Generations of CLSU "Golden Grains" gathered at the FPJ Communication Hall on February 1 for the much-anticipated Alumni Homecoming organized by the CLSU Alumni Association Inc. (CLSUAAI) and the University Alumni Relations Office (ARO) together with its college coordinators. The event served as a meaningful reunion where alumni reconnected, reminisced, and celebrated their cherished experiences at the University.
With the theme “From Memories to Milestones: Celebrating CLSU’s Global Footprint,” the homecoming welcomed over 500 alumni from across the globe. The highlight of the celebration was the recognition of four distinguished alumni, honored for their exceptional achievements and contributions in their respective fields dubbed as Gintong Butil Award. The awardees include the following:
-Mr. Rafael Lardizabal Pagaling, founder of Zennor Hydroponics, for Entrepreneurship Award;
-Atty. Margaret V. Castillo-Padilla, currently serving as a Deputy State Prosecutor, for the Community Service Award;
-Dr. Jesusa Cabling Beltran, Chief Science Research Specialist and Scientist I at the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice), for the Research and Development Award; and
-Dr. Lilian Cruz Garcia, Executive Director of the National Fisheries Research and Development Institute (NFRDI), for the Professional Achievement Award.
Also, a loyalty award was bestowed to:
- Capariño Family
- Flores Family
- Mananggit Family
While topnotchers from the different licensure examinations were also recognized:
- Mr. Ethan Aduptante
- Mr. Oliver T. Reclamado
- Dr. Steven Gio M. Parungao
Meanwhile, University President Evaristo A. Abella expressed his sincere appreciation to all alumni highlighting their enduring connection to the university.
“All of you are part of our global footprint, a network of individuals united by the values and vision of this institution. Let this homecoming remind you that your journey, no matter how far they’ve taken, will always have a route that will lead you back here to your home, your CLSU,” said President Abella.
Indeed, the event offered alumni a meaningful opportunity to reconnect, share stories, and celebrate significant life milestones with former classmates, friends, and professors. It also allowed them to revisit and explore the university's various facilities, rekindling fond memories of their time on campus.