Celebrating its 25th anniversary, the Central Philippines State University (CPSU) Forestry Department community convened on December 12-13, 2025, to commemorate past milestones and welcome future accomplishments.

During the commemorative program held on the December 12, the current Society of Filipino Foresters, Inc. National Directorate Vice President and retired Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Regional Executive Director, Mr. Livino B. Duran, RPF, delivered the keynote speech at the event—highlighting the role of the academe and aspiring foresters in addressing the existing and emerging issues in the discipline and in the contemporary society.

Messages of support were also conveyed by Assistant Regional Director for Technical Services Engr. Joan F. Gerangaya on behalf of DENR–Negros Island Region (NIR) Regional Director Charlie E. Fabre by DENR-NIR, by For. Ace Santocildes of Kabankalan City’s Environment and Natural Resources Office.

“I can really envision the challenges we faced in the past, living in a remote area, far from home and family. Despite those difficulties, we found joy in camaraderie, love, empathy, and the simplicity of life, which allowed us to appreciate what life had to offer. As we gather here today to celebrate our achievements and reconnect with old friends, I want to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude to every one of you. Your presence here is a testament to the eternal spirit of our alma mater and a strong bond we have held close over the years. Our contributions to our respective fields and communities exemplify the values and excellence instilled in us. Thank you,” said Dr. Necyl S. Galicia, a pioneer BSA major in Agroforestry (1992) batch alumna.

Alongside the pioneer alumni batch of the Forestry Program, the community recognizes the pioneering faculty members and mentors were recognized as the community celebrated the milestone: Dr. Joel P. Limson, Mr. Luis T. Tababa, Mr. Reynaldo T. Tababa, Mr Alejo Allegado; Mr. Gregorio D. Predo; Mr. Robert Poblacion; and Prof. Mary Ann S. Dagunan.

The university also recognizes the following government and private partners: Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO), Community Environmental and Natural Resources Office (CENRO), Provincial Environment Management Office (PEMO), LGU ENRO Kabankalan City, LGU Himamaylan City, LGU Ilog, LGU Cauayan, LGU Sipalay, LGU Hinobaan, and Brilliance Consultancy OPC.

“Today we gather to celebrate this significant milestone. Twenty-five years of celebrating forestry leadership, strengthening ecosystems today, and sustaining generations tomorrow. This day captures the very essence of why we are here—to honor the past, appreciate, and pave the way for a more sustainable and resilient future. For the past 25 years, our institution has served as a pillar of excellence in forestry education, research, and community engagement. We have witnessed the growth of the program that advocates for forest conservation, sustainable resource management, climate resilience, and empowerment of upland communities. These accomplishments did not happen overnight. They were built through the dedication of our leaders, faculty, staff, students, alumni, partner agencies, and the communities that share our vision for a greener world,” said College of Agriculture and Forestry Dean Dr. Hanzel P. Pedrosa.

Moreover, a Thanksgiving mass was held with the celebrant, Diocese of Kabankalan’s Bishop Louie P. Galbines, and co-celebrant Rev. Fr. Ivan D. Cantor and Msgr. Eryl D. Agus at the Clemente Sports Complex, as attendees reflected on the celebration’s theme: “With the theme: “25 Years of Forestry Leadership: Strengthening Ecosystems Today, Sustaining Generations Tomorrow”

On December 13, 2025, a tree planting ceremony at CPSU’s Spiritual Wellness Park took place and was followed by the “Gubat-Bakan” Forestry Skills Competition which was organized by the Student Society for Environmental Awareness and Protection where forestry students showcased their content knowledge proficiency in Wood Identification, Scientific Name Marathon, Leaf Identification, and Battle of the Brains.

The “Alumni Homecoming and Fellowship: Honoring 25 Years of CPSU Forestry” was also held at the Clemente Sports Complex as a venue for reconnection and reminiscing for program alumni and faculty where the attendees recited their symbolic pledge: “25 Years Forward: I Commit to Support CPSU Forestry.”

The Silver Anniversary celebration was organized by the department faculty, headed by Forestry Program Chair For. Gregorio D. Predo, Former Forestry Program Chair For. Dominic L. Billen, together with Prof. Mary Ann S. Dagunan, Prof. Mae Flor G. Posadas, and For. Wendel A. Pangaral.

Photo Credits:

Judjel M. Delos Reyes

BSIT4