By Marie Faye De Lara & Ranielle O. Tiu | The Paulinian
Photos By Ahnica Almanzor & Anasthasia Artieda | The Paulinian
The fourth day of University Week 2026 kicked off with a beat, beginning the morning with its annual, ever-energizing zumba session at the quadrangle. With many vigorous and exciting activities planned for the day, the zumba definitely jump-started the adrenaline and energy of both students and employees.
From 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, there were several booths and advocacies open to Paulinians: the Pauliket: Level Up Loot, offering various merchandise, pastries, and beverages; the annual blood drive, facilitated by the Red Cross Youth Council (RCYC); and A Cut Above: When Hair Becomes Hope, in partnership with Hair for Hope, a non-profit organization that crafts wigs for individuals in partner hospitals, schools, and other institutions. These advocacies showcased how the community demonstrates its dedication to helping others, teaching individuals about active participation and social responsibility. The donation drives proved that even small acts of kindness can make a big impact on many lives. During their free time, students, staff, and visitors could explore these hope-filled booths. After all, the University Week was never about interdepartmental competition or a halt from academics; it is a reflection of camaraderie, sportsmanship, collaboration, and love for the community.
As the clouds parted and the sun made its way to the grounds, the games began. On one side of the quadrangle, the Father Louis Chauvet Cup (FLCC) for the employees’ basketball match was held, while on the other end of the court, a fierce volleyball match between the college departments took place. The FLCC Championship brought in extra heat under the scorching sun due to the intense game between the College of Business and Management (CBM) vs the Senior High School (SHS), and the College of Education and Liberal Arts (CELA) vs the College of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences (CNAHS). The players showcased their skills with fiery determination, with each team executing their game plans outstandingly. Students from every department cheered their teams on with all they had—bringing out balloons, banners, and instruments to show their support. In the final match, CELA emerged victorious over CNAHS after a close contest. The players demonstrated sportsmanship, discipline, and perseverance even after the game.
Later in the afternoon, tensions rose—excitement, anticipation, and even hints of nervousness were palpable—as we witnessed the most-anticipated event: the Mr. and Ms. Paulinian Ambassador, where representatives from each college department strutted, served, and spoke with heart, passion, and grace. From the College of Business and Management (CBM), representatives Carl Marcus V. Jimenez and Chyna N. Ortiz advocated for Pro-Life: Encouraging Family Support Systems. Representing the College of Education and Liberal Arts (CELA) were Juan Pablo Maria E. Deang and Louisse Macxin Rose R. Chavez, championing Social Participation: Creating a Safe Space for Political Expression. From the College of Music and the Performing Arts (CMPA), Rex Vincent G. Medrana and Marllaine Etyzah Felice O. Uy stood as stewards of Environmental Sustainability. Meanwhile, representing the College of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences (CNAHS) were Zachary Matthew De Lara and Rochie A. Qimbo, upholding Disaster Preparedness: Turning the Tides—The Duty of Disaster Preparedness Cradled by Those Who Strive for Change.
While everyone waited for the announcement of the next Mr. and Ms. Paulinian Ambassador, an awards ceremony was held for the FLCC champions, recognizing outstanding individuals and teams for their achievements. It was a memorable celebration of excellence and pride within each college department. Soon, hushed whispers filled the crowd as departments huddled, preparing their cheers and smoothing out tarpaulins and banners, in support of their representatives—an endearing sight to behold. With pride, the titles for Mr. and Ms. Congeniality and Mr. and Ms. Vision in Vogue were claimed by Rex Vincent G. Medrana and Marllaine Etyzah Felice O. Uy of CMPA. For Mr. and Ms. Photogenic and Mr. and Ms. Campaign Idol, the honors went to Zachary Matthew De Lara and Rochie A. Qimbo of CNAHS. Best in Sportswear went to Zachary Matthew De Lara and Chyna N. Ortiz. First Runner-Up was awarded to Rex Vincent G. Medrana and Rochie A. Qimbo. Finally, Mr. Paulinian Ambassador was awarded to Zachary Matthew De Lara, while Ms. Paulinian Ambassadress went to Macxin Rose R. Chavez.
As the skies grew dimmer, the music grew louder. Along the Pedro Gil gate leading to the back of the Satellite Canteen, Paulinians, alumni, and guests lined up for the first-ever PauliBeats, with guest artist DJ Miggy leading the show. With his skillful mixing, DJ Miggy energized the crowd, blasting rhythmic 2000’s music through the sound system. As stage lights flickered across the stage, some students made their way to make song requests, while several groups formed spacious circles to psych one another up to dance.
Year after year, the University Week is anticipated by many—freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors alike. Beyond the bright lights, confetti, cheerful screams, and intricately put-together outfits, when we look up at the sky beyond the Chapel of the Crucified Christ, we are greeted by the sky slowly deepening into night. A peace unlike any other settles in; as the soft wind brushes against our faces, we are reminded—in St. Paul, you are home.
