A New Era of Excellence under the Dagohoy Presidency
As the sun rises over the iconic Rose Memorial Auditorium in the sprawling 24-hectare campus of Central Philippine University (CPU), in Jaro, Iloilo City, it shines upon a premier university in the midst of a historic “Rise”—a period of academic expansion, global recognition, and a reinvigorated commitment to its founding Christian values.
Presently leading this university are Atty. Dr. Matt P. Palabrica, Chairman of the CPU Board of Trustees, and Rev. Dr. Ernest Howard B. Dagohoy, the university’s 18th President, whose leadership marks a significant return to the institution’s roots as the first pastor to lead Central in the modern era.
Visionary Leadership and Excellence
Rev. Dr. Dagohoy’s presidency is often described as a homecoming of faith. His journey from being then a Centralian student leader, a former University Chaplain and now called to serve in the highest office of the university exemplifies the very “Scientia et Fides” (Knowledge and Faith) motto he now champions. Under his stewardship, the university has expanded its reach as it now owns and operates the Fortress College in Kabankalan City donated by the Tingson family to CPU, and now named as the CPU Fortress College. At the main campus, CPU maintained its prestigious Autonomous Status from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and pushed the boundaries of what a regional educational powerhouse can achieve on the global stage.
Global Growth and Academic Recognitions
The “Rise of Central” is not merely a slogan; it is backed by data and international benchmarks. In the most recent academic cycles, CPU has solidified its position as a premier institution in Southeast Asia:
* Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) Asia Rankings 2026: CPU was ranked Number 1 in Western Visayas, 22nd in the Philippines and 185th in Southeast Asia.
* Centers of Excellence and Development: The university has the highest number of programs recognized as National Centers of Excellence (COE) and Centers of Development (COD) in the region.
* Innovation and Research: CPU earned accolades from the World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI) and AppliedHE, reflecting a curriculum that adapts to the technological demands of the 21st century.
The Impact of the “Central Spirit”
What truly distinguishes the rise of CPU under Rev. Dr. Dagohoy is the continued emphasis in maintaining the Central Spirit which symbolizes unwavering commitment to Christ-centered excellence, serving as the “social glue” that unites generation of CPU students, alumni, and staff, to whatever cause Centralians are challenged to be united. “Without God, no matter how successful you are in life, it is a life lacking and wasted.” — This guiding philosophy remains the cornerstone of every Centralian’s being and of the Dagohoy administration to realize CPU’s EXCEL, or “Exemplary Christian Education for Life.”
CPU graduates are known for their proficiency and their integrity, stewardship, and service. This impact ripples through society as Centralians take on leadership roles in government and in the private sector, carrying the “Central Spirit” into every corner of the globe. The CPU Alumni Association celebrated its 100th year anniversary in 2021 and its chapters exceed 162 worldwide.
A Legacy in the Making
As CPU celebrates its 120th Founding Anniversary in 2025-2026, with the global homecoming of its alumni worldwide set in September, 2026, the “Rise of Central” serves as a testament to the power of a vision that balances academic rigor with spiritual depth. Under its BOT and Dr. Dagohoy’s leadership, the university is nurturing a generation of leaders who are “anchored deep in the soil” of faith and ready to face the winds of change with unafraid hearts.
Transformative Innovations and New Infrastructures
Worth noting is CPU’s commitment to research and transformative innovation (led by its CPUGAD TBI) and realized in partnership with the DOST. CPU is also in development partnerships with many institutions here and worldwide. This year, CPU will soon inaugurate in June, 2026 its International Friendship Building a 5-storey, 63-room dormitory project designed to accommodate the growing population of foreign students, international and local guests. Recently, the University also held a Groundbreaking Ceremony to mark the start of construction for a multi-story, state-of-the-art building complex that will be shared by the College of Law and College of Medicine.
The Campus Master Plan: A Greener, Smarter Central
The university also engaged Architects Paolo Alcazaren and Donnie Alfaro of PGAA Creative Design to spearhead the new University Campus Master Plan.
This long-term spatial and landscape development project aims to refine the campus landscape by modernizing the university’s green spaces to align with international design standards while preserving the iconic “Centralian” charm and to achieve excellence in environmental stewardship.
Integrating Science, Faith, and Stewardship
This dual focus on technological innovation and architectural refinement reflects CPU’s vision of a holistic university that inspires excellence in every discipline, depth and dimension. The Rise of Central ensures a future that is as aesthetically stunning, intellectually profound and spiritually invigorating for God’s glory.
After 120 years, Central Philippine University remains as a premier institution with a clear purpose to realize Scientia et Fides (Knowledge and Faith), with dedicated leaders and stewards to realize the vision, and a united Centralian army of loyal graduates and generational alumni worldwide destined to make a lifelong positive impact to the world, all for God’s honor and glory./PN
