Category: Features

THE brightest shades of red and pink colored every place. Roses, tulips, sunflowers, and many more flowers decorated the halls, with everything shaped like hearts. Treats dipped in the sweetest of chocolates to give someone dear. With a checklist to celebrate a day filled with love and adoration, the last thing to plan was the location.

THE Year of the Dragon has dawned upon us again, marking a time of vibrant festivities and cherished traditions for Filipinos across the country. As we celebrate Chinese New Year, we induce our unique customs and rituals, creating a colorful amalgamation of cultural heritage. Let’s explore the combined traditions that come alive during this festive occasion.

LAST Jan. 17-24, San Beda College Alabang (SBCA) held its annual Sto Nino festivities to commemorate the arrival of Catholicism in the Philippines. However, one cannot celebrate the success of an event without thanking the people behind it—the Pista ng Sto. Niño 2024 themed “Dakilang Gabay sa Pagsasamang Paglalakbay” owes its success to the countless individuals who made it possible.

AMIDST complex challenges that transpired for centuries with people losing hope, Santo Niño de Praga proclaims his divine grace by forgiveness and gentleness to guide individuals toward freedom, peace, justice, and happiness. During the third week of January at San Beda College Alabang (SBCA), the lively setting, with its decorations and outfits, reflected the mix of tradition and innovation among the people. This blend contributed to the joyful celebrations, signaling the start of this year’s Pista ng Santo Niño.

THE once dormant stage has now ignited once again. Bearing the title “Liyab ng Leon,” it has opened its floor to students who wish to represent their department and showcase their talent, beauty, wit, and charisma. After five years of the ‘Mr. and Ms. San Beda’ title being unclaimed, that hiatus finally came to an end as Paolo Miguel Mackay (III-BSP) and Ymannuelle Torres from (III-BACMS) were crowned last Jan. 19.

SAN Beda College Alabang (SBCA) marks its 50-year milestone with the unveiling of ‘The Red and Gold of San Beda College Alabang’ coffee table book during the ‘Images of Faith’ exhibit last Jan. 18. The contents of the book, meticulously archived and written by SBCA’s museum curator and archivist, Dr. Joseph C. Renta III, serve as a visual chronicle that opens a window into the college’s journey. From its humble beginnings to becoming a symbol of academic excellence, the book encapsulates the enduring spirit and resilience of SBCA. More than a tribute, it’s a straightforward exploration of how the institution evolved into the place we recognize today.

ACCLAIMED Filipino rock band Lola Amour, known for OPM hits such as ‘Pwede Ba’ and ‘Raining in Manila,’ took center stage as the main act during the final day of this year’s Pista ng Sto. Niño celebration at SBCA.

IS spending extended hours in coffee shops socially acceptable? Have you ever immersed yourself in work or study at a local café or perhaps just enjoying coffee while hanging out? A debate on the Coffee Shop Culture in the Philippines has been circulating — prompting reflection on the unspoken norms surrounding this practice. Is it seen as a genuine appreciation of the coffee shop atmosphere, or does it tread on the boundaries of acceptable patron behavior?

THE air is filled with nostalgia and warmth as the ‘Ber’ months unfold, heading into the festive season. However, in the commotion of daily life, it’s not uncommon to feel a gradual loss of the excitement that once held so much joy and wonder. As the fast-paced time passes, the enchantment of the holiday season can easily slip away. But is it possible to recapture that so-called ‘Christmas spirit’?

FILIPINOS were always known to believe in different superstitions, known as pamahiin. These beliefs and practices have become a guiding tool for many Filipinos in their everyday lives to achieve their goals, maintain good relationships with other people, and become self-aware of their actions and their surroundings. Our ancestors have passed down these superstitions and beliefs from one generation to another.