Language carries the soul of a people, and faith anchors a community’s heart. In this spirit, Ateneo de Zamboanga University brought together two cherished traditions – the Marian Month and the Buwan ng Wika” – into one unified celebration dubbed “Sa Gabay ng Paraluman: Pagpupugay sa Wika at Pananampalataya”, held on August 15, 2025, at the Bellarmine Campion Quadrangle, Salvador Campus.
The festivities opened with a burst of music, movement, and color in a dynamic flash mob by the Ateneo Blue Vigors, AdZU Glee Club, AdZU Concert Band, and Teatro Ateneo. This spirited performance drew cheers from the crowd and set the tone for a day dedicated to honoring heritage and devotion.
A reflective talk on “Marian Month and Buwan ng Wika” reminded all that language shapes identity, and faith gives purpose. This was followed by a floral offering to the Blessed Virgin Mary, symbolizing love, devotion, and gratitude. The celebration then bloomed with a vibrant Cultural Show, traditional games with Larong Pinoy, and the tempting aromas of the Kakanin Fair featuring delicacies from around the country.
In her closing remarks, SDU Director Ms Aurora C Gonzales, reflected on the event’s deeper meaning, noting how it wove together faith, culture, and community. The event concluded with a community hymn echoing the event’s air of meaningful camaraderie and festivity.
“Sa Gabay ng Paraluman” is a living testament to AdZU’s mission to form individuals of competence and compassion grounded by our Filipino traditions and our enduring faith in the Blessed Virgin Mary, Our Mother.
