In commemoration of the 12th anniversary of Super Typhoon Yolanda, students of Eastern Visayas State University (EVSU) – Main Campus took part in a solemn tribute through prayers and a candle-lighting ceremony to honor and remember the lives lost and the resilience gained, held at the university grounds, Friday, November 7.

Titled “Paghud-ong, Pagbáyaw, Paghalad: Panahon hin Pagtuo ngan Paglaom” (To Look On, To Raise, To Offer: A Time of Faith and Hope), the ceremony offered prayers for the victims while celebrating the courage of the survivors of the 2013 tragedy.

Said commemoration activity gathered university officials, faculty members, staff, and students for a campus-wide observance that began with a Eucharistic Mass presided over by University Chaplain Rev. Fr. Kelvin Apurillo.

This was followed by the recitation of the Holy Rosary led by Student Affairs and Services Office (SASO) Director Dr. Sonia Enrile, together with the Campus Ministry Office headed by Dr. Severo Blanco.

Said program was divided into three segments, “Kuri-Kugo-Bawi: Han-ay hin Pasundayag Pagkuri-Pagkugi-Pagbawi,” “Halad Pagbagting: Pabinungod,” and “Laygay han Katilingban,” each highlighting remembrance, unity, and hope.

Moreover, performing arts groups of the university also presented song and dance performances, along with several video features depicting the stories and experiences of those affected by the super typhoon.

In his “Pulong han Pagkaurusa” message, University President Dr. Dennis de Paz led the wreath-laying ceremony in memory of the victims and delivered his words of solidarity, urging the EVSU community to continue being a source of light and compassion in facing life’s challenges.

“In the midst of devastation, we found courage. In the depths of grief, we found compassion. And in the ruins, we found the will to rebuild—not only our communities but our very sense of purpose,” said Dr. De Paz.

A highlight of the commemoration was the candle-lighting ceremony, where participants lit candles as symbols of remembrance and hope, illuminating the university grounds in silence and reflection.

Meanwhile, Ma. Lyn Asid, a fourth-year student from the Bachelor of Technology and Livelihood Education (BTLED) and a survivor of Super Typhoon Yolanda, shared her thoughts on joining the event.

“It’s sad for me, but I’m also happy because I survived [the super typhoon]. Continuous living and remembering amidst that disaster remind us that God gave us another chance. It’s a blessing to still have a purpose in life,” Asid said.

She also expressed that attending the ceremony allowed her to join others in remembering those who perished, including her close friend and several relatives of her peers.

The annual commemoration is part of the university’s efforts to honor the victims of Super Typhoon Yolanda and to reflect on its lasting impact on the institution and the region.

Article by Carl Anthony Dotingco