CMU launches new website, marks new chapter in digital communication
A more user-friendly and responsive digital platform now serves as the online gateway of Central Mindanao University (CMU) following the official launch of its new website on September 14, 2026, as part of the University’s 116th Founding Anniversary celebration.
The new website was developed to respond to the changing needs and digital habits of CMU’s students, faculty, alumni, partners, and the general public while strengthening the University’s presence in the digital space.
During the launch, Office of Public Relations and Information (OPRI) Director Prof. Mayflor D. Prantilla-Arambala highlighted that the University’s previous website, launched in 2014, had served as a vital source of information for more than a decade. However, with technology rapidly evolving, audience behavior changing, and CMU’s brand growing stronger, the need for a more updated and responsive platform became increasingly important.
“Like any forward-looking institution, we must adapt and keep pace with the ever-evolving digital landscape,” Prof. Arambala said.
The new website features a fresh and minimalist interface designed to better reflect the CMU brand through its layout, color scheme, imagery, graphics, icons, and buttons. It also offers simple and intuitive navigation, allowing visitors to locate information more quickly and easily.
Among its key features are enhanced searchability powered by Google Search, beta AI Chat Assistant designed to guide visitors and respond to basic inquiries, and the latest version of WordPress for improved compatibility, security, and scalability.
The platform currently maximizes available resources through the free Elementor website builder and the Academia theme previously acquired by the University. Additional interactive features may be incorporated in the future as resources and premium plugins become available.
Prior to the official launch, the website underwent alpha and beta testing, User Acceptance Testing (UAT), and a Privacy Impact Assessment (PIA) to help ensure its functionality, usability, privacy, and compliance.
University President Dr. Rolito G. Eballe likewise underscored the importance of keeping the University responsive to technological developments, noting that the new website is part of CMU’s continuing efforts to strengthen its digital presence and better serve its stakeholders.
The new website is envisioned to provide students, faculty, alumni, partners, and the general public with easier access to accurate and timely information while offering a more pleasant digital experience with CMU.
The ceremonial launch was led by Dr. Eballe, who officially activated the new platform, marking another milestone in CMU’s digital transformation.
Also present were Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Jose S. Valmorida; University Registrar Ms. Louiela B. Joromat; Office of Brand Management Director Dr. Allan E. Salonga; Office of Digital Transformation Director Engr. Carlo Martin A. Sarausa; and Dr. Annie Deriada, representing Vice President for Resource Generation and Management Dr. Ricardo Villar, along with the OPRI staff and other members of the University community.
The OPRI director expressed appreciation to her team, the University’s two dedicated webmasters who conceptualized and developed the platform, the Committee for Website Improvement, and the CMU Administration headed by Dr. Eballe for their trust, guidance, and continued support.
As CMU celebrates 116 years of academic excellence and service, the new platform opens a fresh digital chapter for the University.
The initiative contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education, by improving access to institutional information and digital resources; SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, through the University’s adoption of improved digital technology; and SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions, by promoting accessible, transparent, and responsive institutional communication. [Iyren Dalipe Neri]
