BURAUEN, Leyte — Student energy, departmental pride, and a shared vision for a greener campus marked the opening of Eastern Visayas State University–Burauen Campus’ (EVSU-BC) four-day 51st Founding Anniversary celebration on October 21.
Anchored on the theme “One EVSU 2.0: One Vision, Enduring Resiliency, Infinite Global Possibilities,” the celebration brought together students, faculty, staff, and university officials for activities highlighting campus unity, student talent, sportsmanship, and environmental responsibility.
The opening began with a Thanksgiving Mass at the Human Resource Development Center (HRDC), presided over by Rev. Fr. Carlos D. Rodriguez Jr. The community then took to the streets for a lively motorcade, with students proudly representing their departments alongside faculty, staff, and the Mr. and Ms. EVSU-BC 2026 candidates.
Back on campus, the five departments—Education, Agriculture, Information Technology, Hospitality and Tourism Management, and Business and Entrepreneurship Management—showcased their unity during the flag-raising ceremony and Unity Dance, featuring the Dancing Higantes and Kalayani Dancers. The program also included the Amateur Athletic Oath and the Oath of Officiating Officials, emphasizing fairness, integrity, and sportsmanship.
The excitement continued with the sashing of the Mr. and Ms. EVSU-BC 2026 candidates, marking their formal introduction as representatives of their respective teams.
Students and visitors also explored the Kadiwa Trade Fair, student booths, bulletin boards, and the “I LOVE EVSU” installation, which were formally opened through a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by university officials. The displays featured interactive activities and student-led projects that highlighted the creativity and initiative of EVSUnistas.
Growing a greener campus
Beyond the festivities, EVSU-BC strengthened its commitment to sustainability through a partnership with the Department of Agriculture (DA) Region VIII–Abuyog Experiment Station for the “Plant, Adopt, and Grow: A Jackfruit Tree Project.”
Formalized through a Memorandum of Agreement signing at the HRDC, the initiative aims to establish a sustainable jackfruit orchard that will serve as a learning and research site for students.
A highlight was the ceremonial planting and adoption of the “Sweet EVIARC Jackfruit Tree,” led by Ma’am Leonarda A. Londina and Dr. Benedicto T. Militante Jr. The project’s “Tree Buddies” initiative will pair third-year and fourth-year students from participating departments to promote continued care of the trees.
More than a tree-planting activity, the project seeks to provide hands-on learning opportunities while encouraging environmental stewardship among students and helping build a greener campus for future generations.
Sports and recognition take center stage
The anniversary also brought friendly competition to the courts as student-athletes competed in men’s basketball at San Diego Elementary School Gymnasium and men’s volleyball on campus.
Five departmental teams—Phantom Falcon, Verdant Mantis, Hunting Python, Regal Phoenix, and Roaring Tigers—represented their respective departments, demonstrating teamwork, athletic ability, and determination while fostering camaraderie among students.
Meanwhile, the ANI Awards and Fellowship Night at Camp Kawayan Resort in Barangay Balorinay, Burauen, Leyte, recognized individuals for their innovative ideas, outstanding performance, and contributions to the institution.
The event was attended by Dr. Benedicto T. Militante Jr., Vice President for Students and Internationalization and External Affairs; Dr. Danilo B. Pulma, Vice President for Administration, Finance, and Auxiliary Services; Dr. Erwin Oscar P. Ripalda, EVSU-BC Campus Director; external campus guests; and EVSU-BC faculty and staff.
As the four-day celebration continues, EVSU-BC’s 51st anniversary highlights more than institutional milestones. Through student participation, friendly competition, and initiatives that invest in the future, the celebration reinforces the spirit of One EVSU—a community united in its commitment to excellence, resilience, and shared growth.
Via AN SULOG
This article aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 03: Good Health and Well-being, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
