UST is shining! Paskuhan season begins with a glow
By: John Benedict Cabrera
UST marked the commencement of Paskuhan festivities, igniting the Thomasian Christmas spirit with the lighting ceremony and the annual Christmas Concert Gala last Friday, December 1, at Plaza Mayor.
The lighting ceremony inaugurated the Paskuhan season with the theme: “Witnessing the Joy of Christmas.” This year’s motif was inspired by the characters and elements of the video game “Super Mario.” The campus was filled with mystery boxes that can be found in the Plaza Mayor, Quadricentennial Park among others. The Arch of the Centuries was also illuminated with green and red highlights, and decorated with superstars. Moreover, the Lover’s Lane was filled with cloud-like decorations. The Christmas tree can also be seen beside the grandstand.
Rev. Fr. Roberto L. Luanzon, Jr., OP, Asst. Prof. Mary Christie D. Que, MS, LPT, and Assoc. Prof. Gezzez Giezi G. Granado, DCL, led the rite of blessing and Eucharistic celebration to formally commence the lighting of the campus.
“[…] just a single lamp can light up an entire room. Our collective effort can transform our campus into a beacon of inspiration and learning,” said Fr. Luanzon.
This year’s lighting ceremony was graced by Ms. May Certina-Parsons, the UST nurse alumna renowned for administering the world’s first COVID-19 vaccine.
“From Intramuros to Sampaloc; from Sampaloc to Santa Rosa and General Santos, Thomasians spread the light to the world,” she said.
Afterwards, the traditional Christmas Concert Gala was held at the Buenaventura Garcia Paredes, O.P. Building. The concert kicked off with the Christmas Fireworks Music composed by Antonio P. Africa and performed by the UST Jazz Band. This is followed by an opening message from the Vice-Rector for Religious Affairs.
“Our gathering is more than just a festive assembly; it is a profound expression of our shared faith and a joyful celebration of our savior, Jesus Christ,” said Rev. Fr. Pablo T. Tiong, O.P.
“Way Over in Beulah Lan” by Joseph Jennings was also performed by the UST Singers, led by their conductor, Fidel G. Calalang Jr. The concert concluded with an orchestral performance by the students of the Conservatory of Music.
