FEU at 98: legacy, mission, progress

The annual wreath-laying ceremony for Far Eastern University’s 98th Founding Anniversary brought together the FEU community—administrators, faculty, staff, and students—to honor the legacy of Nicanor Reyes Sr. and reflect on the university’s journey toward its centennial. 

Juan Miguel Reyes Montinola, FEU president, delivered a message emphasizing the importance of legacy, mission, and continuous improvement.   “Legacies are born out of mission, strategic thinking, focus, and more importantly, personnel and faculty development,” he said. “From the founder… it’s to uplift the Philippines and Filipinos, and it’s to provide a very meaningful and relevant education so that they can then embark on meaningful careers.” 

Montinola noted that this year’s founding celebration coincided with other significant milestones, including the integration of service awards, and the 70th anniversary of FEU’s nursing program, now one of the oldest in the country. He also cited recent academic achievements, continued accreditation efforts, improvements in student touchpoints such as the newly launched enrollment system, and strong student retention rates. 

“We practice the mantra and culture of continual improvement… FEU does not pretend to be who it is not. We are very open to making continuous improvements,” he said. “I can’t think of a better way to celebrate this 98th founding anniversary with the message that we are much larger than we were previously. We are working well together… and we feel very fortunate to have all of you to help us go into the next 100 years.” 

Representing the student body, FEU Central Student Organization president Raezon Gonzales echoed the founder’s spirit of courage and inclusion. 

“We look back to [him], not just as the founder of this institution, but as someone who believed deeply in the potential of students, especially those who simply needed a chance,” said Gonzales. 

He reflected on how that founding courage continues to shape the student experience today. 

“Because of that bravery, FEU became more than a school. It became a home for students from different walks of life,” he said, noting the presence of working students, student leaders, and artists who embody the university’s diverse community. 

Anchored on the theme Brave in Diversity, Gonzales added: “Every day, we are asked to be brave—in speaking up, in failing and trying again, in standing for what we believe in, and in embracing identities that make us who we are.”