Maria Asuncion Abiva-Cruz or "Teacher Marion" has been in the field of education since 1988, having worked in various school settings here and abroad as a preschool and kindergarten teacher.

She finished her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology at the Ateneo de Manila University and her Masters degree in Early Childhood Education in Eastern Michigan University, USA.

Being an active member of the Ang Ligaya ng Panginoon Community, she worked full-time as Administrative Assistant of the Children's Formation Program of the LNP Community, later becoming the Directress of the said program.

She served in the Association for Childhood Education International - U.P. (now, ACEI-Philippines) for several years as member and officer and became the ACEI President for the term 1995-1997.

She is a certified Learning Styles Trainer, having received training at The Center for the Study of Learning and Teaching Styles conferred by the St. John's University (New York, USA) in August 2004. She has attended local seminars and workshops and has been to several educators' conferences abroad as well. She likewise has conducted seminars and workshops on childhood education to parents and teachers.

Teacher Marion is happily married with 4 kids, all either students or alumni of Cradle of Joy.