Central Mindanao University Academic Paradise of the South
Students of Central Mindanao University (CMU) expressed their appreciation for the free breakfast initiative of CMU Alumni Association Inc. (CMUAAI), saying the program provided support during the final examination week.
Through the Brain Boost: Nourish to Pass Program, students were served arroz caldo and bread on May 4-8, 2026 at the Fulbright Garden.
Several students shared that the initiative greatly helped those who struggle to afford meals, especially breakfast, during busy academic periods.
Jesse June L. Casulla, a second-year Bachelor of Science in Mathematics student said that the program was helpful for students who come to school without food.
“Nice siya nga makatabang siya, especially sa students nga need og pamahaw. Especially sad kay ako pud nga walay kaon. Makatabang gyud siya,” Casulla said.
(It’s nice because it helps, especially students who need breakfast. Like me, I have not eaten yet, so it really helps.)
Third year BS Home Economics Shandy Fuentes highlighted how the initiative became especially beneficial during examinations, when many students face financial constraints. She also noted that the warm meals helped energize them and mentally prepare them for their exams.
“Nindot siya nga program kay makatabang siya sa students. Especially ting exam, naay uban tight og budget. Nindot pud siya maka-boost gyud siya, nindot ang arrozcaldo maka-boost gyud siya ug ma-ready ang mind sa students na mag-answer og exam,” Fuentes shared.
(It’s a good program because it helps students. Especially during exams, some students have a tight budget. It also gives a boost—the arroz caldo really helps boost and prepare the students’ minds to answer their exams.)
Michol John Mark B. Galon, a third-year BS Chemistry student, also pointed out that college life often leads them to neglect proper sleep and meals because of academic demands. Because of this, they appreciated the concern shown by the organizers toward students’ health and well-being.
“Personally, tsada siya nga initiative kay bal-an baya sa college kay kanang medyo pabaya na mi sa amoang tulog ug kaon. So, tsada kaayo siya na makatabang after exam para sa amoa pud kay at least makita namo ang effort ninyo sa pag tan-aw sa amoang health ug sa among kulang-kulang like kaning kaon,” Galon shared.
(Personally, it’s a great initiative because in college, we tend to neglect our sleep and meals. So, this really helps us, especially after exams. At least we can see your effort in looking after our health and helping with the things we lack, like food.)
The initiative entitled Brain Boost: Nourish to Pass Program began in the first semester of the previous academic year. Designed to support students during their final examinations, the program aims to empower them by addressing one of their most fundamental needs and recognizing the toll academic pressure can take on their well-being.
Apart from the CMU Alumni, similar initiatives were also organized by the Office of Student Affairs and Services (OSAS) and CMU – Operations Management Student Association (OMSA).
The program was made possible through the collective efforts of the CMU Office of the Alumni Relations and Linkages, CMU SAAS Alumni and Residents, CMU Beta Sigma Fraternity – Sigma Beta Sorority, Biotech Farms Inc., Philfresh MEATS Corporation, Louella’s Plant Nursery, Crisis Intervention Team – Central Mindanao University, CMU Psychology Student Circle, AAP III Poultry Farms, Pete & Millie Amomonpon, Bukidnon Dairy – Philippine Carabao Center at CMU, Maramag Tablea, Engr. & Mrs. Rey Peter B. Gillie, Simborio Family, and San Miguel Foods Corporation.
