St. Paul University at San Miguel
(A Branch of St. Paul University Quezon City)
EVENTS
In the tapestry of St. Paul University at San Miguel’s spiritual tradition, Paulinians celebrated the First Friday of the Month and Feast of Candelaria with a Holy Mass presided over by Rdo. P. Juvenson Alarcon. As the students, faculty, staff and maintenance gathered in Msgr. Honorio Resurreccion Gymnasium– the celebration commenced which started with the Prayer of Rosary followed by lighting of candles.
The Feast of Candelaria was celebrated to commemorate when Jesus Christ’s mother, Mary, presented him to the temple. This feast marks and reminds everyone that Jesus was presented to the temple to tell us that He is here, that the light is here. As everyone holds and lights their own candles, this calls for a moment to reflect and remember the profound significance of following the light to unveil the way to salvation and redemption– which can only be found because of Jesus' complete obedience to the will of the Father.
FEBUARY
In February 2024, St. Paul University San Miguel (SPUSM) was abuzz with various events and activities that showcased the vibrant spirit and values of the Paulinian community. The month began with the Intramurals Elimination, where students from different departments competed in various sports, displaying not only their athletic prowess but also their teamwork and sportsmanship.
The university community also gathered for the First Friday Mass and the Feast of Candelaria, which are significant events that underscore the Paulinian gleaners of prayerfulness, self-effacement, tranquility in daring, and being all to all. These occasions provided moments of reflection and spiritual renewal for everyone.
Blas Ople Day was another highlight of the month, commemorating the legacy of Blas Ople, known as the Father of the Labor Code, and celebrating his contributions to workers' rights. The day served as a reminder of the importance of social justice and labor rights, values that are deeply rooted in the Paulinian ethos.
February also marked the beginning of internships for Business and Education students, providing them with valuable hands-on experience and allowing them to embody Paulinian values in their respective fields. This practical exposure is an integral part of their academic journey, preparing them for future endeavors.
As the month progressed, Ash Wednesday and Valentine's Day coincided, prompting reflection on God's love and the call to repentance. These events provided an opportunity for the community to come together in prayer and reflection, deepening their spiritual connection and understanding of their faith.
The month also saw the commemoration of Fr. Louis Chauvet's 360th birthday, a significant figure in the history of SPUSM. His life and ministries were remembered, highlighting his commitment to education and service, values that continue to inspire the Paulinian community.
The Sports Fest added to the excitement of the month, it was a vibrant celebration of sportsmanship, teamwork, and community spirit. It featured competitive yet friendly matches in various sports, showcasing the skills and determination of the participants. Throughout the event, athletes demonstrated commendable sportsmanship, supporting and congratulating each other regardless of the outcomes. The Sports Fest served as a unifying event, bringing together students, faculty, staff, parents, and alumni in a spirit of camaraderie and healthy competition.
Additionally, on the Second Sunday of Lent, SPUSM reflected on Jesus' transfiguration, emphasizing the message of embracing trials with a prayerful heart, being self-effacing, and daring with tranquility, and being all to all. This event highlighted the community's faith and unity.
During the “Traslacion ng Nuestro Padre Jesus Nazareno”, the Paulinian community gathered to venerate the image of the Black Nazarene. The event emphasized the extravagant love of Christ and the importance of understanding and mercy towards others, reflecting the community's devotion.
The Campus Journalism Workshop focused on the role of journalists in fostering a Christocentric community. Participants were encouraged to integrate the 5Cs into their work, emphasizing the values of truth, compassion, and integrity. The workshop aimed to empower students to use journalism as a medium of freedom of expression and a tool for Christocentric transformation.
Overall, February was a vibrant month at St. Paul University San Miguel, marked by a series of engaging events that showcased the talents and values of the SPUSM community. From sports competitions to spiritual reflections, the month emphasized the importance of unity, sportsmanship, and faith. As the month concluded, the campus was filled with a sense of pride and camaraderie, reflecting the strong community spirit that defines SPUSM.
02 FEBRUARY 2024 | FIRST FRIDAY MASS AND FEAST OF CANDELARIA
As Paulinians commemorate Blas Ople Day in Bulacan, let us reflect on the remarkable contributions of such an exceptional leader. Known as the Father of the Labor Code, Blas Fajardo Ople, also called Ka’Blas, grew from Hagonoy, Bulacan, in a humble family of farmers. Blas is known for his commitment to public service and steadfast efforts to ensure the rights and welfare of Filipino workers abroad.
His impact and contributions on the nation’s history is exceptional, authoring momentous laws, bringing labor and social regulations together that paved the way for establishing the National Manpower and Youth Council (now TESDA), the Overseas Employment Program in 1976, Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) and the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA). These laws and agencies work together to protect the rights of OFWs, to provide assistance, and regulate overseas employment, which have greatly contributed to recognizing the role of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in the nation’s economic development. Ople authored the Labor Code to protect employees receiving minimum wage to ensure Filipinos are paid fairly. Furthermore, his visionary leadership during his tenure as the labor minister in the 1970s resulted in the implementation of a crucial presidential decree mandating the provision of a 13th month pay, an additional benefit now integral to the welfare of Filipino employees.
As you embark on your internship journey tomorrow, 5 February, we want to extend our heartfelt wishes for a successful and enriching experience. This marks the beginning of a crucial phase in your academic and professional development, and we are confident that you will represent St. Paul University at San Miguel (SPUSM) with utmost dedication and excellence.
As future leaders in Business and Education, you carry the responsibility to embody the Paulinian values of integrity, commitment, and service. Remember that your actions reflect not only on yourselves but on our esteemed institution. Stay focused on what you have learned, and apply your knowledge with diligence and passion.
Today, on the 5th of February, a new chapter unfolds for our aspiring Educators and Human Resource Professionals in the realm of practical application. As they step into this new phase of their professional development, our interns carry with them not only the knowledge acquired in St. Paul University at San Miguel but also the spirit and values of being a Paulinian– PRAYERFUL, SELF-EFFACING, TRANQUIL-DARING, and ALL-TO-ALL.
The nervousness they have felt for their first day of deployment is inevitable since it is an important and momentous day for them. “Before stepping up to this very school of my dream, my heart is full of such nervousness, but with this nervousness turns into an amplifying confidence and positivity the time that the Principal, staffs, and my cooperating teacher welcomes me with tremendous joy and a welcoming warmth of attitude, most importantly, the pupils uplift my spirit”, an intern from Education Society shared.
03 FEBRUARY 2024 | CELEBRATING BLAS OPLE DAY IN BULACAN: A TRIBUTE TO A VISIONARY LEADER
4 FEBRUARY - BE READY. COME PREPARED. DEPLOYMENT OF BUSINESS AND EDUCATION INTERNS ON FEBRUARY 5, 2024
05 FEBRUARY 2024 | 1ST DAY OF INTERNSHIP
14 FEBRUARY 2024 | ASH WEDNESDAY
This year’s Valentine's Day was held extra special as it coincided with Ash Wednesday— the Holy day marks the start of Lent, a period of reflection and preparation before Easter. This event is to reflect on God's sacrifice for our salvation. John 3:16 reminds us that God's love for us is beyond compare, as He sacrificed His own son for our salvation, because He loves us.
At St. Paul University in San Miguel, the Ash Wednesday Mass embarked on solemnity and celebration, emphasizing the themes of love and faith. Sister Ofelia, in her pre-event discussion, underscored the importance of Ash Wednesday, Lent, Almsgiving, and Fasting, highlighting the opportunity to deepen our spiritual relationship with God through acts of CHARITY and COMMISSION. During the homily, Rev. Fr. Juvenson Alarcon emphasized the significance of the celebration. He articulated how Ash Wednesday strengthens the essence of Valentine's Day, as it calls us not only to express love to our partners or others, but also to our Lord and Savior, who performed the greatest love through sacrifice.
16 FEBRUARY 2024 | EUCHARISTIC CELEBRATION FOR 360TH BIRTHDAY OF THE FR. LOUIS CHAUVET
Today marks an important event for all Paulinians all around the world as we celebrate the 360th year of the birth of our founder, Fr. Louis Chauvet. As all Paulinians gathered at the Honorario Gymnasium this morning, February 16, all were filled with enthusiasm to commemorate the life of an educated parish priest bound to serve a huge commission for Christ that has impacted the lives of many, especially Paulinians. The celebration started with a prayer for the station of the cross that took place in observance of the Lenten season, as a way to reflect on the important events in the life of Jesus. The mass was presided over by Rdo. P. Juvenson Alarcon, and it gathered students, faculty, staff, and maintenance in the Msgr. Honorio Resurreccion Gymnasium.
Sister Ofelia, during her pre-event discussion, emphasized the three ministries taught by Fr. Louis Chauvet to the Sisters: Education, Health, and Pastoral Care. These ministries encompass various aspects of service, including teaching religious education, taking care of the sick, and providing spiritual and emotional support through pastoral care activities. Additionally, she underscored the congregation's remarkable 320-year history.
In a display of vibrant school spirit and unity, St. Paul University at San Miguel held its annual Sports Fest themed "Unleash the Paulinian Spirit: Embracing Diversity through Sports”, igniting the campus with energy and camaraderie that brought together students, parents, faculty, and staff. The event at the school grounds highlighted athletic talents, promoting a sense of community and healthy competition.
As Paulinians embark in the Sports Fest 2024, it kicks-off with a thrilling parade— starting from the campus' quadrangle, proceeding to St. Mary and back again to the university, Paulinians excitedly graced the grounds with cheers for their respective groups. The parade was filled with colorful balloons and banners, representing different academic departments. Amidst the cheers and friendly competition, attendees expressed their enthusiasm for the planned event, emphasizing the joy and fulfillment it brought. They noted how the Sports Fest facilitated meaningful connections among students, transcending academic boundaries and exemplifying the true essence of Paulinian values even through sports. A 4th year student from Bachelor's of Science in Computer Science, Jerome Sabuco, expressed his excitement, noting the meticulous joy from the event. He also noted in an interview that the Paulinian values along inclusivity and unity is visibly shown, "Mas nagkakaron ng relationship ang courses at napapakita ang tunay na paulinian values... Maganda ding napapakita personally na walang hadlang ang kapansanan sa gantong klase ng event [Sports Fest]".
19 FEBRUARY 2024 | OPENING CEREMONY OF SPORTS FEST 2024
Cheers and drums filled the walls of St. Paul University San Miguel's Gymnasium as the first day of the awaited Sports Fest 2024 started, highlighted by the captivating Battle of the Muses and its most anticipated highlight of this year's Sports Fest event, the Annual Cheerdance Competition yesterday, February 19, 2024. The Battle of the Muses unfolded a display of talent, intellect, and grace with 15 candidates ranging from grade 4 to college, the stage was set for a captivating showdown as each participant strutted with full confidence and determination. Throughout the competition, the candidates captivated the audience with their diverse talents and quick wit, showcasing their Paulinian abilities during both the talent and question-and-answer portions of the event.
19 FEBRUARY 2024 | BATTLE OF CHEERDANCE AND MUSES
As a new day unfolded at St. Paul University San Miguel, the atmosphere was charged with excitement on the second day of Sports Fest 2024. As all players competitively wore their respective jerseys, pride and excitement filled the halls. With the semi-finals underway, competitors from different courses showcased their skills in various sports, igniting a spirit of friendly competition and teamwork.
Beyond the numerical outcomes and triumphs witnessed during today's Semi-Finals, the second day of the Sports Fest was a celebration of sportsmanship, teamwork, and determination. Participants showed respect for their opponents, cheered for each other, and demonstrated the true essence of Paulinian sportsmanship, regardless of the outcome. As the semi-finals concluded, teams and spectators alike eagerly awaited the finals.
The Sports Fest 2024 at St. Paul University San Miguel continues to unite the campus community through the language of sports, fostering camaraderie, healthy competition, and unforgettable Paulinian memories.
20 FEBRUARY 2024 | SPORTS FEST SEMI-FINALS
As the St. Paul University at San Miguel Sports Fest continued its exciting run into its third day, it highlighted the athletes' competitive spirit and the community's strong support. The day started with a lively atmosphere and burst of energy as students, parents, faculty, staff, and maintenance were gathered for the highly anticipated events.
The third day began with a series of friendly yet intense matches in different sports, showcasing the skills and determinations of competing teams. The campus was filled with excitement as Paulinians cheered on both the team of alumni and parents who played against the faculty/maintenance/staff team. The game may be competitive but the atmosphere remains friendly and supportive. Players on both teams demonstrated commendable sportsmanship and camaraderie by supporting one another, exchanging handshakes after each match, and congratulating opponents on a game well played.
As the day drew to a close, the battles concluded but the memories made on the court would remain forever. The Sports Fest at St. Paul University San Miguel was more than simply a competition; it's all about uniting as a community to celebrate the joy of sport and the connections that bring us together.
21 FEBRUARY 2024 | DAY 3 SPORTS FEST
As the sun's golden rays illuminated the grounds of St. Paul University at San Miguel, the highly anticipated Finals Day 1 of the Sports Fest 2024 kicked off. The atmosphere was electric with excitement, with loud sound of cheers, and energetic chants echoing through the campus, as teams were fiercely battling for the title of champions. It was a day of beautiful blend of competition and camaraderie, demonstrating athleticism and sportsmanship.
Fields and courts brimmed with intense yet friendly battles. The athletes, wearing their respectives jerseys, put their best effort into every game, captivating the audience with their determination and capability. One of the highlights of the day was the heart-stopping championship matches, where every point was hard-earned through dedication and hard work. Every win was joyously acknowledged, not only for the points earned, but for the unwavering passion and teamwork shown by the players. The finals displayed remarkable agility, strength, and strategic competence, showcasing the hard work of each player.
23 FEBRUARY | DAY 4: FINALS
As the thrilling activities came to an end, attention shifted to the awarding ceremony, where outstanding players and teams were recognized for achievements throughout the tournament. The gymnasium boomed with applause as awards were distributed to the Most Valuable Players, Mythicals, Runner-Ups, and Champions.
23 FEBRUARY | CHAMPIONSHIP
As St. Paul University at San Miguel embarked on the Second Sunday of Lent, Paulinians held a Eucharistic celebration at Diocesan Shrine Parish of San Miguel Arcangel. As the tertiary students, college faculty and our dearest Sister of Chartres gathered and took a moment of silence to reflect with the word of the Lord presided over by Rev. Fr. Paul Silva.
Fr. Silva emphasizes how Jesus transfigured by refusing to comply with the demand for the eradication of death and suffering in order to glorify God. “In this journey, God is with us. Kasama natin and Diyos in every struggles and sufferings”, he reminded. In this story, Jesus faces suffering and death but is ultimately glorified by God. It teaches us that life doesn't offer shortcuts or easy paths. Like Jesus, we must embrace our trials with joy, knowing they teach us important lessons.
25 FEBRUARY 2024 | 2ND SUNDAY OF LENT - JESUS TRANSFIGURATION
The resounding chant echoed in the walls of Msgr. Honorio Resurreccion Gymnasium as the Paulinian community gathered to witness and venerate the image of Nuestro Padre Jesus Nazareno. This event is remarkable and meaningful as this marks the First Traslacion of Nazareno in St. Paul University at San Miguel. As Paulinians wave their white flannel in excitement and reverence, each was filled with the anticipation of meeting the revered image. The tertiary department prepared a Karakol or “devoted” dance as the image entered the gymnasium and created a spiritual environment.
The mass started under the guidance of Rev. Fr. Juvenson Alarcon. His homily highlighted the extravagant love of Christ– exploring the existence of black nazarene by proclaiming that it is not solely focused on Christ’s suffering en route to crucifixion but a testament of His extravagant love for us.
26 FEBRUARY 2024 | TRASLACION NG NUESTRO PADRE JESUS NAZARENO
The students of The Education Society at St. Paul University in San Miguel (SPUSM) recently took part in a Campus Journalism Workshop, spearheaded by The Paulinian-the official Publication of the Tertiary Department of SPUSM. The event, led by their organization's adviser, Ms. Christina Diaz, and Mrs. Charmaine M. Maneja (College Activity Coordinator), centered around the theme "A Medium of Freedom of Expression and a Tool for Christocentric Transformation in the Modern and Global Paulinian Community." Under the guidance of the effective moderators from The Paulinian– St. Paul University Manila and esteemed speakers, Mr. Earl David Ong (The Paulinian SPUM Editor in Chief) and Ms. Francheska Faylona (TP SPUM Moderator), the participants filled the conference room with their enthusiasm and eagerness to discover something new.
