Central Mindanao University Academic Paradise of the South
Honorees of the Outstanding Employee Award in both the teaching and non-teaching categories reflected on their personal and professional growth, sharing their humble beginnings and the key lessons that shaped their careers in the university.
Dr. Gamaliela A. Dumancas, faculty member from the Department of Office Administration, and Engr. Nonilon G. Obedencio from the Office of University Planning and Development delivered acceptance speeches on behalf of their fellow awardees.
Dr. Dumancas, who was named Outstanding Employee in the Professor Category, recalled her early days at CMU as a stenographer in the university’s legal office before eventually becoming a faculty member. She admitted her journey was marked by struggles and milestones, but emphasized that resilience helped her persevere.
“Truly, life was a rollercoaster of challenges and victories. But if there is one word that sustained me through it all, it is resilience,” Dr. Dumancas said.
She also reflected on the different seasons of life.
“Indeed, to everything there is a season. Today is my season of gratitude,” Dr. Dumancas added.
Lastly, Dr. Dumancas reminded the audience that excellence in teaching is not measured by awards and titles, but by the lives touched and the values imparted.
Meanwhile, Engr. Obedencio, who won first place in the Outstanding Employee – Administrative Officer Category, shared that he both started his career and built his family within the university. He described his journey as both exciting and challenging, recalling how CMU supported his family after they lost their home to a fire, even providing them with temporary shelter at the University Homestay free of charge.
He highlighted the importance of commitment in one’s profession and the enduring legacy it leaves behind.
“Commitment doesn’t always come with applause. But it leaves a mark. The kind that outlasts titles and ranks,” Engr. Obedencio said.
Engr. Obedencio added that being committed is not easy, noting that it includes showing up even when it is inconvenient, unrecognized, or unseen.
“After 35 years, I’m not here because I had to be. I’m here because I chose to be. Because commitment does not stop at the edge of a contract. It lives in the quiet decision to care, to stay late, to take pride, [and] to serve well,” Engr. Obedencio added.
The celebration also recognized the excellence of many other outstanding employees across various categories:
- Teaching Category:
- Instructor: Dr. Jean A. Aquino
- Assistant Professor: Prof. Anecil Q. Pagutayao
- Associate Professor: Prof. Sheila C. Poonon
- Professor: Dr. Gamaleila A. Dumancas
- Non-Teaching Category:
- Administrative Officer: Engr. Nonilon G. Obedencio (1st), Ms. Jocelyn D. Maglasang (2nd), Ms. Sheila T. Salingay (3rd)
- Administrative Assistant: Ms. Elizabeth P. Avergonzado (1st), Mr. Zezrel G. Pateño (2nd), Mr. Nicole Angelo P. Ricablanca (3rd)
- Administrative Staff: Ms. Jeanne C. Montecillo (1st), Ms. Christelle Mae L. Camaling (2nd), Ms. Jessica L. Pava (3rd)
- Administrative Aide: Ms. Jocelyn S. Hernane (1st), Mr. Brendo P. Tumampos (2nd), Mr. Edon E. Caballero (3rd)
The University Awards 2025 was held on September 18, 2025, at the University Convention Center as part of CMU’s 115th Founding Anniversary and Grand Alumni Homecoming. The program also honored retirees, loyalty awardees, and faculty and staff with exemplary contributions to the university. Newly-hired and promoted employees also had their oath-taking during the program.
