Central Mindanao University Academic Paradise of the South
In a show of support during a stressful week, the Central Mindanao University Alumni Association, Inc. (CMUAAI) provided free meals to students during the final exam week, offering warm bowls of arroz caldo and bread on May 14-16 and May 19-20, 2025, at the Fulbright Garden.
The initiative entitled Brain Boost: Nourish to Pass Program began in the first semester of the current 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.
A total of 1,512 individuals were served during the whole duration of the program. Faculty, staff, alumni, and members of the CMU community were also invited to take part in the initiative.
Office of Alumni Relations and Linkages Director Ms. Chenie B. Labnotin shared that it is fulfilling, especially seeing that students look forward to the activity.
“They won’t ask for more, but they are happy,” Ms. Labnotin said.
Program chair Dr. Ma. Luz L. Soriano shared that the association was happy with the result of the activity. She also hoped to set up more stations in different areas of the university and work with the different colleges to serve more students.
Dr. Soriano also noted that some alumni have expressed intentions to donate and sponsor the event.
“I think with this program, some alumni who are also well-off already this time are also interested in coming in as donors,” Dr. said.
Dr. Soriano also mentioned that some university visitors noted that the activity is a best practice worth emulating.
“They commented that this is the first time that they have experienced a state university doing this program, and they consider it a best practice,” Dr. Soriano added.
The program was made possible through the collective efforts of the Office of Alumni Relations and Linkages, Beta Sigma Fraternity – CMU Chapter, Society for the Advancement of Animal Science, Louella’s Plant Nursery, Solana Renewables Energy Corporation, Salomon Rice and Corn Retailer and Wholesaler, Jocel’s Garden, Biotech Farms Corporation, Psychology Students Circle Alumni, Mr. John Caindoy, Simborio family, and Agbayani family.
