Enverga University celebrates Filipino faith, heritage through Santacruzan 2026
Manuel S. Enverga University Foundation celebrated Heritage Santacruzan 2026: Flores de Mayo at Enverga as part of the month-long celebration of National Heritage Month, bringing together students, faculty members, employees, administrators and parents in a colorful celebration of Filipino faith, devotion and cultural pride, May 12.
The College of Arts and Sciences spearheaded the activity under the leadership of Dr. Claudia Odette Ayala. First-year AB Psychology students enrolled in Arts Appreciation Classes B015 and B008 participated in the event under the instruction of Celso Jaballa, senior lecturer and vice president for external relations.
The activity aimed to preserve Filipino cultural traditions, deepen awareness of the historical and religious significance of Santacruzan and Flores de Mayo, and encourage students to take part in meaningful heritage activities.
With music from the MSEUF Chamberwinds, the procession began at the College of Criminal Justice and Criminology, passed along Kalayaan Avenue toward the College of Architecture and Fine Arts, and ended at the College of Arts and Sciences Quadrangle.
The procession featured symbolic queens representing virtues, biblical figures and Marian titles, including Reyna Fe, Reyna Esperanza, Reyna Caridad, Reyna Virtudes, Reyna Esther, Reyna Ruth, Reina de las Flores, Reina de la Paz, Reina de las Estrellas, Reina de los Angeles, Reyna Samaritana, Reyna Belén, Reyna Sion, Reyna Roma and Reyna Mora.
The pageant reached its highlight with the presentation of the Emperatriz, Príncipe Constantino and Reyna Elena carrying the Holy Cross, symbolizing the discovery of the True Cross and the triumph of Christian faith.
After the procession, the formal program opened at the CAS Quadrangle with an invocation led by Sachi Mae Jorquia. Jillian Nicole delivered the welcome remarks, while John Patrick Garcia discussed the significance of the celebration and reminded participants that culture and tradition remain living treasures that shape Filipino identity.
A flower offering to the Blessed Virgin Mary followed, with each queen and escort approaching the Marian altar in a solemn act of devotion. The gesture reflected the deep faith and reverence long associated with Flores de Mayo and Santacruzan traditions.
Shekaina Gail Formaran delivered the closing remarks and thanked the parents, administrators, faculty members, employees and students who supported the celebration. Glen Katigbak and Jaymie Cruzado led the concluding communal prayer.
The Institutional Marketing and Promotions Office, Enverga Media Resource Center, and Web Content Development and Engagement Office provided event coverage.
More than a pageant, Heritage Santacruzan 2026 served as a living classroom where students experienced Filipino devotion, artistry and tradition. The celebration reaffirmed MSEUF’s commitment to preserving cultural heritage and passing it on to future generations.
The activity reflected MSEUF’s commitment to transformative and student-centered education by allowing students to learn culture, history and faith through direct participation. It also upheld the core values of Mindfulness, Unity, Excellence and Service as the Envergan community came together to honor Filipino heritage with reverence, creativity and shared pride.
- SDG 4: Quality Education — The activity promoted cultural learning, historical awareness and experiential education through student participation.
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities — The celebration supported the preservation and appreciation of Filipino cultural and religious heritage.
- SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions — The event encouraged respect for shared values, identity and community traditions.
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals — The celebration involved collaboration among students, faculty, administrators, parents and university offices.
