Issuu

REV. FR. LOUIE R. CORONEL O.P., E.H.L.

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

MS. MICHAELLA O. LAGNITON, M.A. EDITOR

MS. KATHERINE PATRICE B. SIBUG, M.Eng.

ASSOC. PROF. EMMANUEL M. BATULAN, Ph.D.

MR. PHILIPPE JOSE S. HERNANDEZ, M.Eng.

ASSOCIATE EDITORS

MS. CHRISTIE ELISE C. CRUZ

SENIOR STAFF WRITER

MS. MONICA LOUISE G. NACIONALES

JUNIOR STAFF WRITER

MR. JOHN RAY SEBASTIAN M. BARRAQUIO LAYOUT ARTIST

DMD PHOTOGRAPHY

MR. KENNETT ROGER T. GARCIA

MR. JOHN RAY SEBASTIAN M. BARRAQUIO PHOTOGRAPHERS

About the Cover

January holds special significance for the University as it celebrates the feast of Saint Thomas Aquinas on January 28. In this year’s commemoration of the Angelic Doctor, a triduum was held in honor of St. Thomas Aquinas, whose enduring witness to truth and justice continues to resonate in our time. His teachings remain a guiding force for Catholic institutions in their mission to uphold and illuminate the truth within the academic community.

Featured on the cover is a bust of St. Thomas Aquinas from the collection of the UST Museum.

COORDINATOR CORRESPONDENTS

Accountancy

Mr. Fermin Antonio D. Yabut, Ph.D.

Admissions Office

Mr. Daryl Bryan D. Arceta Alumni Relations

Ms. Danielle Joyce E. Factora Architecture

Ar. Jose Marie Tan

UST retains THE subject rankings, debuts in 2 additional categories for 2026

The University of Santo Tomas (UST) maintains its level in the Medical and Health category as well as the Education Studies rankings, while making its first ranking in the Life Sciences and Social Sciences rankings.

In the Medical and Health rankings, UST ranked 601-800 with an overall score of: 22.2 in Teaching, 9 in Research Environment, 40.6 in Research Quality, 23.5 in Industry, and 65.7 in International Outlook.

In the Education Studies rankings, the University ranked 501-600 with its overall scores of: 21.6 in Teaching, 14.6 in Research Environment, 49.8 in Research Quality, 34 in Industry, and 55.3 in International Outlook.

In the Life Sciences rankings, UST ranked 8011000th for its debut ranking, receiving an overall score of: 13.3 in Teaching, 7.9 in Research Environment, 38.5 in Research Quality, 21.6 in Industry, and 68.2 in International Outlook.

In the Social Sciences rankings, UST ranked 1001+ and has an overall score of: 13 in Teaching, 8.1 in Research Environment, 25.3 in Research Quality, 21.2 in Industry, and 42.7 in International Outlook.

The Times Higher Education Subject Rankings encompass 148 individual disciplines across 11 major

subject areas. For 2026, the 11 subject rankings are in Arts and Humanities, Business and Economics, Computer Science, Education Studies, Engineering, Law, Life Sciences, Medical and Health, Physical Sciences, Psychology, and Social Sciences.

According to the Times Higher Education website, an institution first needs to be included in the overall THE World University Rankings before it can be considered for inclusion in any subject rankings. UST has ranked in the 1501+ bracket in 2025 and 2024.

There are two criteria for inclusion in the subject rankings: a publication threshold by discipline and an academic staff threshold by discipline. Each subject’s ranking methodology is recalibrated to reflect unique academic cultures, with the weightings changed to suit the individual fields. In particular, those given to the research indicators have been altered to fit more closely with the research culture in each subject, reflecting different publication habits.

The THE Subject Rankings aim to benchmark performance against global standards, highlight strengths to attract international students and partnerships, understand the focus areas of each institution, and identify the top universities in specific fields.

Sunico of CCC awarded ‘Huwarang Lingkod Kabataan 2025’ by ACY-RCAM

University of Santo Tomas (UST) Counseling and Career Center (CCC) counselor Ms. Carmen R. Sunico, M.A., R.G.C., R.Pm., received the “HuwarangLingkodKabataan 2025” during the 2nd Gawad San Pedro Calungsod: Huwaran ng Kabataang Lingkod 2025, organized by the Archdiocesan Commission on Youth – Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Manila (ACY-RCAM) at the San Pedro Calungsod Youth Center on December 6, 2025.

Sunico was acknowledged for her commitment, dedication, and compassionate service in fulfilling her role as the resident guidance counselor for the Faculty of Arts and Letters, inspiring and empowering the youth in her line of work.

The annual awarding ceremony recognizes faithful volunteers who have significantly contributed to the empowerment of the faith community.

UST CTHM, Sentro Turismo promote sustainable tourism through Pagsibol Atimonan

Physical copies of the Atimonan SSTDP on display during the turnover ceremony

The University of Santo Tomas (UST) College of Tourism and Hospitality Management (CTHM), through UST Sentro Turismo, conducted the Pagsibol Atimonan, Quezon on January 23, 2026, at the Atimonan National Agency Center. Under the sustainable collaborative partnership between UST and the Municipal Government of Atimonan, Quezon, a 10-year Sustainable Strategic Tourism Development Plan (SSTDP) was conceptualized for guiding

The delegation from UST Sentro Turismo and the Municipal Government of Atimonan delegation from the Municipal Government of Atimonan

UST CTHM: SENTROTURISMO FROM PAGE 5

The event was attended by the representatives of the Municipal Government, headed by the wife of Atimonan’s Mayor Atty. Aimee R. Uy and the members of the Sangguniang Bayan, Committee on Tourism Chair Hon. Rumel L. Verastigue, Hon. Jayson P. Marasigan, Hon. Ruelan C. Gaelan, and Municipal Tourism Officer Designate Mr. Airey V. Alano. From the University, the representatives were headed by UST CTHM Dean and Project Director Prof. Gezzez Giezi G. Granado, DCL along with the project team members Asst. Prof. Jame Monren T. Mercado, MACHS, Mr. John Jerick C. Santos, M.Ldrshp.Org.Lrng., Mr. Arnulfo Ricardo A. Butiong, MMC, Asst. Prof. Christine Concepcion C. Fajardo, MSHRM, Dr. Fhamela F. Sarmiento, Ms. Kathrine Camille A. Nagal, and Mr. Wyett White T. Lee, MSIHM.

Pagsibol is the official turnover ceremony activity for projects between UST Sentro Turismo and their partner institutions; these projects stem from a series of research focused on tourism and hospitality development.

Attendees sign the Pledge of Commitment

Dean Granado shares his remarks during the turnover ceremony

Dean Granado (sixth from left) formally turns over the Atimonan SSTDP to Atty. Uy (seventh from left)

Thomasians tapped for major leadership roles in national agencies, organizations

The University of Santo Tomas (UST) reaffirms its role as a premier hub of national expertise, with several academic staff elected and appointed to head key national professional bodies and government panels for terms spanning until 2028.

Prof. Gian Carlo Torres, Ph.D., R.N. (College of Nursing), was elected National President of the Philippine Nurses Association (PNA). A specialist in nursing research, clinical education, and advocacy, Prof. Torres will spearhead the professional development and global competence of Filipino nurses until 2028.

Three leaders from the Faculty of Engineering were appointed to the Commission on Higher Education’s (CHED) Technical Panels from 2025 to 2028. Engineering Dean Prof. Angelo R. Dela Cruz (Electronics Engineering) and Asst. Prof. Carlito M. Gutierrez (Electrical Engineering) were named panel members, while Assoc.

Prof. Dolores S.D. Cleofas was appointed Chairperson for Sanitary Engineering. Their roles in these panels will directly shape national curriculum and licensure standards.

Prof. Eric B. Zerrudo, Ph.D., was elected Chairman of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), concurrently holding his position as Executive Director. A trailblazer in cultural heritage mapping and longtime director at the at the UST Graduate School's Center for Conservation for Cultural Property and Environment in the Tropics, Dr. Zerrudo will oversee the preservation and promotion of Philippine arts and culture.

By occupying these vital seats in governance and professional leadership, the Thomasian academic community continues to extend its influence far beyond the classroom, directly contributing to policymaking and national progress.

Prof. Dela Cruz

Prof. Gutierrez

Prof. Zerrudo

Prof. Cleofas

UST FMO, DOST-PHIVOLCS raise earthquake preparedness through earthquake simulator

As part of disaster awareness and preparedness initiatives, the University of Santo Tomas (UST), through the Facilities Management Office (FMO) partnered with the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (DOST-PHIVOLCS) in bringing their life-sized earthquake simulator to the University. Set up at the Quadricentennial Park from January 19 to 23, 2026, members of the Thomasian community experienced simulations of an Intensity VIII earthquake, providing them with an awareness of the eventuality of “The Big One.”

Students from different academic units line up to take their turn at the simulator

Students duck, cover and hold as they immerse themselves in the simulation

Students and support staff are given instructions before they begin the simulations

Thomasian pharmacist-scientist advances global drug delivery research through oleosome studies

Mr. Marlon C. Mallillin III, M.P.H., an academic staff member at the UST Faculty of Pharmacy, is advancing global pharmaceutical science with his recent research on plant-derived oleosomes. Published across several leading international journals, his work positions these naturally occurring lipid storage organelles—found in seeds and nuts—as breakthrough carriers for modern drug delivery.

His recent contributions include an October 2025 review and a January 2026 paper in Pharmaceutics, alongside a study in the Journal of DrugDeliveryScienceandTechnology. This body of work demonstrates how the structural stability and encapsulation capacity of oleosomes can protect therapeutic agents and support passive drug-loading. Ultimately, the findings establish plant-derived oleosomes as sustainable, versatile components in the future of eco-friendly formulation science.

Collaborating with fellow Department of Pharmacy faculty members

Mr. Roi Martin B. Pajimna and Mr. Omar A. Villalobos, Mr. Mallillin’s work

underscores UST's vibrant research ecosystem and its commitment to shaping the international discourse on innovative drug-delivery systems.

BS Hospitality Management seniors obtain research awards in PUP CARS 2026

Senior students from the University of Santo Tomas College of Tourism and Hospitality Management (UST CTHM) Department of Hospitality Management earned multiple distinctions during the CTHTM Annual Research Symposium (CARS) 2026 organized by the Polytechnic University of the Philippines Manila College of Tourism, Hospitality and Transportation Management.

The Thomasian delegation emerged as Overall Champion and received the awards for Best Paper, Best Presenter, Best Team, Best Visual Presenter, and Excellence in

BS HOSPITALITY MANAGEMENT: PUP CARS 2026 TO PAGE 10

Mr. Mallillin III

Mr. Pajimna

Mr. Villalobos

Advocacy Researcher.

The award-winning team was composed of Ayesha Gileen M. Antonio, Alek Elijah C. Camarines, Gwenvie Marie E. Laurente, Rafael Rex P. Reubal, and Gabriel C. Tolentino. Assoc. Prof. Maria Concepcion A. Ang of the Department of Tourism Management served as the team’s research adviser and co-author.

Their study, titled “Assessing the Supply Potential of Batad, Banaue, Ifugao Tinawon Rice for Culinary Integration Towards a Framework for Sustainable Utilization,” explored strategies for strengthening supply chains while preserving the cultural and agricultural heritage of Tinawon rice. The research highlighted emerging opportunities in post-harvest innovation, product development, and heritage branding that may further enhance the value, sustainability, and market viability of the indigenous rice variety.

Another team from UST CTHM also presented its research during the symposium. The study, titled “Market Segmentation and Tourist Profiling in Ticao Island, Philippines: Analyzing Travel Preferences and Behavioral Patterns,” was conducted by Johara Marie B. Aguña, Aaliyah Ysabel C. Golveo, Karla Mae T. Motita, Angelica S. Rabang, and Stephanie Faith H. Santos from the Department of Tourism Management.

Mr. Arnulfo Ricardo A. Butiong and Ms. Kathrine Camille A. Nagal served as research advisers and co-authors of the study. The research examined market segmentation and tourist profiling in Ticao Island, Masbate, an emerging ecotourism destination in the Philippines, with the aim of analyzing travelers’ preferences and behavioral patterns to support tourism development initiatives.

The achievements of the Thomasian student researchers underscore the continued commitment of UST CTHM to research excellence, innovation, and sustainable tourism and hospitality education.

BS HOSPITALITY MANAGEMENT: PUP CARS 2026 FROM PAGE 9

Social justice highlighted in conference co-hosted by UST Simbahayan

Church and organization leaders, climate advocates, labor workers, and various sectoral representatives gathered at the Bl. Buenaventura Garcia Paredes, O.P. (BGPOP)

Building at the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Manila, on January 14 to 16, 2026, for “Hayuma: Mending the Broken.” The three-day event organized by Caritas Philippines, the Conference of Major Superiors of the Philippines (CMSP), and the Center for Energy, Ecology, and Development (CEED), through the assistance through the assistance of the UST SIMBAHAYAN Community Development Office and the Office of the ViceRector for Religious Affairs, highlighted the Catholic Church’s role in addressing systemic and social issues, including economic degradation, economic justice, and failures in the government that affected communities across the country. The conference was attended by over 100 participants from various areas of the Philippines.

Hayuma allowed new collaborations to form among the various stakeholders present in the event by providing a platform that aided the exchange of representatives’ perspectives on societal issues. The inclusion of the University allows participation of more than just students to be advocates of change – it strikes home that the calling comes at various times and through various ways.

Various guest speakers stressed the ongoing discussion on adversities affecting multiple sectors of the nation. CEED Executive Director Mr. Gerry Arances mentioned the crises of the Philippines, emphasizing the impact Filipinos can have in changing and maintaining awareness of challenges such as the climate crisis, poverty, corruption, and global conflicts. The discussions at the event also aim to inspire collective action toward long-term, structural reforms rooted in social justice, environmental protection, and inclusive governance.

The first day of the event introduced participants to the various representations present in the country. In his welcome address, Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines President Archbishop Gilbert Garcera, D.D. spoke about the importance of this convergence for the care of Mother Nature and the sectors it sought to address.

The event divided participants into separate breakout sessions for the afternoon, where issues in economy, ecology, and governance were discussed. Each subtopic was assigned reflections on the issues discussed and the actions participants could take to advocate for their respective topics. These reflections were presented at the end of the day as a form of communication to all participants.

The second day of the event began by gathering participants into smaller groups within the event hall, as part of a collaboration among individuals from diverse fields. CMSP Co-Executive Secretary Fr. Angel Cortez, OFM discussed the effects of issues affecting layers within institutions, including corruption, political dynasties, poverty, injustice, and many others that the Catholic Church is meant to address. He highlighted the importance of collaboration and the role of a shared community in responding to the call to avert a crisis.

Bishop Gerardo Alminaza, D.D. of the Diocese of San Carlos spoke at the event about the role of the Catholic Church as a true representation of the people. Bishop Alminaza stresses that "To be the Church of the poor in the Philippines is not to romanticize hardship. It is to refuse systems that repeatedly place the same communities at risk. It is to walk with those who patiently mend what has been torn, together.”

He underscored that collaboration with institutions enables Catholic teachings to serve as a foundation for systemic change, thereby strengthening communities and fostering meaningful connections among individuals.

The organizers, speakers, and participants for Hayuma: Mending the Broken

Bishop Alminaza (third from left), Fr. Tiong (second from left), and Alipao (right) together with SIMBAHAYAN staff during the awarding of the certificate of appreciation to UST

SOCIAL JUSTICE: UST SIMBAHAYAN TO PAGE 12

SOCIAL JUSTICE: UST SIMBAHAYAN FROM PAGE 11

Among the participants, Partido Lakas ng Masa [Party of the Laboring Masses (PLM)] Chairperson Leody “Ka Leody” De Guzman discussed the effects of corruption experienced by Filipinos and highlighted the changes individuals can pursue to become part of the movement against the injustices they face. De Guzman emphasized the crucial role of the working class and the masses in societal change, urging communities to organize toward a society that "puts people first."

During the last day of the event, participants shared their learnings with each other through intellectual gatherings. The event ultimately ended with the Sacrament of the Eucharist, joining participants together with their newly shared values with everyone else, symbolizing the new collaboration woven at the event.

Fr. Tiong and Laudato Si’ Movement Chair of the Board Mr. Yeb Saño, who served as one of the speakers

UST, CBCP organize 12th collaborative synodality research assembly in Tuguegarao

The University of Santo Tomas (UST), in collaboration with the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP), hosted the 12th Metropolitan Synodal Research Assembly on January 10, 2026, at the Archdiocese of Tuguegarao.

The event brought together bishops, clergy, religious and laity from the Archdiocese of Tuguegarao, the Dioceses of Ilagan and Bayombong, and the Apostolic Vicariate of Tabuk.

Archbishop of Tuguegarao Most Rev. Ricardo L. Baccay, D.D. shared a poignant reflection on the relevance of the study: “Achieving a synodal Church requires changes in the relationship of structures and processes. It is a big task with a singular realization: it needs to begin with me. As the Archbishop, I must learn to discern more deeply, to think over before deciding, to listen before speaking, and to consult before finalizing decisions.”

In his remarks, Bishop of Bayombong

Most Rev. Jose Elmer I. Mangalinao, D.D. emphasized gratitude as a way of appreciating and listening to the voices of the faithful through the study, which challenges the Church to become more inclusive and discerning.

With the maternal protection and guidance of Our Lady of Piat, the delegates departed with a shared prayer for a Church that remains mission-oriented, discerning, and ever-responsive to the Holy Spirit. Following the way of the Cagayan River, they have committed to translating the study into concrete pastoral programs to ensure that everyone is on board the boat, with the hope of casting the net together, so that the synodal journey will yield an abundant catch.

The CBCP-UST Research Team composed of CBCP Research Office Priest-In-Charge Rev. Fr. Vladimir Echalas, S.O.L.T., Prof. Florence C. Navidad, Ed.D., from the UST Faculty of Pharmacy, Prof. Pablito Baybado, Jr., Ph.D., and Prof. Marites Redoña, Ph.D., from the UST Institute of Religion, facilitated the research presentations and workshop.

Dr. Cielo Magno as she delivers her talk

The CBCP-UST Research Team with Archbishop Baccay (back, second from left) and Bishop Mangalinao (back, third from left)

Archbishop Baccay sharing his remarks

CITED training highlights learners' evolving needs, multigenerational workspaces in institutional training

The University of Santo Tomas (UST) Office of the ViceRector for Academic Affairs (OVRAA), in collaboration with the Center for Innovative Teaching and Educational Delivery and the Educational Technology (EdTech) Center, organized and conducted the Institutional Training for Academic Staff for the second term of Academic Year 20252026, bearing the theme “Reimagining Teaching and Learning Across Generations.” Held on January 12 and 13, 2026, the faculty training sessions anchored on the ethical framework found in the Institutional Standards of Professional Ethics for UST Academic Staff, as well as Pope Leo XIV’s Apostolic letter “Drawing New Maps of Hope.”

The two-day training equipped Thomasian educators with an understanding of the multigenerational workplace and the evolving generations of learners. Identifying key learning features and characteristics preferred by the current generation of learners enables academic staff to redesign pedagogical approaches, reinforce technological integration, and engage in continuous reflection to further improve their appreciation of learners’ needs and contexts.

Dr. Bedoria gives his talk on understanding the learning preferences and characteristics of today's learners

On Day 1, Dr. Cris John S. Bedoria from the University of the Philippines – Diliman Office of Counseling and Guidance gave a talk titled, “Understanding the Learning Preferences and Characteristics of Today’s Learners,” highlighted the idea that learning should ultimately be adapted with flexibility, engagement, and motivations in mind. Meanwhile, UST Senior High School (SHS) Principal Assoc. Prof. Mary Erika N. Bolaños, Ph.D. provided specific teaching-learning strategies in her talk titled “Design Principles to Maximize Engagement of Today’s Learners.”

Two panel discussions were conducted on Day 2; the first panel discussion looked at “What Pedagogical Approach Works Best for Today’s Learners?” The panel was composed of Asst. Prof’l. Lect. Renz Christian Argao, Ph.D. from the Graduate School, Prof. Eva Irene Y. Maglonzo, M.D. from the Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, College of Education Secretary Asst. Prof. Alvin Ringgo C. Reyes, M.A., and UST

Junior High School Science Learning Area Coordinator Master Teacher Ryan V. Lansangan, Ph.D. It was moderated by College of Education Assistant Dean Assoc. Prof. Louie B. Dasas, Ph.D.

The second panel discussion delved into “What Technological Integration Approach Works Best for Today’s Learners?” The panel was composed of Senior Teacher Shane Alexander Y. Laong, M.A., and Senior Teacher Maria Cecilia P. Faigal-Mariano, M.A.E.L.T. from SHS, Asst. Prof. John Paul T. Balanquit, M.A. from the Institute of Religion, Asst. Prof. Alpher E. De Vera, M.A.Ed., from the College of Architecture, and Ms. Alifa Camille N. Santos, M.Sc. from the Faculty of Pharmacy. It was moderated by EdTech Center Acting Director Asst. Prof. April Joy M. Gascon, R.N.

Student representatives from the various academic units also shared their preferred teaching-learning approaches in their recorded responses. Their responses further contextualized the panel members' discussion.

on technological integration in learning, as facilitated by EdTech Acting Director Asst. Prof. April Joy M.

Asst. Prof. Dasas (leftmost) facilitates the discussion on pedagogical approaches

The panel discussion

Gascon, R.N. (leftmost)

UST GS strengthens commitment to global standards in talks with AACSB

GS Office for Graduate Research Director Prof. Grecebio

Jonathan D. Alejandro, Ph.D., UST GS

Dean Prof. Michael Anthony C. Vasco, Ph.D., AACSB International Executive Vice President and Chief Officer for Asia Pacific Dr. Geoff Perry, Member Engagement Manager for Southeast Asia Ms. Hana Zainoldin, UST GS

Faculty Secretary Prof. Elizabeth H. Arenas, Ph.D., UST GS Business Cluster Program Lead Prof. Elizabeth O. Recio, M.S.Com.

The University of Santo Tomas (UST) Graduate School (GS) hosted key representatives from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) International on January 21, 2026, for a strategic dialogue focused on strengthening institutional collaboration and exploring viable pathways to institutional recognition. AACSB International Executive Vice President and Chief Officer for Asia Pacific Dr. Geoff Perry, together with Member Engagement Manager for Southeast Asia Ms. Hana Zainoldin, met with UST GS officials Dean Prof. Michael Anthony C. Vasco, Ph.D., Faculty Secretary Prof. Elizabeth H. Arenas, Ph.D., Office of Graduate Research Director Prof. Grecebio Jonathan D. Alejandro, Ph.D., Center for Continuing Professional Education and Development Director Prof. Ma. Frieda Z. Hapan, Ph.D., and UST GS Business Cluster Program Lead Prof. Elizabeth O. Recio, M.S.Com.

Ms. Zainoldin outlined the benefits and privileges of an AACSB membership, covering both past initiatives and forthcoming activities available to member institutions. Meanwhile, Dr. Perry explained the eligibility and review phases of the AACSB accreditation process. The meeting likewise provided AACSB representatives with a better

understanding of UST GS’ organizational framework and long-term goals, specifically on its business graduate programs. In turn, they offered insights on how AACSB could further support the Graduate School through global networking platforms and guidance toward accreditation.

Building on the discussions and insights gained from the engagement, UST GS is now laying the groundwork for initiatives that support its continuing commitment to quality enhancement, internationalization, and academic excellence. As one of the world’s most recognized accrediting bodies for business education, AACSB serves as a global benchmark for institutional quality and innovation.

AACSB accreditation is globally recognized as a benchmark of excellence in business education. As a member of AACSB, UST GS is exploring the pursuit of formal accreditation as part of its continuing commitment to quality enhancement and internationalization. UST GS considers this engagement as a major milestone in its efforts to advance its graduate business education and elevate its international reputation.

(From left:) UST

UST GS officials meeting the AACSB delegates

USTGS-CCCPET, OIRP host Central Police University students for cultural immersion in Taal

The University of Santo Tomas (UST) Graduate School – Center for Conservation of Cultural Property and Environment in the Tropics (CCCPET), in collaboration with the University of Santo Tomas Office of International Relations and Programs (OIRP) and the Local Government of Taal, hosted students from Central Police University (CPU) in Taiwan for an immersive cultural tour in Taal on January 22, 2026.

The delegation from Central Police University (CPU), together with administrators and staff from UST, was warmly welcomed upon arrival in the heritage town. The tour began with a visit to the historic Basilica of St. Martin de Tours, followed by a courtesy meeting with the municipal mayor of Taal.

Participants were introduced to authentic Filipino cuisine and toured several heritage landmarks, allowing them to gain deeper insight into the rich cultural history of both Taal and the Philippines. Through these activities, the visitors experienced firsthand the town’s enduring traditions, architecture, and local heritage.

One of the highlights of the immersion was the cultural experience at Casa Recuerdos de Taal, where participants got to dress in traditional Filipino attire, offering a vibrant and engaging glimpse into Philippine history and culture.

The cultural immersion tour served as an avenue for fostering greater appreciation for Filipino heritage while strengthening intercultural understanding and friendship between the participating institutions. Through shared experiences rooted in history and tradition, the activity further reinforced the value of cultural exchange and international collaboration.

The delegation during their visit to the Mayor’s office

Taal Mayor Atty. Naereeza Grace Mercado Bainito welcomes the visiting group

Ambassador of Sweden to the Philippines H.E. Anna Ferry

The Ambassador of Sweden to the Philippines Her Excellency Anna Ferry (fifth from left), accompanied by Ms. Athena Cartagena and Ms. Ebba Ragnartz from the Embassy of Sweden in Manila, visited the University of Santo Tomas (UST) for an exploratory meeting on partnerships in the areas of science, technology, health, sustainability and cultural exchange on January 21, 2026. Ambassador Ferry also paid a courtesy call upon the UST Rector Very Rev. Fr. Richard G. Ang, O.P., Ph.D. (center), and later visited the UST Museum and the Antonio Vivencio del Rosario UST Heritage Library. The delegation was welcomed by UST Secretary-General Rev. Fr. Louie R. Coronel, O.P., EHL and Office of Public Affairs Director Ms. Michaella O. Lagniton.

Museum Volunteers of the Philippines

Participants of the Museum Volunteers of the Philippines' History Course visited the University of Santo Tomas (UST) campus on January 21, 2026, to learn more about UST’s role as a former internment camp during the Second World War. After being welcomed by UST Office of Public Affairs (OPA) Director Ms. Michaella Lagniton, the group toured the UST Museum under the guidance of Ms. Maita Oebanda, and later had a discussion with historian and Faculty of Arts and Letters Dean Prof. Melanie Turingan-Marcos, Ph.D. The guests also visited the Antonio Vivencio del Rosario UST Heritage Library where they were given a walkthrough of the book restoration process by Heritage Library Head Librarian Ms. Lourdes Fatima Ramos and Asst. Head Librarian Ms. Ginalyn Santiago. This was followed by a brief tour of the campus, assisted by members of OPA Ms. Christie Cruz and Ms. Monica Nacionales.

Asia-Pacific Dominican Formators' Course

Participants of the 11th Asia-Pacific Dominican Formators' Course visited the University of Santo Tomas (UST) to learn more about its intellectual and spiritual heritage. The guests were given a tour of the campus and UST Museum on January 17, 2026, by the UST Office of Public Affairs, including its Director Ms. Michaella Lagniton, Office Secretary Mr. Mac Abaya, and Junior Creatives Officer Mr. Ian Barraquio.

Participants of SEAMEX Conference

The University of Santo Tomas (UST) MusikaPilipinas research group partnered with the Research Center for Culture, Arts, and Humanities and the Conservatory of Music in hosting the Southeast Asia Music Exchange (SEAMEX) Conference on January 22 and 23, 2026. As part of their activities on the first day of the conference, participants had a tour of the campus, led by members of the Office of Public Affairs Ms. Shenine Pascual and Mr. Mac Abaya.

Bar Examinations

January 2026

Architects Licensure Examination

January 2026

Declaro Spinel Albert Allauigan

Adviento Alaiza Agatep

Santos Marc Angelo Galvez

Gata Johan Raphael Silapan

Castillo Jannah Marie Garrote

Santiago Benjamin Arnold Tuazon

Macula Lira Monica Escobar