SPU Manila University Week 2024 Activities: Day 1

by Sydney Leila Reyes and Rae Margarette Sablaon | The Paulinian

Photos by Stephanie Jacob, Jasmine Cacanindin, Bea Friera, and Angelica Roxas | The Paulinian and the Paulinian Shutters Club

ST. PAUL UNIVERSITY MANILA - The much-awaited University Week 2024 officially started on January 22, 2024. With the theme: “Pistang Tipol: Tinipon ni San Pablo, Magmahal Kagaya ni Kristo,” a number of activities for the Paulinian Community were held throughout the celebration.

The first day began with an off-campus procession participated in by the whole SPU Manila community. Bro. Francis Lajola led the Opening Liturgy, calling on Paulinians to reflect on the love of St. Paul and Christ during the University Week. The procession was led by the Paulinian Liturgical Animators, the Sisters of St. Paul of Chartres, and the image of Sto. Niño de Pandacan. Also in the procession were the images of the Inmaculada Concepcion, Sto. Cristo, and St. Paul the Apostle. The Tamboleros de Quiapo made the procession more festive with their rhythmic drums and vibrant costumes, filling the air with pulsating beats and lively energy.

After the hour-long walk around Malate, Paulinians returned to the campus grounds at 9:30 AM. Sr. Ma. Evangeline Anastacio, SPC, then took the stage to formally open University Week 2024.

Shortly after the procession, the Sopasfor a Cause, spearheaded by the Community Development Center, was held at the school canteen. It was followed by the opening of the Fr. Louis Chauvet Cup (FLCC), hosted by Mr. Juvin Casanova and Mr. Raphaelo Guiuan.

The participants of this year’s FLCC were then introduced, starting from the University’s Varsity Team, followed by the CNAHS, CASE, CBM, and the SHS Teams. After the Introduction and the Oath of Sportsmanship, Sr. Evangeline gave a speech, reminding the players of the value of sportsmanship and wishing them good luck. The ceremonial toss then followed.

The opening game was the teaching personnel and non-teaching personnel basketball. The non-teaching personnel won with a score of 68-43.

For volleyball, the SPU Manila team composed of its varsity members and an alumnus battled against St. Andrew’s School Parañaque. SPU Manila won in three out of four sets.

The War of the Witz then followed, hosted by Ms. Osmel Gerardo and Ms. Denice Quilonio from CNAHS. Participants were asked a series of trivia questions. After the rounds, Carla Toling from BSN3 won.