Wesleyan University-Philippines (WUP) conducted wreath-laying ceremonies on February 9, 2026, to honor John Wesley, founder of Methodism and the namesake of the University, and Rev. Carlos K. Mañacop, Sr., the prime mover in establishing the Philippine Wesleyan College, now WUP, and its second president.

The ceremonies were held at John Wesley Park and in front of the Mañacop Building, which houses the College of Arts and Sciences and the College of Business and Accountancy. The events included a 21-gun salute rendered by reservists of the 301st Community Defense Center, together with the Wesleyan ROTC Corps and staff.

The wreath-laying ceremony for John Wesley is a tradition in the annual celebration of the University’s founding anniversary. In line with WUP’s 80th anniversary, this year’s observance also gave recognition to Rev. Mañacop for establishing the institution in July 1946. The month of July was declared as Mañacop Month at the University in 2025.

University officials, led by Dr. Irineo G. Alvaro, Jr., President, faculty, staff, and students attended the ceremonies. Rev. Dr. Francis V. Fajardo, University Chaplain and Overall Chairperson of the 80th Founding Anniversary Celebration, welcomed participants. The Elementary Drum and Lyre Band performed during the event.

Bishop Leo A. Soriano, a retired bishop of the United Methodist Church, graced the events after serving as the Guest Preacher during the Thanksgiving Worship on February 8, 2026, which signaled the official opening of the week-long culminating celebration of the 80th Founding Anniversary.

Dr. Alvaro stated, “After 80 years of God’s blessings and guidance—we were, we are, and we will always be an instrument… ng paghubog, pagpapala, pagbabago, kabataan at pati na tayong mga may edad. Mga kasama, ipagpatuloy po natin ang misyon ng unibersidad upang magpatuloy ang paglinang ng kaalaman [at] katalinuhan, paghubog lalung-lalo na sa mga maliliit na bata, at ang pagbabago ng bawa’t isa. Let’s continue transforming lives, let’s continue building people for God and for [the] country.”

He also noted that for eight decades, Wesleyan survived hurdles, difficulties, and challenges, making this year’s anniversary theme, Walong Dekada ng Tagumpay at Pagpapala, fitting for the celebration.

Following the wreath-laying, the Elementary Department led the monthly Flag Raising Ceremony. Candidates for Mr. and Ms. Wesleyan 2026 were also presented during the event.

Article by Jeremy Panagsagan and Jenine Valerio (BA in Communication OJTs, PIO)
Photos by Franz Fernando and Jasmine Borja (BA in Communication OJTs, PIO)