CPU marks 120th Founding Anniversary with Wreath-Laying Memorial Service
Central Philippine University celebrated its 120th Foundation Day on October 1, 2025, under the theme CPU@120: Rooted in Faith, Advancing Innovation for a Sustainable and Inclusive World. The commemorative program combined spiritual reflection with gratitude for the university’s enduring mission, as administrators, students, faculty, staff, and alumni gathered at the Henry Luce III Library Conference Room in Iloilo City.
Before the memorial service, a wreath-laying ceremony at the Philippine-American Cemetery in Jaro, Iloilo City, honored the American missionaries who helped establish CPU and laid the foundation for generations of leaders, teachers, and graduates.
Memorial Service Highlights
The service opened with the singing of the Philippine National Anthem and the United States National Anthem. CPU Vice President for Administration Engr. Dany C. Molina welcomed attendees and affirmed the community’s gratitude for their presence. He reminded the gathering that every classroom, graduate, and achievement at CPU stands as a living testament to the founders’ legacy, inviting reflection on steadfast faith and service.
He spoke of solemn remembrance and grateful thanksgiving, noting that the memory of those who built CPU—founders, missionaries, and faithful leaders—continues to guide the university mission today.
An opening hymn, O God, Our Help in Ages Past, was led by Rev. Franz Hestia Lovejoy Quimpo-Leysa, Associate Pastor for Youth, followed by an invocation delivered by Rev. Karel Grace D. Victoria, Associate Pastor for Christian Education.
Before the Memorial Service, the ceremonial wreath-laying was led by CPU President Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy at the Philippine-American Cemetery. The ceremony honored the sacrifices of the missionaries who contributed to CPU’s growth.
Historical Reflections and Musical Offerings
Dr. Aries Roda D. Romallosa, Acting Vice President for Research, Development and Extension, recounted CPU’s rich history and milestones from its 1905 origins to its current status as a respected university with a global alumni network. The Ladies Academic Council Ensemble then offered a musical interlude, featuring performances by deans, department heads, principals, and vice presidents of CPU’s academic community.
Testimonies and Scriptural Readings
Ms. Flora Guillergan Cudiamat shared a heartfelt testimony of thanksgiving for CPU’s role in shaping her life, values, and faith, including how her time at CPU prepared her for education, family life, and a career internationally. The program also included a responsive reading led by Engr. Molina, followed by scripture readings: Psalm 90:1-12 (read by Collyn Maxie Rose T. Moscoso) and Hebrews 12:1-2 (delivered by Pastor Justine Palmes-Mije).
Hymns, Prayers, and Candle Lighting
The Hymn of Commitment, We Thank Thee, Lord, Thy Paths of Service Lead, was sung by Rev. Quimpo-Leysa, followed by memorial prayer and silent reflection led by Rev. Dr. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian. CPU President Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy expressed gratitude for guidance and protection, including after the recent earthquake, and reiterated CPU’s commitment to knowledge, faith, and innovation for a sustainable and inclusive future.
Dagohoy reflected on CPU’s humble beginnings in 1905 and its growth into a university that continues to shape lives and communities around the world. The service concluded with a candle-lighting ceremony, each flame representing a sacred facet of CPU’s mission, and a benediction by Rev. Dr. Cris Amorsolo V. Sian.
