The University of Northern Philippines commemorated Founder’s Day and the 118th birth anniversary of its founder, the late Congressman Floro S. Crisologo, through a series of meaningful activities on July 29, 2026.
The observance gathered University officials, teaching and non-teaching personnel, and students in a day of reflection, remembrance, and learning that celebrated the founder’s enduring legacy of service and educational excellence.
The commemoration opened with a Eucharistic Celebration at the UNP Ecumenical Chapel, presided over by Fr. Andres Nuesca Jr., Rector of the Immaculate Conception School of Theology (ICST). In his homily, Fr. Nuesca reminded the University community that authentic service is rooted in faith and love for God. He encouraged everyone to dedicate their time, talents, and energy to serve others, emphasizing that humility, goodness, and unwavering commitment are essential expressions of Christian discipleship and responsible leadership.
Following the Mass, University President Dr. Erwin Cadorna expressed his gratitude to the UNP community for its unity, cooperation, and continued commitment in preserving the University’s traditions. The solemn celebration continued with a floral offering at the Founder’s Plaza where University officials, members of the founder’s family, faculty, staff, and students paid tribute to Congressman Crisologo’s life and lasting contributions to the institution.
The annual observance served as a solemn reminder for the University community to pray for the eternal repose of the founder while reaffirming its commitment to uphold the ideals and vision upon which UNP was established.
As part of the Founder’s Day celebration, the University also conducted a special lecture at Tadena Hall titled “Managing Stress Without Stressing Out,” highlighting mental wellness as an essential component of academic excellence and institutional development.
Opening the program, Vice President for Finance and Administration Mr. Albert Tejero welcomed faculty members, personnel, and students, emphasizing the importance of nurturing mental well-being in building a resilient, productive, and compassionate academic community. He encouraged participants to apply the practical lessons from the lecture in their personal and professional lives.
In his message, Dr. Cadorna challenged the University community to honor Congressman Crisologo not merely through ceremonies but by strengthening the institution through its people. “The greatest legacy we can give to Congressman Crisologo is not a building or a plaque—it is a university that thrives. It is students who graduate healthy and whole. It is faculty who teach with passion and peace. It is a university that stands for excellence, but also for humanity.”
The lecture featured Dr. Ricky Ducas Jr., Mental Health Program Coordinator and Mental Health Nurse Responder of the Baguio City Health Services Office. Drawing from his extensive professional experience, Dr. Ducas provided participants with a comprehensive understanding of stress, its causes and effects, and practical strategies for managing it effectively. Through an engaging and interactive presentation, he emphasized the importance of resilience, self-awareness, emotional regulation, and proactive mental health care in promoting healthier learning and working environments.
Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Rolando Navarro concluded the program by reaffirming that mental wellness is indispensable to quality education and institutional excellence. He thanked the resource speaker, organizers, and participants for contributing to a meaningful dialogue that strengthens both individual well-being and the University’s academic community.
The lecture was organized by the College of Nursing under the leadership of its Dean, Dr. Francis Don Nero, as part of the University’s annual observance of Congressman Crisologo’s birth anniversary.
More than a ceremonial celebration, this year’s Founder’s Day reflected UNP’s commitment to preserve its founder’s legacy while responding to the evolving needs of its community. By integrating spiritual reflection, historical remembrance, and mental health advocacy into the observance, the University reaffirmed its vision of cultivating graduates, educators, and professionals who embody excellence, compassion, resilience, and a deep commitment to service—values that continue to define the enduring legacy of Congressman Floro S. Crisologo.
Photo by Mark Paul Siazon and Joel Tipon.
