A month-long celebration filled with dazzling Christmas decorations, gift-giving programs, and a concert that brought students together in the heart of the university. This was how Thomasians embraced the Christmas season in 2024, and they wouldn’t have it any other way.

Exclusive to the students and alumni of the University of Santo Tomas (UST), the 2024 Grand Paskuhan welcomed 42,655 attendees, each of whom surely left with hearts full of joy — a perfect way to cap off the semester.

“We’re grateful to UST for keeping the Thomasian spirit alive in us alumni through meaningful events like this, which also give us the chance to reunite with our college friends and professors,” said Criselle Santos, an alumna from the College of Tourism and Hospitality Management.

“Through events like this, UST stays true to its claim that once a Thomasian, always a Thomasian,” she added.

Nostalgic night

Held on Friday, 20 December, and themed “Ever Thankful, Ever Hopeful,” the event featured nostalgic performances by beloved OPM bands December Avenue, Spongecola and SUD, which performed their all-time hits.

Solo artist Maki and rising P-pop group ALAMAT also showcased their remarkable talents, offering a glimpse into the promising future of the Philippine music industry.

Adding to the lineup were stellar performances by UST’s very own: The UST Salinggawi Dance Troupe, UST Yellow Jackets, UST Sinag Ballroom Dance Company and UST Prime.

The “Merrython” Paskuhan Fairgrounds at Plaza Mayor provided more excitement with opportunities for students to win exciting prizes through the Paskuhan Raffle.

In line with its sustainability initiatives, UST collaborated with San Miguel Yamamura Packaging Corporation for the “Balik Lata, Balik Bote” project, promoting proper waste management and recycling practices.

Kick-off

The Christmas season officially began on 29 November with the lighting ceremony, known as “Agape.” Adorned with over 2,000 strands of energy-efficient LEDs, a 20-meter Christmas tree, and Olympic-themed decorations, the university embodied the spirit of hope and solidarity.

Rev. Fr. Dexter Austria, O.P., UST Facilities Management Office Director, explained the chosen theme, saying, “The Olympics brings together countries that may be at odds with each other. Stories of athletes’ perseverance bring hope to many. The Olympic Games are all about coming together, similar to the birth of Christ, whose birth is a symbol of hope for all nations.”

Thomasian pole vaulter EJ Obiena, a symbol of athletic excellence and faith, led the lighting ceremony as the torchbearer.

As December Avenue ended their set with their timeless hit “Sa Ngalan Ng Pag-Ibig,” Thomasians braced themselves for what was about to come next — a breathtaking eight-minute pyromusical display.

Set to songs like Ed Sheeran’s “Shivers,” Dua Lipa’s “Levitating,” Olivia Rodrigo’s “Good 4 U” and Silk Sonic’s “Leave the Door Open,” the show concluded with Sia’s uplifting anthem “Unstoppable.”

The UST Paskuhan is more than just a tradition but a chance for the Thomasian community to celebrate its togetherness, their big wins of the year (including the small ones), the relationships they have built within campus, and the people they have become as true-blooded Thomasians.