Wesleyan University-Philippines (WUP) held Echoes of Faith and Hope: An Evangelical Christmas Concert, a benefit concert for typhoon victims, organized by the Wesleyan External Systems, Connections, Opportunities, and Partnerships (WESCOP), Office of Student Affairs (OSA), Guidance and Placement Center (GPC), and Cultural Affairs and Sports Development Office (CASDO), bringing together members of the university community in an event rooted in faith, compassion, and Christian service on December 16, 2025, at the University Ecumenical Chapel.
The event featured performances from the WUP Chamber Singers, Elementary Department Glee Club, Teatrong Laan para sa Obra Ngayon (TELON), Executive Male Voices, Galant Harmony, University Dance Troupe, and other individuals and groups from the University community.
During the Christmas Cantata, WUP President Dr. Irineo G. Alvaro, Jr. reflected on the deeper meaning of Christmas, emphasizing the values of obedience and humility.
“Ang dalawang mensahe ng Pasko na tinatawag natin ay obedience and humility. At the heart of Christmas, this is the truth. God is the authority, and obedience begins when we recognize that authority and choose to trust it. Humility is not thinking less of yourself but thinking of yourself less,” he said.
Dr. Alvaro further encouraged the community to live out these values beyond the season, stating, “This Christmas, may our lives become a race—a race to be the most obedient to God’s will and the quickest to humble ourselves so we can reach the broken, the forgotten, and the lost.”
Highlighting the purpose of the activity, the university president underscored that the concert went beyond music and celebration.
“Echoes of Faith and Hope is more than a Christmas concert. It is a sacred gathering rooted in faith, compassion, and Christian service. The true meaning of Christmas calls us not only to rejoice but also to respond to the cries of those who are suffering,” he explained.
Testimonies from members of the Wesleyan community further reinforced the concert’s message of perseverance and hope.
Jay-Ann Torres, a third-year Political Science student, spoke on behalf of the Student Assistant Organization, sharing the realities of balancing academic and work responsibilities.
“Bilang isang student assistant, we know the weight of balancing classes, office duties, academic requirements, and our personal lives. In every moment of weakness, God has been our strength. In every moment of doubt, He has been our assurance, and in every long and tiring day, He has been our comfort,” she said.
Ms. Millet Soverano, a WUP staff member, shared her journey of resilience and faith over her 11 years of service to the University.
“Araw-araw maaga akong pumapasok—minsan alas kwatro, minsan alas singko. Kahit pagod ako, kahit minsan parang hindi ko na kaya, hindi ko hinahayaan mawala ang pag-asa sa akin,” she shared, recounting how she took a leap of faith by enrolling in the BSBA program. She recently joined the College of Allied Medical Services as a staff member.
A similar message of hope was shared by Mr. Ang, a WUP alumnus, who reflected on his humble beginnings.
“Ang Pasko ay buwan ng pag-ibig, pagbibigayan, at pagpapatawaran,” he said, recalling his days as a gasoline attendant and working student. “Sa biyaya ng Diyos, ako po ay isang negosyante ngayon, may napakabait na asawa at may tatlong amazing children.”
Organizers noted that the seed money generated from Echoes of Faith and Hope will be allocated to assist individuals and communities deeply affected by recent typhoons, reinforcing the concert’s mission of extending help and hope beyond the campus.
According to Dr. Henry Cocoy Nacpil (GPC Director) and Dr. Eufemia C. Ayro (WESCOP OIC-Director), this concert would be held annually to generate funds to aid victims of various disasters.
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In adherence to the Data Privacy Act of 2012 (Republic Act No. 10173), the Child Protection Policy (DepEd Order No. 40, s. 2012), and other relevant regulatory issuances of the Department of Education, as well as the data privacy policies observed by Wesleyan University-Philippines, the faces of elementary pupils appearing in the photos have been intentionally blurred to safeguard their privacy and ensure the protection of minors.
Article by Ayumi San Cai Valerio (PIO)
Photos by Julian Jude Mariano (PIO)
