Enverga University promotes heritage, environmental care through cacao planting

To observe National Heritage Month and promote environmental sustainability, cultural preservation and community participation, Manuel S. Enverga University Foundation held a ceremonial cacao planting activity at the University’s former bee farm, May 21.

The Office of the Vice President for External Relations (VPER) organized the activity in partnership with the Community Relations Department (CRD), Community Extension Services coordinators, faculty members and nonteaching personnel. The initiative supported the National Heritage Month 2026 theme, “Roots and Horizons: Our Heritage, Our Collective Future.”

The activity, a project spearheaded by University President and Chief Operating Officer Naila Enverga-Leveriza, with a prayer led by Melba Sardea, College of Architecture and Fine Arts Community Extension Services coordinator.

Milagrosa Lawas, director of the Community Relations Department, delivered the statement of purpose and emphasized the value of preserving cultural heritage while promoting environmental sustainability through meaningful ecological initiatives.

Representing Enverga-Leveriza, Celso Jaballa, vice president for external relations, delivered a message that highlighted collective action as an important part of environmental stewardship, community development and heritage preservation.

Participants then joined the ceremonial planting of cacao seedlings, symbolizing growth, sustainability and the university’s continuing commitment to environmental protection and cultural preservation. The activity concluded with fellowship and photo opportunities.

Participants included Mark Zedric Subol, nonteaching personnel Community Extension Services coordinator and master of ceremonies; Ian Christopher Guiruela, Basic Education Department-Elementary CES coordinator; Joshua Daniel Aaron Jalos, College of Arts and Sciences CES coordinator; Benedict Tordillos, Civic Welfare Training Service coordinator; Shaira De Luna of the College of Education faculty; Genesis Merano of the College of Architecture and Fine Arts; Sardea; CAS faculty members Victor Oribe, Alexandra Bolusan, Cresensio Jaballa and Maridel Mangaron; Dennis Gonzales, College of Criminal Justice and Criminology CES coordinator; Environmental Management and Resource Center staff; General Services Department personnel; and members of the university security force.

The initiative reinforced environmental awareness, heritage appreciation and community solidarity among members of the university community.

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The activity aligned with Manuel S. Enverga University Foundation’s mission of promoting instruction, research and community service through responsive programs that support sustainable development. It also reflected the core values of Mindfulness, Service, Excellence, Unity and Fortitude by encouraging the university community to protect the environment, honor cultural heritage and work together for a shared future.

• SDG 4: Quality Education – The activity promoted experiential learning on heritage preservation, sustainability and responsible community action.
• SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – The initiative supported cultural heritage appreciation and community participation in sustainable practices.
• SDG 13: Climate Action – The cacao planting activity encouraged environmental awareness and local action that contributes to climate responsibility.
• SDG 15: Life on Land – The planting of cacao seedlings supported ecological stewardship and the care of green spaces within the university.
• SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – The activity brought together offices, faculty, staff and service units in a shared sustainability initiative.