Campus Ministry

The Thomasian Angelican community gathered in thanksgiving and pride as Senior High School and Higher Education students of UST Angelicum College participated in the Baccalaureate Mass on May 29, 2026, at 4:00 PM at the historic Sto. Domingo Church.

The Mass was presided over by Rev. Fr. John Stephen P. Besa, O.P., LPT, MA, Rector and President of UST Angelicum, as the main celebrant, joined in concelebration by Rev. Fr. Mhandy S. Malijan, O.P., Vice President for Financial Affairs, and Rev. Fr. John Andrew S. Bautista, O.P., Vice President for the Religious Affairs Division, underscoring the unity of leadership and faith within the institution.

In his homily, Fr. Besa invited the students to reflect on the enduring wisdom of St. Thomas Aquinas through powerful symbols: the book, whose opened pages represent the knowledge that has shaped their identity; the pen, through which Aquinas’ writings inspire faith and intellect; the dove, symbolizing the Holy Spirit who guides decisions with wisdom, courage, and divine grace; and the sun, radiating the light of truth (Veritas). Together, these images reminded the graduates that their Thomasian Angelican formation is both a gift and a mission — to carry wisdom, courage, and truth into the future.

Before concluding, Fr. Besa lifted the congregation in song with lines from Rivermaya’s “Liwanag sa Dilim,” a stirring reminder that the graduates are called to be beacons of hope and truth in a world often shadowed by uncertainty. The Thanksgiving Prayer was led by Halim Lathala and Kate Lysa Segismundo, echoing a journey of perseverance and resilience.

Photos by John Ryan Jacob, 2nd Year BA Communication · Source: Office of Brand and Social Media (OBS)

With hearts full of devotion, our YS4 learners reached a sacred milestone as they received their First Holy Communion on December 12, 2025, at Santo Domingo Church — the fruit of weeks of reflection, prayer, and preparation.

The reception of the First Holy Communion was one of the most sacred and joyous milestones in the faith journey of our YS4 learners, marking an important step in their spiritual lives as they received the Eucharist for the very first time. The Holy Mass was presided over by Rev. Fr. John Andrew Bautista, OP, and concelebrated with Rev. Fr. Mhandy Malijan, OP.

It was a day filled with love, blessings, and cherished memories shared with family, friends, teachers, and the UST Angelicum community. Let us, as one Thomasian Angelicum family, nurture these seeds of faith planted today by supporting our children as they grow into disciples who live out the Gospel with courage and compassion.

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Junior High learners of UST Angelicum College celebrated a profound milestone in their spiritual formation through the Sacrament of Confirmation at a solemn Eucharistic Celebration on January 30, 2026 at Santo Domingo Church — National Shrine of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary of La Naval de Manila.

Presided over by Most Reverend Elias Lumayog Ayuban, Jr., CMF, DD, JCD, Bishop of the Diocese of Cubao, the rite sealed the young Thomasian Angelicans with the gifts of the Holy Spirit. Concelebrating were Rev. Fr. Mhandy S. Malijan, O.P., Vice President for Financial Affairs; Rev. Fr. John Andrew S. Bautista, O.P., Vice President for the Religious Affairs Division; and Rev. Fr. Johnny Luntungan, O.P., School Chaplain.

For these learners, Confirmation is more than tradition; it is a personal Pentecost that completes the grace of Baptism, strengthens their faith, deepens their union with Christ and His Church, and empowers them to live as intentional disciples — highlighting UST Angelicum College’s commitment to nurturing both academic excellence and the spiritual formation of its learners.

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On the grace-filled morning of October 2, 2025, the UST Angelicum College community paused in solemn reverence as the revered image of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary La Naval de Manila visited our campus. This sacred moment, held within the embrace of the Dungaw ni Maria, became a living testament to faith, tradition, and the enduring presence of the Blessed Mother.

In the sacred tradition of dungaw, a centuries-old Filipino act of faith, Thomasian Angelicans gathered to gaze upon Mary, offering quiet prayers and heartfelt intentions. The air was filled with the rhythm of the Rosary, the joyful movement of the Karakol, and the fragrance of floral offerings — each one a symbol of love, gratitude, and surrender.

This encounter renewed our Dominican mission to form thoughtful, compassionate learners grounded in Caritas — a call to deepen our relationship with God and to walk with courage even in uncertain times.

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The Thomasian Angelican community gathered in faith and devotion at the Santo Domingo Church — National Shrine of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary of La Naval de Manila in Quezon City to celebrate the Institutional Mass in honor of Our Lady of La Naval de Manila on Wednesday, October 8, 2025.

Presided over by Rev. Fr. John Andrew S. Bautista, O.P., Director for Religious Affairs, the Mass became a sacred moment of unity, reflection, and Marian devotion. He called on everyone to seek the loving intercession of Mary, our Mother, to guide us back to her Son, Jesus, especially in times of spiritual weariness.

The celebration brought together Thomasian Angelican students, faculty, staff, and alumni — reaffirming UST Angelicum’s commitment to nurturing faith among the youth and honoring the enduring legacy of Our Lady of La Naval, a symbol of victory, protection, and unwavering love.

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Despite the rain and shifting skies, the Thomasian Angelican spirit remained unshaken and united by one purpose: to honor Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary La Naval de Manila. On October 12, 2025, the UST Angelicum community came together in solemn devotion, joining the La Naval Grand Procession.

With each step, they carried prayers for peace, healing, and hope for our families, communities, and nation. Students, faculty, staff, and alumni stood side by side, embodying the Thomasian Angelican spirit of compassion, humility, and unwavering faith.

Viva Nuestra Señora del Santísimo Rosario de La Naval de Manila!

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In a night bathed in prayer, praise, and purpose, the Thomasian Angelican youth stood united with hearts open and spirits lifted. From October 10 to 11, 2025, our SHS B.E.C. Youth Volunteers, Dominican Youth Clubs, and devoted organizations gathered not just to celebrate, but to encounter.

Through solemn reflection, heartfelt worship, and shared faith, we were reminded of the quiet strength and unwavering love of our Blessed Mother. As dawn broke and the Eucharist was celebrated, a renewed fire of devotion was lit within each soul — a movement of faith, a call to servant leadership, and a testament to the power of community rooted in Christ through Mary.

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The first La Naval de Manila procession took place in October 1646 in Intramuros, as a way to thank Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary for helping Spanish and Filipino forces win against the Dutch. Known as the “Procession of All Processions,” it was the grandest religious event in Old Manila.

On October 12, 2025, this tradition continued at Santo Domingo Church in Quezon City, where thousands of devotees — among them students, teachers, staff, and alumni from UST Angelicum College — walked together in prayer and devotion. As night fell, candlelight lit sincere faces and quiet prayers, and the crowd erupted with joyful cries of “Viva la Virgen!”

For Thomasian Angelicans, this is more than a yearly event; it reflects the values they live by every day: faith, humility, and compassion.

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Whether in classrooms, corridors, or on their way to begin the day, the entire UST Angelicum community pauses. The hum of morning routines gives way to sacred silence as students, faculty, and staff unite in prayer — some clutching rosaries, others simply bowing their heads.

In this shared rhythm, we lift our hearts to Mary: in each bead a prayer, each mystery a step toward grace. For generations, October has been a sacred rhythm at UST Angelicum College, where the Rosary echoes through hallways and hearts — a legacy of faith passed from one Thomasian Angelican to another, a countdown to the La Naval Grand Procession on October 12.

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Amidst the serene landscapes of the Caleruega Retreat House, the Higher Education graduating learners embarked on a two-day journey of reflection, prayer, and personal growth during their senior retreat held from March 5–6, 2026.

The tranquil setting proved instrumental in allowing students to open up about personal thoughts and experiences, leading to a profound reconnection with their inner selves. Lady Princes A. Tero, 4th Year BA Communication, shared that exchanging personal journeys with peers was deeply comforting and enlightening — a catalyst for gaining deeper insights, strengthening faith, and appreciating the value of genuine human connection and trust.

By Lady Princes A. Tero, 4th Year BA Communication

The retreat held on February 9–13, 2026, with the theme “PAGSULONG: Paghilom, Pagsasabuhay, Pagtanaw,” gave our graduating SHS 2 learners a sacred opportunity to be nourished in their faith and to discover a deeper sense of purpose and mission as they prepared for their future careers in college.

Conducted at the serene Caleruega Retreat House, the two-day spiritual journey — guided by Br. Raul Roque, Lay Preacher — allowed learners to pause, reflect, and embrace the presence of God in their lives. It became a formative milestone that strengthened their identity as Thomasian Angelicans, preparing them to face the future with resilience, gratitude, and faith.

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YS 11 learners from the Home Study Program, together with Miss Blanco, Miss Vidallon, Sir Lingamen, and Sir Morel (ORA), gathered for a two-day retreat from March 4–5, 2026 at Caleruega Retreat House, designed to nourish their faith and prepare them for the next chapter of their academic journey.

Guided by the theme “PAGSULONG: Paghilom, Pagsasabuhay, Pagtanaw,” the retreat — facilitated by Rev. Vince Stanley Iñigo, O.P., Rev. Fr. Jude Guesler Roquero, O.P., and Rev. Fr. Mervin G. Lomague, O.P. — helped learners listen to the voice of God, reflect on their faith experiences, and find love, hope, and comfort in Him.

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“We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.” — Hebrews 6:19

On July 17–18, 2025, the Employees’ Institutional Retreat and Pilgrimage at Sta. Catalina House of Spirituality in Baguio City became a sacred pause — a time to reflect, reconnect, and recommit. Guided by retreat master Bro. Raul Roque, UST Angelicum employees were reminded that life is a pilgrimage and that, as learning facilitators, they are not merely professionals but are called.

Thomasian Angelican educators are beacons of faith, healers of hearts, and anchors of hope for the young — their impact echoing through generations.

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In the tranquil embrace of Caleruega Retreat House in Nasugbu, Batangas, our YS 11 learners embarked on a soul-stirring retreat themed “PAGSULONG: Paghilom, Pagsasabuhay, at Pagtanaw” — a pilgrimage of the heart to reflect, reconnect, and ready themselves for the next chapter of life.

Led with wisdom and compassion by Br. Raul Roque, and supported by their YS 11 Moderators, CLE Facilitator Ms. Tracy Ong, and ORA staff, the retreat offered deep spiritual nourishment through guided reflections, heartfelt sharing, and moments of silence.

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What a phenomenal and heartwarming celebration it was for Batch 1995 as they marked their 30th Alumni Anniversary on July 12, 2025 — a milestone filled with joy, laughter, and unforgettable moments.

The day began at the Ange Learning Space with registration and cheerful reunions, followed by a solemn Thanksgiving Mass at the Our Lady of the Holy Rosary Chapel, presided over by their former teacher, Fr. Ramilo Mapaye, SVD. A vibrant motorcade through Banawe, Del Monte, and Sto. Domingo culminated in a touching visit to the Manresa Retreat House, where they shared blessings and gifts with 30 elderly nuns.

Back on campus, the group enjoyed a nostalgic tour of the auditorium, library, classrooms, and canteen, closing with a fun-filled Batch Day at the St. Vincent Ferrer Covered Court. May the legacy of Batch ’95 inspire Thomasian Angelicans to journey forward with faith, resilience, and joy.

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The weekly classroom visitation of our School Chaplain resumed on January 20, 2026, and continues every Tuesday. These visits are pastoral encounters, offering a supportive presence that brings faith and care into the daily learning environment.

Fr. Johnny Luntungan, OP, our School Chaplain, visited the classes of YS 9 (W4 and W1) during their CLE session under Miss Tracy Ong. His presence opened a meaningful dialogue with the learners, deepening their understanding of faith and life — from how the host and holy water are prepared to reflections on vocation, relationships, and the sacramental life.

Through these visitations, our school chaplain continues to embody the mission of pastoral care, reminding learners that true formation is not only about knowledge but also about living in communion with Christ.

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Rev. Fr. Johnny Luntungan, OP, school chaplain, visited the classes of 6W1 and 8W2 to engage learners in a meaningful dialogue about faith, life, and vocation on February 3, 2026.

In the morning with 6W1, learners asked thought-provoking questions about faith and the world; Fr. Johnny reminded them that while the internet may feel like another world, it is not the real one. In the afternoon with 8W2, he shared that the biggest sacrifice in becoming a priest was giving up a stable job and married life, emphasizing that commitment is the key to fulfilling one’s mission, and sharing his favorite verse: “Do whatever He tells you” (John 2:5).

Reflection: How can you live with gratitude, respect, and courage in your everyday choices?

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The Dominican spirit was set ablaze at SIKLAB 2026 as student-leaders from faith-based organizations of UST Angelicum joined fellow Dominican institutions on April 13, 2026 at the Frassati Building, UST Manila, organized by the Dominican Network Youth Group Senior High School — UST.

Participants expressed deep gratitude to the speakers who inspired reflection on faith, leadership, and personal growth: Assoc. Prof. Mary Erika N. Bolaños, LPT, PhD; Ms. Laelani P. Arocha, LPT, MHist; Rev. Fr. Christopher Jeffrey L. Aytona, O.P., S.Th.L.; and Mr. Adonis Evan P. Basa Jr., OTRP, an alumnus of UST Angelicum College.

As this spark returns to our community, may it remind Thomasian Angelicans that they are called not only to lead, but to serve with the light of Truth.

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The YS 7 Batch Mass was celebrated with reverence as Rev. Fr. Romualdo “Boyet” Cabanatan, Jr., O.P., J.C.D. presided over the liturgy on March 10, 2026. His homily drew from the Gospel’s timeless question: “How many times shall we forgive?”

Fr. Cabanatan reminded the YS 7 learners that forgiveness is not simply an act, but a way of life rooted in God’s mercy, urging the faithful to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation, especially during the Lenten season, as a path to renewal and grace. The celebration became a moment of deep spiritual encounter, reminding the batch that true discipleship is lived through mercy, generosity, and forgiveness.

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Ms. Jessa Escoltero, UST Angelicum College’s ORA — Campus Ministry Coordinator, attended the Liturgical Training and Formation Program for Parish and School Liturgical Animators for Children on June 6, 2026 at the Lay Formation Center, San Carlos Pastoral Formation Complex, Guadalupe, Makati City.

Organized by the Commission on Divine Worship (Archdiocesan Liturgical Commission, Manila), the program featured talks on the Celebration of the Eucharist according to the GIRM and the Directory for Masses with Children, along with a workshop and sharing of best practices. Her participation was in preparation for the new academic year and for collaborative initiatives with the CLE Department.

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Mrs. Jessa B. Escoltero, Coordinator for Campus Ministry of UST Angelicum College, represented the institution at the Lumina et Umbrae Conference held at UST Manila on June 9, 2026 — a landmark gathering exploring the lights and shadows of Catholic Christianity in the Philippines and its journey toward becoming a synodal Church.

The conference opened with a Eucharistic Celebration presided by Most Rev. Jose Cardinal Advincula, Archbishop of Manila. Rev. Fr. Richard Ang, OP, Rector of UST Manila, delivered the welcome remarks, and the keynote was given by Most Rev. Julius Tonel, D.D., Archbishop of Zamboanga. A plenary lecture by Very Rev. Fr. Gerard Francisco Timoner III, OP, Master of the Order of Preachers, focused on “Eucharistic Synaxis, Source and Paradigm of Synodality.”

The day concluded with a challenge that clergy and laypeople must be co-responsible in building a communal Church in the 21st century — underscoring UST Angelicum College’s commitment to journeying together in humility, dialogue, and discernment.

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