TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte – EVSUnistas lit candles at the EVSU Administration Building on Friday, November 6, to commemorate the 13th anniversary of Super Typhoon Yolanda and in honor of its victims and survivors.

The program aimed to honor the memory of those who lost their lives and remember the strength and resilience the community showed during the typhoon.

The commemoration began with a Holy Mass led by University Chaplain Rev. Fr. Kelvin Joy A. Apurillo at the EVSU Spirituality Center.

After the solemn Mass, the program moved to the EVSU Administration Building, where a song and dance performance was presented by the university’s performing arts groups.

It was followed by a wreath-laying ceremony officiated by University President Dr. Dennis C. De Paz, together with Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Analyn Españo, Vice President for Administration, Finance and Auxiliary Services Dr. Danilo B. Pulma, and Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension Services Dr. Sheldon Ives Agaton.

In an interview, Dr. Sonia T. Enrile emphasized the importance of commemorating the anniversary and honoring those who perished during the typhoon.

“This is our thirteenth commemoration of Typhoon Yolanda, and we always pray for those who perished. We keep on remembering them not only this time, but in every day of our lives. We have to remember them, so from time to time, we make it a point to conduct this activity. Our commemoration of Yolanda usually starts with a Mass. We keep on praying for all those who perished. We remember them, and they will always remain in our hearts,” she said.

Meanwhile, EVSU Chorale member Arielle Faith Dalida shared her reflections on the significance of the commemoration program.

“It’s so we can remember them. At least in some way, we’re able to remember them and also pay respect to their families. I was touched, and I hope that this event continues, as this is a good way to commemorate and to remember the families of the deceased and the deceased themselves,” she shared.

The program closed with a candle-lighting ceremony, where members of the university community came together in prayer and quiet reflection to honor those who lost their lives.

Article by Aldred Superales