THE VARSITARIAN P.Y. 2023-2024 ISSUE 14

Report

THE SCHOOL CALENDAR?

analysis of seven academic years at UST revealed that 24 class suspensions or shifts to enriched virtual mode occur on average each year. Out of these, 5.4 five school days are lost annually because of inclement weather. However, it’s not just the rains — extreme heat has emerged as a new reason for

IN THE Academic Year (AY) 2023 to 2024, UST shifted to the enhanced virtual mode or suspended classes altogether for 28 school days. The bulk of these suspensions were caused by inclement weather and transport strikes.

A new reason, however, has emerged in the past year: extreme heat. Dangerous levels of heat index – ranging between 45ºC and 48ºC – forced local governments to cancel in-person classes on multiple occasions.

According to a Varsitarian analysis that tracked all class suspensions at UST since AY 2017 to 2018, five school days in April were disrupted by the intense heat. In the previous six years, high temperatures had never led the University to cancel classes.

Typically, class suspensions are caused by heavy rain, due to the Philippines lying within the “typhoon belt,” a region highly susceptible to typhoons, the country’s topography, and the effects of La Niña.

Previously, suspensions during the peak of the dry season only affected college students, as schools offering basic education adhered to the June to March academic calendar. The Covid-19 pandemic, however, scrambled this system, and now, the Department of Educa-

tion (DepEd) is reverting to the old school calendar beginning in 2025.

In April, the government’s Task Force El Niño urged LGUs to exercise their authority to suspend face-to-face classes if the rising temperatures posed risks to students and teachers.

“Kung hindi po talaga viable at hindi na po talaga advisable na tumungo pa sa mga classroom ang ating mga kabataan, pati ang ating mga teacher, ay mag-shift na po tayo sa online classes,” Joey Villarama, the task force’s spokesperson, said during a briefing.

The unpredictability and frequency of class suspensions challenge educators to remain adaptable to ensure uninterrupted

in UST

student learning, bringing the nation’s educational infrastructure into the spotlight.

Assoc. Prof. Marishirl Tropicales, the principal of the UST Junior High School, attributed the rise of distance learning to the reason why class suspensions don’t significantly impact the school calendar.

“In the era of hybrid learning and teaching, class suspensions are opportunities for us to show flexibility in our instruction,” she told the Varsitarian. “For instance, in disruptions like transport strikes and extreme heat, we still adopt distance learning where our

5.42

average school days suspended annually due to inclement weather since 2017

5 school days suspended due to extreme heat in Academic Year 2023-2024

By John Ezekiel J. Hirro

THE NEXT rector of the University will be one of its former chief administrators, as a secret ballot by the Dominicans at the Priory of St. Thomas Aquinas has selected three former rectors as the top candidates.

The terna, as determined by the vote held on May 27, consists of former UST rectors Fr. Richard Ang, O.P. (rector from 2020-2024), Fr. Herminio Dagohoy, O.P. (rector from 2012-2016 and 2016-2020), and Fr. Rolando de la Rosa, O.P. (rector from 1990-1994, 1994-1998, and 2008-2012).

Candidates for rector must be Filipino members of the Dominican Order with civil or ecclesiastical doctorates.

According to the University’s general statutes, the Rector, as the chief executive officer of the University, is responsible for the promulgation of laws and rules in the University, the appointment of officials, the annual budget of the University, and the approval of programs and semestral schedules of all faculties, colleges, and schools.

WITNESS

Blessed Carlo Acutis set to be canonized as 1st millennial saint

By Sheila May S. Balagan

BLESSED Carlo Acutis is on the path to becoming the Church's first millennial saint after Pope Francis acknowledged a miracle attributed to him, moving him closer to sainthood.

On Thursday, May 23, the Pope approved a decree related to Acutis's sainthood cause along with that of 11 Syrian martyrs. A person can only be declared a saint after being credited with two miracles.

The most recent miracle attributed to Acutis occurred on July 8, 2022, when an Italian woman prayed at his tomb after her daughter suffered severe head trauma from a bicycle accident. The daughter quickly recovered after the woman participated in a pilgrimage associated with Acutis.

The first miracle attributed to the Italian teenager involved a boy born with a pancreatic defect that restrict-

ed him to a liquid diet. After praying a novena seeking Acutis's intercession, the boy returned home and was suddenly able to eat solid food.

The Diocese of Assisi in Milan petitioned for Acutis's canonization in 2013. Seven years later, on Feb. 21, 2020, Pope Francis beatified Acutis following the verification of the latter miracle.

Born in London on May 3, 1991, Acutis moved to Milan and used modern communication technology to spread the Gospel, communicate values, and share beauty, as noted by Pope Francis in his 2019 post-synodal exhortation "Christus Vivit" (Christ is alive).

Acutis died of acute promyelocytic leukemia on Oct. 12, 2006, at the age of 15.

In 2013, seven years after his death, the Diocese of Assisi in Milan began an investigation into the possibility of his canonization.

As of 2017, only 120 out of more than 10,000 saints recognized by the Church died during childhood or teenage years, most of whom were martyrs from the French Revolution, according to the National Catholic Register.

Pope Francis will hold a Consistory of Cardinals to discuss the canonization of Acutis, along with Blessed Giuseppe Allamano, Marie-Léonie Paradis, and Elena Guerra.

Bishops issue obligatory prayer for rain

By Justin Benedict T. Lim

THE CATHOLIC Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has issued an Oratio Imperata, or obligatory prayer, praying for rain to alleviate the severe heat and drought brought about by the El Niño phenomenon across various parts of the country.

The CBCP’s Episcopal Commission on Liturgy issued the prayer “Ad Petendam Pluviam” (To Ask for Rain), as temperatures reached nearly 50°C in some parts of the country.

“[W]e humbly ask you to grant us relief from the extreme heat that besets your people at this time, disrupting their activities and threatening their lives and livelihood,” the prayer reads.

“Send us rain to replenish our

depleting water sources, to irrigate our fields, to stave off water and power shortages and to provide water for our daily needs.”

On May 2, the Central Bicol State University of Agriculture recorded a scorching 48°C, while the Ninoy Aquino International Airport remains the hottest area in Metro Manila, with temperatures reaching 43°C.

The soaring temperatures have led to in-person class suspensions and posed challenges for agriculture and other industries.

“At your command the wind and the seas obey. Raise your hand, Almighty God, to avert the continuing rise in temperatures so that your people can engage in productive undertakings our young people can pursue learn-

ing in tranquility and comfort,” the prayer reads.

“Teach us to be wise stewards of your creations so that we may always use them responsibly and protect them from abuse and exploitation. At this time of crisis, dear Lord, move us to share more, to serve more, and to love more.”

UST has advised students to utilize the Miguel de Benavides Library and vacant classrooms as temporary shelter during their free periods, as temperatures ranging from 42 to 51°C, classified by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) as "dangerous," could result in heat-related illnesses such as cramps, exhaustion, and heat stroke.

Vatican centralizes approval of apparitions

The authority to classify phenomena such as apparitions as “supernatural” will now be confined to the Vatican’s Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, according to new rules for discerning alleged supernatural events released on May 17 and effective May 19.

The “Norms for Proceeding in the Discernment of Alleged Supernatural Phenomena,” signed by Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández, prefect of the dicastery historically known as the Holy Office, states that local bishops must obtain explicit approval from the dicastery, while the Holy See retains the right to intervene at any time on its own initiative.

While emphasizing that “discernment in this area remains the task of the diocesan bishop,” the new guidelines state that the dicastery “must always be consulted and give final approval to what the bishop decides before he announces a determination on an event of alleged supernatural origin.”

“Now, when the bishop makes his decision public, it will be stated as ‘in agreement with the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith.’”

The document emphasized the need for clear procedures, with the discernment process leading to six conclusions:

• Nihil Obstat: Acknowledges positive signs of the Holy Spirit’s action in the experience, without expressing certainty about its supernatural authenticity. Encourages pastoral appreciation and possibly the promotion of the phenomenon.

• Prae Oculis Habeatur: Recognizes important positive signs but also perceives aspects of confusion or potential risks, requiring careful discernment and possibly doctrinal clarification.

• Curatur: Notes various critical elements but also acknowledges widespread dissemination and verifiable spiritual fruits. Recommends against a ban but suggests reorienting spiritual and pastoral aspects.

• Sub Mandato: Identifies critical issues not with the phenomenon itself but with individuals misusing it, such as for financial gain or immoral acts. Entrusts pastoral leadership to the Diocesan Bishop to address these issues.

• Prohibetur et Obstruatur: Rec-

ognizes legitimate requests and some positive elements but deems the critical issues and risks too serious. Recommends the Diocesan Bishop publicly declare non-adherence to the phenomenon to prevent further confusion or scandal.

Declaratio de Non Supernaturalitate: Authorizes the Diocesan Bishop to declare the phenomenon as not supernatural based on concrete and proven facts, such as evidence of fabrication or erroneous intentions.

The Church is tasked with discerning the divine nature of alleged phenomena and addressing conflicts arising from their messages. It may also intervene to “purify” a phenomenon from problematic elements, depending on its “pastoral value.”

Bishops are discouraged from publicizing allegations to prevent “confusion or sensationalism,” and can only investigate if elements from a case “seem sufficient.” An investigative team should also consist of a theologian, a canonist, and a supernatural expert.

“While previously the dicastery had intervened but the bishop was asked not to mention it, today, the dicastery openly manifests its involvement and accompanies the bishop in reaching a final determination,” the document reads.

Local bishops are urged to conduct catechesis to address spiritual concerns and are authorized to determine whether a phenomenon is supernatural based on concrete facts, such as “confession of an alleged visionary or credible testimonies of fabrication of the phenomenon.”

Lipa apparition Regarding cases where conclusions had already been reached, the document did not explicitly mention reopening investigations.

However, it emphasized the ongoing vigilance of the diocesan bishop over the phenomenon and people involved, suggesting that the bishop must continue to watch over them, regardless of the final determination.

The alleged Marian apparitions in Lipa, Batangas have been a subject of controversy despite the release of a

► FILE—UST welcomes the pilgrim image and first-class relic of Blessed Carlo Acutis, an Italian teenager who is one miracle away from becoming the first millennial saint, Nov. 13, 2023, at the Santisimo Rosario Parish Church. PHOTO BY VALERE JANE R. CALLORENA

► Blessed Carlo Acutis

Alarcon installed as fifth Caceres archbishop

By Sheila May S. Balagan and Justin Benedict T. Lim

THOMASIAN prelate Rex Andrew Alarcon was formally installed as the fifth archbishop of Caceres, Camarines Sur, on Thursday, May 2, where he highlighted his commitment to serving with humility and compassion.

In his homily during his installation at the Naga Metropolitan Cathedral, Alarcon spoke about embodying the qualities of availability, vision and perseverance, as demonstrated by Jesus, Mary and Joseph, in his new role.

“I enter the boundaries of the diocese not as a king who has just waged a war victoriously, [...] but as [an] undeserving servant, called to duty, called to step up towards a

heavier cross, but nevertheless the cross of Jesus,” Alarcon said.

“[T]his new ministry is not a reward due to merit, but a responsibility given in mercy,” he added.

The newly installed archbishop reaffirmed his dedication to offering a “martyrdom” level of pastoral care to his diocese, emphasizing his openness to the public and government officials, even when confronted with opposition and persecution.

“This is leadership that goes the extra mile. Here begins leadership without expecting any reward. A leadership that does not only maintain but allows the sheep to grow,” he said.

“I am a mere servant, who must make himself available at any time to be used by Jesus [...] it is this mod-

el of the good shepherd whom I wish to imitate. I pray that my pastoral care may rise up to the level of the good shepherd.”

Priorities in the diocese

In an interview with the Varsitarian, Alarcon said fostering dialogue between the government and non-Christian civil organizations, such as barangay pastoral councils, would be one of his top priorities to strengthen basic ecclesial communities.

“One may not be very keen about it, but if one examines the current ratio of the priest and parishioners in our parishes and dioceses in the Philippines, we are in a state of mission,” Alarcon said.

Alarcon also underscored the importance of fostering dialogue

between clergy and parishioners as part of the Synod on Synodality.

“As Thomasians, we wish to give back to the community. We wish to contribute to the local Church and society with what we have achieved and with what we are able to do because of our [Christian] values and Thomasian education.”

The installation rites were led by Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines Archbishop Charles Brown, with notable attendees including Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula, Apostolic Nuncio to Israel Archbishop Adolfo Tito Yllana, and Pasig Bishop Mylo Hubert Vergara.

Alarcon succeeded Archbishop Rolando Tria Tirona, who served from 2012 to 2024. WITH REPORTS FROM RALENT M. PENILLA

Despite scandals, faithful urged to stick to ‘Church of saints’

UST PARISH Priest Fr. Paul Talavera O.P. urged Catholics not to be disheartened by scandals in the Church, stressing Christ’s unwavering faith, during the farewell rite for the pilgrim image of the Our Lady of Health on Wednesday, April 24.

Talavera quoted Fr. Timothy Radcliffe, O.P., former master of the Order of Preachers, who said Catholics should stand firm and remain committed to the Church.

“Whenever we see scandals, whenever we see corruption in the church, the initial reaction is, ‘I just want to leave,’” Talavera said. “Yes, it is true—there are sinners, there are people who are corrupt. And yet, let us not forget that it is also a Church of saints. It is also a Church of holy people.”

Talavera said the faithful should mirror the steadfastness demonstrated by Jesus.

“There were difficult people, there were people who were not perfect, there were sinners,” Talavera said. “And yet, why is the Church still here? Because Christ is still here. And that is the reason why we should stay, why we should continue to persevere in our church.”

“If Christ did not leave us, then there is also a reason for us to not leave the Church.”

The farewell rite for the pilgrim image of the Nuestra Señora de la Salud was held at the Santisimo Rosario Parish Church on Wednesday, April 24.

The image, also known as the Our Lady of Health, was transferred to the UST Hospital Chapel and stayed there until Saturday, April 27.

The Our Lady of Health, which the Recollects brought to the Philippines from Mexico in 1634, is credited for curing grave illnesses.

The convent of Our Lady of Health was established in 1606 upon the arrival of the Discalced Augustinians.

The image was venerated and placed at the San Juan de Bagumbayan Church in 1634 before being transferred to San Nicolas de Tolentino in Intramuros and later, San Sebastian Church. SHEILA MAY S. BALAGAN

► UST Parish Priest Fr. Paul Talavera, O.P. leads the departure Mass and farewell rite for the pilgrim image of the Nuestra Señora de la Salud at the Santisimo Rosario Parish Church on Wednesday, April 24. PHOTOS BY KENNETH CEDRIC M. LANDAZABAL

No offending of religious feelings: Court dismisses Lipa devotee’s case vs Cabading

By Justin Benedict T. Lim

A QUEZON City court has cleared former UST secretary general Fr. Winston Cabading, O.P., of charges initiated by a devotee of the Lipa apparition, ruling that the Dominican priest “did not offend religious feelings.”

Judge Zita Marie Atienza-Fajardo of Quezon City Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 224 ruled on May 14 that the former UST secretary general would only be punishable if his actions were intended to “ridicule, mock, scoff at, or attempt to damage” an object of religious veneration.

“The court finds that the subject statements made by the accused and alleged in the Amended information are not notoriously offensive that are designed purely to ridicule or deliberately hurt the feelings of the faithful, or the devotees of Our Lady, Mary, Mediatrix of All grace,” Fajardo said in a nine-page ruling.

Harriet Demetriou, a former chairwoman of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) and former Sandiganbayan justice, filed the complaint against Cabading on Dec. 12, 2022, at the Quezon City prosecutor’s office, accusing Cabading of mocking the devotion to Our Lady, Mary, Mediatrix of All Grace, in Lipa, Batangas. Prosecutors elevated the criminal case to the Quezon City Regional Trial Court (RTC).

The ruling said Cabading’s statements were made in a “mere vlog” uploaded on Facebook rather than in a place of religious worship.

Despite the court’s decision, former Commission on Elections chairwoman and Sandiganbayan justice Harriett Demetriou said she was determined to pursue the case.

According to a report by BusinessWorld, Demetriou intends to appeal the decision to the Court of Appeals and, if necessary, to the Supreme Court.

“We’re going to exhaust all legal remedies provided by law,” she was quoted as saying. Cabading was arrested on May 13, 2023, and released two days later after posting bail of P18,000.

On Jan. 19, the Makati prosecutor’s office cleared Cabading of one out of three perjury complaints, which originated from the initial criminal complaint, due to lack of evidence.

1951 Vatican decree dismissing the events as not of supernatural origin.

The events in Lipa began in 1948 when a Carmelite postulant named Teresita Castillo claimed to see the Virgin Mary, leading to local devotion. However, ecclesiastical authorities concluded in 1951 that the apparitions lacked supernatural origin and banned public devotion.

Archbishop Gilbert Garcera’s recent circular aligned with the 1951 decree, contradicting the belief of some Marian devotees who claimed the decree was non-existent.

Former Sandiganbayan justice Hariett Demetriou brought the Lipa events into the spotlight in 2022, filing a case against Fr. Winston Cabading, O.P. for allegedly mocking Our Lady Mediatrix of All Grace.

A Quezon City court has cleared Cabading of the charges, ruling that the Dominican priest “did not offend religious feelings.” JUSTIN BENEDICT T. LIM

► Fr. Winston Cabading, O.P.

► Thomasian prelate Rex Andrew Alarcon is installed as the fifth archbishop of Caceres, Camarines Sur, on Thursday, May 2, at the Naga Metropolitan Cathedral. PHOTO FROM THE ARCHDIOCESE OF CACERES FACEBOOK PAGE

OPINION

EDITORIAL

The bogus ‘new opposition’

THE BREAKUP of the UniTeam tandem – the shaky political marriage of Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and Sara Duterte-Carpio that brought them to the pinnacle of power – gave birth to a new faction that can only be characterized as another menace to democracy and basic decency.

This bloc, originally the “Duterte Diehard Supporters” because of their undying love for everything Duterte, is positioning itself as the “new opposition.” With an eye on the 2028 elections, it crowned the vice president as its leader and promised to be a thorn in the side of the president.

Though the UniTeam tore itself apart because of attempts to amend the Constitution to extend Marcos’s hold on power, fundamental differences in responding to China’s belligerent behavior at the West Philippine Sea might have been the final straw.

The new anti-Marcos bloc, faithful to former president Rodrigo Duterte and craving anew for the strongman leadership of drug war infamy, rues that the Philippines has drifted away from the time when it kowtowed to China and that it seeks to mend its frayed relationship with the United States.

Their anti-democratic inclinations, however, disqualify them from taking up the mantle of the opposition, not to mention their brazen deference to China against an overwhelming tide of public support for alliances

with like-minded countries, including the US, to defend the Philippines’ sovereign rights.

Duterte’s henchmen are spearheading a wave of propaganda in support of China’s aggressive tactics. Last year, a study by data forensics company The Nerve found that vitriolic bloggers supportive of Duterte had amplified pro-China sentiments on social media since 2018.

Duterte partisans are also fueling disinformation by flaunting jargon and academic credentials to project legitimacy, the report said.

For instance, a think tank called the “Integrated Development Studies Institute,” which has a history of attacking media organizations critical of Duterte, has peddled false narratives beautifying China’s image not only on social media but also on television (SMNI) and newspapers (The Manila Times).

The disinformation operation benefits China by driving a wedge among Filipinos who have been largely united in their anger over numerous episodes of boat-ramming and water-cannoning at the West Philippine Sea, and Duterte’s sycophants are all but willing pawns in Beijing’s campaign.

Other Duterte supporters have resorted to classic fearmongering. The Koalisyon ng Mamamayan Kontra Giyera (Citizens’ Coalition Against War) falsely insinuated that the Philippines would become the “Ukraine of Asia” if its alliance with the US persists, as the maritime dispute boils into a “proxy war” between the world’s two superpowers.

“We strongly reject, as the world must reject, the false narrative that China has acted as ‘a naked aggressor’ in these non-lethal incidents,” the coalition’s manifesto stated.

Former Duterte officials have also muddled the administration’s foreign policy.

Lawyer Harry Roque, Duterte’s mouthpiece from 2017 to 2018 and 2020 to 2021, divulged in March that his principal had entered into a “gentleman’s agreement” with President Xi Jinping of China to maintain the status quo over the contested waters. Roque maintained that it was not a secret deal.

Former presidential legal counsel Salvador Panelo eventually talked to Duterte, who denied that such an agreement existed. Whoever spread such a story, Panelo said, probably wanted “publicity for himself.”

Marcos, horrified by the compromise, urged former Duterte officials to provide clarity. “Ipaliwanag niyo naman sa amin para alam namin yung ginagawa naman. We still haven’t got a straight answer,”

the president told reporters on April 10.

The parade of disinformation, alarmism, and accusations perpetrated by the so-called new opposition is triggered by a desperate attempt to maintain relevance amid the return of the Marcoses to power.

Perhaps this thirst for the spotlight fuels the bloc’s full-throttled defense of embattled Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo, who allegedly facilitated nefarious operations inside the compounds of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs).

“Kinokonsidera ko na parang underdog masyado itong si Alice Guo na parang binu-bully ng ating mga politiko,” Roque said in his Facebook page on May 23.

Despite misgivings about the new opposition, it would be difficult to cross them out of the political landscape. An Octa Research poll published on April 8 found that 20 percent of Filipinos still backed the Dutertes, while the Marcoses were 11 points ahead.

Filipinos should wake up to the lies that this “new opposition” peddles daily and in a coordinated manner. The country cannot return to the Duterte era marked by thousands of drug war deaths and acquiescence to China under the false pretense of economic cooperation.

This bogus opposition should be vigorously opposed.

Art Louelle Marie P. Bumalay, Aidan Raphael F. Caluyo, Zymon M. Gailo, Michelle Ann C. Kalaw, Alyzza Daniella B. Lipura, Jinmarson Chester V. Pua Photography

Academic staff formation underway as UST GenSan gears up for inaugural year

By Fernando Pierre Marcel B. de la Cruz

THE ACADEMIC staff of UST General Santos (GenSan) is expanding in preparation for its opening year, with most hires sourced from Mindanao to fulfill the University’s commitment to the GenSan city government.

As of May, the new campus employs 19 academic staff and 24 non-academic or support personnel, according to Professor Emeritus Maribel Nonato, the assistant to the rector for UST GenSan.

The number of academic staff is anticipated to increase depending on student enrollment, with projections indicating that the number could reach 40 by the middle of Academic Year 2024-2025.

“We have promised the City of GenSan [that] we will be hiring, as much as possible, people from GenSan or people from Mindanao,” Nonato said.

Nonato said all academic staff members of UST GenSan hold either a master’s or doctorate degree, meeting the Commission on Higher Education’s minimum requirements for tertiary-level faculty.

The candidates were screened from

a pool of 1,400 applicants in coordination with the UST Office of the Vice Rector for Academic Affairs, she said. The UST Human Resource Department oversaw the hiring of non-academic staff.

Nonato said some of the academic staff were recruited from local universities and would join the faculty roster on their official start date, Aug. 16.

In preparation for the opening, the Mindanao campus will introduce the new staff to the Thomasian brand of education through a “Thomasian Identity Seminar,” which will include collaboration with instructors from UST Manila.

“There will be mentoring of faculty members, senior faculty from here (Manila) to the new faculty there (GenSan),” Nonato said.

For administrative staff, UST prefers to hire individuals from the Sampaloc campus who are already familiar with the UST system, she said.

“The [administrative staff] should be accepted first as a faculty member. Preferably sana, mas gusto namin na ‘yong admin ay from here (Manila) kasi alam na nila ung Thomasian identity, alam na nila ‘yong system on how UST works,” she said.

UST has so far named five

administrative officials for the GenSan campus:

• Fr. Roberto Luanzon Jr., O.P., officer in charge of UST GenSan’s Office of the Associate Vice Rector for Finance;

• Fr. Gerard Zabala, O.P., associate vice rector for religious affairs;

• Asst. Prof. Fredeswindo Medina, acting director for student admissions and records;

• Assoc. Prof. Leonardo Canoy, officer in charge of the School of Business and Accountancy; and

• Prof. Edilberto Manahan, director of the School of Health Sciences.

Nonato said the incoming director of UST GenSan’s School of Engineering and Information Technology would be named on Aug. 16.

According to Nonato, the primary focus of UST GenSan is to stabilize operations during its inaugural year by “investing” in staff who can help develop the campus’s academic programs.

She said hiring local talent was crucial to UST GenSan’s transformation into an agri-tech campus.

Some support staff began working at the Mindanao campus on March 18, with the remainder starting on June 1. Job postings for UST GenSan were first announced in November 2023.

UST GenSan to operate as a branch campus

UST MARKED its first major expansion outside Luzon in April with the opening of UST General Santos City (GenSan) in Mindanao, the largest UST campus to date that is twice the size of UST Santa Rosa and four times the size of the main campus in Sampaloc.

The Mindanao campus is set to embark on its maiden academic year in August, with plans in place to accommodate the first batch of students under the five pioneer programs in UST GenSan.

With the aim of eventually achieving independence from UST Manila, how will UST GenSan function as a branch campus when it opens in Academic Year 2024-2025?

Leadership

As UST GenSan remains a branch campus under the flagship Sampaloc campus, Professor Emeritus Maribel Nonato, the assistant to the rector for UST GenSan, said the Mindanao campus would continue to be overseen by top officials of UST Manila.

“UST Manila, UST GenSan, and UST Sta. Rosa are just one because we only have one rector. We only have one BOT (Board of Trustees), so they are not independent of each other,” Nonato told the Varsitarian. “We are one University, one UST.”

UST GenSan will be led by the same chancellor, vice chancellor, rector, vice rectors, and secretary general as those at the main campus. It will also have the same BOT, composed of friars of the Order of Preachers, serving as the highest policy and decision-making body of the University.

Given that the Mindanao campus has the same vice rectors to those in Manila, Nonato said Dominican friars appointed to high-ranking positions in UST GenSan would be designated associate vice rectors.

“The associate vice rectors, will function almost similar to the vice rector, with less responsibilities because they are handling a branch,” she said. “They will be working with the vice rectors in Manila, but it will be more [of] coordination.”

Unlike in UST Manila, where the heads of academic units are called “deans,” UST GenSan academic unit heads will be referred to as “directors” due to the smaller number of students and academic staff that they will supervise. Nonato said that some of these officials would relocate to GenSan at the start of the new academic year.

Finance and program offerings In addition to sharing the same top officials, UST GenSan is also financially linked to UST Manila. The main campus will fund UST GenSan until it becomes financially independent and is able to “stand on its own.”

“Right now, UST GenSan is a branch [that still relies on] UST Manila financially. Eventually, if it becomes sustainable, it can separate and become independent,” Nonato said.

The branch campus will follow the same academic calendar as the main campus.

The programs offered at UST GenSan will be “almost similar” to those in UST Manila, as the Commission on Higher Education (CHEd) allows only specific campuses with autonomous status such as the Manila campus to innovate programs, Nonato said.

“Until such time that [CHEd] can consider you as a University, that’s the only time you can innovate your programs,” she said.

UST Manila has enjoyed autonomous status since 2002, which allowed it to open satellite campuses such as UST GenSan and UST Sta. Rosa. MABEL ANNE B. CARDINEZ

UST's Mindanao campus eyes to mirror Manila tradition with Welcome Walk, Paskuhan

TRADITIONAL Thomasian onboarding activities, akin to those in UST Manila, are scheduled to welcome the first group of students at UST General Santos City (GenSan) as it prepares for its first academic year in August.

Professor Emeritus Maribel Nonato, the assistant to the rector for UST GenSan, said implementing these familiar onboarding activities at the branch campus demonstrates UST’s dedication to extending “Thomasian education” to the southern region.

“Students at (GenSan) should not feel that they are less than the students in Manila,” Nonato told the Varsitarian. “[Kung] ano ‘yung mga puwede naming ibigay sa kanila, ibibigay namin.”

“It’s also one way for us to show that you don’t have to come here in Manila to experience Thomasian education, to experience the Thomasian activities, the traditions that we often provide our students here,” she added.

UST GenSan has scheduled a special UST Entrance Test at its campus

on May 25 to select the first batch of students for the Mindanao campus. Freshmen onboarding activities at UST Manila include the Thomasian Welcome Mass, ROARientation, Thomasian Welcome Walk, and the Thomasian Welcome Concert. These activities are designed to help incoming students “get acquainted with the University’s context and culture,” according to the Office of the Secretary General.

Nonato said UST GenSan officials were holding discussions on how to conduct the Thomasian Welcome

Walk at the Mindanao campus.

This rite typically involves freshmen passing through the historic Arch of the Centuries to symbolize the beginning of their journey at UST.

During an alumni event in UST GenSan’s inauguration week, UST Rector Fr. Richard Ang, O.P. announced plans for an “Arch of the New Century” to be built at UST GenSan, aiming to differentiate it from the entrance of the original UST campus in Intramuros that was transported stone by stone to Sampaloc and inaugurated as a triumphal arch in 1954.

Nonato also said officials considered the incorporation of Mindanaoan culture into the planning of freshmen activities to contextualize the Thomasian onboarding activities for the students in UST GenSan.

“[Sa UST Manila], marami kang magagawa na activities kasi naka-lay down na lahat diyan, may template na,” she said. “[Sa UST GenSan], gagawin namin in such a way na ico-contextualize namin, kasi siyempre, iba rin ang kultura ng mga tao sa Mindanao.”

In addition to the onboarding activities, UST in Manila tradition-

ally begins the academic year with the Mass of the Holy Spirit, known as Misa de Apertura, and the Inaugural Lecture, or Discurso de Apertura.

Nonato said students at UST GenSan would be asked to attend the Discurso de Apertura in UST Manila via a remote setup, as the branch campus has not yet chosen an inaugural lecture speaker from its new academic staff.

Officials were still exploring how UST GenSan could organize other campus-wide events like the Paskuhan festivities, she said.

“Although they are on a different campus, they will not be treated like second-class type students na iba ‘yung activities, [na] ito-tone down namin,” she said.

More than 400 freshmen students are expected to enroll in UST GenSan for its first academic year, during which five programs will be offered: BS Accounting Information System, BS Entrepreneurship, BS Industrial Engineering, BS Medical Technology, and BS Pharmacy. ERNEST MARTIN G. TUAZON

► UST Secretary General Fr. Louie Coronel, O.P. and Facilities Management Office Director Fr. Dexter Austria, O.P. lead the blessing of the UST General Santos Main Building Chapel on Tuesday, April 9. University officials and employees of the Mindanao campus attended the Mass and blessing. PHOTO BY RAINIEL ANGELYN B. FIGUEROA

UST STUDENT AWARDS

IPEA student is class of 2024 valedictorian

IPEA STUDENT Averille Sacapaño has been named valedictorian of the class of 2024, as revealed during the 2024 UST Student Awards Day on May 24 at the Quadricentennial Pavilion.

With a general weighted average of 1.050, Sacapaño earned the distinction of being the batch valedictorian.

She led this year’s group of Rector’s Academic Award recipients which also include the following: Bro. Gian Estrella – 1.127 (Faculty of Sacred Theology); Bro. Wesley Soguilon – 1.118 (Faculty of Philosophy); Kharam Molbog – 95.602 (Faculty of Medicine and Surgery); Kyle Cabtit – 1.055 (Faculty of Pharmacy); Kyla Puricil – 1.083 (Faculty of Arts and Letters); JF Cortez – 1.151 (Faculty of Engineering); Shane Mia – 1.064 (College of Education); Vinz Tatad – 1.070 (College of Science); Paul Catama – 1.314 (College of Architecture); Andrea Ariola – 1.184 (College of Commerce and Business Administration); Deiniel Sanchez – 1.079 (Conservatory of Music); Angelo Urfano – 1.243 (College of Nursing); Tricia Pascual – 1.143 (College of Rehabilitation Sciences); Rita Layug – 1.103 (College of Fine Arts and Design); Alexia Guadalupe – 1.241 (AMV-College of Accountancy); Maridel Capistrano and Patricia Sacay – 1.052 (College of Tourism and Hospitality Management); and Athena Patricio – 1.062 (College of Information and Computing Sciences).

During the same event, Deiniel Sanchez, a French horn major, became the first student from the Conservatory of

Music to win the St. Thomas Aquinas Award, which honors students who have earned the Rector’s Award along with two additional personal awards.

Sanchez won the Benavides Outstanding Achievement Award in the Academic Year (AY) 2021-2022, the Pope John Paul II Outstanding Achievement Award in AY 2022-2023, and the Rector’s Award for Academic Excellence in AY 2023-2024 for earning a general weighted average of 1.079, the highest in the Conservatory.

Sanchez was among the 340 awardees in this year’s UST Student Awards Day.

In his opening remarks, Fr. Isaias Tiongco, O.P., the acting rector, encouraged the honorees to uphold UST’s legacy “with pride and integrity.”

“Today, we celebrate achievements and honor the spirit of excellence, resilience, and unwavering dedication our students have demonstrated,” Tiongco said. “In this grand continuum of excellence, they stand not just as awardees, but as embodiments of our core values.”

UST also honored 10 student leaders with the Quezon Leadership Award: Varsitarian editor in chief John Ezekiel Hirro; Paolo Alejandrino and Trixie Bautista of the Faculty of Arts and Letters; Mary Pascua of the College of Commerce and Business Administration; John Carta, Earl Lagman, and Ma. Anci Talamayan of the Faculty of Pharmacy; Jeffrey Castillo and Fr. Francis Escaño of the Graduate School; and Nicole Olvido of the College of Nursing.

The Varsitarian was also honored with the Benavides Outstanding Achievement Award for its successes in the 2023 Catholic Social Media Awards and the 10th Philippine Student Quill Awards, and received the St. Dominic de Guzman Award, which is given to groups demonstrating exceptional teamwork, for its extra-editorial activities, including the 25th Inkblots and the 9th UST National Campus Journalism Awards.

ALBUM UST Student Awards 2024

The University confers recognition upon 340 awardees at the annual Student Awards Day on Friday, May 24, at the Quadricentennial Pavillion.

Six other UST organizations received the St. Dominic de Guzman Award.

Meanwhile, a total of 53 students were honored with the Benavides Outstanding Achievement Award, which is conferred on students or organizations that had achieved recognition for exemplary work in the academic or scientific field.

The Pope John Paul II Outstanding Achievement Award, conferred on Thomasians who had excelled in sports and the arts, was given to 34 students and 10 UST varsity teams.

Nearly 200 Thomasian student-researchers were recognized with the St. Albertus Magnus Award for outstanding research work.

Construction magnate Alice Eduardo, a College of Commerce and Business Administration alumna, was the keynote speaker for the awards ceremony.

In her address, Eduardo shared her personal “keys to success” with the honorees: building the self, building courage, building relationships, building faith, and building for others.

“Success only means nothing unless it is shared. After you have made something for yourself, contribute to the community. Find causes that mean something to you,” she said.

UST conducts the annual Student Awards Day to kickstart the “graduation season” in the University and to recognize Thomasians’ excellence in various aspects, including academic, community development, leadership, and teamwork.

ERNEST MARTIN G. TUAZON

PHOTOS BY ALBERT EARL A. GOMEZ

► Averille Sacapaño PHOTO BY ALBERT EARL A. GOMEZ

Poetry

Unang Gantimpala

“A TO B” ni Michelle Andres

Ikalawang Gantimpala

“STAIRCASE TO CIELO” ni Ahlyzza Xaymour Catungal

Ikatlong Gantimpala

“TOWARDS DEATH” ni Charlou Tolentino Mabanta

Katha Unang Gantimpala

“SARI-SAKSI STORE” ni Roma Reign Diaz Molina Ikalawang Gantimpala

“BALANGGOT” ni Noji Bajet

Ikatlong Gantimpala

“KAWANGIS NG ANGHEL” ni Jamie Marie Lucading

Gawad Ustetika, balik sa tradisyonal na pormat sa ika-39 na taon nito

MATAPOS ang tatlong taong birtuwal na parangal, nagbalik sa tradisyunal na pormat ang Gawad Ustetika, ang taunang patimpalak pampanitikan ng Varsitarian, na itinanghal sa lobby ng Gusaling Buenaventura G. Paredes, O.P. nitong Sabado, ika-4 ng Mayo.

Dahil sa mga restriksyon dulot ng Covid-19, napilitang i-ere ang Gabi ng Parangal sa Facebook page ng Varsitarian mula 2021 hanggang 2023. Tinanghal na Rector’s Literary Awardee si Marie Claire Lagrisola mula

Fiction

Unang Gantimpala

“SKWIK AND THE SILVER HAIR” ni Karlos Bernardino

Ikalawang Gantimpala

“SAL & MARILYN” ni Ma. Doreen Evita Garcia

Ikatlong Gantimpala

“GUILTY PLEASURE” ni Renee Cañete

Sanaysay

Unang Gantimpala

“ISANG LIHAM NG ISANG DATING ATLETA” ni Marie Claire “Blanche” Lagrisola Ikalawang Gantimpala

“SA PAGITAN NG DALAWANG APELYIDO” ni Jericho Christian Lopez Ikatlong Gantimpala

“SHOT MO NA” ni Mary Jade Gale Galut Jadormio Karangalang Banggit “250” ni Giannah Erin Ochoa “SALIMPUSA” ni Noji Bajet

“BYAHENG PITX PAPUNTA ‘KUNG SAAN’” ni Rhea-Ross Chrisel Chan

sa Pakultad ng Sining at Panitik para sa kaniyang sanaysay na “Isang Liham ng Isang Dating Atleta.” Ang pansamantalang Rektor na si Padre Isaias Tiongco, O.P. ang pumili ng nagwagi. Sa kaniyang mensahe, nagpaabot ng pasasalamat si Tiongco sa mga Tomasinong manunulat na nagsisilbing “ilaw sa daan sa pagbabago at inobasyon.”

“Ang inyong mga akda ay higit pa sa mga titik at salitang naisusulat sapagkat ang mga ito ay sumasalamin ng ating lipunan, nagsisilbing mga bintana sa ating nakaraan at tinu-

Essay

Unang Gantimpala

“CATALINA’S GEAS” ni Julliane Therese Lorenzo

Ikalawang Gantimpala

“GOD’S FAVORITE PRINCESS” ni Karlos Bernardino

Ikatlong Gantimpala

“FLIGHT OF A STARLING” ni Alexandra Maria Alcasid

One-Act Play/ Dulang May Isang Yugto Unang Gantimpala

“KUMPISALAN” ni Aedan Jefferson Doroin Tropa Ikalawang Gantimpala

“SHIVER” ni Atria Avior Pacaña

Ikatlong Gantimpala

“FORGET-ME-NOT” ni Roma Reign Diaz Molina Karangalang Banggit

“MAGNITUD” ni Martin Labitan Villanueva

turing na mga pintuang nagbubukas sa atin patungo sa hinaharap,” wika niya sa isang mensaheng ipinadala sa Varsitarian. “Ang bawat tula, kuwento, sanaysay at dula na inyong naisusulat ay nagbibigay-tinig sa mga damdamin at karanasang maaaring hindi napapansin sa pang-araw-araw na hamon ng buhay.”

Mahigit 160 akda ang isinumite ng halos 100 mag-aaral ngayong taon sa mga kategoryang tula, poetry, sanaysay, essay, katha, fiction, dula at one-act play. Narito ang mga nagwagi at tumanggap ng pagkilala:

Tula

Unang Gantimpala

“KUNG HINDI SASALITA” ni Hailord Narag Lavarias Ikalawang Gantimpala

“SALAMIN: KOLEKSYON NG MGA TULA” ni Jamie Marie Lucadin Ikatlong Gantimpala

“KUMPISAL” ni Paolo Alejandrino

PARANGAL HAGBONG

Roberto T. Añonuevo

Roberto T. Añonuevo, ‘maalab’ na makata, emosyonal na tinanggap ang Parangal Hagbong

Nina Hannah Joyce V. Andaya at Ralent M. Penilla

INALAY ng makata at tagasaling si Roberto T. Añonuevo ang Parangal Hagbong para sa mga naging biktima ng Oplan Tokhang, o ang madugong laban kontra iligal na droga ni dating pangulong Rodrigo Duterte, na nagbago sa direksyon ng kaniyang tatlong-dekadang karera sa panitikan.

Emosyonal na tinanggap ni Añonuevo ang pagkilala sa Gabi ng Parangal ng ika-39 na Gawad Ustetika, ang taunang parangal pampanitikan ng Varsitarian, sa lobby ng Gusaling Buenaventura G. Paredes, O.P. nitong Sabado, ika-4 ng Mayo.

Itinalaga si Añonuevo noong 2010 bilang direktor heneral ng Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino (KWF), ngunit nagbitiw siya sa puwesto noong 2018 dahil hindi siya payag sa madugong digmaan laban sa droga ng administrasyong Duterte.

“Hayaan ninyong ialay ko ang [Parangal] Hagbong na ito ng buong katapatan at wagas na paggalang sa lahat ng naging biktima ng pang-estadong patakarang Tokhang noong nakaraang rehimen, sapagkat aminin man natin o hindi, naging biktima rin tayong lahat sa iba’t ibang anyo at paraan o antas kahit sa yugtong sumapit tayo sa pananahimik, perhuwisyo, pakikiapid, pagkakaila at pagkawalang pakialam,”

wika ni Añonuevo. Ang Parangal Hagbong ang lifetime achievement award na iginagawad ng Varsitarian mula pa 1997 sa isang Tomasinong nagbigay ng ‘di matatawarang kontribusyon sa larangan ng panitikan. Ilan sa mga nakatanggap ng parangal ang mga Pambansang Alagad ng Sining tulad nina Nick Joaquin, Daisy Hontiveros Avellana, Rolando Tinio, J. Elizal-

de Navarro, F. Sionil José, Cirilo Bautista, at Bienvenido Lumbera. Ngayong taon, pinili si Añonuevo dahil sa “lawas ng kaniyang mga akda mula sa pagsasalin hanggang kritisismo, mula sa mga koleksiyon ng mga tula hanggang sa epiko na nagpapatunay sa maingat na kasanayan pagdating sa sining ng taludturan at sa pagiging artesano ng wikang Filipino,” ayon sa sitasyon ng parangal. Ngunit pag-amin niya, naimpluwensiyahan ang kaniyang mga sulatin nang binalik umano ng dating rehimen ang bansa sa “dark ages.”

“Mababatid din ninyo sa tumpak na panahon kung ano ang ikinaiba ng aking mga sinulat, na malungkutin kung minsan at maangas kung minsan, na kahit lumihis pa sa kumbensyon ay magtuturo kung paano sumipa saka magnilay at dumama sa mga bagay-bagay at pahalagahan ang bawat nilalang,” wika ni Añonuevo. Kinastigo rin niya ang ilang mga opisyales ng KWF na minasama ang

kaniyang mga repormang layunin sana ay linisin ang ahensya at puksain ang katiwalian dito.

“[N]oong una’y nagsilbi ako bilang walis at tagahawi sa paglilinis ng naturang ahensya bago pa dumating si Tagapangulong Virgilio S. Almario,” wika niya. “Pinaratangan ako noon ng kung ano-anong bagay hanggang sumapit ang araw na ang mga tiwaling kawani at kumisyoner ay ipinaskil ang aking mga retrato mula hagdanan ng Gusaling Watson hanggang mga dingding sa loob ng opisina.”

“Hindi nila ako masiraan hinggil sa ipinaglalaban kong matuwid na pamamalakad sa opisina o kaya hinggil sa dapat maging programa at tunguhin ng KWF para paglingkuran ang sambayanan. Kaya hindi kataka-taka kung gumamit man sila ng kung anoanong puwersa para manatili sa puwesto. Ang mga sumunod ay isa nang kasaysayan,” dagdag niya.

HAGBONG

► Roberto T. Añonuevo KUHA NI JEREMY R. EDERA

More than 300 faculty members feted in 2024 Dangal ng UST Awards

By Hannah Joyce V. Andaya

THE UNIVERSITY recognized 368 faculty members and administrative staff for their achievements and outstanding service in the 2024 Dangal ng UST Awards, held on May 9 at the Quadricentennial Pavilion.

Awardees from Academic Year 2018 to 2019, Academic Year 2019 to 2020, and Academic Year 2020 to 2021 were recognized during the ceremony, the first to be held in person since the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic.

In his address, Acting Rector Fr. Isaias Tiongco, O.P., said the granting of awards was a testament to the resilience of Thomasian educators who had endured the challenges brought about by the health crisis.

“Ang pandemya ay sumubok sa ating katatagan ngunit ito rin ay nagturo sa atin ng kahalagahan ng ‘pagtahay,’ sa salitang ingles po ‘resiliency’ or ‘adaption’ at ‘pagbabago,’” Tiongco said.

“Kayo pong mga guro ay nagsilbing ilaw at gabay para sa ating mga mag-aaral sa mga panahong tila ba madilim at walang kasiguraduhan,” he added. “Inyong ipinakita ang kahalagahan ng pagtuturo, pagkamalikhain, pagtitiyaga na nababalot ng panalangin at pag-asa.”

Former College of Science dean and UST Graduate School professor Thomas de la Cruz received the Hall of Fame Award, the highest distinction.

The Hall of Fame Award is presented to individuals who have received at least three Dangal ng UST Awards, excluding the Gawad Benavides and Gawad San Lorenzo Ruiz.

Additionally, 83 recipients were bestowed the Gawad Benavides, a loyalty award given to Thomasian educators who have dedicated at least two decades of service to the University.

Professor Emeritus Fortunato Sevilla III of the College of Science, who has been a faculty member for 50 years, led the recipients of the Gawad Benavides.

Among those honored with the loyalty award for their 20 years of

service were Varsitarian advisers Asst. Prof. Joselito Zulueta and Asst. Prof. Christian Esguerra.

Esguerra also received the Gawad San Lorenzo Ruiz, which recognizes individuals with exceptional national and international achievements.

He was recognized for his 2019 Center for Media Freedom and Responsibility Award of Distinction and his 2020 McLuhan Fellow for Excellence in Journalism from the Embassy of Canada in the Philippines.

He was joined by 22 other recipients of the Gawad San Lorenzo Ruiz.

Twenty-three Thomasian educators and administrators were honored with the Gawad San Alberto Magno for their outstanding research and innovation.

Additionally, 12 faculty members received the Gawad Santo Tomas in recognition of their teaching performance, active participation in re-

search, and service to the community.

Lourdes Fatima Ramos was honored with the Gawad San Raymundo Peñafort for her outstanding work as a librarian, while Ma. Carla Mabasa and Marie Lalaine Recio were recognized with the Gawad San Martin de Porres for their work as guidance counselors.

Prof. Teresa Tricia Bautista, Prof. Wilhelmina Mercado, and Asst. Prof. Karen Sagun received the Gawad Santo Domingo for their development work.

The Dangal ng UST Awards, which honor faculty members, guidance counselors, and librarians for their contributions to the University in the areas of teaching, research, and service, was organized by the UST Office of the Vice Rector for Academic Affairs and the UST Faculty Union.

This year’s theme was “Gurong Tomasino sa Pagbangon, Paglalakabay at Pagsulong.”

17th Hiyas ng UST Awards

UST, through the Human Resource Department, recognizes the work of its support staff during the 17th Hiyas ng UST Awards on Friday, May 3, at the Medicine Auditorium of the San Martin de Porres Building.

PHOTO BY PATRICE JERICA A. BELTRAN

► The University, together with the UST Faculty Union, honors outstanding faculty members during the 2024 Dangal ng UST Awards on Thursday, May 9, at the Quadricentennial Pavilion. PHOTOS BY PATRICE

JERICA A. BELTRAN

UST faculty members appointed to key positions in NCCA, NHCP

By Ernest Martin G. Tuazon

THREE professors have been appointed to key positions in cultural and historical commissions, Malacañang has announced.

Assoc. Prof. Eric Zerrudo, who leads the cultural heritage studies program of the UST Graduate School, was named executive director of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) on April 19.

He replaced Oscar Casaysay, who had held the post since January 2022.

Prior to his appointment, Zerrudo served as faculty member at the NCCA Philippine Cultural Education Program and director of the UST Graduate School Center for Conservation of Cultural Property and Environment in the Tropics (USTGS-CCPET).

Zerrudo is an accredited evaluation expert for cultural serial and landscape sites of the World Heritage International Council on Monuments and Sites. His expertise includes cultural heritage management, cultural mapping, and museum development.

Zerrudo took his oath before NCCA Chair Victorino Manalo on April 24.

Retired UST archivist Prof. Regalado Jose and Assoc. Prof. Eloisa de Castro of the UST Department of History

Calendar

FROM PAGE 1 ►

learners participate in synchronous and asynchronous sessions.”

Frequent phenomenon

UST lost 42 regular school days during the pandemic-hit AY 2019 to 2020, according to the Varsitarian’s analysis. Other disruptive causes included inclement weather, earthquakes and the celebration of National Family Week.

Strong typhoons remained the leading cause of class suspensions, as España Boulevard, where the UST Sampaloc campus is located, remains prone to deep flooding. In AY 2017 to 2018, seven out of 20 suspended days were due to inclement weather, and the following year, it accounted for five out of eight days.

In AY 2020 to 2021, with Thomasians confined to their homes for online classes, UST canceled 14 school days due to intermittent internet connection caused by heavy rains.

When the government introduced the jeepney modernization program in 2017, critics responded with regular transport strikes. As a result, UST suspended classes for four days in AY 2017 to 2018. Since the return of in-person classes in 2022 until the end of AY 2023 to 2024, the University had shifted to EVM for 15 days to avoid inconveniencing commuting students.

The government think tank Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) revealed even more alarming data: in public schools last year, 53 out of 180 teaching days were lost due to calamities, non-teaching tasks, local holidays, off-class activities, and conflict. This accounted for about 30 percent of the entire school calendar, leaving “very limited time to absorb the lessons,” according to Karol Mark Yee, executive director of the Second Congressional Commission on Education, in June.

For Asst. Prof. Louie Dasas, assistant dean of the College of Edu-

were named regular members of the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) board on May 6.

Jose served as the University’s chief archivist from 2012 to 2021 and was the NCCA commissioner for cultural heritage from 2011 to 2013.

He is an expert on Philippine sacred art, architecture and history who helped establish the USTGS-CCPET along with UST Museum Director Fr. Isidro Abaño, O.P. and Zerrudo.

Joining Jose on the NHCP board is De Castro, who teaches history at the Faculty of Arts and Letters.

De Castro has authored and co-authored a number of history books, including “La Naval: Triumph of a People’s

Faith,” which was named Best Book in History in 2008 by the National Book Development Authority.

She was the sole editor of the second edition of the book “Old Manila” by National Artist Carlos Quirino.

As regular members of the NHCP board, Jose and De Castro will be responsible for voting on “matters relating to historical research and similar academic concerns.”

Despite the NHCP board being composed of nine members, including four ex-officio members, only the five regular members who represent the private sector are allowed to vote on such matters.

De Castro and Jose will serve fouryear terms.

cation, the most immediate effect of class suspensions is the disruption of learning and teaching momentum.

“While there may not have been solid literature saying that it’s affecting really academic performance, we would say that time loss is learning loss,” he told the Varsitarian. “‘Pag nawala ‘yong oras, nawala rin ‘yong pagkatuto.”

Dasas underscored that unexpected cancellations create a “disequilibrium” in a teacher’s lesson plan, which is typically designed for the entire semester.

“[T]here are some experiences that I had to squeeze into a limited time,” the assistant dean said. “I had to schedule makeup classes. Our laboratory classes also had to consider other options for lab activities given na ito na lang ‘yong oras. Make-up classes may be a little difficult to schedule kasi when you do make-up, estudyante, faculty [at] facility ‘yong […] cino-consider.”

Extreme heat has posed severe challenges this year as the El Niño phenomenon exacerbated the situation. Metro Manila reached a record high heat index of 45ºC, classified as “danger” level, on April 27, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa).

The heat index, formally known as the human discomfort index, measures the temperature the human body feels when relative humidity is mixed with air temperature.

To make matters worse, Pagasa has forecasted that the La Niña phenomenon could develop between October and December and likely persist until the first quarter of 2025, bringing stronger typhoons because of warmer ocean temperatures.

Distance learning

Educators emphasized the prevalence of online tools like learning management systems and virtual

Aida del Rosario, pioneer female architect in PH, dies at 101

By Mabel Anne B. Cardinez

UST ALUMNA Aida Cruz del Rosario, one of the first licensed female architects in the Philippines, died on May 20 due to pulmonary heart failure. She was 101.

Del Rosario’s death was confirmed to the Varsitarian by her son, Butch.

“She was a loving mother who frets and worries about her children when they do not come home at the expected time,” he said. “She was meticulous in everything she did, a perfectionist in every sense of the word.”

“She was very active in her professional practice all her life,” he added. “Even at the ripe old age of 95, she was still engrossed in renovating her house, which she loved so dearly, improving to ac-

commodate the ever-growing number of grandchildren and great-grandchildren.”

Del Rosario was born on July 5, 1922. She graduated from the now-defunct UST College of Architecture and Fine Arts in 1947, becoming one of the first female completers of the architecture program at the University.

teleconference platforms to maintain continuity in education despite disruptions.

“Marami tayong magagamit na mga external application or mga external feature na makakatulong sa learning strategies natin,” Katherine Garcia, an instructor of the UST Department of Chemistry, told the Varsitarian.

Dasas said UST has developed a strong educational infrastructure to support distance learning.

However, a challenge arises for schools lacking the infrastructure to implement effective distance learning. Lawyer Maya Jajalla, a legal associate at the Philippine Association of Colleges and Universities, noted that schools, roads, and transportation are not “climate-proof” to withstand the intense heat and severe typhoons affecting the Philippines.

“[C]urrently, our infrastructure is not climate-proof,” she told the Varsitarian. “But if you climate-proof the schools, you also need to climate-proof the roads, because even if the school is climate-proof, students can’t get there if the roads and our transport system aren’t climate-proof as well.”

UST’s education delivery heavily relies on learning management systems. After a two-decade run with Blackboard, the University transitioned to Canvas in AY 2023 to 2024. These systems are essential for conducting synchronous online classes, managing asynchronous sessions, handling class deliverables, and more.

The Office of the Vice Rector for Academic Affairs (OVRAA) issued a memorandum dated April 30 outlining its “continuity plan” during the peak of high temperatures. The plan included pushing through with in-person classes, given that all classrooms are air-conditioned, and encouraging faculty members to prepare new learning materials for a po-

tential shift to EVM.

The availability of multiple modes of instruction highlights the advancements of 21st-century education, according to Maria Eloisa Clarice de Guzman, the coordinator of Grades 7 and 8 students at the UST Education High School.

“We expect students to adapt doon sa bago nating techniques, like ‘yong mga modality na ito sa ibang bansa, kasi ito na ‘yong nama-maximize nila: ‘yong paggamit ng mga application, paggamit ng mga bagong LMS,” she told the Varsitarian.

While UST benefits from such infrastructure, public educational institutions do not. A 2022 PIDS report indicated that delays in delivering computers to schools and unreliable internet connection in many parts of the country are caused by “public investment problems.”

“Philippine schools have low computer access rates and low internet access rates unlike many of its neighboring countries, which had already achieved for their schools universal access to computers and universal access to the internet,” the report, titled “School Infrastructure in the Philippines: Where Are We Now and Where Should We Be Heading?” stated.

Forward-thinking

The government, educators stressed, cannot constantly suspend classes because of natural phenomena, which is why there must be a greater focus on making facilities adaptable to the effects of climate change.

“[W]e have to do foresight,” Dasas said. “Alam natin na may init. How do we decongest classrooms? How do we put infrastructure that would allow for better ventilation? How do we make our classrooms resilient to typhoons among others? Hindi ‘yong lagi tayong nagsu-suspend lang.”

However, building climate-ready school facilities is easier said than done.

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., in his second State of the Nation Address last year, vowed to retrofit schools to withstand strong typhoons and high temperatures.

“Aside from new construction [of classrooms], schools and facilities are being retrofitted to be ready for the future – ready for hybrid and hightech learning and also climate-ready and disaster-proof,” he said.

DepEd Order 6, issued in 2021, listed the technical requirements for building climate-resilient school buildings, which include constructing classrooms that can fit accommodate up to 50 students, five-meter wide stairwells for easier evacuation during emergencies, roof slabs with metal decking, and storm shutters.

The environmental group Stewards and Volunteers for the Earth Philippines (Save Philippines) said schools must transition to renewable energy to keep the youth protected from the adverse effects of climate change.

“As youth are directly affected by the worsening climate crisis and inheritors of whatever world is left for us, we must also take action and demand the government and institutions to curb all destructive programs and policies and transition to renewable energy,” Zyoen Garcia, head of Save Philippines, told in an interview with Philstar.com in January.

However, even building simple classrooms has become a herculean task. Vice President Sara Duterte, when she was still DepEd secretary, reported that the agency only achieved 3,673 out of the target 6,379 new rooms in 2023.

“We have made progress, but clearly, this is not enough,” Duterte said during the second DepEd Basic Education Report in January.

► Assoc. Prof. Eric Zerrudo, Assoc. Prof. Eloisa de Castro, and Prof. Regalado Jose

► Aida del Rosario

SPORTS

Here are brief biographies of the three candidates for rector:

Fr. Richard Ang, O.P.

Fr. Richard Ang, O.P., is the most recent UST rector, serving from 2020 to 2024.

A UST alumnus, Ang graduated with a bachelor’s degree in philosophy from the Faculty of Arts and Letters in 1990 and a bachelor’s degree in sacred theology from the Ecclesiastical Faculties in 1997.

He earned a licentiate in sacred theology and a master’s degree in religious studies from the Ecclesiastical Faculties and the Graduate School in 1999, followed by a doctorate in philosophy from the Ecclesiastical Faculties in 2010. He consistently received Latin honors throughout his academic career at UST.

The major achievement of Ang’s term was the opening of new UST campuses: the research-focused UST Santa Rosa and the UST General Santos campus in Mindanao.

During his tenure, the University enhanced its information technology infrastructure. He introduced the “enriched virtual mode” for synchronous and asynchronous classes, which was crucial during the Covid-19 pandemic.

He also led the return to in-person classes and switched the University’s learning management system from Blackboard to Canvas.

Under his leadership, UST inaugurated the College of Information and Computing Sciences.

Ang also prioritized improving research quality. Earlier this month, UST made its debut in the Times Higher Education Asian Rankings, largely due to its strong research performance.

An expert in Eastern Philosophy, Ang served as vice rector under Dagohoy and is also a former dean of the Faculty of Philosophy and secretary of the Ecclesiastical Faculties.

Fr. Herminio Dagohoy, O.P. Dagohoy, a certified public accountant, served as UST rector for two terms: 2012 to 2016 and from 2016 to 2020.

Before becoming rector, he held the positions of internal auditor and director of finance and administration at UST Hospital.

He also served as rector of UST Angelicum College in Quezon City,

prior of the Convent of Santo Domingo in Quezon City, and prior of the Priory of St. Thomas Aquinas at UST.

During his tenure, UST successfully navigated the challenging transition to the post-K to 12 educational system by opening the UST Senior High School in 2016.

He supervised the construction of three major buildings: the Central Laboratory Building, the expanded UST Hospital, and the Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati Building, which now houses the Senior High School.

Additionally, he established two academic units: the Institute of Information and Computing Sciences in 2014 and the Graduate School of Law in 2017.

Dagohoy initiated the development of two future campuses in Santa Rosa, Laguna, and General Santos City, Mindanao, and restructured the Dominican educational system, integrating Angelicum schools in Quezon City and Iloilo and Aquinas University in Legazpi City into the UST educational tradition.

His rectorship also saw UST hosting Pope Francis’s visit in 2015.

In 2014, the Filipino Dominican province assumed control of UST after centuries under Spanish Dominican governance, following new statutes approved by the Vatican.

Fr. Rolando de la Rosa, O.P.

De la Rosa, a former Varsitarian Witness (religion) editor, holds a doctorate in Philosophy in Higher Religious Studies and its ecclesiastical equivalent, Doctor of Sacred Theology.

He served as UST rector for two terms from 1990 to 1998 and returned for a third term in 2007, replacing Fr. Ernesto Arceo, O.P., after an internal dispute over the redevelopment of UST Hospital.

De la Rosa was re-elected as UST rector from 2008 to 2012, earning the title “Quadricentennial Rector” for leading UST during its 400th anniversary celebration in 2012.

De la Rosa had also served as rector of Colegio de San Juan de Letran-Calamba in 2003 and chaired the Commission on Higher Education from 2004 to 2005, cracking down on substandard schools.

As rector, his goals were to

enhance the university’s research capabilities and expand outreach programs. He founded the Research and Endowment Foundation Inc. to fund research activities at UST. This foundation helped establish the Thomas Aquinas Research Complex, which now houses various research centers and the Graduate School.

To strengthen the university’s community outreach, he created the Office for Community Development, which later became UST SIMBAHAYAN, the umbrella project for all university outreach initiatives.

During his tenure as rector, he served as president of the Association of Catholic Universities of the Philippines and twice as president of the ICUSTA International Council of Universities of Saint Thomas Aquinas. He was also the founding president of DOMNET (Network of Dominican Schools, Colleges, and Universities in the Philippines) in 1995.

He had held several roles within the Dominican Province of the Philippines, including Master of Novices, Diffinitor of the Provincial Chapter, and Provincial Councilor.

What’s next?

The shortlist of candidates has been sent to UST Vice Chancellor Fr. Filemon de la Cruz, O.P. for approval. He will then pass it to the Academic Senate for further evaluation and ranking.

The ranked list will then be submitted to the Board of Trustees, which includes University vice rectors, the secretary general, and other Dominican friars.

The list will then be endorsed by the Master of the Order and UST Chancellor, Fr. Gerard Francisco Timoner III, O.P., to the Vatican’s Dicastery for Culture and Education.

The dicastery will perform a final review before the Holy See issues the “nihil obstat” declaration, meaning “nothing obstructs.” The name of the top nominee will be sent back to the Master of the Order for the official appointment.

UST rectors serve four-year terms and can be reappointed for one additional term.

While awaiting the appointment of the new rector, Fr. Isaias Tiongco, O.P., is acting as the interim rector.

Nakaraan at kinabukasan

Hindi umano inasahan ni Añonuevo na siya ang tatanggap ng Parangal Hagbong, lalo pa’t nanggaling ito sa mga kabataan.

“Hindi ko kailangang sumipsip o mamulitika o magpatayo ng gusali saka magpairog na bigyan naman ako ng ganitong pagkilala,” ani Añonuevo. “Natutuwa ako na nagmula ang gawad sa bagong henerasyon ng mga manululat, bukod sa pangyayaring ang mga nauna sa akin na pawang tumanggap ng gawad ay itinuturing na dakila.”

Inilarawan ng makata ang esensiya ng kaniyang mga akda bilang “pagyuyugyog sa status quo at konsepto ng moda at uso, lalo pagsapit sa wika.”

Kita ang pagyuyugyog na ito sa mga koleksyon ng tula tulad ng “Pagsiping sa Lupain (2000),” na nag-presenta ng mga panibagong perspektibo tungkol sa mga isyung panlipunan at mitolohiyang Filipino, at mga sanaysay tulad ng “Filipino sa Dominyo ng Kapangyarihan (2013),” na umeeksamin sa kalunos-lunos na estado ng wikang Filipino sa kamay ng mga awtoridad.

Pinangalanang hall of fame awardee si Añonuevo noong 2000 sa Don Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards matapos manalo ng unang gantimpala sa mga kategoryang tula at sanaysay ng limang beses. Tinanggap din niya ang Southeast Asian Writers Award, ang prestihiyosong gawad pampanitikan na ipinagkakaloob sa mga nangungunang makata ng rehiyon, mula sa Kamahalan ng Thailand noong 2002.

Para sa kaniyang kapatid na si Rebecca, na isa ring makata, si Roberto ay isang “maalab na tagapagtaguyod ng wika” na may malalim na pananaw sa iba’t ibang disiplina.

“Ang kaniyang mga akda, kung bubusisiin at taimtim na pakikinggan, ay magbubukas ng pinto sa mga nagugu-

tom sa karunungan,” wika ni Rebecca sa isang bidyo na ipinadala sa Varsitarian. “Hindi siya madaling basahin pero tila may katotohanan.”

Para sa makatang si Enrique Villasis, ang kaniyang “Sir Bob” ang tulay na nagdudugtong-dugtong sa henerasyon ng mga makata.

“Si Sir Bob kasi ang masasabi nating nagpatuloy o nagpapatuloy sa tradisyon ng pagtula ng mga naunang henerasyon sa kaniya gaya nina Rio Alma, Mike Bigornia,” wika ni Villasis sa isang panayam sa Varsitarian. “Marami sa mga makata lalo na sa kasalukuyan ang nakakalimot na may malaking papel na ginampanan si Sir Bob; kumbaga, ang 90s poetry ay panahon ng panulaan ni Bobby Añonuevo.”

Sa kabila ng mga papuri, hindi nalimutan ng makata na magbigay-pugay sa panitikang Filipino na humulma sa kaniyang pagkatao.

“Ang parangal na ito ay hindi lang para sa akin, bagkus para sa wikang Filipino at panitikang Filipinas na matagal nang minamaliit sa loob at labas ng ating lipunan,” ani Añonuevo.

Bukod sa KWF, tumayong pangulo noong 1995 si Añonuevo ng Linangan sa Imahen, Retorika at Anyo, isang samahan ng mga manunulat na itinatag ni Almario.

Nagsilbi rin siyang pangalawang tagapangulo ng Unyon ng mga Manunulat sa Pilipinas at isa sa mga nagtatag ng Oragon Poets Circle, isang pangkat ng pinakamahuhusay na makata sa bansa.

Ilan pa sa mga parangal na kaniyang natamo ay ang National Book Awards ng Manila Critics Circle, kung saan nanalo siya taong 2005, 2008 at 2012; Sawikaan Grand Prize taong 2005; at Gawad Rolando S. Tinio sa Tagasalin ng Pambansang Komisyon para sa Kultura at mga Sining taong 2022.

Del Rosario became the ninth licensed female architect in the country after placing seventh in the board examinations for architects.

As a female trailblazer in the field of architecture, Del Rosario was a “headstrong woman” who “shaped the trajectory of her career through industriousness,” said her daughter Tess.

“She also trailblazed the field of architecture and opened the doors of the University to other women who wished to pursue architectural studies,” she told the Varsitarian.

“Indeed, she (and my father) be-

stowed on us, her children, a strong work ethic. She left behind this legacy to us, one that we wear with utmost pride and honor,” she added.

Along with her late husband Jose, a civil engineer, Del Rosario was credited with designing various structures around the country, including parts of the original University of Baguio campus and over 120 homes, edifices, and hospitals.

Del Rosario’s wake was held at Santuario de San Antonio Capilla de la Virgen in Makati. A thanksgiving and farewell Mass was held on May 23.

ART EDITOR: ALLAN CHRISTOPHER M. SAYAT

FOMO JINMARSON CHESTER V. PUA

SI PACO, SI TILYO AT ANG MGA MULTO SA UST AIDAN RAPHAEL F. CALUYO

EDITOR: JOHN PETER L. CAJAYON

GOLDEN SPIKERS BAG SILVER ANEW

AS BULLDOGS COMPLETE 4-PEAT

By Ernest Martin G. Tuazon

THE UST Golden Spikers settled for silver for the second straight season as the NU Bulldogs won their fourth consecutive championship with a four-set victory in Game 2, 25-21, 22-25, 25-17, 25-15, at the Mall of Asia Arena on Wednesday, May 15.

Despite sweeping the Bulldogs in the elimination round, the Golden Spikers only won one set across the two finals games.

A backrow hit by Michaelo Buddin and a conversion by Rwenzmel Taguibolos gave NU the first set, 25-21.

After a down-the-line hit by back-to-back MVP Josh Ybanez, 9-7, UST widened its lead to five via

a 4-1 run, 13-8.

The Golden Spikers erased the Bulldogs’ second-set comeback attempt via an off-the-block hit by Sherwin Umandal and a net touch violation called on NU’s Leo Aringo, 25-22.

With NU leading by a point, 6-5, the Bulldogs mounted a 13-3 run capped by an offspeed hit from Buddin to bury the Golden Spikers down a seven-point hole, 19-8.

The Bulldogs had five blocks in the third set en route to a 25-17 victory.

NU continued its strong play in the fourth set with an 11-5 start, capped by a 1-2 play from graduating team captain Joshua Retamar.

The Golden Spikers failed to overcome its slow start in the fourth as a crosscourt kill by Nico

Almendras placed NU to champi onship point, 24-15.

A through-the-block attack by Almendras completed the Bulldogs’ four-peat, 25-15.

Ybanez, who was crowned MVP for the second straight season, paced UST in the loss with 24 points, while Gboy de Vega chipped in 15 points.

NU was led by three 20-point scorers in Buddin (28), Aringo (22), and Almendras (20).

The Bulldogs outscored the Golden Spikers in the blocking department, 16-3.

Golden Booters fall in penalty shootout vs UP, settle for bronze

By Brenn Allen L. Flores

THE UST Golden Booters’ quest for the UAAP Season 86 men’s football trophy fell short in an 8-7 penalty kick shootout loss to the UP Fighting Maroons in the semifinals on Thursday, May 9, at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.

After 120 minutes, UST goalkeeper Jose Abada made a crucial save on UP’s first penalty kick, correctly anticipating Jan Donato’s shot.

In the shootout’s fourth round, UP’s Alfonso Gonzales blocked Angelo Ramos’ attempt, leveling the score and extending the shootout to sudden death.

Retamar, who finished the game with three points and 26 excellent sets, claimed his second consecutive Finals MVP award.

from Enriquez, 21-14.

In the knockout semifinals, the UE Red Warriors made quick work of UST for a championship ticket, 21-7.

After a layup by Crisostomo to trim the UE lead to two, 5-3, the Red Warriors built an 8-3 run to take a seven-point lead, 13-6.

Four straight twopointers, two each from Ethan Galang and Vlair Lingolingo, sealed their victory over the Tigers, 21-7.

Earlier in the day, UST booked a Final Four slot with an 18-16 win over the NU Bulldogs to close the elimination round with a 4-3 card, tying NU and Adamson for identical records.

The Tigers clinched the third seed after having the highest points on average with 18.5 markers, NU settled for the fourth seed with 18.0 points, while Adamson was eliminated from further contention after only averaging 16.5 points.

DLSU triumphed over UE in the championship game.

JOSH YBAÑEZ has achieved top individual honors in his two years in the UAAP, securing MVP awards and the Rookie of the Year title last year.

However, despite his leadership, the UST Golden Spikers have yet to find team success, falling to the NU Bulldogs in the UAAP finals both years.

Ybañez acknowledged that for the team to achieve greater success, he needs to shed his sense of "entitlement" and become a more effective leader.

“Nung rookie kasi ako, super entitled ako that time,” Ybañez told the Varsitarian. “[Pero] sa pagka-MVP ko ngayon, [...] I became more matured at mas naging open ako for more learnings and suggestions to improve.”

Ybañez, who also bagged last season’s Rookie of the Year award, said his second MVP trophy taught him that greatness is beyond becoming a skilled player.

With the Golden Spikers yielding the championship to the Bulldogs in consecutive seasons, the 5-foo-7 spiker out of General Santos City also said he is up for the challenge of a bigger leadership role come Season 87 as he enters his junior year.

“Sobrang laking bagay sa akin yung maturity na sinasabi ko kasi next year,” he said. “Third year na ako, isa na ako sa mga seniors na aasahan ng mga younger athletes.”

habol namin.”

The No.4 UST team pulled an upset in the semifinals against the top-seeded FEU Tamaraws, despite its twice-to-beat advantage before falling short against NU in the finals.

Ybañez will further bolster the Golden Spikers next season with more experience and mentoring under Alas Pilipinas, the country’s national volleyball team, that will compete in the upcoming AVC Challenge Cup to be held on May 22 to 29 at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.

“Siguro mas kalmado, mas nagli-lead, at mas nagko-communicate na Josh Ybañez ‘yong makikita niyo,” he added.

Although still happy with the team’s finish this season, the same gameplan was expressed by UST head coach Odjie Mamon, saying he will be focusing more on mental toughness in their quest for the title in Season 87.

“Definitely, next year ang ipe-prepare ko is not so much on the skills and tactics but dito at saka dito (pointing to his mind and heart),” Mamon said as he recognized the caliber shown by the four-peat champions NU Bulldogs which, according to him, is what the team has to reach.

“Napakalaks na team. Well-seasoned, malalaki, experienced so talagang sila yung standard na hina-

Notable UAAP standouts joining Ybañez are Season 86 Finals MVP and Best Setter Joshua Retamar, Rookie of the Year Jade Disquitado and Best Libero Menard Guerrero.

Also part of the selection are fellow Golden Spiker Sherwin Umandal, DLSU’ Noel Kampton, NU’s Nico Almendras, Choi Diao, Joseph Bello, Rwenzmel Taguibulos, Leo Ordiales, Arellano’s Adrian Villados, and Perpetual’s Louie Ramirez.

They will provide a boost for Spiker’s Turf Stars in Cignal’s Bryan Bagunas, Mark Calado, JP Bugaoan, Jau Umandal, Lloyd Josafat, and Vince Lorenzo along with Criss Cross’ Mark Espejo and Kim Malabunga.

Meanwhile, both Mamon and Choco Mucho Flying Titans head coach Dante Alinsunurin will serve as assistants to Alas Pilipinas head coach Sergio Veloso. JOSE GABRIEL V. IGNACIO

After Angelo Pagdanganan’s successful penalty in UP’s eighth round, UST sophomore Francis Vercide hit the bar with his kick, sealing the win for the Fighting Maroons.

Despite the loss, UST head coach Marjo Allado praised Jose Abada and goalscorer Tarshish Garciano for their heroics.

“Si Abada, he’s one of the best players. Andami niyang na-save na crucial attempts ng UP. And of course, yung comeback ni TJ coming from injury, pinilit lang namin siya. He contributed one goal and one penalty,” Allado told the Varsitarian.

“‘Yung team na ‘to is a group of rookies and they beat a lot of senior teams dito sa UAAP, tapos nakaabot pa dito sa semifinals,” he added.

UST had early opportunities in the first half, with Kyler Escobar’s low-driven shot saved by Gonzalez. Just before halftime, a corner kick in the 44th minute found UP’s Francis Tacardon, who swiftly turned and shot between the legs of Abada to give the Fighting Maroons a 1-0 lead.

The Golden Booters equalized when substitute Tarshish Garciano, who started on the bench due to a knee injury, tapped in a loose ball after a save by UP’s Gonzales in the 57th minute.

UP’s Liam Lampayan missed two chances, hitting the crossbar with a header in the 69th minute and having a subsequent volley saved by Abada in the 70th minute.

A potential game-winner for UP was denied by Abada in the 89th minute after saving Emilio Bongolan’s close-range effort.

In the 120th minute, UST’s Jan Baito was shown a red card for a harsh challenge on Vincent Parpan. WITH REPORTS FROM PATRICE JERICA A. BELTRAN

► Graduating libero Van Prudenciado shares an embrace with his younger brother, rookie libero Nat Prudenciado, after the loss. PHOTO BY VALERE JANE R. CALLORENA

► SECOND STRAIGHT SILVER: The UST Tiger Spikers end up with silver anew after losing Game 2 of their men's volleyball finals series against the NU Bulldogs in four sets at the Mall of Asia Arena on Wednesday, May 15. PHOTO BY PATRICE JERICA A. BELTRAN

► A tearful Josh Ybañez congratulates the NU Bulldogs for their championship. PHOTO BY PATRICE JERICA A. BELTRAN

► The UST Golden Booters get emotional after falling short in a penalty shootout against the UP Fighting Maroons in the UAAP Season 86 men's football semifinals at the Rizal Memorial Stadium on Thursday, May 9. PHOTO BY PATRICE JERICA A. BELTRAN

LADY BULLDOGS END UST'S FAIRYTALE TO BAG UAAP TITLE

By John Ezekiel J. Hirro

NOT ALL fairy tales end up in happily ever afters: Cinderella's enchantment shatters at the stroke of midnight; the Little Mermaid surrenders her voice and, in some renditions, her very life, for a love that remains unrequited; and Hansel and Gretel, though victorious over the witch, return home to find their hardships are far from over.

For the UST Golden Tigresses, their fairy tale run concluded with a silver medal after falling to the NU Lady Bulldogs in Game 2 of the UAAP Season 86 women’s volleyball finals, 23-25, 25-23, 25-27, 16-25 at the Mall of Asia Arena on May 15.

The Tigresses, regarded before the season as undersized underdogs especially considering the departure of their former key players, surprised many with their remarkable journey to the finals, which included defeat-

ing the reigning champions, the DLSU Lady Spikers, in the semifinals.

However, in both finals games, the Lady Bulldogs outmatched the underdogs. For head coach Emilio "Kung Fu" Reyes, it was a clear indication that destiny was not on their side.

“Lumaban pero kinapos,” Reyes said. “Proud kami sa mga bagets na ‘to; inilaban nila hanggang sa dulo, talagang kapos lang. ‘Yong history na gusto naming i-rewrite, hindi ‘yong gusto naming mangyari ang nangyari.”

Despite missing Rookie of the Year Angge Poyos for most of Game 2, the Tigresses had opportunities but were ultimately overpowered by the Lady Bulldogs, who dominated with a 13-6 blocking advantage.

“Proud pa rin kami dito sa mga players, especially kay Xyza (Gula) in the absence of Poyos,” Reyes said.

Gula, who finished with 18 markers, gave the team productive minutes, especially in the third set, where UST had two set points but couldn’t capitalize as MVP Bella Belen’s late surge

Tigers place 4th anew in UAAP 3×3

By Ernest Martin G. Tuazon

THE UST Growling Tigers couldn’t regain their winning form in 3×3 basketball, finishing fourth in UAAP Season 86 at Ayala Malls Manila Bay on Sunday, May 5.

Following their championship in Season 84, UST placed fourth for two consecutive seasons in Seasons 85 and 86.

In the battle for third place, the Tigers were unable to replicate their elimination-round victory

over the NU Bulldogs, losing 21-14. The Bulldogs buried UST down a seven-point hole early after two straight inside hits by Steve Nash Enriquez, 12-5. The Tigers trimmed NU’s lead to three behind five points by Angelo Crisostomo with less than two minutes left, 16-13. However, NU closed the match on a 5-1 run capped by a layup, two-pointe, and floater

secured the set for NU.

UST took the second set thanks to strong performances from Gula, Regina Jurado, and Em Banagua. Jurado and Banagua each contributed 13 points, while Jonna Perdido added 14 points.

The Tigresses attempted a surprise by starting Poyos, but their mid-set efforts fell short, and NU drew first blood, 25-23.

In the end, it was the Lady Bulldogs' championship experience that helped clinch their second title in three years and ended UST's fairy-tale journey.

“Grateful pa rin ako kasi nakaabot kami dito sa finals,” Poyos said. “Sobrang thankful ako sa coaches kasi binigyan pa rin nila ako ng tiwala... Marami pa kaming time para bumawi. Sobrang haba pa ng career namin.”

For UST team captain and Season 86 Best Libero Detdet Pepito, who experienced her first finals appearance in the seniors division of the UAAP, she takes pride in the team's achievements but hopes to avoid feeling disappoint-

ment again.

“Talagang kulang pa, pero nandoon na kami,” she said. “Sabi nga nila coach, next time, huwag na kaming papayag na ganito ‘yong maramdaman ulit namin.”

“Sobrang grateful din ako sa ganitong experience,” added sophomore Cassie Carballo, who won the Best Setter award. “Kahit ang bata ng mga players ng team na ‘to, talagang pinusuan namin, pero kinapos lang sa dulo.”

The Tigresses have faced unfortunate injury setbacks in their last two finals runs, with Poyos suffering an injury this season and then-Rookie of the Year Eya Laure getting injured during the Season 81 finals against Ateneo.

“Different people, different scenario pero iisa lang ‘yong naging resulta, naging silver lang kami,” Reyes said. “Hopefully, by next time na papasok ulit kami ng finals, free from injuries na. ‘Yon ang isa sa dinadasal namin.”

The Tigresses have now gone 15 seasons without clinching the championship.

UST girls reap gold in UAAP beach volley

By Emmanuel John B. Abris

THE UST Junior Tiger Sands took home their second straight championship in UAAP beach volleyball after steamrolling the FEU-Diliman Baby Tamaraws in the Season 86 finals, 2115, 21-17, at the SM Sands by the Bay on Sunday, May 5.

UST’s duo of Khylem Progella and Cameron Villaluz completed an undefeated run after clawing Frenchie Premaylon and Love Lopez, 21-15, 21-17.

In the first set, the Junior Tiger Sands established a 17-13 lead and never looked back to seal the 21-15 set victory.

Tied at 11-all in the second frame, UST pulled away with a four-point barrage to gain an 18-14 advantage.

Constly service errors by the FEU-Diliman tandem secured UST the crown, 21-17.

“Sobrang saya namin sa naging outcome lalo na sa girls, kasi isang buong taon kaming nag-prepare para sa ligang ‘to,” UST head coach Paul Doloiras told the Varsitarian.

“Sa mga bata kasi namin, sobrang daling kumilos at gumalaw kasi nasa kanila na ‘yong skills. Kailangan na lang talaga ng guidance and support.”

UST’s Progella and Villaluz are both in their last playing years in the high school division.

In boys’ play, UST’s Michael Lagaran and Lance Malinao bagged the

“Ngayon,

“Sa boys, first

UST’s

bronze medal anew after overcoming Adamson Baby Falcons Tommy Castrodes and Brandy Clemente in three sets, 18-21, 21-13, 15-10.

time nila sa UAAP kaya nakakatuwa, mga baguhan ‘yan.” Doloiras said

high school rosters would undergo a significant revamp due to players graduating.

magpapahinga muna kasi ilang buwan na lang college naman,” he said.

“Rebuilding talaga kami, kahit sa seniors. Hindi namin kung saan kami mapupunta, pero eventually, we will get the hang of it. We always will.”

► SILVER MEDALISTS: The UST Golden Tigresses pose with their silver medals after losing to the NU Lady Bulldogs in Game 2 of the Season 86 finals at the Mall of Asia Arena on Wednesday, May 15.

PHOTO BY VALERE JANE R. CALLORENA

► Detdet Pepito (left) and Cassie Carballo (right) bag the Best Libero and Best Setter awards, respectively.

PHOTO BY PATRICE JERICA A. BELTRAN

► UST's Khylem Progella and Cameron Villaluz celebrate after winning the UAAP Season 86 girls' beach volleyball championship at the SM Sands by the Bay on Sunday, May 5. PHOTO BY JEREMY R. EDERA

► The UST Growling Tigers place fourth in the UAAP Season 86 3x3 men’s basketball tournament at the Ayala Malls Manila Bay on Sunday, May 5. PHOTO BY JANA FRANCESCA D. YAO