This scenic photograph by Thomasian alumnus Paul Quiambao perfectly captures the pathway from the Arch of the Centuries to the Main Building—linking the University’s historic beginnings with the new chapter marked in 1927. For many Thomasians, this path evokes both nostalgia and a deep sense of pride in belonging to a pioneering Catholic university.
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 Archives
Ms. Joyce Ann SG. De Lara
Arts and Letters
Asst. Prof. Louie Benedict R. Ignacio, Ph.D.
Center for Campus Ministry
Mr. Benjohn B. Espares
Center for Conservation of Cultural Property and Environment in the Tropics
Ms. Beverly M. Bautista, MAEd
Center for Continuing Professional Education and Development
Mr. Aaeron C. Borlongan
Center for Creative Writing and Literary Studies
Prof. Augusto Antonio A. Aguila, Ph.D.
Center for Innovative Teaching and Educational Delivery
Assoc. Prof. Kim Gerald G. Medallon, Ph.D.
Commerce and Business Administration
Assoc. Prof. Marie Antoinette L. Rosete, Ph.D.
Community Development
Ms. Veronica Moreno
Counseling and Career Center
Ms. Via Katrina G. Portera
Ecclesiastical Faculties
Mr. Blaise D. Ringor, Ph.D.
Education
Mr. Mark Anthony S. Angeles
Education High School
Assoc. Prof. Ma. Juana P. Lacuata, EdD
Educational Technology Center
Mr. Aaron Tan
Engineering
Engr. Rhovee Vistan
Fine Arts and Design
Mr. Raphael Emmanuelle V. Kalaw
Graduate School
Prof. Camilla J. Vizconde, Ph.D.
Graduate School of Law
Ms. Leidy May G. Alnajes
Grants, Endowments, and Partnerships in Higher Education
Mr. Levine Andro H. Lao
Information and Communications Technology Assoc. Prof. Maricel A. Balais, DT Information and Computing Sciences
Assoc. Prof. Donata D. Acula, Ph.D. Institute of Physical Education and Athletics
Mr. Steve Michael M. Moore, Jr. Institute of Religion
Mr. Ivan Efreaim Gozum
International Relations and Programs
Prof. Karen S. Santiago, Ph.D.
Junior High School
Mr. Euric Llamado
Library Ms. Rosemary B. Balbin
Museum Ms. Maita Zita Oebanda
Nursing Asst. Prof. Ritzmond F. Loa, Ph.D.
Office of the Assistant to the Rector for UST Santa Rosa
Engr. Seigfred V. Prado, Ph.D.
Publishing House Ms. Lorraine Villarina
Pharmacy Mr. Clive Ivan S. Mercado
QS/THE Ranking
Engr. Nestor R. Ong / Mr. Rodablas P. Nicolas
Rehabilitation Sciences
Ms. Mary Ann Gisselle O. Esguerra and Assoc. Prof. Kim Gerald G. Medallon
Research Center for Health Research and Movement Science
Mr. Lyle Patrick D. Tangcuangco
Research Center for Natural and Applied Sciences
Assoc. Prof. Alan Rodelle M. Salcedo, Ph.D.
Research Center for Social Sciences and Education
Dr. Jeremaiah Opiniano
Research Center for Theology, Religious Studies, and Ethics
Asst. Prof. Leo-Martin Angelo R. Ocampo
Science
Prof. Rey Donne S. Papa, Ph.D.
Tourism and Hospitality Management
Asst. Prof. Jame Monren Mercado
UST COE marks centennial with 40th Fr. Antonio Gonzales Lecture: ExCordeMagistri
UST honors medical education visionaries in Professorial Chair investiture
Sustainable Cities Highlighted in UST - Philippine Daily Inquirer Talk
UST CRS showcases research in 14th PPCR in Hong Kong
UST Architecture showcases student work at Quezon City flood summit
UST IR academic staff join 15th International Roundtable on media, religion, and spirituality in Asia
UST Theology Week 2025 celebrates 1700th Anniversary of Nicaea
EHEF 2025 opens overseas learning opportunities with assistance from UST, partner universities
UST COE marks centennial with 40th Fr. Antonio Gonzales Lecture: Ex Corde Magistri
As part of the College of Education's ongoing series of celebrations for the College's centennial anniversary, the unit organized and hosted the 40th Fr. Antonio Gonzales Memorial Lecture on November 27, 2025—a lecture series dedicated to the first Regent of the College upon its establishment in 1925. This year’s theme, “Ex Corde Magistri” (From the Heart of the Teacher), centered on the teachings and reflections of St. Dominic and St. Thomas Aquinas, as delivered by the Master of the Order of Preachers, Most Rev. Fr. Gerard Francisco P. Timoner III, O.P., in his keynote lecture.
Being in a profession that molds future generations of professionals, teachers are expected to relay relevant knowledge to learners. Fr. Timoner acknowledged this in light of St. Dominic’s teachings,
The panel joined by UST Vice-Rector Rev. Fr. Isaias D. Tiongco, O.P., JCD (sixth from left) and the Very Rev. Fr. Gerard Francisco P. Timoner, III, O.P., Master of the Order of Preachers (seventh from left) and members of the College of Education Administration
Fr. Timoner delivering his keynote address
emphasizing the value of seeking truth through good education to deepen one’s faith. Part of this value is the end goal of recognizing and addressing the needs of the marginalized—those most in need— by extending mercy and compassion, as advocated by St. Dominic and the late Pope Francis.
“Compassion cures blindness; our study must ultimately lead us to perceive human crises, needs, longings, and sufferings as our own,” noted Fr. Timoner.
Furthermore, in the realm of truthseeking, truth-telling, and truth-living, Fr. Timoner shared pertinent points from St. Thomas Aquinas’ Quaestiones disputatae de veritate (Disputed Questions on Truth).
One such point is that education is a “shared journey of teachers and students,” where truth should be sought collaboratively,
especially in a world where relativism and misinformation have become normalized.
To combat relativism, Fr. Timoner reiterated St. Thomas Aquinas’ proposed disputed questions as a means to “transform disagreements from adversarial conflicts into productive exchanges that deepen understanding.” These reasoned arguments “promote intellectual humility and courage,” as they allow individuals to scrutinize their own beliefs, ultimately making way for deeper learning. Careful listening, grounded in the shared goal of pursuing and attaining truth, consequently forms more patient individuals who are willing to engage in healthy, informed discourse.
As he ended his sharing, the Master of the Order encouraged the audience to “seek the truth in the sweetness of companionship,” quoting the College of Education’s building namesake, St. Albertus Magnus (Albert the Great). He further reminded them to reflect the heart of the Good Teacher, as they, too, will be reflected in their future learners.
Following the keynote address was a panel discussion facilitated by Communications Bureau Director and alumnus of the College, Master Teacher
EX CORDE MAGISTRI FROM PAGE 4
Philippe Jose S. Hernandez, L.P.T., M.Eng. Joining him were notable alumni, namely: Fr. Timoner; Society of the Divine Word (SVD) Generalate Media Department
Editor-in-Chief Rev. Fr. Marlon B. Vargas, SVD; Teacher Education Council member Rev. Fr. Onofre G. Inocencio Jr., SDB; UST Alumni Association, Inc. Chair Prof. Evelyn A. Songco, Ph.D.; and UST Assistant to the Rector for Planning and Quality Management Prof. Clarita D. Carillo, Ph.D. Each panelist shared their perspectives on pressing concerns such as navigating a post-truth world, the journey of teaching and becoming an effective educator, the implementation of a culture of quality among teachers, and the common student dilemma of peer comparison.
Apart from the panel discussion and keynote lecture, Department of Library and Information Science Coordinator Mr. Symon Lagao, L.P.T., R.L., MALIS, presented the development of the College of Education from its early years to its centennial milestone. The presentation stemmed from published research by Bachelor of Library and Information Science students under the supervision of Mr. Lagao and Archivo de la Universidad de Santo Tomas Acting Archivist Rev. Fr. Gaspar Sigaya, O.P.
The year-long celebration of the College of Education’s centennial covers three commitments, as outlined by Dean Assoc. Prof. Pilar I. Romero, Ph.D., during her welcome remarks. First, the College commits to serve, having conceptualized “Isang Daan, Isang Daan” (One Hundred, One Path)—a financial subsidy for students
of the Teacher Education Department who are in need. Second, the College commits to formation, aligned with the University’s mission to develop more Christian Living Education students. Lastly, the College commits to listen by providing “opportunities for profound encounters between people, without which any educational endeavor is doomed to fail.”
On the same day as the lecture, the College also held its monthly Mass, presided over by the Master of the Order.
The lineup of activities by the academic unit will continue until the end of the academic year, featuring a variety of engaging events such as conferences, donation drives, and fora, among others.
The main celebrants and concelebrants during the College of Education's monthly mass together with the students and academic staff of the College
The panel discussants exchanging ideas covering their fields of expertise merged in education
Dean Romero delivering her opening remarks
UST honors medical education visionaries in Professorial Chair investiture
The University of Santo Tomas (UST), through the UST Research and Endowment Foundation, Inc. (REFI) and the support of Metrobank Foundation, Inc., conducted the Solemn Investiture for the Conferment of the Doña Victoria Ty Tan Professorial Chair in Medical Education upon Prof. Remedios D. Chan, MD and Prof. Eva Irene Y. Maglonzo, MD, on November 6, 2025 at the Dr. George S.K. Ty Hall.
The ceremony celebrated not just academic distinction, but also the spirit of innovation that continues to shape the future of Philippine medical education.
This year’s honorees, Dr. Chan and Dr. Maglonzo, were recognized for their enduring contributions to medical scholarship, curriculum development, and transformative pedagogy in the UST Faculty of Medicine and Surgery (FMS), one of the top medical schools in the country.
As the oldest school of medicine in the country, UST FMS has produced generations of physicians who excel in the medical field within the nation and even abroad. It consistently produces the most doctors every year, and often has topnotchers in the Physician Licensure Examination. This year in particular, the #1 rank, Dr. Kharam Molbog, is a graduate of both the UST Faculty of Medicine and Surgery as well as the UST Faculty of Pharmacy.
“Instead of the usual lecture, we bring you a spirited, intelligent debate because progress rarely comes from comfort. It comes from the tension between what we’ve always been doing and what we might dare to do next, said UST FMS Dean Prof. Ma Lourdes D. Maglinao, MD, who titled the academic discussion “Provocations in Practice: Rethinking How We Teach Medicine”.
Rather than “winning arguments, it is about awakening insight. The goal is not to divide, but to discover,” said Dean Maglinao, who emphasized that in the friction and discomfort of such an intellectual clash, lies “the spark of progress. If we are to truly shape the future of medical education, we must have the courage to question it, to provoke thought, ignite passion, and inspire a generation of educators and learners.”
The Metrobank Foundation, Inc. President Mr. Philip Dy, in his message, commended the innovation of the Professorial Chair format, from a lecture, to an “interactive debate reflecting dialogue and discovery. It is not a oneway transmission of ideas because we encourage everyone to join this collective conversation, which has a goal of deeper understanding of varied perspectives, to advance the good that we all care about in a better and more effective way.”
The debate, moderated by Dr. Ivan
Villespin, focused on five dichotomies that define today’s medical education landscape: tradition vs. transformation, competence vs. compassion, grades vs. grit, wellness vs. workload, and burnout vs. breakthrough.
Dean Maglinao explained that the synthesis of these leads to a future of medical education where “tradition meets transformation, competence embraces compassion, grades yield to grit, wellness harmonizes with workload, and breakthroughs emerge from the crucible of burnout. A future where we do not merely teach medicine, but continually reimagine what it means to be a healer, teacher, and torchbearer of humanity in the modern age.”
“The time has come for change. Not by pushing harder, but by teaching smarter,” said Maglonzo, who added that “The future of medicine will not be written by those who burnout, but by those who break through.”
In turn, Chan said that “Every reform we now celebrate, [such as] resilience training, adaptive learning, mental health support, exists because burn out spoke first. It was the lived pain of students and physicians that forced the system to listen. Breakthrough is not the opposite of burnout, but rather its evolution.”
PROFESSORIAL CHAIR TO PAGE 7
Dr. Eva Irene Maglonzo (fourth from left) and Dr. Remedios Chan (sixth from left) with UST Rector Very Rev. Fr. Richard G. Ang, O.P., Ph.D. (fifth from left), Metrobank Foundation President Mr. Philip Dy (eighth from left) and officials of the UST Faculty of Medicine and Surgery and the UST Office for Grants, Endowments, and Partnerships in Higher Education.
Guerrero of Architecture Class 1979 Appointed as Architecture Professional Regulatory Board Member
Ar. Miguel C. Guerrero III, from the College of Architecture Class of 1979, has been appointed as a Member of the Professional Regulatory Board of Architecture. He took his oath before Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) Chair Hon. Charito Zamora, along with Commissioners Hon. Conrado Onglao and Hon. Erwin Enad, on November 17, 2025, at the PRC NCR Office in Eton Centris.
Ar. Guerrero is known for his advocacy in Green Architecture. Prior to his appointment, he served as Chair of the Technical Working Group for the Continuing Professional Development (CPD) for Green Architecture under the Professional Regulatory Board of Architecture. He also served as Chairman of Green Architecture Advocacy Philippines from 2011 to 2019.
An active member and Fellow of the United Architects of the Philippines, he also served as Executive Director for Professional Practice. Ar. Guerrero is likewise a registered APEC Architect and ASEAN Architect and has been the Managing Partner of Asian Architects since 1985.
The three-member Professional Regulatory Board of Architecture now includes two Thomasians, including its Chairman, Hon. Robert Mirafuente of Class 1983.
At the end of the debate, both doctors were able to effectively share their informed opinions, expertly articulate their thoughts, and passionately impart reflections on the ways medicine is taught over the years.
Prof. Eva Irene Yu-Maglonzo, MD, is the pedagogical lead and chair of the curriculum committee at the UST FMS, where she teaches classes including the Preventive, Family and Community Medicine courses. She has written several books, including The Filipino Family Physician; Geriatric Medicine: Principles and concepts; Practical Approach to Common Diseases; Family Medicine review, and served as associate editor of the Textbook in Family Medicine Vol 1 and 2. A prolific researcher, she has published research in medical education, family medicine and geriatric medicine in international and national journals. Aside from her academic pursuits, she is also a practicing Family Medicine physician.
Prof. Remedios Dee-Chan, MD, served as a strategic anchor for the FMS curriculum, having led the reforms that led to the attainment of high-stakes, standard recognitions, including the PAASCU and CHED Center of Excellence accreditations. She is also a researcher and veteran mentor at the FMS, where she was a former Assistant Dean, and taught countless students and junior academic staff. She is a practicing pediatric nephrologist.
Hon. Charito Zamora (left) administering the oath of Hon. Miguel Guerrero (right) [Photos courtesy of the Professional Regulation Commission]
(Top from left:) Commissioner Hon. Enad, Hon. Onglao, PRB ARC Chairman Hon. Mirafuente Front row from left: PRB ARC Member Hon. Guerrero, Chairperson Hon. Zamora, PRB ARC Member Hon. Laraya
PROFESSORIAL CHAIR FROM PAGE 6
UST CRS academic staff, alumni honored at PAOT and Research Awards 2025
Prof. Ivan Neil B. Gomez, Ph.D. (third from left) receives the Charlotte Floro Award of Merit for Education and Research during the PAOT Awards 2025, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to occupational therapy research and education
Assoc. Prof. Kim Gerald Medallon, Ph.D. (center), together with OT alumna Ms. Ma. Eula Natalia C. Bucu, OTRP (right) is recognized with the PAOT Outstanding Research Publication Award 2025 for their scholarly publication
Asst. Prof. Karen S. Sagun, M.S.O.T., M.R.S., O.T.R.P., O.T.R. (third from left) is conferred the Conchita Abad Award of Merit for Extension Service for her exemplary community-engaged initiatives and service leadership
Faculty members and alumni from the University of Santo Tomas (UST) College of Rehabilitation Sciences (CRS) Department of Occupational Therapy were recognized at the Philippine Academy of Occupational Therapists, Inc. (PAOT) Awards 2025 and the PAOT Outstanding Research Publication Awards 2025, held during the Academy’s 60th National Convention.
Prof. Ivan Neil B. Gomez, Ph.D., received the Charlotte Floro Award of Merit for Education and Research, a distinction given to occupational therapists who have demonstrated outstanding leadership in advancing research, scholarship, and pedagogical excellence. Dr. Gomez was recognized for his extensive contributions to occupational therapy education and his continued commitment to the development of evidence-informed practice within the profession.
Asst. Prof. Karen S. Sagun, M.S.O.T., M.R.S., O.T.R.P., O.T.R., was conferred the Conchita Abad Award of Merit for Extension Service for her exemplary work in community-based initiatives that promote inclusive, occupation-centered programs. Her service reflects the University’s mission of engaging communities through responsive and sustainable rehabilitation efforts.
In the PAOT Research Awards, Assoc. Prof. Kim Gerald Medallon, Ph.D., together with occupational therapy alumni Ms. Ma. Eula Natalia Bucu, O.T.R.P.; Mr. Antonio Gabriel Pantilla, O.T.R.P.; Mr. Erick Christian Pelagio; Ms. Enya Maxine Santiaguel; Ms. Fenela Serrano; and Ms. Hanzel Tuibeo, received the PAOT Outstanding Research Publication Award 2025. Their publication was recognized for its scholarly rigor, relevance to contemporary occupational therapy practice, and contribution to strengthening the local evidence base of the profession.
These awards highlight the Department’s continued pursuit of excellence in education, research, and community engagement, reaffirming UST’s leadership in shaping competent, compassionate, and research-driven occupational therapy professionals.
UST Tourism Management students, alumni excel at Y4TH 2025
The winners of the travel vlog competition
The University of Santo Tomas (UST) College of Tourism and Hospitality Management (CTHM) achieved notable success at the University of the Philippines Alumni Association’s Youth for Tourism and Hospitality (Y4TH) Conference on November 8, 2025, at Far Eastern University Manila. The College secured one championship and two first runner-up finishes across five competition categories.
The team composed of Kian Nil Adrienne Roxas, Jerssy T. Cruz, Reena Adriana V. Villariba, Luiza O. Odoño, and Kenneth Andrei Benito earned the University’s third consecutive championship in the Travel Vlog Competition. Under the guidance of Asst. Prof. Fredeswindo R. Medina, Asst. Prof. Maria Concepcion A. Ang, and Mr. Alec P. Bagcus, the team demonstrated strong skills in digital storytelling and video production, featuring the sustainable tourism aspects of the Municipality of Maragondon, Cavite.
BS Tourism Management alumni Ronwane Miykael A. Caidic, Angelica Ruby S. Calangi, Kirsten Jewel M. Chan, Pamela Bianca De Ocampo, and Nicole Ann Marie Torred placed first runner-up in the Tourism
Research Presentation. Their coaches—
Asst. Prof. Maria Concepcion A. Ang, Asst. Prof. Jame Monren T. Mercado, and Asst. Prof. Dennis D. Lemsic—guided the team in developing research that addresses current tourism challenges in Lake Sebu, South Cotabato.
The team of Anya Agatha Zoleta, Cyrus John Bayonito, Biala L. Cueto, Keziah Fritz G. Lazaraga, and Yassy Kane G. Lazaraga also secured a first runner-up finish in the Tourism Product Development category. Mentored by Asst. Prof. Dennis D. Lemsic, Mr. John Jerick C. Santos, and Mr. Arnulfo Ricardo A. Butiong, the team presented a multi-level, community-based ecotourism product for the Province of Apayao.
Representatives from UST CTHM also participated in other competitions at the conference, such as the Tourism StartUp and Tourism Marketing Campaign competitions. These achievements and participation reflect the Thomasian values of compassion, competence, and commitment. The University congratulates all participating students and coaches for their dedication and success in representing UST CTHM in this national competition.
The UST CTHM Tourism Research Presentation team
The Tourism Product Development team
Thomasians win multiple awards at international culinary competition in South Korea
The contestants together with one of the competition judges Chef Yen Koh
Senior Culinary Entrepreneurship students, alumni, and academic staff from the University of Santo Tomas (UST) College of Tourism and Hospitality Management (CTHM) proudly represented the Philippines and the University at the 9th Jeju Local Cuisine Competition and the World Association of Chefs Societies (WACS/Worldchefs) Culinary Competition in South Korea from October 31 to November 2, 2025.
In the individual categories, Amie Margaret Nazareno and John Anthony Sincero claimed Silver Awards for their respective dishes: an umami-rich pasta featuring succulent shrimp and mushrooms, elegantly garnished with basil breadcrumbs and king oyster mushrooms; and an herb-crusted chicken roulade paired with fondant potatoes, fresh local vegetables, and a rich hallabong-sesame reduction sauce. Meanwhile, Alan Jefri Macaraeg took home a Bronze Award for his pork dish: a pistachiocrusted Jeju black pork with delicate potato mille-feuille, fresh local vegetables, and a sweet and tangy blueberry gastrique.
In the team categories, multiple duos earned Bronze Awards for their culinary creations: Wendell Benedict Simon Atienza and Miguel Luis Rodriguez for their flounder crudo with pickled daikon fagottini, golden mustard sauce, and diced hallabong, paired with pan-
fried Jeju black pork belly with sweet potato mash, soy ssamjang glaze, and a local vegetable medley; Adrian Zapata and Earl Joshua Lipata for their grilled flounder paired with a crisp romaine salad, zesty hallabong vinaigrette, and spicy gochujang beurre blanc, alongside a main course of Hanwoo steak smothered in red wine mushroom sauce and paired with white kimchi stuffed with roasted eggplant, garnished with garlic sesame mash and crispy fried leeks; and Chef Ramona Olga Ko and Ms. Louise Orlane Reyes for their flounder en papillote paired with a hallabong emulsion, radish scales, and crispy carrot and sweet potato shoestrings, as well as their main course of smoked Jeju black pork served with smooth kimchi emulsion, citrusglazed potatoes, and a rich mushroom shrimp paste pâté that added depth to the dish.
The 9th Jeju Local Cuisine Competition and WACS Culinary Competition 2025, accredited by Worldchefs, brought together culinary experts from around the globe at Jeju Tourism University and Cheju Halla University. Organized by the Korea Chefs Association Jeju Chapter, this prestigious event promoted exceptional culinary skills, fostered cultural exchange, and uncovered innovative culinary talent.
Led by Competition Point Person Asst. Prof. Reinald Andaya, D.B.M.-H.M., C.H.E., C.G.S.P., the team’s outstanding performance
is a testament to CTHM’s commitment to excellence in tourism and hospitality management education, nurturing the next generation of industry leaders and innovators.
Rodriguez (left) and Atienza (right) preparing their entry dish
Nazareno finalizing her dish entry
Sustainable Cities Highlighted in UST - Philippine Daily Inquirer Talk
organizers,
and attendees
Ar. Freddy Bautista (fifth from left) and Ms. Jasmine Kho (sixth from left) receive their certificates and tokens of appreciation. Present with them are (from left:) Inquirer Product Development and Management Director Mr. Cris Canaria, Inquirer Marketing Director Ms. Dheza Paras, UST Office of Public Affairs (OPA) Assistant Ms. Shenine Pascual, UST OPA Director Ms. Michaella Lagniton, and Chief Operating Officer for Inquirer Digital Ms. Imee Alcantara
Students and experts from the field of architecture and urban development gathered together to discuss the possibilities of better city planning in one of the installments of the Inquirer Campus Talks, held in various universities and colleges around Metro Manila. For this installment, the University of Santo Tomas (UST) through the UST Office of Public Affairs, in collaboration with the Philippine Daily Inquirer, organized “Future-Ready Cities: Advancing Urban Development through Sustainability,” on November 25, 2025, where Ar. Freddy Bautista, principal architect and advocate of sustainable design, and GCash Assistant Vice President on Product Innovations Ms. Jasmine Kho shared their insights with students from the College of Architecture on building more sustainable and accessible cities, raising awareness towards improving the quality of life among Filipinos through knowledgesharing. [Photos Courtesy of Fotomasino - The Thomasian Photographers Guild]
The
speakers,
of PDI Campus Talks
UST CRS showcases research in 14th PPCR in Hong Kong
Students and academic staff from UST CRS
The University of Santo Tomas (UST) College of Rehabilitation Sciences (CRS) participated in the 14th PanPacific Conference on Rehabilitation (PPCR), held on November 8 and 9, 2025, at the InnoCentre in Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong. The biennial conference, hosted by The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, brought together rehabilitation professionals, educators, scholars, and students from across the Asia-Pacific region to discuss advancements under the theme “Innovations in Rehabilitation Sciences: Research, Education, and Knowledge Transfer.”
Representatives from the Departments of Physical Therapy (PT), Occupational Therapy (OT), and Sports Science (SPS) actively participated in the scientific program, presenting research, engaging in professional exchange, and contributing to regional discourse on contemporary rehabilitation practice.
The delegation from the UST PT Department earned notable recognition during the conference. A research team led by Ms. Cathleen Rose Pecson received the 2nd Best Poster Award for the study titled “Evaluation of the Quality of the Top 50 YouTube Videos of Stroke Exercises in the Philippines.” In addition, academic staff delivered oral presentations on emerging issues in rehabilitation science.
Acting Dean Prof. Donald Manlapaz, Ph.D., presented “The Mediating Role of Physical Activity and QOL in the Association between Knee-OA Related Symptoms and Physical Function of Post-COVID Patients: A Cross-sectional Study,” while Asst. Prof. Lyle Patrick Tangcuangco, M.S.P.T., presented “Concurrent Validity and Reliability of Human Critical Appraisal Tool and Document-Interacting AI Systems: A Pilot Study Using LBP Studies with a Focus on Stabilization Exercises.” Ms. Niña Althea Bañares also presented “Exploring E-portfolios of Students’ Reflections on Scaffolding: Pre-internship Program,” highlighting educational innovations within the department.
PT and SPS students contributed a wide range of poster presentations, including Ms. Justine Pe with “The Evaluation of the Academic Rotation of the Physical Therapy Program of UST CRS: A Mixed Methods Study”; Mr. CJ Rueben Soriano with “A Quantitative Study on the Quality and Reliability of Physical Therapy Exercise Videos for Knee OA on YouTube in the Philippines”; Ms. Cathleen Rose Pecson with “Evaluation of the Quality of the Top 50 YouTube Videos of Stroke Exercises in the Philippines”; and Ms. Sofia Brillantes with “Assessment of the Qualities and Practices
PPRC IN HONG KONG TO PAGE 13
Prof. Ivan Neil B. Gomez presents his paper
PPRC IN HONG KONG FROM PAGE 12
of UST CRS-Affiliated Physical Therapy Clinical Instructors: A Cross-sectional Study.”
Members of the PT and SPS academic staff also contributed to the poster presentations, including Asst. Prof. Karen Leslie Pineda, M.S.P.H., with “Weight Control Practices of Philippine National Wushu Sanda Athletes: A Qualitative Study”; Asst. Prof. Jocel Regino, M.S.P.T., with “The Effectiveness of Health Education Strategies on Knowledge and Behavior Scores of Individuals with Type 2 Diabetes in Preventing Foot Ulcers in Binangonan, Rizal: A Pilot Study”; and Dr. Catherine Joy Escuadra, Ph.D., with two studies: “Pre-vocational Program for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Scientometric and Scoping Review” and “Assessing the Quality and Accuracy of the Most Viewed YouTube Videos Related to Chronic Low Back Pain Management.”
The Department of Occupational Therapy also played an active role in the conference, with four faculty members presenting research aligned with current developments in occupational participation and education. Prof. Ivan Neil Gomez, Ph.D., presented “Empowering Future-Ready Occupational Therapy Students through an Innovative Online Evidence-Based Practice Training: A Mixed Methods Triangulation Study,” which examined how a fully online Evidence-Based Practice training program prepares occupational therapy students for evolving healthcare systems. The study demonstrated improvements in research competence and self-directed learning, strengthening students’ critical thinking and ability to bridge the gap between theory and practice.
Assoc. Prof. Kim Gerald Medallon, Ph.D., presented two complementary studies highlighting the role of occupational therapy in promoting social participation and long-term inclusion across different life stages. His first study, “Exploring Social Engagement During Mealtime Among Institutionalized Elderly Female Filipinos,” examined how mealtime functions as a meaningful social occupation within a residential aged care facility. Findings emphasized that social engagement during meals enhances nutritional intake, mood, and emotional connection, while structural factors such as seating arrangements and time constraints may either support or hinder participation. His second
Lectures and Conferences
study, “Exploration of Parents’ Reasons for Prevocational School Intervention Investment and Perceived Outcomes in Tarlac City, Philippines,” explored why parents invest in prevocational education for children with special needs and how they perceive its outcomes. Results revealed motivations grounded in opportunities for socialization, cost-efficient access to rehabilitation services, structured daily engagement, and institutional mandates. Parents reported outcomes centered on improved adaptive functioning, preparation for productive pursuits, and enhanced inclusion.
Asst. Prof. Nikka Karla Santos, O.T.D., examined the usability, clarity, and cultural appropriateness of the Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile among Filipino elderly women in residential care in her study, “The Utility of the Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile among Female Filipino Older Adults in a Residential Aged Care Facility in Metro Manila: A Qualitative Study.” The findings emphasized the need for linguistically adapted and culturally responsive sensory assessment instruments to ensure accurate evaluations and inclusive occupational therapy practice in geriatric settings.
Lastly, Ms. Maria Ruby Fariñas, M.F.L.C.D., presented “Thematizing Feasibility, Transferability, and Clinical Relevance Among Occupational Therapists in Metro Manila Using the Residential Environment Impact Scale (REIS) Version 4.0,” which investigated the use of REIS 4.0 among occupational therapists working with Filipino elderly women in residential aged care. The study reinforces the importance of objective environmental evaluation in supporting sound occupational therapy decision-making.
Collectively, these presentations reflect the Department’s sustained efforts to integrate research, education, and culturally responsive practice— strengthening occupational participation across the lifespan and positioning Filipino occupational therapy scholarship within global discourse.
OT Department academic staff, namely Asst. Prof. Allan James Tan, M.S.O.T.; Asst. Prof. Kathlene Anne Hernandez, M.H.P.E.D.; Mr. Jose Rafael Ramos, M.B.A.H., O.T.R.P.; Ms. Diane Lotho-Canlas, O.T.R.P.; and Prof. Gomez, also participated in the event, particularly in the scientific sessions and knowledgesharing activities, furthering discussions
on research collaboration and curriculum development.
The participation of UST CRS in the 14th PPCR reflects the College’s sustained commitment to excellence in research, global engagement, and professional leadership. Through highquality scientific outputs and active conference participation, the PT, OT, and SPS delegations contributed meaningfully to regional conversations on patient care, rehabilitation technology, educational innovation, and evidence-informed practice.
UST CRS continues to uphold its mission of producing competent, compassionate, and globally engaged rehabilitation professionals dedicated to improving health and participation across diverse communities.
Assoc. Prof. Kim Gerald Medallon presents his research on social engagements of elderly Filipino women
Asst. Prof. Nikka Karla Santos delivers her presentation related to female Filipino older adults in a residential aged care facility
Aguas of USTGS presents study at World Conference on Metaphysics in Rome
Prof. Jove Jim Aguas, Ph.D., of the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Graduate School (GS), shared the findings of his study at the 9th World Conference on Metaphysics held at the Ateneo Pontificio Regina Apostolorum (APRA) in Rome, Italy, on November 3 to 6, 2025.
Aguas, in his paper “The Relevance of St. Augustine’s Metaphysics to Artificial Intelligence,” stressed that St. Augustine’s metaphysics provides a philosophical framework for understanding the limitations of artificial intelligence (AI). He argues that while AI can be a powerful tool for extending human capabilities in the realm of practical knowledge (scientia), it cannot, from an Augustinian perspective, replicate the essential characteristics of human existence: wisdom (sapientia), selfawareness, moral responsibility, and free will. His thought reinforces the idea that there is an unbridgeable gap
between the computational power of a machine and the immaterial, spiritual nature of the human soul. This distinction, according to Aguas, remains a cornerstone of many philosophical and theological critiques of the idea of “conscious” or “sentient” AI.
The 9th World Conference on Metaphysics, themed “Science and Experience Open to the Absolute,” is an international platform that promotes interdisciplinary dialogue on the fundamental questions of existence, reality, and the human being. It brings together academics, researchers, and professionals from diverse disciplines such as philosophy, theology, science, education, and psychology in pursuit of academic exchange and development.
This year, the conference, organized by the Fundación Fernando Rielo, brought together
scholars from around the world to examine the relationship between metaphysics and science, technology, AI, and contemporary culture. The Prefect of the Dicastery for Culture and Education Cardinal José Tolentino de Mendonça delivered opening remarks during the first day, ultimately setting the tone for the four days of scholarly dialogue that concluded with closing messages from Archbishop Emeritus of Madrid His Eminence Most Rev. Carlos Cardinal Osoro Sierra and other prelates on the final day of the conference.
Apart from his engagement at the UST Graduate School, Aguas is also an academic staff member of the Department of Philosophy in the Faculty of Arts and Letters, a guest professor in the Faculty of Philosophy, and a researcher at the Research Center for Theology, Religious Studies, and Ethics.
Aguas (second from left) accompanied by Mr. Blaise D. Ringor, Ph.D. (left), Faculty of Philosophy Dean Rev. Fr. Christopher P. Garinganao, O.P., Ph.D. (fifth from left), and Rev. Fr. Felix F. delos Reyes, O.P., Ph.L.-M.A. (right)
Aguas sharing his findings
UST Architecture showcases student work at Quezon City flood summit
Participants checking the exhibit
The University of Santo Tomas (UST) College of Architecture participated in the 1st Quezon City Flood Summit, held at the Quezon City Meeting, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) Center. As part of the event, the College exhibited students’ works produced under the Ecological Planning and Design 1 (EPD1) course.
The Summit served as a knowledgesharing platform on flood resilience and the development of future-ready cities through science, engineering solutions, and urban planning. One of the panelists was renowned architect and environmental planner Felino Palafox Jr., an alumnus of the UST College of Architecture. The College was officially represented by Ar.
During the EPD1 course, students analyzed four different districts in Quezon City. Through observational assessments and informal discussions with residents, they identified disaster hotspots and mapped vulnerabilities. These activities culminated in the development of problem-solution matrices addressing the community’s specific issues and concerns.
Prior to the Summit, the College also organized an exhibit on November 7, 2025, in line with the celebration of National Environmental Planning Day. The exhibit was attended by officials from the Quezon City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office.
Ar./EnP. Jose Marie Tan and Ar./EnP. Annabelle Verdote during the summit
A representative from the College of Architecture guides the DRRMO delegation through the exhibits
Third from left: Ar./EnP. Felino Palafox, Jr.
Ar./EnP. Annabelle Verdote and Ar. Mark Angelico Santos showcase the outputs from the UST College of Architecture
Mark Angelico Santos, Ar./EnP. Jose Marie Tan, and Ar./EnP. Annabelle Verdote.
UST, partners host webinar on faith education in the age of AI
As questions about artificial intelligence (AI) continue to shape people’s daily lives, the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Research Center for Theology, Religious Studies, and Ethics and the UST Institute of Religion (IR) partnered with the Religious Educators Association of the Philippines (REAP) and De La Salle University (DLSU) to host a timely and forward-looking webinar titled “Theology, Religion, and AI” on November 29, 2025, via Zoom. The event was attended by religious educators from across the country.
The rapid rise of AI in classrooms, pastoral settings, and everyday communication has sparked both excitement and concern among religious educators. In their discussion, UST academic staff Mr. Ivan Efreaim Gozum and Dr. Jeff Clyde Corpuz of DLSU offered research-based and theologically grounded reflections on these emerging questions, providing clarity at a moment when the Church is called to evaluate both the promise and the peril of artificial intelligence.
On the same occasion, Prof. Arvin Eballo of UST IR, who also serves as President of REAP, launched the organization’s “Statement on AI, Religious Education, and the Catholic Faith,” which highlighted the “irreplaceable relationship between teacher and student at the heart of Catholic education.”
More than a mere academic discussion, the forum served as a pastoral and educational response to the demands of the present moment. As the Church continues to proclaim the Gospel in an everevolving digital world, conversations such as this webinar help ensure that innovation is guided by wisdom and that the Catholic faith remains at the heart of technological progress.
Gozum during his presentation
CTHM organizes City of Mabalacat Youth Heritage Forum
The University of Santo Tomas (UST) College of Tourism and Hospitality Management (CTHM) Department of Tourism Management, together with the UST Sentro Turismo, UST SIMBAHAYAN Community Development Office, and the class of 3TOM4 partnered with the City Government of Mabalacat, Pampanga, the Mabalacat City Tourism Office, Mabalacat City Youth Development Office, and the Mabalacat City College (MCC) in bringing together students, speakers, and cultural advocates to learn and honor the heritage of Mabalacat City in the event titled “Apag: Pagtanaw sa Kulturang Mabalacat, Pagbigay ng Ilaw sa Pinagmulang Tahanan” (Feast: Gazing into Mabalacat Culture, Illuminating our Homeland), held on November 7, 2025, at the Tabnuan Cultural Center.
Mabalacat City Youth Development Officer Ms. Lacel Ocampo Baluyut and City Tourism Officer Mr. Arwin Paul Alfonso Lingat formally opened the event, followed by an insightful message by UST CTHM Department of Tourism Management Chair Asst. Prof. Christine Concepcion C. Fajardo, M.S.H.R.M., C.G.S.P., reminding the youth of the crucial role of tourism in preserving and promoting culture. The participants were further inspired by MCC Institute of Hospitality and Tourism Management Dean Dr. Joven Ocampo and MCC President Dr. Sonny N. De Guzman through their messages that encouraged the youth towards taking active roles in preserving the country’s culinary heritage and expressed their appreciation for the city’s ongoing cultural growth.
MABALACAT YOUTH HERITAGE FORUM TO PAGE 18
Dean Granado shares words of inspiration to the youth
CRS students present their research at IMPETUS 2025
Members of the University of Santo Tomas (UST) College of Rehabilitation Sciences (CRS) actively demonstrated their support and participation at IMPETUS 2025: National Convention, held on November 22 and 23, 2025, at the Century Park Hotel in Manila.
UST CRS, represented by its administrators, academic staff, students, and alumni, contributed to various aspects of the convention, including its organization. Members of the organizing committee included Asst. Prof. Christian Rey D. Rimando, M.S.P.T., P.T.R.P.; Dr. Catherine Joy T. Escuadra, Ph.D., P.T.R.P.; Asst. Prof. Arlene Chiong-Maya, M.S.P.T., P.T.R.P.; Asst. Prof. Jocel M. Regino, M.S.P.T., P.T.R.P.; and Ms. Maria Eliza M. Dela Cruz, M.A.S.P.Ed., P.T.R.P., who contributed to event execution.
A major highlight of the convention was the plenary presentation of Assoc. Prof. Michael Jorge Peralta, M.Sc., M.S.P.T., LL.M., P.T.R.P., the 2025 PRC Outstanding Professional of the Year Awardee in Physical Therapy. His talk, “Translating the Action Points of WHO REHAB 2030 into Practice,” offered practical insights on strengthening rehabilitation systems, empowering communities, and building a responsive, future-oriented physical therapy profession grounded in equity and accessibility. Another notable plenary was delivered by Atty. Arthur Bhenedict K. King, P.T.R.P., a UST CRS alumnus, who discussed “Harnessing Networks
and Partnerships to Advance the Physical Therapy Profession.” His presentation emphasized the power of collaboration, intersectoral engagement, and collective advocacy in advancing the profession and expanding rehabilitation impact across the country.
The expertise of UST CRS academic staff was likewise showcased during the focused symposium titled “Environmental Physiotherapy and Sustainability: Integrating Teaching, Research, and Community Practice.” Speakers included Prof. Donald G. Manlapaz, Ph.D., P.T.R.P.; Asst. Prof. Zyra Mae V. Sicat, M.O.H., P.T.R.P.; and Asst. Prof. Mark Angel Serra, M.O.H., P.T.R.P., who emphasized the importance of ecological responsibility, climate-related health advocacy, and sustainable rehabilitation practices in shaping future physical therapy education and community work.
The convention also featured platform presentations from fourth-year Physical Therapy students, including: (1) “A Quantitative Study on the Quality and Reliability of Physical Therapy Exercise Videos for Knee OA on YouTube in the Philippines” by CJ Rueben Q. Soriano; (2) “The Effectiveness of PainFree Release Techniques and Gentle Passive Stretching in Improving Hamstring Flexibility Among Healthy University Students: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial” by Chloe Bernadette E. Limson; (3) “Barriers and Facilitators in Establishing and Operating Physical Therapy Clinics in the Philippines: A Descriptive Study” by Sean Matthew O. Tan; (4) “Evaluation of the Quality of the Top 50 YouTube Videos of Stroke Exercises in the Philippines” by Maria Cathleen Rose
T. Pecson; (5) “The Evaluation of the Academic Rotation of the Physical Therapy Program of the University of Santo Tomas College of Rehabilitation Sciences: A Mixed Methods Study” by Justine Teanna Y. Pe; (6) “Generative AI vs. Student: A Cross-Sectional Analysis of Critical Appraisals in Physical Therapy Research” by Zanji R. Teodosio; (7) “Experiences of Physical Therapists in Metro Manila in Conducting Environmental Assessments: A Qualitative-Descriptive Study” by Vince Joseph A. Solomon; and (8) “Exploring E-portfolios of Students’ Reflections on Scaffolding: Pre-internship Program” by Luis Miguel G. Oczon.
The convention also recognized the achievements of UST in research dissemination. Rimando received the Exemplary Presenter Award (Best Platform Presentation) for his study, “Disability Profiling in Rural Barangays of a Remote Island in the Philippines,” which examined disability prevalence, community rehabilitation needs, and service access gaps in geographically isolated areas. Meanwhile, physical therapy student Mr. Antonius Andrei L. Ledesma earned recognition as second runner-up for Best Poster Presentation for his research titled “Satisfaction of UST-CRS Students with the Quality of Blended Teaching and Learning in the Interprofessional Education Course for Academic Year 2025–2026: A Cross-Sectional Study.” His work contributes to innovations in physical therapy education by evaluating blended learning approaches that strengthen interprofessional collaboration.
IMPETUS 2025 TO PAGE 18
Rimando (fourth from left) is awarded Exemplary Presenter Award (Best Platform Presentation)
The series of talks began with Mr. Alex Del Rosario Castro, a local historian in Mabalacat City, who discussed the “Importance of Local History and Culinary Heritage.” His talk drew the audience’s attention to Mabalacat City’s historical roots while emphasizing the importance of preserving traditional culinary practices. Adding depth to the discourse, National Commission for Culture and the Arts Project Coordinator Ar. Jesuben Bongolan shared valuable insights on culture-based governance. His presentation broadened the participants’ understanding of cultural diversity and highlighted how heritage can serve as a foundation for local development and opportunity.
UST CTHM also offered homegrown insights through a talk by Sentro Turismo Associate for External Affairs Mr. Arnulfo Ricardo A. Butiong, M.M.C., C.P.M., sharing valuable perspectives on sustainable marketing of the culinary industry and emphasizing the authenticity of local foods and differentiating between sustainable and green marketing approaches.
The event also featured a special culinary demonstration by Chef Iann Yabut, demonstrating how to prepare the iconic Putong Babi, a beloved Mabalacat City delicacy from Lola Nor’s Meriendahan. The live cooking session not only celebrated the city’s rich food heritage but also illustrated how culture can be preserved through recipes handed down from one generation to another.
Through the speakers’ talks, interactive workshops, and engaging question-andanswer sessions, participants gained a deeper understanding of heritage, sustainability, and community. The culinary demonstration stood out as a memorable
Lectures and Conferences
highlight that connected everyone through culture and flavor.
Before the conclusion of the event, Mabalacat City Administrator Ms. Geraldine Bernardino and Mabalacat City Councilor Hon. Patricia Acorda delivered heartfelt messages that reinforced the importance of cultural appreciation and unity. The forum culminated with an inspiring closing message from UST CTHM Dean Prof. Atty. Gezzez Giezi G. Granado, D.C.L., C.H.E., who encouraged everyone to remain the guiding light that keeps Filipino culture and traditions alive and thriving.
IMPETUS 2025 FROM PAGE 17
IMPETUS 2025, organized by the Philippine Physical Therapy Association, Inc. (PPTA), carried the theme “Physical Therapy 2030: Leading Inclusive, Integrated, and Innovative Rehabilitation,” bringing together rehabilitation professionals nationwide for learning, collaboration, and innovation. The convention highlighted the evolving role of physical therapists in shaping future-ready, equitable, and patient-centered care.
Aligned with the WHO Rehabilitation 2030 agenda, the event aimed to strengthen physical therapy practice in the Philippines by promoting inclusive, integrated, and innovation-driven approaches, while cultivating leadership in education, research, policy-making, and communitybased rehabilitation.
Through its plenary sessions, scientific presentations, and networking activities, IMPETUS 2025 reinforced the vital role of physical therapists in clinical care, research, education, policy development, and community engagement. UST’s active participation reflects its continued commitment to excellence in rehabilitation science and in forming globally engaged, compassionate professionals.
MABALACAT YOUTH HERITAGE FORUM FROM PAGE 16
Ar. Bongolan (sixth from left) joined by the event organizers
A variety of local cuisine shared at the event
UST IR academic staff join 15th International Roundtable on media, religion, and spirituality in Asia
Academic staff from the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Institute of Religion (IR) proudly represented the University at the 15th International Roundtable themed, “The Media and Religion and Spirituality in Asia,” in Chiang Mai, Thailand on November 1 and 2, 2025. Organized by the Asian Research Center for Religion and Social Communication (ARC) of Saint John’s University Thailand in collaboration with the Payap University International College Department of Peace Studies, the conference gathered theologians, media practitioners, and researchers across the region to discuss the evolving intersections between faith, communication, and digital culture in the Asian context.
IR academic staff contributed to presentations that explored the transformative influence of digital media on faith, spirituality, and Catholic practice in the Philippines.
In their research presentation of “Rethinking the Influence of Digital Media in the Practice of Panaad sa Camiguin,” IR academic staff member Ms. Cristine Amontos-Calustre, together with Ms. Annaliza A. Reyes, Ms. Jessa Niña A. Babac, and Mr. Ariel T. Calustre, presented a thought-provoking study on how digital media reshapes traditional devotional practices such as Panaad sa Camiguin Their research emphasized the tension
between digital mediation and embodied religiosity, offering insights into how faith pilgrimages evolve in the digital age.
Sr. Melanie S. Reyes and Mr. Juegene R. Café examined the emerging concept of “virtual parishes” amid the post-pandemic digital era in their research “Virtual Catholic Parishes: A Feasible Reality?” Their paper explored how online communities may serve as legitimate spaces of worship and pastoral engagement, while also reflecting on the theological implications of digitally mediated ecclesial life.
In “Faith, Frames, and Feeds: A Media-Theological Look at the Passing of Pope Francis,” presented by Mr. John Mary M. Nuqui, Ms. Sarah Gail A. Ortiz, and Mr. Sir-Lien Hugh T. Tadeo, the paper offered a media-theological analysis of how digital platforms framed global Catholic mourning following the passing of Pope Francis. The team highlighted how digital narratives shape collective faith memory and mediate transnational expressions of grief.
In a related study titled, “Media as Mourner: The Death of Pope Francis and the Digital Ritualization of Grief,” Mr. Bryan B. Albia, Ms. Mariel B. Blanza, and Mr. Andrew Joseph S. Chanco explored how social media platforms became spaces for communal lament and ritual expression. Their paper analyzed how digital mourning practices reconfigured traditional Catholic
responses to loss and memorialization in the context of papal leadership.
Rounding up the list of IR’s presentations, the paper “Digital Media’s Power and Perils in Mobilizing Filipino Catholics Toward Greater Socio-Political Involvement” by Sr. Reyes, Mr. Joseph Albert D. Reyes, and Mr. Patrick Meryll J. Garcia investigated how digital platforms empower Filipino Catholics to engage in socio-political advocacy while also cautioning against the risks of misinformation and polarization. Their paper underscored the responsibility of faith-based digital citizenship in promoting justice and truth.
The participation of the IR academic staff underscored the Philippines’ active role in the broader Asian discourse on faith and communication. Their works collectively demonstrated how theology, media studies, and cultural analysis can intersect to illuminate new forms of religious life and pastoral engagement in a rapidly digitizing world.
As ARC continues its commitment to fostering dialogue between religion and social communication, the insights shared by the members of the IR academic staff have contributed significantly to deepening the conversation on how faith communities can adapt to and critically engage with the digital age while preserving their spiritual integrity and social mission.
UST IR academic staff at The Media and Religion and Spirituality in Asia conference
UST Theology Week 2025 celebrates 1700th Anniversary of Nicaea
The University of Santo Tomas (UST), through the Faculty of Theology, the Research Center for Theology, Religious Studies and Ethics, and the Institute of Religion, marked the 1700th anniversary of the convocation of the Council of Nicaea with a two-day academic conference, titled “Revisiting Nicaea: Context, Theology, Reception,” held on December 3 to 4, 2025, at the Frassati Auditorium of the Saint Pier Giorgio Frassati Building.
In his opening remarks, UST Rector Very Rev. Fr. Richard G. Ang, O.P., Ph.D. framed the entire celebration within the cultural and spiritual turbulence of the present moment. He warned that contemporary society is “surrounded by half-truths, manifold distractions, and the noise of conflicting ideologies amplified by technology and social media.”
Against this backdrop, he shared that Nicaea serves as a summons back to “the one true foundation of meaning and truth, the Son of our God, our Lord Jesus Christ.” Throughout its eight lectures, the conference explored this discussion on Christ’s divinity and the Church’s historical belief.
The conference’s keynote address was delivered by Archbishop Emeritus of Cotabato His Eminence Orlando B. Cardinal Quevedo, OMI. Cardinal Quevedo underscored Nicaea’s significance as the first ecumenical council and emphasized that the Nicene Creed remains both a proclamation and prayer.
“The Christian task,” he said, “is to proclaim to everyone what the New Testament, the faith of the early Church, and the Council of Nicaea have declared: Jesus Christ is Lord, the Son of God.”
By connecting doctrinal clarity with embodied discipleship, the keynote set the tone for the theological investigations that followed.
In the first plenary session, Fr. Czar Emmanuel Alvarez, O.S.A. traced the diverse and often speculative landscape of early understandings of Christ before the Council. He explained that before Nicaea, theological discussions unfolded within a “dogmatic vacuum,” producing multiple interpretations of Christ’s identity.
The plenary lecture delivered by UST Secretary-General Rev. Fr. Louie R. Coronel, O.P., E.H.L. traced Christianity’s rapid urban spread and social diversification, arguing that by the mid-third century it had become too widespread to suppress.
Constantine, Fr. Coronel explained, recognized religious unity as essential to imperial stability. Declaring Christianity as the state religion thus emerged from political pragmatism, even as it intersected with deeper spiritual currents.
Faculty of Theology Dean and ViceRector for Research and Innovation Rev. Fr. Jannel N. Abogado, O.P., D.Th.Pat. Sc. closed the first day by analyzing the term Homoousios, a term that has come to define the Council throughout history. Fr. Abogado emphasized that the Creed reflects divine Philanthropia, a God who is not distant, but who dwells with and within humanity.
Opening the second day, Rev. Fr. Cecilio Vladimir Magboo, O.P., explored the Council’s ecumenical significance in the search for Christian unity today. He argued that, despite diverse creeds across Christian traditions, Nicaea remains a key reference point for dialogue. Its teachings provide the basis for theological agreements and mutual recognition of
THEOLOGY WEEK 2025 TO PAGE 21
Cardinal Quevedo delivering his keynote address
(from left:) UST Rector Very Rev. Fr. Richard G. Ang, O.P., Ph.D., Archbishop Emeritus of Cotabato His Eminence Orlando B. Cardinal Quevedo, OMI, UST Vice-Rector for Research and Innovation Rev. Fr. Jannel N. Abogado, O.P., D.Th.Pat.Sc.
Baybado of UST GS contributes to interfaith, synodality discussions in Asia
University of Santo Tomas Graduate School Theology Program Lead Prof. Pablito Baybado, Jr., Ph.D. shared his insights on synodality as a speaker and co-facilitator in Thailand and Sri Lanka last September and November 2025, respectively.
In the High Level Multireligious Forum for Peace and Reconciliation towards Shared Sacred Flourishing held at Colombo, Sri Lanka on November 3, 2025, Baybado co-facilitated the forum where senior religious leaders, women’s representatives, and youth representatives from various religious traditions, together with key government officials, discussed and reflected on the pressing issues, challenges, and concerns for peace and reconciliation in Sri Lanka, and discerned the significant role of multi-religious cooperation in addressing these concerns.
Organized by the Sri Lankan Council of Religions for Peace (SLCRP), in collaboration with the Religions for Peace (RFP) Asia, and RFP International, this interreligious dialogue offered the necessary inclusion that “empower[s] women and youth as key stakeholders in the multi-religious collaboration and national unity building,” according to the SLCRP Multi-Religious Statement of Commitment. In the words of Bishop Valence Mendis, Bishop of the Diocese of Kandy, “genuine dialogue entails the mutual respect for each religion and a sincere cooperation to be able to help the poor and marginalized.
Apart from his role as co-facilitator during the forum, Baybado also serves as the Associate Secretary General of RFP Asia, joining the international team composed of RFP International Deputy Secretary General Ms. Deepika Singh and RFP Asia Secretary General Rev. Dr. Yoshinori Shinohara.
Prior to the forum, the international team conducted separate bilateral meetings with the Archbishop of Colombo His Eminence Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith and Sri Kalyāni Sāmagridharma
THEOLOGY WEEK 2025 FROM PAGE 20
baptism, enabling churches to move closer to unity.
In the fifth plenary lecture, UST Central Seminary Acting Rector Rev. Fr. Clarence Victor Marquez, O.P., demonstrated how deeply biblical the Nicene Creed is, exposing how it is structured through a Trinitarian pattern, offering direct quotations that show how the Creed is shaped by the same grammar of the Bible.
Renowned molecular biologist Rev. Fr. Nicanor Pier-Giorgio Austriaco, O.P., delivered the sixth lecture, where he showed how medieval theologians such as Thomas Aquinas and Bonaventure engaged Nicaea’s doctrinal heritage. Both thinkers, Fr. Austriaco noted, upheld the centrality of the Trinity and demonstrated that theological plurality is possible as long as it remains faithful to the core contours established by authoritative readings of Scripture.
Baybado (right) sharing his insights at the forum
Mahāsaṇghasabhā Kotte Chapter Anunayaka (Deputy Chief Prelate) and Chief Secretary and SLCRP President Most. Ven. Prof. Kotapitiye Rahula Anunayaka Thero.
In a separate engagement, Baybado presented his study on the “Reception of the Synodal Pathway Across Asia” at the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conference (FABC) Bishops’ Seminar on Synodality from September 22 to 26, 2025, in Sampran, Thailand. The event reflected on the intersection of the Final Document of the Synod on Synodality and the Bangkok Document, the final statement of the FABC 50 General Conference, and discerned common actions to make the churches in Asia synodal.
Baybado shared survey results on the implementation of the synodal pathway in the different dioceses of the episcopal conferences. In terms of impact, the study indicates that synodality has initiated renewal and transformation in the local churches, fostering a more participatory and listening church, which strengthened the Church’s missionary character.
The final plenary address was presented by Rev. Fr. Virgilio Ojoy, O.P. He focused on Basil of Caesarea’s experiential approach to the Trinity, explaining how Basil’s thoughts enriched the Nicene tradition and shaped the Council of Constantinople’s affirmation of the Holy Spirit as “Lord and Giver of Life.”
The conference, which took place a few days after Pope Leo XIV visited the original site of ancient Nicaea in what is today Iznik, Türkiye, situated the Council of Nicaea within its historical context and examined its theological developments and contemporary relevance.
The event, which also coincides with the 15th Leonardo Legaspi, O.P., Lectures and the St. Thomas Aquinas Forum, gathered around 300 priests, nuns, theologians, seminarians, and religious educators across disciplines to revisit the First Ecumenical Council’s enduring authority in Christian life and doctrine.
While it showed various initiatives such as synodal formation, establishment of new synodal structures, and wider ecumenical and interreligious partnership in realizing social missions, the study also showed that slow dissemination, cultural, social, and religious constraints, and resistance to change and entrenched hierarchies are key challenges in the implementation of synodality.
Besides structural implementations such as synodal teams at all levels, parish vitality and witnessing as well as contextualization of synodality are considered key elements in overcoming the
SYNODALITY DISCUSSIONS TO PAGE 22
UST GS Students present papers in PAP 2025 Midyear Conference
Mr. Garcia presenting his paper
University of Santo Tomas Graduate School (GS) students Mr. Bryan Patrick Garcia and Mr. Dan Joseph Guillermo participated in the Philosophical Association of the Philippines’ (PAP) Midyear Conference, with the theme “Philosophy at the Frontlines: AI, Sustainability, and the Struggle for Inclusive Progress” held at the University of San Carlos in Cebu City from November 19 to 21, 2025.
SYNODALITY DISCUSSIONS FROM PAGE 21
aforementioned challenges to pursue the missionary synodal character of the churches in Asia.
The seminar was organized by the FABC Office of Synodal Transformation tasked to implement the Synod on Synodality at the continental level. The participants include the presidents of the Bishops’ Conferences and chairmen and executive secretaries of the FABC Offices. Resource speakers included FABC Vice President and outgoing Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) President His Eminence Pablo Virgilio S. Cardinal David, D.D., who spoke on “Correlating the Synod’s Final Document with the Bangkok Document,” and Metropolitan Archbishop of Lipa, Batangas and incoming CBCP President Most Rev. Gilbert A. Garcera, D.D., on “Leadership in a Synodal Church in Asia.”
Baybado’s participation in these international engagements further strengthen the University’s presence in building a synodal community around the world.
Mr. Guillermo presenting his paper
Garcia presented his paper titled “Suffering and the Ethics of Cohabitation,” which critically examined the ethical implications of narratives on suffering in the contemporary world. By examining the works of Judith Butler and Emmanuel Levinas, Garcia underscores that removing meaning from suffering entails reorganizing narratives of responsibility and ethics.
Meanwhile, Guillermo’s paper, “Man’s
Place in the Age of Artificial Intelligence: A Critical Valuation of Artificial Intelligence in Max Scheler’s Discourse on Life and Spirit,” discussed the human person’s special place in the cosmos amid the rapid development of AI. This paper aims to provide a strong ground for a distinct recognition of humanity despite the intellectual mimicry offered by advanced AI.
Alipao highlights UST’s AraLinkCoD Service-Learning Model at VI Uniservitate Global Symposium
The University of Santo Tomas (UST) SIMBAHAYAN Community Development Office Director, Asst. Prof. Froilan A. Alipao, M.C.D., represented the University at the VI Uniservitate Global Symposium, held at the KU-Zentren und Zentralinstitute (Centers and Central Institutions at KU) of the Katholische Universität Eichstätt-Ingolstadt [Catholic University of Eichstätt-Ingolstadt (KUEI)].
The symposium, themed “Service-Learning in a Fragile World: Universities Nourishing Peace and Hope,” was held on November 6 and 7, 2025, and was organized by the Latin American Center for Solidarity Service-Learning, in partnership with KUEI, as well as the Central and Eastern Europe and Middle East regional hubs of Uniservitate.
During the event, Alipao engaged in one of the parallel sessions, where he presented service-learning activities conducted by the University during the session titled “Education and Promotion of
presentation
Peace and Citizenship: Service-Learning as a Pathway to Active Citizenship and Conflict Transformation.”
Titled “Service-Learning/AraLinkCoD: A Sharing of the University of Santo Tomas
ARALINKCOD TO PAGE 23
Asst. Prof. Alipao during his
Lectures and Conferences
organizers
ARALINKCOD FROM PAGE 22 (Manila, Philippines),” Alipao highlighted the University’s outstanding achievements and potential in the field of servicelearning as a method of education and the promotion of peace, citizenship, and conflict transformation. He also shared information on the Social Transformation Theoretical Framework, TOMAS Social Transformation Strategies (Training, Organizing, Management, Advocacy/ Research, Spirituality of Transformation), and the Nine Social Transformation Programs. These Social Transformation
Programs included a total of 186 servicelearning projects for Academic Year 2023–2024 and 211 service-learning projects for Academic Year 2024–2025.
Furthermore, with service-learning persisting as an integral part of the school curriculum, Alipao shared that the University, drawing inspiration from the Salamanca New World Process, established its own service-learning trademark named AraLinkCoD (ServiceLearning Linking with Communities for Development). This inspiration remains a
vital resource that strengthens, develops, and sustains the service-learning praxis framework.
UST is an official member of Uniservitate, an organization that promotes service-learning in Catholic higher education institutions, and is part of the Asia-Oceania Regional Hub alongside other Catholic universities in the Philippines (De La Salle University, De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde, Ateneo de Davao University, University of San Carlos, University of San Agustin, etc.) and the region.
Asst. Prof. Alipao (front, rightmost) together with onsite participants and
from Uniservitate
UST, SUTS officials discuss potential collaborations on research, innovation
Research and innovation administrators from the University of Santo Tomas (UST) visited Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak (SUTS) Campus in Malaysia on November 27 and 28, 2025 to explore points of collaboration and partnerships. The UST delegation was led by the Office of the Vice-Rector for Research and Innovation’s Executive Assistant for Intellectual Property and Research/Innovation Technology Support Office (ITSO) Manager Assoc. Prof. Michael Jorge N. Peralta, M.Sc., M.S.P.T., Ll.M. The delegation was warmly received by SUTS Pro Vice Chancellor and Chief Executive Office Ir. Prof. Lau Hieng Ho. The visit included several meetings focused on strengthening research collaborations through joint projects.
Other members of the UST delegation included TOMASInno Center (TIC) Manager Engr. Celso Noel D. Aban, M.Entrep., TIC Assistant Manager Prof. Michael Francis D. Benjamin, Ph.D., Research Center for Natural and Applied Sciences Director Prof. Bernard John V. Tongol, Ph.D., and Executive Assistant to the UST Manila Annex in Santa Rosa City Asst. Prof. Seigfred V. Prado, Ph.D.
During the discussions, both UST and SUTS engaged in a collaborative and insightful exchange on research management, innovation ecosystems, and technology commercialization. As SUTS is currently developing its own technology business incubator, the ITSO and TIC administrators presented the development journey and operational frameworks of their respective offices. At the same time, SUTS leaders shared their institutional strategies, priority research areas, and ongoing efforts to strengthen industry engagement. This two-way sharing allowed both institutions to reflect on their practices, identify complementary strengths, and explore opportunities to co-develop programs, access external funding, and jointly pursue impactful research and innovation initiatives.
UST and SUTS are currently finalizing a Memorandum of Understanding to formalize this growing partnership, which will include student and academic staff mobility programs.
A group photo of the delegation involved in the benchmarking activity
Delegates from UST and SUTS exchange ideas on research and innovation
EHEF 2025 opens overseas learning opportunities with assistance from UST, partner universities
Academics, researchers, and students gather for opportunities to study abroad for the European Higher Education Fair (EHEF) 2025 held in Robinsons Manila from November 21, 22, and 24, 2026. Over 90 participating European higher education institutions, cultural agencies, and embassies gathered in one venue to provide study opportunities for Filipino scholars onsite and virtually.
During the opening program of the fair, EU Ambassador to the Philippines His Excellency Massimo Santoro emphasized the shared commitment of the EU and the Philippines in advancing education, while commending the dedication, creativity, and global outlook of Filipino students who enrich the academic community in the EU with their perspectives.
The University of Santo Tomas (UST), through the Office of Public Affairs, maintains its partnership with the Delegation of the European Union (EU) in the Philippines as a regional hub in the National Capital Region for its second consecutive year. Consequently, the University hosted the business cluster online information session on November 24, where business schools in the EU share their opportunities with those interested in furthering their studies outside of the Philippines. Representatives from NEOMA Business School in France, Babeș-Bolyai University in Romania, Hanken School of Economics in Finland, and Turība University in Latvia presented during the Zoom session
EHEF 2025 TO PAGE 26
(From left:) The UST Office of Public Affairs Director Ms. Michaella Lagniton, His Excellency Massimo Santoro, Ambassador of the European Union in the Philippines, Office Assistant Ms. Shenine Pascual, and Senior Writer Ms. Christie Cruz
(From left:) UST Office of Public Affairs Director Ms. Michaella Lagniton, CHED Chair Dr. Shirley Agrupis, QS/THE Rankings Deputy Director Engr. Nestor Ong, and Modern Languages Department Chair Asst. Prof. Royce Lim
UST Publishing House celebrates SINAG 2025 filled with excerpt readings, book signing
The University of Santo Tomas (UST) Publishing House (PH) celebrated its newest titles with its annual collective book launch, SINAG Festival: The USTPH Grand Book Launch, held on November 25, 2025 at the Dr. Robert C. Sy Grand Ballroom of the Bl. Buenaventura Garcia Paredes, O.P. (BGPOP) Building.
The book launch featured 31 titles from the current academic year from a vast array of genres—from literary, scholarly, poetry to prose. These are works of award-winning writers including Augusto A. Aguila and Joselito B. Zulueta, Lourd de Veyra, National Artist for Literature Cirilo F. Bautista, Cristina Pantoja Hidalgo, Merlie M. Alunan, Ivan A. Labayne, Rev. Fr. Nicanor Pier Giorgio Austriaco, O.P., John Jack G. Wigley, Ting PantojaMañalac, José Duke Bagulaya, Lino N. Baron, Teo T. Antonio, Jim Libiran, Simeon Dumdum, Jr., Rev. Fr. Winston F. Cabading, O.P., Chuck D. Smith, Rina Angela Corpus, Paolo A. Bolaños, Joel M. Toledo and Pancho Alvarez, Chuckberry J. Pascual, Ralph Semino Galán, Rev. Fr. Roberto L. Luanzon, Jr., O.P., Eileen R. Tabios, Mark Anthony Cayanan, Maynard Manansala, Alyza Taguilaso, Ronaldo Bernales, Charlie Samuya Veric, and Rev. Fr. Fausto Gómez, O.P.
reads poems from her debut poetry collection Juggernaut
reads excerpts from his newest book
(top row from left:) Ms. Natalia Boltovskaia from the Hanken School of Economics; Ms. Melinda Szmutku from the Babeș-Bolyai University; (bottom row from left:) Ms. Min Wu from NEOMA Business School, and Office of Public Affairs Assistant Director and program Moderator, Ms. Katherine Patrice B. Sibug
(From left): UST OPA Layout Artist Mr. Kennett Roger T. Garcia, UST OPA Assistant Director Ms. Katherine Patrice B. Sibug, M.Eng., EU in the Philippines Public Affairs Officer Ms. Thelma Gecolea, UST OPA Director Ms. Michaella O. Lagniton, M.A.
moderated by UST Office of Public Affairs Assistant Director Ms. Katherine Patrice B. Sibug, M.Eng., where they shared admission and internationalization details to the online attendees. In this shared endeavor with the EU Delegation in the Philippines, UST maintains its commitment in building lifelong learners, opening opportunities to those who wish to further pursue their careers through overseas studies.
Taguilaso
Carlos
EHEF 2025 FROM PAGE 25
SINAG 2025 TO PAGE 31
Engkanto in the Diaspora
Author: Eileen R. Tabios
About the book: Enchanting and oftentimes incantatory, Engkanto in the Diaspora haunts with a voice that is both ravishing and ravished, a buzzing, restless entity whose porosity delightfully knows no bounds in the face of memory and the sensory world. This new collection takes the reader across landscapes of nostalgia, racial identity, sexuality, diaspora, and history in the poet’s assured yet unpredictable craft. Hailed as one of the foremost Filipino-American poets of the 21st Century, Tabios is the author of over 70 books of poetry, fiction, essays, art, and experimental writing.
Year: 2025
Category: Poetry
Language: English
Page count: 92
Word count: 9,685
Dimensions: 15 x 23 cm
ISBN: 978-971-506-956-4
Keywords: Eileen R. Tabios, diaspora, Filipino-American poets
Retail price: ₱300.00
She-Devil
Author: Isabel Cabal
About the book: She-Devil was made in the interest of repetition that easily slips from memory: women simply cannot rest. Isabel Cabal retells the modern Filipina story over and over, as if in every turn there is a socially revered obstruction to seeing value in any woman’s actions.
Year: 2025
Category: Poetry
Language: English
Page count: 80
Word count: 9,520
Dimensions: 15 x 23 cm
ISBN: 978-971-506-960-1
Keywords: Women empowerment, womanhood, contemporary poetry
Retail price: ₱280.00
Mga Bubuyog na Nagkumpulan
Author: Chuckberry J. Pascual
About the book: Ang Mga Bubuyog na Nagkumpulan ay ang bagong edisyon ng siklo ng kuwento tungkol kina Gabriel at Alejandro na unang nabasa sa Kumpisal (USTPH, 2015) at Hindi Ito Romansa (SWF-UPD, 2020). Tungkol ito sa dalawang tauhan na paulit-ulit nagtatagpo sa iba-ibang mundo, sa iba’t ibang pakikipagsapalaran, at tanging pagnanasa nila ang hindi nagbabago. Tampok sa aklat na ito ang mga dibuho ni Kristoffer Brasileño.
About the book: The Gathering Bees features the story cycle across different worlds between Gabriel and Alejandro, two beings who are themselves constantly changing and persevering—there is uncertainty in their quest, and often, the only truth they hold onto is their desire. The book features cover art created in oil paint, accompanied by nine graphite illustrations for each story, all done by Iloilo-based artist Kristoffer Brasileño.
About the book: Water Divides is a new collection of short-form personal essays by the author of The Holy Wife (USTPH, 2022). The essays share the wisdom and savvy of a mature woman gained from an eventful life spent here and abroad. It combines diasporic experiences, slices of life, words of wisdom, and “senior stories.” Water Divides is the voice of attention—of an intelligent soul catapulting out to the stars, zooming into words, restless in the face of strife, and yet all contained in stillness.
Year: 2025
Category: Essays
Language: English
Page count: 228
Word count: 50,598
Dimensions: 13 x 20 cm
ISBN: 978-971-506-959-5
Keywords: Personal essays, reflections, migration, nostalgia Retail price: ₱650.00
The Travel Bug: Essays of Journey and Memory
Author: John Jack G. Wigley
About the book: The Travel Bug is a heartfelt, humorous, and introspective collection of essays that explores the complexities of travel, identity, and the human experience. Through his journeys, Wigley navigates the spaces between cities, cultures, and versions of himself, crafting a poignant exploration of memory, family, love, and loss. What resonates throughout the book is the author’s unapologetic embrace of sentiment, tempered with irony and wit. It is a book of relationships in the guise of a travelogue.
About the book: In Son of a Dead ’80s Bold Star, award-winning essayist and pop culture writer Chuck D. Smith explores a life defined by a lie: he was raised to believe he was the biological son of Pepsi Paloma, a controversial ’80s Philippine actress who died tragically in her teens. This collection of personal essays and entertainment reportages chronicles Smith’s journey to make sense of this inherited identity, detailing the grief, joys, and self-discovery he experienced while navigating the exciting and tumultuous world of Philippine show business.
Year: 2025
Category: Essays
Language: English
Page Count: 140
Word Count: 35,079
Dimensions: 14 x 21 cm
ISBN: 978-971-506-958-8
Keywords: Chuck D. Smith, Pepsi Paloma, Philippine show business
Retail Price: ₱400.00
Regarding the Face of Others: Social Difference
and Inhuman Sympathy
Author: Charlie Samuya Veric
About the book: Regarding the Face of Others examines the extraordinary meanings that arise from experiences of abjection in modern life, including racialization, disfiguration, and dehumanization. In this utterly original and discipline-defying book, Charlie Samuya Veric takes a long hard look at defacements that result from social difference to imagine alternative ways of human becoming. Veric is Vice Chair of the Humanities Division of the National Research Council of the Philippines and Founding Director of the Literary and Cultural Studies Program at the Ateneo de Manila University.
Year: 2025
Category: Cultural Studies
Language: English
Page count: 325
Word count: 86,504
Dimensions: 15 x 23 cm
ISBN: 978-971-506-957-1
Keywords: Charlie Samuya Veric, literary criticism, social science
Retail Price: ₱1,000.00
Interdisciplinary Legal Studies: Philippine Constitutional Law, International Law, and the Humanities
Author: José Duke Bagulaya
About the book: Interdisciplinary Legal Studies gathers scholarship at the intersections of Philippine constitutional law, international law, and the humanities. It presents ways in which interdiscipline has broadened legal scholarship, reshaping styles of argumentation and transforming images of thought into new and unpredictable forms.
Year: 2025
Category: Social Sciences
Language: English
Page count: 492
Word count: 159, 568
Dimensions: 15 x 23 cm
ISBN: 978-971-506-951-9
Keywords: Legal studies, law and literature, philosophy
Retail price: ₱1,000.00
On-Air Na! Pinoy News Anchors Live!: A Guidebook on News Anchoring in Philippine Media
Author:
Jose Maria G. Carlos
About the book: The first of its kind in the Philippines, On-Air Na! Pinoy News Anchors Live! surveys the current landscape of news anchoring in the country, stretching from the teleprompter to Tiktok. As collaborative as the newsroom itself, the book features contributions and soundbites from 31 leading practitioners in the field, shedding light on what journalists think of AI, news influences, the controversial Discaya interviews, and the challenges they face, including the shutdown of CNN Philippines and ABS-CBN’s free-to-air broadcast.
Year: 2025
Category: Journalism
Language: English Page count: 364
Word count: 114,451
Dimensions:15 x 23 cm
ISBN: 978-971-506-966-3
Arte del Idioma Bisaya-Hiligaino
Author: Most Reverend Fray Mariano Cuartero, O.P.
Translator: Jenny L. Ortuoste (†) Editor: Alice Sun-Cua
About the book: Arte del Idioma Bisaya-Hiligaino, authored by the Most Reverend Fray Mariano Cuartero, O.P., the first Bishop of the Diocese of Jaro, was first printed in 1878 at the Establecimiento Tipográfico del Colegio de Santo Tomás in Manila. It stands as one of the earliest and most valuable grammatical studies of the Hiligaynon language. This republication honors his memory and rekindles appreciation for the deep connection between language, culture, and faith.
Thomism in the University of Santo Tomas: Nineteenth and Twentieth Centuries
Author: Jannel N. Abogado, O.P. (Editor)
About the book: The first volume in the new Studies on Thomas Aquinas in Asia series, Thomism in the University of Santo Tomas: Nineteenth and Twentieth Centuries articulates UST’s profound roots in the teachings and tradition of its patron, St. Thomas Aquinas, by tracing the origins of Thomism at the University, analyzing the works of four key Thomists from the UST during the 19th and 20th centuries, and exploring the enduring relevance of Aquinas’ ideas in today’s post-truth world, characterized by diversity and plurality of perspectives.
Year: 2025
Category: Theology
Language: English
Page count: 348
Word count: 116,701
Dimensions: 15 x 23 cm
ISBN: 978-971-506-967-0
Keywords: St. Thomas Aquinas, Thomism, Thomasian Thomists
Retail price: ₱960.00
Mysteries of the Rosary: A Meditative Coloring Book
Author: Fr. Edgardo D. Alaurin, OP, SThD
Illustrator: Jaime de los Santos
Year: 2025
Category: Coloring book
Page count: 48
Dimensions: 22 x 30 cm
Presentation of titles with USTPH authors
The launch also unveiled three new titles: “OnAir Na! Pinoy News Anchors Live!: A Guidebook on News Anchoring in Philippine Media” by Jose Maria G. Carlos, “The Travel Bug: Essays of Journey and Memory” by John Jack G. Wigley, “Mga Bubuyog na Nagkumpulan” by Chuckberry J. Pascual, and its English translation, “The Gathering Bees” by Ralph Semino Galán.
The launch commenced with a formal presentation of titles, followed by the introduction of authors and reading of excerpts from their respective books.
The event ultimately celebrated 432 years of La Imprenta de los Dominicanos de Manila, now known in its current form as the UST Publishing House, and honored the contributions of our authors to the literary and academic landscapes and celebrated the continued light of Thomasian publishing.
Post-event book signing with Chuck D. Smith (fourth from left) and Center for Creative Writing and Literary Studies Co-Director
Prof. Augusto Antonio A. Aguila, Ph.D. (seated)
SINAG 2025 FROM PAGE 26
PH-Spain Networking Seminar
The University of Santo Tomas, through the Office of International Relations and Programs (OIRP), recently hosted the Philippine-Spain Networking Seminar, organized by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), the Embassy of Spain, and the Spanish Service for the Internationalisation of Education (SEPIE). Featured in the event were the Education Adviser of the Embassy of Spain in the Philippines Ms. Beatriz Jimeno Ortas (fifth from left), who was welcomed by Office of Public Affairs Director Ms. Michaella O. Lagniton, OIRP Director Dean Emeritus Prof. Lilian J. Sison, Ph.D., and OIRP Associate Director Prof. Karen S. Santiago, Ph.D.
Visit of Prof. Dr. Dong Hwan Kim of Seoul National University of Science and Technology
The Seoul National University of Science and Technology officials, led by President Prof. Dr. Dong Hwan Kim (center, first row), together with Dr. Eunice Mareth Q. Areola, Director for Academic Affairs of the UST Angelicum College (second from left, first row), visited the University of Santo Tomas on November 29, 2025. They were welcomed by Office of Public Affairs Director Ms. Michaella O. Lagniton (first from left, first row).
ASEAN Youth
UniSA College of Science Dean for International Engagements
International participants of the University of South Australia’s international mobility program with the UST Faculty of Pharmacy were welcomed to the University of Santo Tomas campus on November 7, 2025. The group was led by UniSA College of Science Dean for International Engagements Dr. Matthew Sykes (third from left, bottom row). Accompanying the group are members of the Faculty of Pharmacy (bottom row) academic staff Ms. Prima de Jesus, International Relations Officer Asst. Prof. Joemarie T. Malana, and (fifth from left, bottom row) Department of Pharmacy Program Chair, Prof. Franelyn P. Casuga, Ph.D. The group was welcomed by Office of Public Affairs Assistant Director Ms. Katherine Patrice B. Sibug (fifth from left, middle row).
Attendees of the 2025 ASEAN Literacy Summit visited the University of Santo Tomas on November 7, 2025, as part of their itinerary for campus visits, with the University as one of the partner institutions. They had a tour of the campus led by Office of Public Affairs (OPA) Assistant Director Ms. Katherine Patrice Sibug and OPA Secretary Mr. Mac Abaya.
Visit of Fr. Jun Gui Choi
The Catholic University of Korea (CUK) President Fr. Jun-gui Choi, PhD, accompanied by officials of CUK, paid a courtesy visit upon the University of Santo Tomas Rector Very Rev. Fr. Richard G. Ang, O.P., Ph.D., on November 26, 2025, reaffirming both partner universities’ shared mission of quality Catholic education. The guests were welcomed by the UST Office of International Relations
Associate Director Prof. Karen Santiago, PhD, and Office of Public Affairs Assistant Director Ms. Katherine Patrice Sibug.
