University marks Indigenous Peoples Month with Sama-Saya celebration

Envega University, in partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office IV-A, held the “SAMA-SAYA: Sama-samang Saya Kasama ang Sama-Bajau ng Lucena” celebration at the University Gymnasium in observance of Indigenous Peoples Month, Oct. 30.

The event gathered 153 Sama-Bajau beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program from Barangays Dalahican and Barra, along with faculty, staff, and student volunteers, in a full day of cultural appreciation, learning sessions, and community services.

Vice President for External Relations Celso Jaballa opened the program with a welcome message, followed by remarks from DSWD Regional IPs Focal Person Junios Bien Manalo and NCIP Region IV-A Officer in Charge Fil Vincent Garcia.

Highlighting the educational component, College of Arts and Sciences faculty member Pedro Jose De Castro presented his research on the Indigenous Peoples’ way of life, while College of Nursing instructor Rolando Remojo discussed health and nutrition, emphasizing hygiene and waste management.

The celebration featured the Musika at Sayaw competitions, where the Sama-Bajau showcased their cultural identity through traditional dance and solo singing performances. The Banyuhay Dance Troupe delivered a special cultural intermission number, adding to the atmosphere of unity and mutual respect.

A Service Caravan was also conducted in partnership with the City Health Office, Philippine Statistics Authority, PhilHealth, and DSWD, providing medical consultations, birth registration, and social welfare services. The program concluded with an awarding ceremony recognizing competition winners and partner agencies for their contributions.

The event highlighted strong inter-agency collaboration among MSEUF, DSWD, NCIP, and local government partners, reinforcing shared efforts to promote cultural inclusion, community welfare, and sustainable development.

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The initiative reflects the University’s commitment to Service, Unity, and Mindfulness by fostering cultural appreciation and delivering essential services to vulnerable communities. It strengthens Excellence and Fortitude as MSEUF continues to engage in meaningful, community-based programs rooted in transformative and inclusive education.

• SDG 1: No Poverty – Through service initiatives that support the welfare of marginalized communities.

• SDG 2: Zero Hunger – By extending programs that include health and nutrition education.

• SDG 4: Quality Education – Through cultural learning sessions and community-centered instruction.

• SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities – By promoting inclusion and advocating equal access to services.

• SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – Through strong collaboration across government agencies, local stakeholders, and the University.