“Every scholarship planted is a seed of hope planted in the heart of a student. And today, we see those seeds bloom through the gifts and talents of our scholars,” said Prof. Crystalyn A. Galindo, Director of the Office of Student Affairs.

As part of its 80th Founding Anniversary, Wesleyan University-Philippines (WUP) celebrated its Scholarship Month through a series of events and the launching of the WISE SA Project (Wesleyan Income Sustainability and Entrepreneurship for Student Assistance) on October 24, 2025.

Honoring Scholarship Through Faith and Dedication

The celebration began with a Thanksgiving Mass at the Ecumenical Chapel, highlighting scholarship as one of WUP’s core philosophical values.

Delivering the Message of Life, Rev. Apolinario V. Cunanan emphasized that “Education is grace and, in every blessing, or grace, there is faithfulness.”

The ceremony also highlighted a Prayer of Dedication for Scholars, symbolizing the University’s appreciation for its scholars’ commitment and perseverance.
Where Dreams Take the Stage

Following the worship service, the “Salamat Wesleyan: Talent Showcase” was held at the University Gymnasium, featuring the cultural performances, singing, dancing, and theater acts of the various groups of scholars that included Wesleyan Dance Troupe, Wesleyan Knights, League of Governors, Student Assistants Organization, Wesleyan Chamber Singers, Supreme Student Council, Genre, and TELON.

In his inspirational speech, Dr. Irineo G. Alvaro, Jr., University President, shared his experience as a student assistant and imparted the “4Ps of Success”—Paniniwala (believe in your dreams), Pagtitiwala (trust in your courage and ability), Pagpupunyagi (a combination of persistence, patience, perseverance, and endurance), and Pananampalataya (faith in God).

He encouraged scholars, saying, “No matter what, even if the road is rugged, rough, painful, tormenting, or whatever, never, never, never stop pursuing your dream. No matter what, and whatever cost it is, continue working on it.”

Representing the scholars, Lester D. Pagba, ALAB President, expressed appreciation, saying, “Darating ang buhay na dapat may part tayo for giving back. And the first step in giving back is pagpapasalamat. Kaya po in behalf of every scholar, nagpapasalamat po kami!”

Legacy of Gratitude

In the late afternoon, the Legacy of Gratitude: Testimonial Fellowship honored alumni and faculty who exemplified WUP’s ideals of scholarship, service, and character.

Dr. Wilfredo C. Ramos, Vice President for Academic Affairs, in his welcome remarks, reminded the awardees to continue being a light to others.
“As it is written in Matthew 5:16, ‘Let your light shine before others that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father who is in heaven.’ My prayer is that you continue to shine wherever God leads you,” he added.

Prof. Crystalyn also presented the rationale for the recognition program and the awardees, describing it as a tribute to “the men and women who once received the gift of education and now serve as a living embodiment of the Wesleyan ideals of scholarship, service, and character.”
Recognized during the ceremony were Outstanding Alumni Student Assistants, namely, Richard T. Gregorio, Rommel V. Espejo, Jessa Lou S. Pineda, and Dean Victoria M. Reyes.

Meanwhile, Milery Gen S. Subia, Gabriel Angelo M. Gonzales, Camille Andrea M. Gonzales, Gamaliel Paul M. Gonzales, Emmanuel Joy T. Cleto, and Juan Raphael M. Gonzales were awarded as Outstanding Faculty and Staff Children Scholarship Grantees.

A Surprise Special Award was also given to Minerva A. Delos Santos, a staff member at OSA, who, for an extensive period, has been the primary person attending to the scholarship concerns of students, as well as their plight while at the university, and to a certain extent, even after they graduated.

“You have been a beacon of hope and a guiding hand to countless scholars—nurturing dreams, opening opportunities, and touching lives with kindness and integrity,” the University cited in her plaque.

Additionally, the WISE SA Project was officially launched. Prof. Jelwin D. Bautista, Dean of the College of Business and Accountancy, shared how student assistants successfully managed a small juice business during the University’s intramurals.

“Kung gusto natin tulungan, hindi lang tayo [basta] magbibigay ng isda, tuturuan din natin sila mangisda,” he said, emphasizing the project’s goal of empowering scholars through entrepreneurship.

The event concluded with remarks from Dr. Joepet G. Portana, OIC-Director of the Office of Alumni Affairs and a former student assistant himself, who highlighted the power of perseverance and the impact of a Wesleyan education in building lives and communities.

“This afternoon, we have honored outstanding alumni student assistants and outstanding faculty and staff scholarship grantees. Individuals whose stories affirm the power of perseverance and the impact of Wesleyan education…Together, we ensure that the Wesleyanian legacy will continue to build people and transform lives for generations to come,” he said.

by Ayumi San Cai Valerio (PIO)
Photo courtesy of Julian Jude Mariano (PIO)