On August 25, 2024, The College of Maasin (CM), once known as Maasin Institute (MI), proudly marked a monumental milestone—its 100th year of serving as a beacon of education, hope, and community in Southern Leyte. With the theme “CM at 100: Heralding the Work of People, Rebuilding with Hope,” this centennial celebration is a tribute to the institution’s rich history, profound impact, and bright future.
The foundation of The College of Maasin traces back to a single visionary, Dr. Angel C. Espina. What started as a dream in the heart of one man has, over a century, blossomed into a thriving institution that has touched countless lives. Dr. Espina’s unwavering commitment to education laid the groundwork for a school that would become a pillar of the community. His vision has been carried forward by generations of dedicated educators, students, and alumni who have embraced the challenge to continue his legacy. Today, CM stands as a century-old guiding light, fostering dreamers, innovators, and change-makers. The spirit of MI-CM lives on through its community, united by a shared dedication to learning, service, and progress.
The centennial festivities reflected the vibrancy and dynamism that CM has cultivated over the past 100 years. The celebrations kicked off with a series of activities that brought together students, alumni, faculty, and community members in a grand tribute to the institution’s legacy. The symbolic lighting of 100 bulbs marked the beginning of the centennial celebrations, each bulb representing a year of the school’s enduring presence and influence. The Law Department showcased its expertise and commitment to justice through a Legal Aid Clinic and a lively Debate/Mooting Competition, where students demonstrated their advocacy skills and legal knowledge. The BSN Department conducted a Medical Mission, providing much-needed healthcare services to the local community, a reflection of the school’s mission to serve beyond the classroom. Alumni from across the years gathered for a Sports Fest, rekindling old rivalries and friendships. The Alumni Literary Musical was a celebration of talent, creativity, and the enduring bonds formed at CM. The heart of the centennial celebrations, the Grand Alumni Homecoming, brought together generations of CMians in a joyous reunion, filled with memories and nostalgia.
The festivities culminated in a three-day celebration from August 23 to 25, 2024, featuring events that highlighted the cultural, spiritual, and social aspects of the CM community. A vibrant display of the region’s cultural heritage, the Cultural Show, was a feast for the senses, celebrating the diverse traditions that enrich the CM community. The Fun Run was not just a race but a symbol of the journey CM has taken over the past century—full of challenges, perseverance, and triumphs. The Festival of Faith provided a moment of reflection and gratitude, as the CM community came together to honour the institution’s spiritual foundations and the role of faith in its journey. The celebrations reached their zenith with the Centennial Gala Night, an evening of elegance and recognition. The College of Maasin honoured its Outstanding Alumni, individuals who have carried the torch of MI-CM’s values into the wider world, making significant contributions in their respective fields. Awardees were: The CM Multi-Generation Alumni Family Awards were presented to the families of Quirico Geraldo, Juana F. Ang, Pascual Kapili, Leon Markines, Teresita Orito Galem, Josue Ibalarrosa, Luz Abiera, and Armistice Calinawan Sr. The CM Spirit Awards honored the high school classes of 1973, 1974, 1979, 1990, and 1993. For the CM Alumni Outstanding Achievement Awards, recipients included Atty. Ruevivar M. Reyes for Journalism, Dr. Justy Tuquib for Research, Niña Hamili Piao-Leyson for being in the Top 7 NLE, Maricar Miras-Arco for being a Top 5 NLE, Ma. Carmela Gono for being in the Top 7 LET, Paola Mariz Cero for being in the Top 9 NLE, Atty. May Saga-Aguilar for Law, Dr. Erlinda A. Vasquez for Agriculture, Cesar T. Guasa for Public Service, and Bennites P. Gido for Good Governance. Special Recognition Awards were also given to individuals for their contributions. The Founders and Co-Founders recognized were Dr. Angel C. Espina and Mrs. Wencelina S. Espina. Notable Alumni honored included Atty. Nicanor Yniguez, Dr. Angel Beaunoni Espina, Mayor Edgarino Espina, Gov. Alfredo Bantug, Mr. Arsenio Kapili, Mrs. Lilies Kapili, Dr. Rico Cruz, Mr. Sal Malaki, Engr. Alberto Barola, Dr. Gloria M. Reyes, Mrs. Lucita Abiera, Engr. Michael Esparcia, Mrs. Juana F. Ang, Dr. Felix A. Lao, Ms. Joana Jane Ang, Dr. Oscar Bascug, Dr. Alex Bascug, Capt. Valentin Labata, Dr. Danilo Atienza, Judge Bethany Kapili, Dr. Queenie P. Siega, and Ms. Rosemary Achacoso.
As The College of Maasin steps into its second century, it does so with a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to continue. The centennial celebration was not just a reflection of the past but a promise for the future—a future where CM remains a nurturing ground for dreamers and a catalyst for change in the community, the country, and beyond. Here’s to the next century of excellence, innovation, and hope. (Dhonna Ybañez) (Photos by Bisayang Mangpektyuray & Mark de Wanderer)
