Dr. J. Prospero E. De Vera, III, the former Chairperson of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and the Central Philippines State University (CPSU) Board of Regents (BOR), addressed Cenphilians during the university’s 79th Foundation Anniversary Special Program.

 The CPSU community assembled during the program held on October 2, 2025, at the Clemente Sports Complex, welcoming the honorable members of the university's highest governing body, the CPSU-BOR, as well as local dignitaries and their respective representatives in attendance.

 “It is with grateful honor and privilege that I join you today as we celebrate the 79th Foundation Anniversary of this institution, the university that has proven itself, not only as a provider of free and quality education but as a powerful force of transformation, empowerment, and global recognition. Alam niyo po, magandang mag-celebrate ng Foundation Day dahil binibigyan tayo ng pagkakataon na tumingin sa nakaraan, kilalanin ang mga nauna sa atin na gumawa ng pundasyon kung saan tayo nakatayo ngayon, at hirangin sila sa kanilang magawa. Pero mas mahalaga, that we commit to honor them by making sure that we build upon the foundations, putting our hearts in the institution, and gearing for the future,” said Doctor De Vera.

 As the event’s guest speaker, he recounted his experiences and shared his current insights as former Chairperson of the CPSU-BOR, the university’s highest governing body, giving special mention to how the university has overcome its initial challenges in attaining CHED-issued Certificates of Program Compliance (COPCs) and eventually making a historic achievement of achieving 100% issuance to all its extension campuses and their programs.

 “We need COPC so that our students can have quality education, and this is where CPSU became famous in the history of Philippine higher education. From 0 COPC, the university achieved 100% COPC during the term of President Nonoy Moraca. I do not think historic achievement will ever be replicated in the history of Philippine higher education… I am proud of this achievement, and all of us here should be proud of what we did in CPSU. I am sure you have heard me on national television, and on every occasion, such as public hearings, proudly make CPSU an example that all SUCs must emulate in ensuring access to quality education in the Philippines. So let me first thank the Board of Regents—Director Rowen Gelonga, who is serving the longest and most supportive role. Let us give him a round of applause. I thank the Board of Regents for your unflinching support in ensuring compliance with quality education.”

 Doctor De Vera, and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Regional Director and CPSU-BOR Finance Committee Chairperson Hon. Rowen R. Gelonga, CESO II, were awarded the Mt. Ballo Award of Exemplary Leadership in recognition of their outstanding visionary leadership that made significant reforms in the growth and development of CPSU.

 University President Dr. Aladino C. Moraca, in his welcome address, featured the recent achievements of the university as concrete testaments to the growth of the institution over the past decade, not only as a relevant multidisciplinary technology-generating household name in the province, but also as a national and international name in championing the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

 Doctor De Vera also struck a pose with Kaloy, CPSU’s official Mighty Hornbills mascot, who was modeled after the Rufous-Headed Hornbill.  

 President Moraca and the Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Grenny I. Jungco, conferred the Mt. Ballo Legacy Award to the following Negros Occidental City and Municipal Government heads: (1) Hon. Mayor Jose “Nadie” Arceo—Mayor of the Municipality of Hinigaran; (2) Hon. Ella D. Garcia-Yulo—Mayor of the Municipality of Moises Padilla; (3) Hon. Maria Gina M. Lizares—Mayor of the City of Sipalay; (4) Hon. Ray R. Ruiz—Mayor of the Municipality of Candoni; (5) Hon. John Rey D. Tabujara—Mayor of the Municipality of Cauayan; (6) Hon. Daph V. Reliquias—Mayor of the Municipality of Hinoba-an; (7) Hon. Abelardo “JunB” Bantug, III—Mayor of the City of Victorias; and (8) Dr. Leonilo M. Francisco, the Father of CPSU’s Irrigation System and former College of Agriculture Dean, was also given the same recognition for his vital contributions in the development of the university’s irrigation system and agricultural fields.

 CPSU’s University Week Folk Dance winning group performed before the attendees and showcased bananas as props in their routine, proudly reflecting Negrenses’ local way of life.

 The CPSU Chorale exhibited their vocal techniques and prowess as they sang the opening salvo for the event, while the winner in the UWeek 2025’s Vocal Solo Category soared vocally as she sang Angeline Quinto’s “Patuloy and Pangarap” in line with the week-long celebration’s theme, “Empowering Minds, Enriching Lives: 79 Years of Transformative Education at CPSU.”

 Vice President Jungco conveyed his reflection on the previous messages and the university milestones as he imparted the closing message, which marked the conclusion of the ceremony.