"AUP's 106th Founding Anniversary" NEWSLETTER

U NIVERSITY V OICE

The Official Student Publication of Adventist University of the Philippines

N EWS L ETTER

VOL. 25, ISSUE NO. 03

DR. ROSARIO DELIVERS STATE OF THE UNIVERSITY ADDRESS

by Ronette Joy Alfanta

The celebrations have reached their peak! AUP continues the commemoration of its 106th Founding Anniversary through the State of the University Address at the Philippine International Church on February 1, 2023, which was delivered by Dr. Ar celi Rosario, the President of the Adventist University of the Philippines. The formal ceremony started with the fanfare by the PIC Orchestra conducted by Mr. Armand Leo Apalat and processional of the faculty, staff, service awardees, department chairpersons, college deans, administrators, platform party, the students who bore flags in representation of 52 different countries that the University has accommodated students from, and the colors. The invocation was led by

Pastor Restituto Bualoy, and the singing of the Philippine National Anthem and PMV Song followed which was led by Mrs. Khristine Ruth Mendoza. The welcome remarks was given by Dr. Gracel Ann Saban, Vice President for Academics. The AUP Mass Choir, conducted by Mr. Leoven Kyle Vallejos, rendered the special song entitled “More than Wonderful.” It was then time for the beloved President to give her speech. In Dr. Rosario’s address, she reminded the students, alumni, faculty, and staff about what AUP stands for with regards to the theme “Advancing, Unwavering, Persevering.” It centered the mission to nurture students and ultimately restore in humanity the lost image of God through the harmonious development of holistic faculties as stated in the

JANUARY 2023

WHAT’S INSIDE:

NEWS SECTION

Community Service Day Gives Way to the Founding Anniversary Celebration

Commemorating AUP’s 106th Anniversary Through Music

PIC Culminates AUP @ 106

AUP-CSC Ignites “FLAMES” for 2nd Semester 2023 Acquaintance Party

ADC Hosts Palarong Panlahi

AUP Conducts Research Office, DOST, and Creation Science Center Exhibit

AUP Exhibits Career Expo

History Department Marks its First Historical Cosplay

College of Dentistry Presents Poiema: First White Coat Ceremony

FEATURE SECTION

CAFETERIA DINE-IN

philosophy of the University. In addition to the reminders, the President also shared the story of how AUP prospered through the help of God in its history. She iterated the projects of the University such as the completion of the CAH building, the proposed university cafeteria, and the teaching hospital. She also emphasized the increase of scholars that the University will be supporting, as well as her encouragement of the community pantry program of the CSC. The oration was very inspiring that when it ended, the congregation gave standing ovations in awe.

PHOTO BY REIMOND MAR DEPRA

EDITORIAL STAFF

Editor-in-Chief

Kaisha Marie Almacin

Associate Editor-in-Chief

Shaina Jessa Bondad

Managing Director

John Peniel Montales

News Editor

Janwin Lester Amor

Feature Editor

Rainee Joy Ann Ga-an

Literary Editor

Daniela Opeña

Feature Writers

Jean Christelle Pilar

News Writers

Rodgene Paul Mondelo

Ronette Joy Alfanta

Janwin Lester Amor

Rose Vi Mae Ebora

Kaisha Marie Almacin

Keila Zeehlin Estrada

Danielle Francesca Sarsonas

Illustrators/Layout Artist

Alexandra Velasquez

University President

Arceli Rosario, PhD

Head Publication Adviser

Madonna Felicitas, MA

Literary Adviser

Kathleen Flores LPT, MA

Financial Adviser

Mervyn Allan Olarte

Technical Adviser

Rodel Romero

World-class talent was witnessed as The Philippine Meistersingers sang “I Will Rise” conducted by Mr. Ramon Lijauco Jr. Felicitations were then given by the director of CHED Region IV-A, Dr. Virginia Akiate, as well as the Silang municipal officer, Atty. Irineo Anarna. The presentation and receiving of distinguished Alumni Service Awards followed, and the dedicatory prayer by the Vice-President for Student Services, Dr. Julio Amurao. The Director of Human Resource Office, Dr. Lolina Mostaza, then led the giving of certificates for the committed AUP workers who have reached milestones in their services. The closing song, the “AUP Hymn,” the closing prayer by the Vice President for Finance Dr. Robert Borromeo, and the recessional marked the end of the momentous event. Some of the finished projects Dr. Rosario mentioned during her address have

had their ribbon cutting programs by the afternoon of the same day, simultaneous with the Career Expo; these were the AUP Health Foods store and the new, asphalted road from the store to Roda’s Park. AUP Health foods store is one of the projects that was planned by the previous administration as stated by the President. Its aim is to be a center of influence in the area to share the Gospel message as well as the health message symbolizing our beliefs. Included in the construction of the AUP Health Foods store is the restoration of the old waiting shed to preserve the memories of the alumni in the past who used it. The smooth road from the store to Roda’s Park now also provides comfortable maneuvering of vehicles. God has indeed been good to AUP in the last 106 years, with the hope and assurance that He always will until He comes.

COMMUNITY SERVICE DAY GIVES WAY TO THE FOUNDING ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

by Janwin Lester Amor

January 27 marks the start of the set of activities for the 106th Founding Anniversary of the Adventist University of the Philippines! The day is tagged as “Community Service Day.” As early as 7 am, prayer and devotional was made at the gymnasium, dedicating worship to God for His never-ending guidance in the past 106 years of the University. At around 8 am, the University was in a festive mood as the Elementary department students marched around the campus in a parade, signifying that the celebration is not only bound to the tertiary level and graduate study students and staff, but also for the primary and secondary students too. By 9 am, the “Bayanihan” was done by respective colleges in preparation for visitations in the succeeding days of the commemoration. The students were seen bringing brooms, brushes, and old clothes for cleaning as they walked to their departments.

It is notable to add that huge smiles were plastered on faces as students cleaned and interacted with peers, living up to the label of “selfless” service.

Students from the College of Dentistry, College of Medicine, and College of Nursing, as well as select Faculty from the College of Medical Laboratory Science, extended their services to communities outside AUP. They offered checkups and tests for the children and the elderly to ripple the knowledge and experiences they have acquired from the University. Level 3 Nursing student Shawn Irish Mina states that Bayanihan is indicative of being a Filipino, thus the term. “I participated in such [an] activity to not just clean our department and improve its vicinity, but [also] collectively develop our sense of solidarity. I honestly found out that it is fun cleaning our department as [a] whole, as a family. We may not be related to one another, but we are united by unity [which] is the real essence of Bayanihan,” he added. With Friday being the day of preparation for the Sabbath, many more activities were in store for everyone!

PHOTO BY MARJANNE GUTIERREZ

COMMEMORATING AUP’S 106TH ANNIVERSARY THROUGH MUSIC

by Rose Vi Mae B. Ebora

In commemoration of the 106th Founding Anniversary of the Adventist University of the Philippines (AUP), a music festival was held on the 27th of January 2023 (Friday) from 7:00 to 8:30 pm at the Philippine International Church (PIC). The event was attended by various inducted singing groups who rendered songs revolving around the theme “Advancing, Unwavering, Persevering”.

A special Vespers program was formally opened through an invocation given by AUP Academy’s (AUPA) Chaplain, Pastor Joshua Castillo. The welcome remarks was then given by Mr. Oemer Rey Daquila, the University Announcement Director. The program carried on with consecutive performances of several instrumental and singing groups who were all devoted to share their talents for the Lord’s glory, thanking the Lord for His goodness towards AUP throughout the years.

The following groups performed during the festival:

Sunbeam Ukulele Ensemble with the song “The Greatest Gift” by Amy Victoria Wadge, Jonas Myrin, Stephen Moccio.

Singing Sunbeam Society sang “I am a Witness” by Shawna Edwards & Linda Urquhart.

AUPA Faculty and Staff rendered the song “The Joy of the Lord” arranged by Don Marsh.

AUP Ambassadors “How Excellent is Thy Name” whose lyrics and music was composed by Dick Tunney, Melodie Tunney and Paul Smith, arranged by Don Hart.

AUP Academy Chorale with “Our Father” by Craig Courtney Music Society of Nurses (MSN) then sang “God and God Alone” arranged by Mary McDonald

AUP Medicine Chorale performed “God Almighty Is!” by Mary McDonald.

Canticlaires who sang “I Will Make All Things New ‘’ by Mary McDonald.

Mu Gamma Chi sang “The 23rd Psalm” by Ily Matthew Maniano.

AUP Indonesian Chorale with the AIIAS Youth Ensemble who sang “All Praise to Thee” composed and arranged by Elaine Hagenberg.

AUP Unceasing Cantica then rendered the song titled “All Praise Rising” arranged by Richard Kingsmore.

Celestial Echoes sang “Midnight Cry” whose words and music came from Chuck Day and Greg Day, arranged by David D. Clydesdale.

Sola Gratia rendered the song “Sa Langit” which was composed by Abel C. Albuera, arranged by Julius Teodoro.

Lastly, The Philippine Meistersingers sang “Praise to the Lord”, arranged by Ramon Lijauco Jr.

Certificates of Appreciation were then given by the Chairperson of the Music department, Mrs. Sheryl Ann De Dios, to these groups who offered their talents to the Lord. Formally closing the program was the closing remarks and prayer given by AUP PIC’s Senior Pastor, Pastor Lani Esteves.

PHOTO BY JOPETH MABACAS

PIC CULMINATES AUP @ 106

by Kaisha Marie Almacin

On January 28, 2023, the Philippine International Church (PIC) was filled with a chorus of heavenly melodies. During the divine service, rows were filled, as students, faculties, visitors, and alumni came to celebrate AUP’s 106th founding anniversary and above all, to worship God.

Welcoming everyone to the momentous occasion was done by our very own University president, Dr. Arceli Rosario, who then expressed her heartfelt gratitude to those who were in attendance. A musical presentation of the PIC Orchestra began the prelude with the piece called “Fanfare and Fantasy on Praise to the Lord’’, filling the hall with wonderful music. Pastor Lani Esteves then followed with a call to worship, as Khristine Ruth Mendoza led everyone in a song accompanied by the pianist Diane Gee Nocido. Thoughts on the Sabbath was spoken by Pastor Ephraim Parulan, while Thoughts on Stewardship was led by Robert Borromeo, as the Orchestra rendered the piece “Stand Up for Jesus”, conducted by Armand Leo Apalat.

When asked about the orchestra’s current condition, Mr. Armand stated, “Well, the orchestra was on hiatus for almost 3 years due to the pandemic. Many of the previous core members have already graduated. It is as if the group started from scratch with all the new faces, some of whom have zero experience playing in an orchestral setting before joining the group. With over 110 instrumentalists, each with varying skill levels, leading them proved to be quite a challenge. However, I was deeply encouraged by the enthusiasm of all the members to serve in church using their God-given talents. Despite limited rehearsal time, each of the members put in significant efforts and sacrifice to help make the University Foundation Day worship more special. Special shoutout to June Rilloma from the College of Nursing who played a crucial role in handling bulk of the back-end administrative work. Without her help, the orchestra wouldn’t have been able to pull it off!”.

The Scripture then was read by Samantha Cometa followed by a prayer from Pastor Ephraim Parulan. A performance from the Mass Choir, conducted by Sir Leoven Kyle Vallejos, with the piece “Crown Him’’, preceded the message delivered by Elder Harlin Abayon.

Indeed it was a very special Sabbath to celebrate the Lord’s goodness to AUP for 106 years.

Advancing. Unwavering. Persevering. For God’s Glory, both now and in the future.

PHOTO BY JOHANN MARC JEIEL BALAGTAS

PHOTO BY JOPETH MABACAS

PHOTO BY JOHANN MARC JEIEL BALAGTAS

AUP-CSC IGNITES “FLAMES” FOR 2ND SEMESTER 2023 ACQUAINTANCE PARTY

by Ronette Joy Alfanta

On January 22, 2023, the Central Student Council (CSC) held the Acquaintance Party for the Second Semester of the Academic Year 2022-2023 at the University Gym with the theme “FLAMES: Friends, Lovers, Affection, Extended Family, Siblings.” Following the motif of this event, streetwear— original Filipino outfits matched with modernization—, students came and wore their best suits from graphic tees and baggy pants to inner shirts and iconic flannel. The event was spearheaded by the Council Head for Social Development, Martina Buhia, along with other officers and volunteers. The night began with a devotional. The song service was led by Louie Onde, Nathanrev Dapat, Nico Andrei Cordial, Jecar Pomarin, Jenny Ann Palo, and Rose Vi Mae Ebora. The opening prayer and welcome remarks were by Breanne Maxeen Itcoy and Christell Faith Macatol, respectively. It was then followed by a special song

from Denise Cabiedes and Miss Jancie Genovea. Caleb Jasper Lumingkit was God’s chosen mouthpiece, and the first part of the program ended with the closing song led by the song leaders and closing prayer by the speaker. Masters of Ceremony, Howell Tangonan and Kate Fontamillas began the second part of the program by hyping up the crowd from college to college. It was followed by the first set of raffle draws. Sets of games such as the Balloon Caterpillar, Hold Me Tight, and Pop the Balloon were done, and intermissions from Rhaesha Angela Yu, “Veggie Meat”, and the Brass Ensemble were performed. Apart from these was the reading of Not Gonna Lie (NGL) confessions wherein people can send messages for others anonymously to be read aloud by the masters of ceremony. The program came to an end with the closing remarks given by the CSC President, Miss Martina Nicole Valencia, followed by a group picture of all

who attended, and a closing prayer by Mister Josh Francis. The night was filled with fun, laughter, tons of pictures from the graffiti and, of course, memories with old and new friends.

PHOTO BY RAFAELA MAY GARDUQUE

PHOTO BY RAFAELA MAY GARDUQUE

ADC HOSTS PALARONG PANLAHI

by Keila Zeehlin Estrada

On January 29, 2023, at around 6:00 am, people from different residence halls and dormitories gathered together at Roda’s Park to take part in the Palarong Panlahi held by the AUP Dormitory Circle (ADC). With banners at hand while bearing the colors of their respective dorms, everyone marched down to the soccer field where the event was to take place.

A variety of booths were set up with colorful banderitas hoisted up in the air as the sun peeked out. The program began with a devotional worship, followed by a wonderful message from the former AUP Academy principal. “Make sure the decision you make will make you happy,” said Pastor Salvador Molina. “Try to open up. Make the right decisions. See to it that those decisions contribute to your life better, and not hinder it worse,” he added.

Immediately, the cheering competition then started. Everyone was given a chance to practice before the grand showing, fueling everyone’s competitive spirit as everyone saw each partner dorm’s preparation.

First to come up at the center, clad in white and green shirts were Dama de Noche, Cattleya and Molave C. They started off their chant raising up golden letters that said MHC, and finally someone rapped along while the participants hyped each other up, to the amazement of the audience.

Coming in blue and lavender were Ilang-Ilang and Molave B. A powerful unified chant was heard immediately, “Sumigaw ng Ilang-Ilang. Sumigaw ng Molave!” Everyone cheered as the participants

began dancing along to their chants effectively raising each other’s spirits.

Sampaguita, Eastern Hall, and Acacia followed with a chant led by a girl shouting, “We are SEA!” which made laughter erupt from the audience to the participants alike.

Riding in motorcycle tandems while holding their respective dormitory banners, each circling the participants, were Cadena de Amor and Mahogany. “Move! Make way! Mahogany is on the way!” was proudly exclaimed as someone blew a whistle in rhythm.

Finally, Waling-Waling and Molave A came powerfully with their participants tumbling and doing splits, all in high spirits as someone was tossed high in the air while doing a cheerleading stunt. The audience all continued to clap and cheer in amazement .

Soon after the cheering competition ended, the games began. Dormitorians can be seen chasing each other around at “Ubusang Lahi”, coconut husks being toppled around at “Bao Relay”, pots missing the stick and finally getting hit at “Basag Palayok”, and the exciting “Palo Sebo” where people try to climb to the top of a slippery bamboo to grab the white flag. There was a lot of enthusiasm as games like Tug of War continued onto the late afternoon.

It was an absolute joy to see so many people encouraging each other at every game. The unified enjoyment and happiness from everyone can definitely be felt for as long as you are there!

PHOTO BY JOPETH MABACAS

PHOTO BY REIMOND MAR DEPRA

COLLEGE OF DENTISTRY PRESENTS POIEMA: FIRST WHITE COAT CEREMONY

by Danielle Francesca Sarsonas

Thursday afternoon of January 19, 2023, commenced the first (since 2015) White Coat Ceremony of the College of Dentistry (COD) at the Philippine International Church (PIC). It was themed with the Greek word “Poiema” which means “Workmanship”. This program is a rite of passage for the dental clinicians, signifying their entrance to the dental proper level.

The event started with the procession of the clinicians, faculty, and participants, followed by the singing of the National Anthem and AUP Hymn led by one of the clinicians, Moreen Joy Rodelas. She was accompanied on the piano by Kyle Jeong and company. Next was the invocation by Dr. Lady Zarah Osano, then the welcoming remarks given by the dean of the College of Dentistry, Dr. Herminiano Subido Jr. It was exhibited through a short video on how the college has thrived through the years. After which was the special song offered by select COD students. The chaplain of the college, Jazel May Diaz, then introduced the speaker. Dr. Lalaine Alfanoso delivered the message. The most awaited part then came which was the donning of the white

coats! Authentic smiles were seen on the clinicians’ faces as the dean, department chair, and section heads put on their coats. With this came the speech of challenge to the clinicians by the University Vice-President for Academics, Dr. Gracel Ann Saban. Succeeding this were the dental pledge or oath by the clinicians; the message to the parents by Dr. Verallel Caplis; the dedicatory prayer by Ptr. Cerelito Cadao; the recessional; and the photo op. The master of ceremony was Dr. Mary Ann Callanta-Baraga.

Ms. Precious Magcale, president of the clinicians, is honored to be a part of this comebacking, maiden event. “I felt so proud and prestigious, for this portraits a significant achievement in one’s education and career… It is also a humbling experience as the coat represents the trust and expectation from patients to deliver competent and compassionate care.”

When asked to give words of encouragement to her younger dental students, Ms. Magcale stated, “Stay focused on your goals, and remember why you wanted to pursue dentistry in the first place. Be consistent to work hard and seek

opportunities for growth and learning. Also, surround yourself with positive and supportive people who will encourage you. Lastly, always remember that the journey to success takes time and hardwork, but the reward is fulfilling and rewarding.”

The White Coat Ceremony will now be an annual affair of the College of Dentistry.

PHOTO BY RAFAELA MAY GARDUQUE

PHOTO BY RAFAELA MAY GARDUQUE

AUP CONDUCTS RESEARCH OFFICE, DOST, AND CREATION SCIENCE CENTER EXHIBIT

by Rodgene Paul M. Mondelo

The research and development outputs, innovative products and services, posters, portraits, and promotions of the Research Office, Department of Science and Technology (DOST), and Creation Science Center were exhibited on January 31, 2023, at the John Lawrence Detwiler Memorial (JLDM) Library prompted by the University administration. With this are the noteworthy works and achievements of mentors and students in recent years, in line with the University’s celebration of its 106th Founding Anniversary.

The target audience for the exhibit are the AUP community, AUP academy students, faculty and staff, administrators, and the visitors and guests who were in attendance during the State of the University Address of the University president the next day. The main objective of the event is to address the importance and benefits of recent innovations, which significantly impact the community and the Philippines as a whole. Displayed were the materials and artworks about God’s creation of the universe, as well as different featured inventions on

science and technology. Activities such as Wire Loop and Pinball were also held.

The Library Department, committed to supporting the programs of the University, was the chosen venue. They made sure the place is clean, in order, and were set into place for the exhibit to provide an organized and convenient environment. According to Mrs. Alva M. Albay, graduate section librarian, they have exerted effort in collaboration with the CST Biology department on the part of the DOST display and Creation Science Center. Furthermore, Mrs. Albay expresses that she is proud as a librarian that the library was the chosen venue for the display because it is also part of their promotion that the visitors would see the setup of the library and try to compare what they have seen before and in the present.

As for Mr. Orlex Yllano, Biology Department chairperson under the College of Science and Technology (CST) and the head manager of the Library Creation Science Center, gave emphasis on some of the showcased DOST products like Bio-fertilizer that helps improve crop production. In addition, he mentioned that they also have extracts from different plants and species that we can find here in the Philippines that can be a potential source of nutraceuticals, as well as anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory alternatives. Works on drying of crops which can improve post-harvest management were also showcased. There is also a kit to detect COVID-19 and dengue infection, and crafts on drone technology.

The DOST display was firstly exhibited this year and will hopefully unveil more science and technology-related innovations in the future programs and events of the University. The display for the DOST exhibit was open to all until February 1 and opening hours for the University Library Creation Science Center on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays is from 7:00 am – 7:00 pm; Wednesday from 7:00 am – 5:30 pm; Friday 7:00 – 12;00 pm; and Sunday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.

PHOTO BY RAFAELA MAY GARDUQUE

AUP EXHIBITS CAREER EXPO

by Reymond Vinci Letran

AUP is certainly not falling behind in attempts to woo future AUPians. Droves of students from Windsor Hills Academy, AUP Academy, and Lipa Adventist Academy entered the university grounds on the afternoon of February 1, 2023, and were greeted by the best hospitality AUP can offer. Lively tour guides led the procession and proudly showcased the colleges, departments, and facilities of the university; the faculty and students need not exert too much effort in showing the visitors just how fulfilling their respective professions could be.

At around 1:15 PM, the Career Expo was in full swing. The colleges and their respective departments had finished setting up at this time and were ready to entertain their excited visitors. Tour guides made their way to the batches they would be leading and the trek to the AUP colleges began!

Numerous booths and attractions were prepared and did not disappoint. The Nutrition and Dietitics (ND) Department of the College of Health (COH) went for a Food Fair Event themed, “Western & Pilipi-NUTRITION” where the affordable, scrumptious food from each region were sold out. The Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) Department of the same college went all out with a history overview, phlebotomy booth, photo booth, and a laboratory tour which served as the highlight. Similarly, the College of Dentistry (COD) also opted for a tour of their facilities but as a ‘wow’ factor did so while the dentistry students were performing dental procedures. Meanwhile, the College of Arts and Humanities (CAH) headed two impressive exhibits, one by the Fine Arts and the other by the Development Communication Department while the Psychology Department presented student research and offered free psychology assessments. Taking the skills education route was the College of Nursing (CON) which entertained the visitors by demonstrating the proper way to conduct Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR). On that note, the College of Science and Technology

(CST) took an educational route with the variety of plants, insects, and anatomical specimens being presented. Moreover, research summaries were plastered on the corridors and an information drive on Laboratory Information Science was given in designated classroom.

Certainly, it was a complete experience. The visitors while walking through the halls of the College of Theology (COT), College of Education (COE), College of Business (COB), and the College of Medicine (COM) aside from enjoying the booths and attractions, were impressed by how pristine and organized the facilities were. Each time a batch arrived at a college or department, the visitors were noticeably excited by the fun stuff they could see and do. This excitement only continued to grow as they became engrossed with the unique experiences they had at the various locations. Talks could even be heard about enrolling at AUP next year and even the specific program they were interested in.

“…Family members who are alumni told me that this place is wide. Yes, it’s very wide nga (indeed) but I like the atmosphere here, chill lang (it’s cool),” stated Henan Abacan, a 12th grader from Lipa Adventist Academy (LAA). When asked about his overall impressions about the event, he replied, “I enjoyed it, it’s very fun. I was very excited coming here, Nakatulong sobra (It helped a lot) with regards to my decision to enroll here and study MedTech and I think my classmates feel the same way.”

By 5:00 pm, the Career Expo reached its conclusion. The colleges and their respective departments wrapped up their booths to call it a day. The tour guides rounded up their batches and helped them navigate their way back. The visitors were visibly exhausted but that did not stop them from eagerly conversing with their peers about the fun they had. Needless to say, AUP achieved its goal as this year’s Career Expo was a resounding success.

PHOTO BY FRANZ A. OLORCISMO

PHOTO BY REIMOND MAR DEPRA

HISTORY DEPARTMENT MARKS ITS FIRST HISTORICAL COSPLAY

by Rhaesha Anjela Yu

On the 8th of February, in celebration of the country’s Arts Month and College of Arts and Humanities (CAH) Day, the diligent students from the History Department organized the first ever event in the records of the university that commemorates the art and beauty of History. Themed “Juntos en Historia,” which means “Together in History”, the celebratory event recognizes the study of History as an integral part of student life.

The first part of the program began at ten o’clock in the morning with the Quiz bee held at the Pioneer Building rooms 6 and 7. Game masters, Jeruel Ibanez and Rhaesha Yu began with forty students, hoping to win the cash prize of one thousand pesos. The quiz bee started with a prayer by Rhaesha Anjela Yu and then, instructions from Shine Nunez, program organizer. Participants were eliminated to twenty for the semi-finals and six for the finals. Eventually, there were three victors: Ariane Jalop in third place, Nerielle Ferry in second place, and Jessel Ferry in first place.

The second part of the program took place at the Amphitheater. A Historical Cosplay competition, being a new event, caught the interest among students. The program began with the host welcoming everyone and announcing the procession of the history department in their regalia, portraying their take on history, followed by the entry of the colors. Next, was the Philippine National Anthem in three languages, Spanish, English, and Filipino. Then followed by the opening prayer of Jeruel Ibanez. To welcome the crowd, the microphone was given to the History Department chairperson, Dr. Jesse R. Songcayawon, for the opening remarks to be followed by the dean of the College of Arts and Humanities, Dr. Eunice Aclan, to give encouraging words on such a historical day. Next, was the presentation of the History Department with each student presenting themselves as a prominent historical figure.

The program continued with the competition proper where each cosplayer came upfront and presented themselves as the historical figure they’ve chosen. After the first three contestants, there was a short intermission for picture-taking and a performance from Ms. Rhaesha Yu. After the short break, the program continued with the last two cosplayers coming up front and presenting their chosen figure. While the judges deliberated, the host went around the crowd to ask questions. She asked one student, “Why do you think it is important to study history?”. The student answered, “Because our national

hero once said, ‘Ang hindi marunong lumingon sa nakaraan ay hindi makakarating sa paroroonan’ that’s why po.” The winners for the quiz bee were recognized onstage. Finally, the winner of the cosplay was awarded to a first year accounting student portraying Doña Victorina from Jose Rizal’s novel, Noli me Tangere. The whole program ended with the whole History Department and cosplayers parade. The group had their pictures taken at the Centennial Park together with the VPA, Dr. Gracel Ann Saban. Upon arrival at the Administration building, some photos were also taken with the University President and other staff as well. The day was a mark of a new era for the History Department. Everybody is looking forward to more activities to be organized soon.

PHOTO BY REIMOND MAR DEPRA

PHOTO BY REIMOND MAR DEPRA

PHOTO BY DAVID AGUSTIN

FORDA GLOW-UP!

by Jean Christelle J. Pilar

It is a common experience between college students and faculty alike that days get so long and tiring that more often than not most people would rather sleep than take the arduous walk to the university cafeteria. But worry no more! The University Cafeteria has finally had a much-deserved glow-up with its convenient dine-in services!

Compared to last semester’s take-out only option, students are now able to feast in the university cafeteria. Boasting an impressive facility of steel serving stations, an organized table set up, and the noble hardwork of the student workers, campus boarding life is finally optimized! As one of the cafeteria diners joked “Randam na randam yung tuition fee!” (“The tuition fee is spent to good use!”). It’s true that having the benefit of getting nutritious food served instantly and not having to worry about the chores after eating is a much-appreciated comfort to AUPians.

Apart from the convenience of the dine-in experience, the emergence of the said glow-up also brings a new addition to the campus life of students. It has now become the birthplace of numerous unspoken traditions such as birthday celebrants dining in the cafeteria being serenaded the “Happy Birthday song” by all cafeteria diners present. As well as the “Last Supper” setting where large groups of students join tables to conversate, bond, and partake meals together. There is also the ever entertaining, “Server Wheel of fortune”, where groups of friends create a wheel of fortune or play an elimination game wherein losers have to return all of the used plates and trays.

“The university finally feels like home where everyone can bring together in-campus and off-campus students alike”, a dormitorian stated. It has now become more than just a place where people eat, for it has become a huge place for student socialization. As one of the students enthusiastically said, “It’s so much easier to go cutie hunting now”. College life is now more active than

ever and the cafeteria opening dine-in services is the perfect way to start off the year, encouraging all students to look forward to the semester to come.

ILLUSTRATION BY ALEXANDRA VELASQUEZ

https://www.facebook.com/bosesngUnibersidad