College of Education celebrates National Heritage Month through its Filipiniana-themed 'Toast to the Graduates'
The College of Education of Manuel S. Enverga University Foundation celebrated National Heritage Month through its Filipiniana-themed “Toast to the Graduates” at Casa Segunda, honoring the perseverance, dedication and achievements of its graduating students.
Faculty members and graduating students arrived in Filipiniana-inspired attire, showcasing the richness of Philippine heritage while adding elegance and cultural meaning to the celebration.
The event served as both a tribute to Filipino culture and a recognition of the College of Education’s candidates for graduation as they prepare to transition from pre-service teachers to professional educators.
Ferdinand Rellorosa, chief education program specialist of the Teachers Education Council, served as guest of honor and speaker. He encouraged the graduating students to carry the values and principles they developed as Envergan educators into their professional journey.
“In a world like this, survival is not guaranteed by what we already know. It will depend on your ability to reinvent, redefine, and reframe yourselves — again and again,” Rellorosa said.
He also reminded the graduates that teaching is a demanding vocation that requires compassion, resilience, excellence and passion in shaping future professionals.
Student representatives from each academic program shared stories of perseverance, sacrifice and gratitude, reflecting on their pre-service journey and honoring the mentors, classmates and loved ones who supported them.
The speakers were Bryan Luis Bongat from Bachelor of Culture and the Arts Education, Ellaine Kaye Malana from Bachelor of Elementary Education, Marife Aguilar from Bachelor of Library and Information Science, Mhary Joycehn Almira from Bachelor of Physical Education, and Kishia Marie Laureano from Bachelor of Secondary Education.
“I stand here not because my journey is perfect, kundi dahil pinili kong hindi sumuko,” Malana said, encouraging her fellow graduates to face life with courage, perseverance and faith.
The ceremony also featured the presentation of awards and recognitions to graduating students who demonstrated excellence in academics and leadership.
Dr. Divinia Japor-Glifonea led the celebration and expressed confidence that the graduates are ready to meet the challenges of the teaching profession and make meaningful contributions to society.
As the graduates prepare to enter the field of education, the celebration highlighted their role as future bearers of knowledge, Filipino values and positive change.
The activity reflected MSEUF’s commitment to transformative and student-centered education by honoring graduates who are prepared to serve as educators and nation-builders. It also upheld the core values of Excellence, Fortitude, Mindfulness and Service as the graduates celebrated their growth, cultural identity and readiness to teach with purpose.
- SDG 4: Quality Education — The celebration honored future educators who will contribute to learning, values formation and nation-building.
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities — The Filipiniana theme promoted appreciation and preservation of Filipino culture and heritage.
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth — The event recognized graduates preparing to enter the professional teaching workforce.
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals — The celebration brought together students, faculty, families and education leaders in support of future teachers.
