CPU holds 16th Research and Development Week

By Cyrus A. Natividad

CPU President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles together and Keynote Speaker, Dr. Alan P. Lena, Education Supervisor II, Commission on Higher Education (CHED) together with CPU Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Irving Domingo L. Rio and University Research Center Director Dr. Mary O’ Penetrante.

The week-long research and development week started on Monday, March 11, 2019, at the CPU Educational Media Center Conference Room with faculty, students and administrators present. University Research Center Director Dr. Mary O’Penetrante and members of the URC Committee (URESCOM) launched the event with the theme “Quality Research: Pathway towards Development and Progress.” Research papers were presented throughout the week according to different categories: Agricultural Engineering, Business Research, Education, Environmental Management, Life Science, and Junior High School among others.

Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Irving Domingo L. Rio, welcomed the participants and acknowledged that the Research and Development Week is important in honing the research skills of faculty and students. University President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles, encouraged the participants to continue with research and sustain CPU as a research university. “The more we work together, the more we can accomplish things,” Dr. Robles said.

*Participants of the Research and Development Week eagerly listening to the talk.*

The keynote speaker, Dr. Alan P. Lena, Education Supervisor II, Commission on Higher Education (CHED), pointed out the need for universities to strengthen their research education. He particularly mentioned how challenging discovery-applied research is and said that this kind of research contributes to the advancement of higher educational institutions.

The 20^th Faculty Research Symposium on March 11-12 and the 17^th Student Research Symposium on March 12-14 are part of this year’s Research and Development Week.

RCECC holds seminar on Indigenous Cultural Engagement

By Cyrus A. Natividad

Dr. Lenny Rose P. Mucho, Director, CPU Review and Continuing Education and Consultancy Center, CPU Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Irving Domingo L. Rio, Rev. Dr. Bernabe C. Pagara, Dean, CPU College of Theology with the speakers and participants.

On January 24, 2019, the Review and Continuing Education and Consultancy Center (RCECC) of Central Philippine University held a seminar entitled “Engaging in Cultural/Indigenous Studies: Challenges and Opportunities.”

Jimmy Balud Fong from the University of the Philippines-Baguio conducted the ethnological seminar in view of the unfinished studies on the country’s indigenous people (IPs). Touching on the deeply-rooted issue of indigenous race and self-representation Fong presented a racial perspective on the native Ati (Aeta) and raised questions on the “historical injustice” such as the government not providing them education before and being looked down upon even though festivals such as the Ati-Atihan (of Aklan) and Dinagyang (of Iloilo City) encourage the locals and visitors “to be one of them” during the celebration. Development and economics were included to create lively discussions among the academicians and participants of the ‘indigenous seminar’.

Fong, who is an Igorot himself (the IP of the mountain province and Cordillera regions), considers “dialects” as inherent languages, and suggested that “to call our language a dialect is to look down on man’s native language; adding that the native term ‘buki’ has an intonation of colonial mentality when used by our countrymen to degrade fellow Filipinos—mostly the marginalized natives from the bukidnon (mountains).”

Not only the indigenous people, but also “indigenous items such as indigenous materials for clothing, tools and scientific research process” are important, according to Fong.

President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles, underscored this sentiment when he suggested in his welcome remarks that “the future is coming back to indigenous plants, since herbs and capsulized herbal medicines are now in demand by pharmaceuticals.”

The RCECC seminar with Fong also served as a forum for IP concerns, such as the rights and privileges of the indigenous people in identified areas in the Philippines. More than a hundred IP studies have been conducted by government and private research organizations.

The RCECC’s seminar, overall, was insightful and helpful to socio-cultural studies for local government. Dr. Irving Domingo L. Rio, Vice President for Academic Affairs, in his closing remarks, recognized the significance of such seminars and tasked the RCECC to prepare another on topics regarding the indigenous people.

CPU RCECC conducts seminar on Terrorism Awareness and Bomb Threat Management

By Keziah G. Huelar

*CPU President Dr. Teodoro C. Robles and seminar speaker Mr. Nathaniel Laxa, a retired U.S. Navy with CPU officials.*

Addressing the need to strengthen public safety and security—The Central Philippine University Review, Continuing Education and Consultancy Center held a five-day seminar on “Terrorism Awareness and Bomb Threat Management” at the Educational Media Center on January 28-February 1, 2019.

In his welcome remarks during the opening program, CPU President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles, highlighted the necessity of prioritizing the safety and security of all institutions that cater to community and educational needs in order to ensure that peace and progress will not be disturbed.

CPU Vice President for Finance and Administration and the Chairperson of the Calamity and Disaster Committee, Dr. Florence P. Bogacia, talked about the importance of conducting such seminars to protect and promote the over-all safety of students, faculty, and staff.

Mr. Prim C. Vergara III, Occupational Safety and Health Officer, introduced the first speaker, Mr. Nathaniel Laxa, a retired U.S. Navy, for the training proper.

Days one and two of the seminar focused on top management training. Day three focused on intensive training for security force; day four revolved around intensive training for fire brigade with Mr. Alfred A. Go, Safety Officer, as speaker; and day five highlighted the training for search and rescue and medical evacuation with Mr. Eugene D. Boco, Emergency Medical Technician, as trainer.

Through trainings like these, the university is optimistic that it can prevent security issues in the future and respond efficiently in cases of emergencies. As CPU prioritizes the safety of its students, faculty and staff, it is committed to continually providing innovative measures to ensure that the university will be a risk-free campus for all.

CPU SHS students receive accolades in writing seminar-workshop

By Tom Lin Deocampo, Jr.

*The Hawk staffers who attended WOODCRAFT 2018. (L-R) Deocampo, Lao, Davila, Prof. Edgar A. Eriman (Director, CPU SHS), Quillamor, and Mr. Casaquite (Adviser).*

Four students from the University Senior High School were recognized in the WORDCRAFT 2018: Regional Seminar-Workshop and Search for Writing Champions in Journalism and Creative Writing held at Punta Villa Resort, Villa, Iloilo on September 22-23, 2018.

Participating in the event are the staffers of The Hawk, the official student publication of SHS. Tom Lin Deocampo Jr., Editor-in-Chief; Adellsbi Dave Lao, Managing Editor; Krystle Kate Quillamor, Head Feature Editor; and Kellie Gaile Davila, Literary Writer competed against other student writers all over Western Visayas. Their adviser, Mr. Mark Casaquite, was also part of the delegation and also competed against fellow instructors.

Deocampo was hailed as the overall WORDCRAFT Champion in the Senior High School Category, for having the best performance in various categories of the said seminar-workshop.

Other accolades received are the following

Tom Lin Deocampo, Jr. – Most Promising Writer in Spoken Word Poetry

– 1^st Place, Editorial Writing-Local Language

– 1^st Place, News Writing-Local Language

– 1^st Place, Feature Writing-Local Language

– 2^nd Place, Flash Fiction-Local Language

– 2^nd Place, Flash Fiction-English

Adellsbi Dave Lao – Best in Spoken Word Poetry

– 2^nd Place, News Writing-English

Krystle Kate Quillamor – Best in Spoken Word Poetry

– 1^st Place, News Writing-English

– 2^nd Place, Editorial Writing-English

– 3^rd Place, Poetry-Local Language

Kellie Gaile Davila – 2^nd Place, News Writing-Local Language

Mr. Mark Casaquite (Adviser) – 3^rd Place, Flash Fiction-English

The said seminar-workshop aims to hone and enhance the skills of students in the field of creative writing and campus journalism.

CPU holds 1st Mental Health Summit

By Cyrus A. Natividad

*Senator Risa Hontiveros together with the CPU Republic officers.*

The Iloilo Mental Health Summit was held on September 21, 2018 at the Rose Memorial Auditorium, Central Philippine University. Senator Risa Hontiveros was invited as a guest and resource speaker. The conference, which is a first of its kind, was a CPU Republic initiative and its goal was to contribute to mental health awareness. Other resource speakers from the medical profession were also invited and some Iloilo City officials were also present at the event.

University President, Dr. Teodoro C. Robles, welcomed the participants, expressing his gratitude for the relevance of the summit to society today. Hon. Joe Espinosa III, Iloilo City Mayor and Dr. Maria Sophia Pulmones, Chief, MPM, Local Health Support Division, Department of Health – Region 6 delivered their messages, respectively.

Two winning films, Abyan and Indi na Ko Tani, were then shown to the participants. These films tackled topics in relation to mental health to highlight the importance of mental health and why it needs to be addressed.

Afterwards, Dr. Candice Tupas, Iloilo City Councilor, talked about the science of mental health while Jo Jan Paul Peñol, Centralian alumnus and former Editor-in-Chief, Central Echo, talked about overcoming mental health issues by leading a healthy lifestyle. Rev. Cris Amorsolo Sian, Rev. Sian talked about the spiritual aspect of mental well-being. Several other speakers took turns in sharing insights about mental health and real stories of struggling against and surviving their mental health issues.

Senator Risa Hontiveros, for her part, discussed the essence of the Mental Health Law to the youth and society. It can be recalled that Sen. Hontiveros is the author of Republic Act No. 1103, the Mental Health Law.

Before her talk in the summit, Hontiveros held an audience with representatives from the Iloilo media. She emphasized that her presence in the summit is an opportunity for her to discuss and detail the essence and fundamentals of the Mental Health Law.

The open forum was then held, followed by an awarding ceremony for video campaign competition.

CPUR President, John Michael Suelo, delivered the closing message before the lunch break. A roundtable discussion took place with Senator Hontiveros and the students after lunch.

During the event, a song number, “Who You Are,” was rendered by Ms. Sharie Faith Biñas, a World Championship of Performing Arts medalist, USA-California and ABS-CBN Tawag ng Tanghalan daily winner.

CPU American Corner holds SCS Certification Workshop

By Keziah G. Huelar

*Prof. Ma. Cynthia T. Peleña, CPU Director of Libraries, in her welcome remarks, highlighted the importance of social media literacy.*

Emphasizing the use of digital media to promote social justice, the American Spaces Philippines held a Smithsonian Civil Society Certification Workshop in partnership with the Smithsonian Institution at the CPU American Corner, 3^rd Floor, Henry Luce III Library on September 25-26, 2018. With the theme “Building Skills with Digital Tools for Social Justice,” the activity aimed to encourage Centralians to use the social media as a platform for advocacies.

For the welcome remarks, Prof. Ma. Cynthia T. Peleña, CPU Director of Libraries, thanked the U.S. Embassy for promoting activities that encourage the youth to use social media for a purpose.

The workshop included a discussion on photography and videography basics by Homer Patriarca Superio, founder and CEO of Finished Work Studios. Keziah G. Huelar, a fellow of the Study of the United States Institutes for New Media and Journalism, lectured about the importance of social justice and the use of social media to promote such, as well as news, feature, and editorial writing.

At the end of the seminar-workshop, the participants conceptualized and produced advocacy videos that tackle issues about cyber-bullying, mental health, education, and indigenous people’s rights.

CPU holds orientation for international students

By Cyrus A. Natividad

*Xu Bin, a Chinese national, shares his experience in CPU.*

On September 17, 2018, Mr. Paul Erik Borja from the Bureau of Immigration Iloilo City Office presented the requirements and guidelines for foreign students staying in the Philippines and enrolled at Central Philippine University.

The orientation and forum was held due to the number of foreign students who are enrolled this year. CPU, in coordination with the Bureau of Immigration, has created certain protocols to follow, especially in relation to the students’ entry to and exit from the country as well as the University. The foreign students’ educational activities and living conditions are the responsibility of both the Immigration Office and Central Philippine University.

*Prof. Leilani Fatima L. Trompeta, CPU Director for International Relations and Cooperation, has been passionately promoting CPU to foreign students.*

The orientation started with a devotional led by Rev. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on. Prof. Leilani Fatima L. Trompeta, CPU Director for International Relations and Cooperation, then welcomed the students and guests from the Bureau of Immigration. The students were also presented with the rules of the Bureau of Immigration in Iloilo City and Manila. Miss Charissa June Deocampo, Acting University Registrar, together with Mrs. Ella Grace Javelosa-Bolina, CPU Admission Officer, presented the University rules on enrolment and student visa requirements.

*The seminar aimed to provide a venue for international student to air their concerns and to give their suggestions to improve the university’s service to foreign student applicants.*

Mr. James Peter Trasporto, OIC, Vice President for Student Affairs, also presented the services of the university to all the students.

The participants were given time to ask questions regarding their status and requirements during the open forum.

Lastly, Mr. Hai Ming Wang, President of International Students Organization, gave a response and thanked the organizers for the valuable orientation. He also invited all the international students to join in and be part of ISO (International Students Organization).

CPU conducts Pre-employment Training Seminar

by Glaiza Joie D. Aranda

*Rev. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian, Senior Pastor, University Church, encouraged Centralians to do their work as unto the Lord.*

A Pre-employment Training Seminar for the graduating students was conducted on September 13 and 14, 2018 at the Rose Memorial Auditorium in Central Philippine University, sponsored by the Career Placement Office in partnership with CPU Alumni Association Inc. and the University Church.

The seminar started with a prayer, followed by the singing of the National Anthem. Graduating students of 2018 and 2019 participated in this training that aims to teach the students the skills they would need to get a job and expose them to some real-life work situations after graduation.

Speakers from their different fields of expertise shared their knowledge in job hunting and the biblical learnings associated with their work experiences. One of the speakers reminded the students to “put God first in everything you do.” On creating a good impression on the employer by taking care that one looks good or dresses well, the speaker emphasized that it is “character that matters.” Speakers also mentioned that although a company could hire great workers, Christian workers are still better, not only for the skill that they may possess, but more importantly, the values and character that they hold.

*Centralian asking a question during the open forum.*

To strengthen this point, another speaker alluded to some great corporate leaders who became successful because they used the principles of Jesus. According to Dr. Lejo C. Braña, a CPU alumnus, the formula to success is the 6 I’s and 3 G’s. The 6 I’s include the following: interested, involved, investment, intense, inspiration and improvement. The 3 G’s, on the other hand, refer to the grace and goodness of God. Rev. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian, Senior Pastor of University Church, said that success should be based on biblical principles. We should make the Scriptures as our guide in making godly choices.

Towards the end of the pre-employment seminar, Rev. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on, Director of CPU Office of Communications, reminded the Centralians that the University Church was designed similar to the Malay Balangay Boat, which implies unity among Centralians in rowing towards the same direction. Students may leave Central Philippine University but the vision of CPU—that is, Exemplary Christian Education for Life—must be lived out. The legacy of EXCEL is not just to know what is right and wrong but to live a Christian life worthy of emulation. As St. Paul wrote, “Imitate me as I imitate Christ.” In terms of honesty, integrity and hard work, people will look up to Centralians as examples to be followed. He continued by challenging everyone: CPU gives the legacy that gives life, not just in this lifetime but life for eternity. When one thinks of the Central Spirit, one should think and look back to the vision of CPU.

*Centralians eagerly listening to the lecture.*

The CPU Alumni Association Inc., headed by their President, Engr. Isagani Jalbuena, also presented the members of the Board of Trustees, and all the activities and projects of the organization. He also challenged the soon-to-be alumni to attend homecoming activities and to join an alumni chapter wherever they would be later on.

Certificates of appreciation were given to the invited speakers: Dr. Lejo C. Braña, Rev. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on and Rev. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian. Those involved in organizing this seminar included the chair and co-chair of PETS Committee, Career Placement Officers, Ms. Rouella Cheyenne C. Aberia, and Mr.Stephen A. Yuson, respectively; the Director of the Guidance Services Center, Ms. Raquel L. Polec-eo; and the Vice-President for Student Affairs, Rev. Joniel Howard H. Gico.

The Pre-employment Training Seminar ended with a conviction that the participants gained knowledge and positive learnings that would be helpful in their chosen career and in their life’s journey.

CBA, BCYF hold seminar on CSR-Based Social Entrepreneurship

*Dr. Antonio S. Yap, founder and Chairman of the Benita and Catalino Yap Foundation, encouraged Centralians to pursue excellence in their endeavours.*

The Central Philippine University College of Business and Accountancy, in partnership with the Benita and Catalino Yap Foundation, held a seminar entitled “Understanding Social Development: CSR-Based Social Entrepreneurship” at the Rose Memorial Auditorium on September 11, 2018.

The opening prayer was led by Rev. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on, Director, CPU Office of Communications. It was then followed by the singing of the National Anthem conducted by Mrs. Crista S. Huyong, Director, CPU Cultural Affairs Office.

For the welcome remarks, Dr. Florence P. Bogacia, CPU Vice President for Administration and Finance, shared the strong bond of the university with the Benita and Catalino Yap Foundation: “It is a blessing that we are partnering with the Benita and Catalino Yap Foundation in the conduct of the social enterprise campus tour. The foundation espouses not only CSR [corporate social responsibility], but more importantly, personal social responsibility. Our society needs students, graduates, professionals, and citizens with a true understanding of what our responsibility is.”

Dr. Antonio S. Yap, founder and Chairman of the Benita and Catalino Yap Foundation, thanked CPU for the warm welcome. He also inspired the participants to celebrate life through a perspective of faith by pursuing to do what is good: “We believe that every single one of you matters—whatever we are, we have a chance to do good.”

Ms. Marian Bartolome, Communication Officer, talked about the background and awards programs of BCYF.

The seminar showcased a talk from Mr. John Michael P. Lava, Ayala Young Leader and Head of the Visayas and Mindanao Operations of Deloitte. He shared about the Deloitte CSR Youth Awards. Lava also highlighted the importance of CSR and he recognized the university’s help in the promotion of CSR.

The talk was followed by a panel interview, consisting of innovative leaders from the community and all over the country. The members of the panel shared their ideas and their grassroots application of CSR as a medium of changing communities.

The event was made possible through the earnest efforts of the program committee led by Dr. Lorna T. Grande, Dean, College of Business and Accountancy.

Seminar-workshop on Strengthening Outcomes Based Education held in CPU

By Cyrus A. Natividad

*Participants and speakers of the OBE Seminar.*

A seminar-workshop with the objective of developing a roadmap for the full implementation of Outcomes Based Education in all units and colleges of CPU was held on September 10, 2018 at the Educational Media Center in CPU. This seminar is in compliance with CHED Memorandum Order number 46 series of 2012. Another aim of the seminar-workshop is to enhance the Quality Assurance (QA) of the University, particularly for its graduates.

CPU’s heritage, theology, and core values were first presented by the Office of Communications Director, Rev. Francis Neil Jalando-on. The Dean of the College of Engineering, Engr. Dany C. Molina, then gave an overview of the University-wide OBE Implementation Program.

The legal basis of the University was presented by the Dean of the College of Nursing, Atty. Salex Alibogha. After which, the Dean of the College of Education, Dr. Merle L. Junsay, discussed the societal needs and relevance of OBE. The workshop on CPU’s mission and vision was conducted by Dr. Ananias C. Sabijon, Jr., Director, Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence.

The participants presented their output and synthesis after lunch. This was followed by Engr. Molina’s review of CPU’s OBE framework to reacquaint the deans and unit heads. Two OBE advocates from every college were then identified, and an advisory board for every program of the University was created.

At the end of the seminar-workshop, the institutional outcomes that Central Philippine University should expect from its graduates were identified as Christian character, nationalism, stewardship, technological competence, and scholarship.

The seminar-workshop was hosted by Prof. Esther Rose Romarate, Chair, Department of Languages, Mass Communication, and Humanities.