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.