing seminar-workshop, basic journalism seminar-workshop, and book display and sale.
The celebration came to a close on August 18. Atty. Jobert Peñaflorida, news anchor of ABSCBN Iloilo sa Diyes and
columnist of SunStar Daily - Iloilo delivered an inspirational message to 54 attending members.
An election for the CPU Press Club was also held on the same day with Praise Enriquez (The Educator) emerging as the President and Jay Ar Santotome (Nurse’s Notes) as Vice President. The Press Club serves as the University watchdog. |
CPU's 'human side' launched
Central Philippine University, through the University Research Center (URC) headed by Dr. Randy Pabulayan in cooperation with the Publication and Information Center headed by Assoc. Prof. Felnor Importante, launched ‘The Human Side of Running and Financing a University: The CPU Filipino Presidents (1966-2003)’.
The said book, written by Dr. Lea Zapanta and Vice President for Finance and Enterprises Perla Deocampo, was started in October of 2003 and was accomplished in May of 2005. It presents the story and dreams of Central Philippine University as an organization, and “how its people, its leaders, and its friends are striving towards the dream of Exemplary Christian Education for Life (EXCEL)”.
CPU President Dr. Juanito Acanto expressed his joy in the fufillment of this dream of having the Central management by Filipino presidents documented.
Held on August 1, 2006 at the Educational Media Center TV Studio, the book launching was graced by the CPU officials, deans, faculty, and staff.
‘The Human Side of Running and Financing a University: The CPU Filipino Presidents (1966-2003)’ is available at the URC at PhP300.00.
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WSSP holds immersion seminar
Work Student Study Program (WSSP) held an Immersion Seminar for the newly-hired work students this 1st semester school year 2006-2007.
The Immersion Seminar was held for the newly hired work students with the aim of introducing to them the history, culture, and values of the University, and the essence of being a work student for them to be motivated to work towards CPU’s goals and objectives.
Video presented was of success stories of former work students who are employed in CPU was shown. They are: Rev. Dr. Nathaniel Fabula (VPAA), Prof. Perla Deocampo (VPFE), Dir. Christopher Esmeres (Auditor),Dr. Lucy Catalogo (Elementary Principal), Dr. Nelson Pomado (High School Principal), Dir. Victory Dionio (Director of Libraries), Rev. Dr. Jerson Narciso (Chaplain) and Dr. Alma Frondoza (Assoc. Dean, College of Medicine ).
Their stories served as an encouragement to the work students to study hard and to dedicate their task to the fulfillment of their dreams, and contribute to what CPU will be in the future.
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The 19th Hole Corner
Results of the Annual CPU Alumni Golf Tournament
By:
Isagani “Boy” Jalbuena (HS Class ‘66)
The 5th CPU Alumni Open Invitational and 8th CPU Alumni Golf Tournament was a great success! One hundred twenty-two CPU Alumni golfers and friends joined the annual tournament, which was held on September 1-3, 2006 at the Iloilo Golf and Country Club, Sta. Barbara, Iloilo . The tournament was one of the Alumni Homecoming events.
RESULTS
5th CPU ALumni Open Invitational Tournament
Overall Champion
Jin Wook Lee 78 points
Category I Champion
Dodo Chua 74 points
Runner-up
Jae Yang 73 points
Category II Champion
Ray Gomez 76 points
Runner-up
Lando Layson 75 points
Category III Champion
Felix Gurrea (5 Pars) 72 points
Runner-up
Alvar Barbo 72 points
Category IV Champion
Jason Zaragoza 64 points
Runner-up
Gigi Catedral 41 points
Ladies Champion
Christine Popp 76 points
Runner-up
Oh Hee Young (Jane) 71 points
8th CPU ALumni Golfers Association Golf Tournament
Category I Champion
Steve Jardeleza (1 Birdie) 69 points
Runner-up
Carl de la Pe ña 69 points
Category II Champion
Dr. Glenn Catedral 71 points
Runner-up
Atty. Edgar Elechicon 62 points
Category III Champion
Oscar Nava, Jr. 66 points
Runner-up
Samuel Hortelano 56 points
Ladies Champion
Ruby Delicana (2 Pars) 54 points
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CPU FACES
Alumni meeting of the CPUAA North TX on May 29, 2006 at the home of Dr. and Mrs. Rey Perez. Present are alumni from other parts of the US who were also in Dallas for the wedding of the eldest child of Mr. and Mrs. Victory Penacerrada on May 28. Pictured are the following:
(front) Victory Penacerrada, Lydia Sornito Penacerrada, Emelda Frange Valcarcel, Yoly Penacerrada Jain, Fred Jain, Val Gonzales.
(back) Rhodora Regalado Perez, Perla Guillergan Londres, Juliet Borja Penacarrada, Dom Penacerrada, Adriana Verano Sornito, Linda Penacerrada Chang and Luz Cervantes.
CPUAA- North Texas gathering
CPUAA-UAE meeting at Mumzar, U.A.E.
American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation (Promoting Health & Preventing Disease) awarded Dr. Noel Nequin the 2006 L. KENT SMITH Excellence in Clinical Practice Award in recognition of his outstanding clinical practice contributions to the field of cardio-pulmonary rehabilitation on September 15, 2006 .
Dr. Nequin’s achievements have been vital in the delivery of cardiopulmonary rehabilitation services and ultimately the patients.
Members of the CPU High School Class of 1972 during the Dinner Dance Party held at Fong’s Garden, Cafe de Manila, Las Vegas , NV on August 5, 2006 . Front row (L-R): Miriam Javier-de la Fuente, Secretary /Treasurer; Charito Carnaje-Santos; Sonia Calderon-Hiley; Lina Agreda-Dureza; Lillian de la Fuente-Veloria; Mr. Porfirio Mayordomo, former Algebra/Trigonometry teacher; Irma May Fernandez de Leon, President; Raquel Clemente-Serrano; Tessie Saturnino. Second row (L-R): Roci Luz Gaton; Esterlita San Luis-Apostol; Kathy O’Dell-Rodgriguez; Rebecca Clemente-Pascual; Raquel Suanico-Bosano; Jane Lutero-Magno; Santiaga Uy-Cuenca; Dean Lester Cuenca; Fredgel Padernilla, President, Iloilo Chapter; Nene Orlina; Tim Gabio, Vice-President. Third row (L-R): Melvin Nunez, Joshua de Leon, Archives/Logistics Director; Gil Assin; Samuel Umetin; Elmo Familiaran; Luis Espino; Samuel Tolentino.
The Presidents of Filipino Nurses Association of Quebec (1992 to the present). First President: Magdalena “Maggie” D. Belleza Calcetas (BSN 1961), Second President: Alicia Loyola Bustamante (BSN 1957) during the FNAQ gala.
FNAQ founder Maggie Delfinado Belleza Calcetas with husband Benjie Calcetas at the gala night in Quebec .
During Dimensions 2006 (an international forum sponsored by ISTA and IoPP) in San Antonio, Texas, Centralian Dr. Lejo Braña of Packaging Technology Center in Houston was awarded the R. David LeButt Packaging Education Award.
Lejo is a Packaging Hall of Fame Member, an IoPP Honorary Life Member in the College of Fellows , Honorary Member of the Packaging Institute of the Philippines , and Honorary Member of the Mexican Institute of Professionals in Packaging. He served on the ISTA Board of Directors for many years, and also holds memberships in ASTM, SPE, TAPPI, NIPHLE, and IoP (UK). Most recently, Lejo has played a crucial role in the establishment of the School of Packaging at CPU. |
U-DAY 2006 bits and pieces...
FROM THE PRESS
By Cyrus A. Natividad, Manager-CPU Press/PIO -CMM
If the things I enjoy most during the University Day is reminiscing the past. Working now for our Alma Mater, I looked back again this year during the 101st CPU Celebration 2006. But it’s just about recalling the eighties - not the 1905 U-day when you can probably only cheer and yell without the sound system. Anyway this is the first annual celebration for the next centennial.(“Will your name be there?”)
In the 80’s, we already integrated PA System sounds with the cheering and yelling sequences. Time was when John Travolta had his way to stardom in ‘Grease’ and ‘Saturday Night Fever’. The disco syndrome was just setting in with the campus guys and gals. Otherwise, some of the teams (the nerds) just contended with the ‘go-go-go’ and the ‘ra-ra-ra’ with a ‘ziz-bomba!’
I was kind of nostalgic this year when the likes of Profs. Lariza and Escuban invited me to their Alumni Channel talk show. The invitation was an honor. I honestly appreciate the program format. It was a few days before U-day 2006, but so timely with our topic discussion on the CPUR and the student power - now and then. The hosts (former CPUR colleagues) tried to link the past and present student organizations. Coincidentally, the crafty TV program of Lariza is entitled ‘Angtanay’ (Ilonggo term which means ‘linking’ ).
Like the political exercises of the CPU Republic , students are empowered in the campus affairs ( particularly the U-day ) in terms of business and entrepreneurship. Just look at the half moon drive with multipurpose department booths every year (supposedly for exhibits) – has become one exciting bazaar with sizzling snacks and barbecue parlors. In addition, they organized mini - concerts by the football field and some “sing-along” too! Who cares about good voices?
I appreciate the CPUR officials for making these celebrations enjoyable. It has been very successful this year making it significant for the students, faculty, staff and alumni. Of course the alumni associations had their day too. I was there , and enjoyed the homecoming. Still, I wish we also had our class reunion.
I wonder where our debating team members have gone all these years. Hey, guys, how are you?
Somewhere in the campus I saw a group of students practicing dance sports. Admittedly, through the years, cheering and yelling have changed so much. It’s the awesome performance that I saw during the U-day competitions.
The employment of drummers and drums. Ethnic, pop, hip-hop, and samba beats contributed much that an air of “Dinagyang” invades the campus. Okey lang, enjoy man! It’s fun to remember again someday.
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BLESSED IN VIETNAM
On April 29, 1995 at 10 o’clock in the morning, I found myself sitting in the 18th row seat A of Vietnam Airlines flying 3,000 miles across the Pacific heading to Ho Chi Minh City, the former Saigon, which was then recovering from the 70s war. With tears flowing, I asked myself, “Why am I here? Where am I going?”
It was at that moment that I realized that I was on my own. I would have to face the jungle called “real world”. I was confused, scared, and seemed lost. I had mixed emotions – excited to discover a new world, sad being away from home, apprehensive of what lies ahead, and most of all, curious about my new life, curious to try something new. To add to these, it was my first time on board in a plane.
I landed in Saigon , the controversial city then. Mr. and Mrs. Blair were relieved but at the same time, amused that I passed through the immigration without so much hassle.
The Blair family was a real comfort. They gave me a warm welcome and made me feel at home.
In May 1995, I started to teach as lead teacher at ABC Kindergarten (now ABC International School ). Two years after, I was hired as consultant at Tiny Tots Montessori School . In 1998, I started working for FOSCO International School as lead teacher. The friendly environment and great opportunity have made me stay in this institution until now. In 2002, I opened a small kindergarten for my kids and my friends’ children. We started with seven children. A year after, the number dramatically increased so I was challenged to open a bigger kindergarten to cater to the demand.
During these years, I underwent lots of difficulties, which were indeed a challenge of my faith in God and determination in life. I can see how God blessed, protected, and strengthened me as I walked the paths of trials.
What I have achieved is the result of the strong foundation that I acquired from my mentors at CPU, and also, CPU’s academic program and training. To me, CPU is a university that produces excellent graduates who made their way to the top of the world.
Above all these, I am very thankful to God for His purpose in my life; to Atty. Lorna Gellada, my dean, who pushed me to take the road less traveled; to Mrs. Grace Poli Blair who opened the door of opportunities for me; to Manang Helen who serves as my counselor, adviser, and friend; to my former teachers who shaped me into what I am now; to my family who is my total inspiration, I owe you a lot.
***personally interviewed by Ms. Helen Coloso (Secretary-College of Education) in Vietnam
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Daisy Beboso-Ybanes is a former Governor (1994-1995) of the College of Education . A native of Calinog, Iloilo , she now resides in Vietnam . She is married to Engr. Timothy James Ybanes and has four angels: Jade Vanessa, Shane Azaleah, Anh MIkaela, and June Angeleah. |
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