By Chelsea Marie S. Sermonia, BAComm 4, Centralian Link Intern

Anthony Bjorn Castigador, accompanied by his father, at the 74th Palarong Pambansa held in Marikina. Photo credits to Bobbie Joy Castigador.

Anthony Bjorn Castigador’s achievements in lawn tennis competitions extend beyond local boundaries, with notable success at national and international levels, solidifying his reputation as a skilled tennis player.

Castigador previously won a silver medal in the elementary boys’ lawn tennis category and a bronze medal together with Kathleen Bugna of RSB Tennis La Carlota in elementary mixed doubles during the 74th Palarong Pambansa held in Marikina City from July 29 to August 5, 2023.

He also earned the silver medal in the 12-under boys’ singles and a bronze medal in the 12-under boys’ doubles during the 41st Tuanku Syed Putra Perlis – Milo International Junior Tennis Championships held in Perlis, Malaysia, last December 4-8, 2023.

Castigador sporting the CPU Golden Lions shirt during the 41st Tuanku Syed Putra Perlis – Milo International Junior Tennis Championships in Perlis, Malaysia.

This year, at the Masters Top 8 Dinagyang Festival Palawan Pawnshop National Tennis Championship held from January 4-8 & 8-12, 2024, in Iloilo Sports Complex, Lapaz, Iloilo City, he emerged as the champion in the 14-under boys category. Additionally, he secured victory in the 14-under boys doubles alongside his partner, Adrian Rodriguez.

Castigador, a fifth-grade student at Central Philippine University Elementary School, actively participates in extracurricular activities, showcasing his passion for sports, especially in lawn tennis. He is not only a proud member of the renowned Iloilo Sports Academy but also a valued participant at Camp Delgado Tennis, where he hones his skills and sportsmanship.

By Cyrus A. Natividad

The CPU Elementary under 12 Volleyball team with their coaches Noella Provendido (standing left) and Alain Tarrazona (Standing Right).

The CPU Golden Lions congratulates its Elementary Volleyball Girls for winning the Championship in the Iloilo Schools Developmental Volleyball Tournament (ISDVT), held from November 19 to December 3, 2023 at the Iloilo Doctor’s College, Iloilo City.

A Certificate of recognition was presented to Central Philippine University as Champion in the Girls under-12 division during the ISDVTI event. The young athletes are effectively trained by Alain Tarrazona and Noella Provendido, Coach and Asst. Coach, respectively.

The under-12 participants are Graduating Elementary Students who are sustained by wellness- activities and discipline. They have regular training between 5:30 to 8:00 PM under watch by their parents or guardian. The Elementary School administration under Dr. Janet Jaco sees to it that the children athletes are assisted and coached well.

Coach Tarrazona said that they are thoroughly trained daily – in preparation for the February 19 PRISAA. On June 2024 the team will also join the Volleyball competition in Thailand and Cambodia.

By Lloren Marie Tan

The participants of the Aquathlon at the Finish Line.

Centralian athletes from different colleges and departments showcased their speed and endurance as they took part in the 3rd CPU Aquathlon event held at the University Swimming Pool and Big Field on April 11, 2023.

The dual-race consists of a 250 meters of swimming and a 2.5 kilometers running, tested the limits of the athlete’s physical and endurance capabilities.

Paul Milanes from the College of Engineering shared his experience from the said competition. “I feel honored to be a part of the event yet again as this has always brought me happiness, as well as competing with competitive and strong athletes as well.”

When asked about his preparations, he said “Sleep has always played a big part in my journey as an athlete. It’s like a marinating process to showcase my skills to build up my endurance and speed. And of course, I make sure to consume healthy and nutritious food to keep me going.”

The event was organized by CPU Alumna Jacqui Lamparero, CPU’s Ironwoman.

By Francis Neil G. Jalando-on

Engr. Marc Hermel Agriam (L), Director for Sports and Athletics, together with Mr. Bob Rommel Javellana (R) received the donation of sports equipment from Bryan Apura and his family.

In a heartwarming display of generosity and commitment to nurturing young talent, Bryan Apura, a former standout goalkeeper of the Central Philippine University Development High School (CPUDHS) football team, made a substantial donation of football equipment to his alma mater’s sports program. The donation, which took place on August 22, 2023, is set to significantly enhance the training and development opportunities for aspiring athletes at the university.

Engr. Marc Hermel Agriam, Director, CPU Office of Sports and Athletics, gratefully received the donation on behalf of the university. The event was marked by a sense of gratitude and nostalgia as Apura, accompanied by his wife Katja Apura and their children Michael Toby and Sarah Grace, revisited the institution that played a pivotal role in shaping his athletic career.

Bryan Apura’s journey in the world of football began during his elementary years in 1989. His remarkable skills and dedication caught the attention of both peers and coaches, leading him to join the CPUDHS football team, where he served as the team’s goalkeeper from 1989 to 1993. Apura’s exceptional talent continued to shine, earning him a spot in the college team when he was enrolled at the CPU College of Agriculture from 1993 to 1996.

The donated equipment is expected to make a lasting impact on the training regimen of the CPUDHS football team. The assortment of items includes training vests, goalkeeper gloves, caps, a coach’s shirt, a goalkeeper manual, a goalkeeper rebounder, agility training bungees, and assistant referee flags. This comprehensive collection will undoubtedly elevate the training experience for the athletes, providing them with the tools necessary to refine their skills and excel in both local and national competitions.

Apura’s contribution reaches beyond the tangible equipment. His act of giving back serves as an inspiring example for current and future students, reminding them of the importance of fostering a spirit of gratitude. This is Central Spirit in action.

Engr. Marc Hermel Agriam expressed his heartfelt appreciation, stating, “Bryan Apura’s contribution will undoubtedly propel our athletes to new heights. His generosity will be felt with every save made, every goal scored, and every victory achieved. We are immensely grateful for his support.”

With this generous donation, Bryan Apura not only enriches Central Philippine University’s sports program but also leaves an indelible mark on the future of aspiring football players, inspiring them to chase their dreams with unwavering dedication and compassion.

By Nestle G. Taala, OIC

Excellence in sports–The CPU Golden Lions bags numerous medals during the Western Visayas Private Schools Athletic Association (WVPRISAA) Meet 2023 on May 17 to 21, 2023.

Acting Sports Director Engr. Marc Hermel G. Agriam expressed his felicitations to the players as well as his gratefulness that all their training had paid off. “God be praised and glorified for this school year’s successful sports campaign. We are proud of all the dedication and hard work our athletes, coaches, and assistant coaches put in.”

He also acknowledged all the help coming from the different offices of this university, stating that “this success was not possible without our university partners. Among them are the Registrar’s Office, the Medical Clinic, the Communications Office, the Office of Facilities and Management, the Office of the VPFA, the Office of the VPAA, the Office of the VPSA, and the Office of the University President. They have provided valuable support and contributions.”

Engr. Agriam went on expressing his gratitude “to our Deans, Principals, mentors, and supportive parents for their guidance and encouragement. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts for believing in us and making this accomplishment possible. We look forward to sustaining this success in the years to come. We hope to continue to work together in the future to create even more successful campaigns.”

Here are the official results from secondary and tertiary level:

     
Info Credit: Cpu Golden Lions FB

By Cyrus A. Natividad

Members of the WVPRISAA Steering Committee.

Central Philippine University is host to the West Visayas Private Schools Athletic Association (WVPRISAA) Meet 2023 – Football Games. The assignment for CPU was announced during a Press Conference held at The University Hotel, U.S.A. on Wednesday, May 17, 2023, at 9:00 in the morning prior to the Opening Ceremony at 1:00 in the afternoon at the USA Administration Building.

In the opening ceremony, an inspirational message was delivered by Dr. Mark Molina, President of WVPRISAA 2023. Rev. Fr. Jonas M. Mejares, O.S.A., VP, Agustinian Information and Mission and Rev. Fr. Edione R. Febrero, JCL President St. Anthony’s College (Team Captain of Basketball in each provincial delegation) led the Lighting of Torch & Unity Song.

The Oath of Sportsmanship was led by Jhea Lou Porras, 2022 National Champion, USA Dance Sports Varsity Team. Dr. Mark Molina declared the Formal Opening of WVPRISAA 2023.

On the other hand, football players from Saint Anthony’s College, province of Antique, were billeted at the CPU University Gym’s lodging for the athletes, upon their arrival on Tuesday, May 16.  WVPRISAA Committees have long been preparing for the football games in CPU; including procurements of the necessary peace and security personnel, Red Cross emergency contingent, food and water supply.

According to Dr. Molina, “The sports event in Iloilo City is in preparation for the national games.’’ It is anticipated by businessmen in Iloilo City that the WVPRISAA meet will bring “Sports Tourism” and business to Iloilo City.

By Ken Bennedict Pueyo, BAELS-4 Intern

The Golden Lions Esports received various awards in the AcadArena last April 30, 2023.

Let the lions roar with pride! Golden Lions Esports, the esports organization of Central Philippine University, has been recognized as the best alliance organization in the country, bagging four awards in total, at the recently held AcadArena awards on April 30, 2023. The organization was nominated in six categories.

Best Alliance Organization of the Year, Student Leader of the Year for Therese S. Elizalde, Advocacy of the Year for “GG! GLE Gives Back!”, and Jersey of the Year: are the awards won by the organization.

Therese Elizalde, the winner of the Student Leader of the Year award, expressed her joy at winning four categories at the AcadArena Awards, saying that it was an incredible achievement for their team. She attributed the success to the collective hard work, determination, and unwavering commitment of everyone involved in the organization.

“Receiving these awards was a true honor for our team, and it has inspired us to strive for even greater levels of excellence in the future. I want to express my sincere gratitude to everyone who has supported us and continues to do so,” Therese stated.

Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas also extended his gratitude to AcadArena for recognizing the efforts of the students and for providing a platform for campus gaming and esports in the country.

The AcadArena Awards is an annual event that recognizes and celebrates the talents and skills of students in the gaming community. This prestigious award highlights the remarkable achievements of leaders, creators, and players as well as inspire individuals and organizations to strive for excellence, promoting creativity and innovation in the industry.

By Cyrus A. Natividad

Val Gilbolinga with his parents is one of the most bemedalled athletes of the CPU Golden Lions in the WVRAA meet.

The 2023 Western Visayas Regional Athletic Association (WVRAA) Meet held in Kalibo, Aklan from April 24 to 30 included Elementary and Secondary Athletes of Central Philippine University. They were among participants of the Iloilo Provincial delegation who competed with the provinces of Antique, Capiz, Aklan, Guimaras, and Negros Occidental. This year’s WVRAA theme is “Championing Excellence through Sports.” The WVRAA opening program was held on April 26, 2023 at 3:00 p.m.

Known as the CPU Golden Lions, the young Centralian athletes worked hard during the WVRAA to bring home 13 golds for the Secondary and 8 for the Elementary; 9 silvers for the secondary and 3 for the elementary; 8 bronzes for the secondary and 3 bronzes for the elementary.

In expressing his appreciation for the athletes who brought home the medals from the recently concluded WVRAA Meet, Iloilo City Mayor Jerry P. Treñas said that, “I will direct the Finance Committee to look for funds to give rewards to our players and coaches.” He also said that “I am proud for the athletes – for giving honor to Iloilo City.”

In the WVRAA Meet held in Aklan, the Iloilo delegation, with top gold achiever Central Philippine University became the Champion. They will be part of the delegation of Region 6 in the pre-Palarong Pambansa, to be held in Cebu City in June 2023.

The WVRAA activity aims to strengthen sports activities in the region and to choose the best athletes to represent Region VI to the 2023 Palarong Pambansa in Marikina City on July 29- August 5, 2023.

By Cyrus A. Natividad

The CPU Golden Lions Table College Team coached by Rev. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on won the Men and Women Team Event in the 2023 Iloilo PRISAA.

After reaping the awards at WVRAA 2023, CPU Golden Lions were hailed as champions in the Iloilo Private Schools Athletic Association (ILOPRISAA) Meet last April 24-28, 2023. The Golden Lions (CPU Delegation) brought home most of the Championship medals in all events of the PRISAA – from the Tertiary down to the Secondary level.

Following is the Official Results for the Golden Lions:

TERTIARY LEVEL

Champion Badminton Men
Champion Basketball Men
Champion Chess Men
Champion Chess Women
Champion Dancesport-Latin American
Champion Football Men
Champion Futsal Women
Champion Karatedo Women
Champion Sepak Takraw Men
Champion Softball Women
Champion Table Tennis Men
Champion Table Tennis Women
Champion Taekwondo Men
Champion Taekwondo Women
Champion Tennis Men
Champion Tennis Women
Champion Volleyball Men
Champion Volleyball Women
1st Runner Up Athletics Men
1st Runner Up Badminton Women
1st Runner Up Basketball Women
1st Runner Up Basketball 3×3 Women
1st Runner Up Karatedo Men
1st Runner Up Swimming Men
2nd Runner Up Up Athletics Women
2nd Runner Up Beach Volleyball Men
2nd Runner Up Dancesport-Modern Std.
2nd Runner Up Swimming Women

SECONDARY:

Champion Athletics Boys
Champion Badminton Boys
Champion Badminton Girls
Champion Basketball Girls
Champion 3×3 Basketball Girls
Champion Football Boys
Champion Karatedo Boys
Champion Karatedo Girls
Champion Softball Girls
Champion Swimming Girls
Champion Table Tennis Boys
Champion Table Tennis Girls
Champion Taekwondo Boys
Champion Taekwondo Girls
Champion Tennis Boys
Champion Tennis Girls
Champion Table Tennis Girls
Champion Tennis Boys
Champion Tennis Girls
1st Runner Up Swimming Girls
1st Runner Up Volleyball Boys
1st Runner Up Volleyball Girls
2nd Runner Up Football Boys
2nd Runner Up Taekwondo Boys
2nd Runner Up Taekwondo Girls

ELEMENTARY:

Champion Chess Girls
Champion Swimming Boys
Champion Table Tennis Boys
Champion Table Tennis Girls
Champion Tennis Boys
Champion Tennis Girls
1st Runner Up Swimming Girls
1st Runner Up Volleyball Boys
1st Runner Up Volleyball Girls
2nd Runner Up Football Boys
2nd Runner Up Taekwondo Boys
2nd Runner Up Taekwondo Girls

CONGRATULATIONS! Central Philippine University is proud of you!

By Cyrus A. Natividad

CPU Sports Office Director Engr. Marc Hermel Agriam (Center) holds a check, with CPUAAI Vice Pres. Rev. Jalando-on & Former CPUAAI Vice President Engr. Isagani Jabuena (left), and CPU VP for Student Affairs Dr. Esther Rose Romarate and CPUAAI President Atty. Jeremy Bionat during the turn-over of the Grant.

Central Philippine University Alumni Association (CPUAAI), in behalf of Centralian Golfers President Dr. Glenn AM Catedral, released the Grant-in-Aid of Thirty Thousand (P30,000.00), part of the proceeds from the October 8, 2022 CPU Alumni Golfers Association Inc. Golf-For-A-Cause Tournament. The grant was received by CPU Sports Office Director Engr. Marc Hermel Agriam during the CPUAAI Board Meeting on Feb. 1, 2023 at the CPU Alumni Affairs Office.

CPUAAI President Atty. Jeremy Bionat and former CPUAAI President Engr. Isagani Jalbuena were present during the turn-over of the grant. Both former CPUAAI Presidents are active golfers and organizers of the Centralian Golfers association.

Also present during the turn-over, were Concepcion Mayor Millard Villanueva, CPU VP for Student Affairs Dr. Esther Rose Romarate, CPUAAI Immediate Past President Dr. Florentino Alerta; CPUAAI Vice President Rev. Francis Neil G. Jalando-on and Members of the CPUAAI Board of Trustees.