University of Santo Tomas-Legazpi
The Premier Dominican University of Bicol
The Premier Dominican University of Bicol
Every 8th of August, the Dominican Family around the world honors the feast of St. Dominic de Guzman, founder of the Dominican Order. As the only Dominican university in the Bicol Region, the University of Santo Tomas-Legazpi upholds this tradition through “Pagheras sa Kafiestahan ni Inggo,” a celebration of faith, service, and generosity. This annual community extension program is rooted in the Dominican mission to praise, bless, and preach, making the feast day not only a moment of remembrance but also of giving back to the community.
This year’s celebration took place on August 8 at Burabod Elementary School in Libon, Albay. The name “Burabod,” which means “source,” became the central theme of homily. Rev. Fr. Roberto “Fr. Bobby” Castellano Jr., OP, Vice President for Religious Affairs, reflected on the importance of remembering our sources, such as our parents, teachers, schools, and most importantly, God. He reminded everyone that St. Dominic is the source and inspiration for Dominicans worldwide. The Eucharistic Mass was co-presided by Rev. Fr. Gallardo “Fr. Butch” A. Bombase, OP, Director of the Center for Campus Ministry, and Rev. Fr. Jojit Borromeo, Parish Priest of St. James the Greater Parish, setting a tone of thanksgiving and unity for the day’s activities.
Following the opening program, simultaneous activities were conducted to meet the various needs of the community. UST-Legazpi administrators, supervisors, selected faculty and non-teaching personnel facilitated sessions and services in line of their functions this includes AI Fundamentals for teachers by the Educational Technology Center, Free Counseling for teachers by the Office of Guidance and Testing, a Science Fair and Experiments by the Laboratory and Instrumentation Department, Storytelling and Book Donation by the University Library and Information Services, Saving Tips for kids by the Financial Resources Management Office and Office of the University Controller, Catechism by the Center for Religious Education, a Disaster Risk Reduction and Management session by the Center for Community Involvement, Confession by Rev. Fr. Roberto Castellano Jr., OP, Health Services by the University Clinic, and Free Legal Consultation by the College of Law.
A total of 315 pupils benefited from the program, each receiving a gift pack containing a lunch box, tumbler, calculator, raincoat, biscuits and candies, crayons, scissors, and a rosary. The event was made possible through coordination with the Libon Parish and Barangay Council headed by Hon. Irwin R. Perez, with donations coming from the offerings during the Mass of the Holy Spirit and the Solemn Triduum in honor of St. Dominic de Guzman held at UST-Legazpi.
Teacher Joyce Ann B. Llarenas, a participant in AI Fundamentals and Free Counseling for Teachers, expressed appreciation for the meaningful sessions, highlighting how they helped teachers easily generate materials for distance or blended learning, discover more ways to maximize the internet, and benefit from the counseling session for teachers. She also noted the significance of the other activities that took place that day. PTA President Maverick T. Siano shared, “Education is not only in the school, it requires the cooperation of the community. We see how much joy it brings to the children, and we, the parents, are happy as well.” SSG President Christian C. Llamasares said, “This program has brought about a significant change in my life, in my community, and I encourage everyone to support the endeavors of UST-Legazpi, so they can continue extending help not only to us but to many other communities as well.” School principal Aaron V. Segui reflected, “We cannot replace the joy we saw in the eyes of our children. This will be a memory they will cherish as they grow older.” He also mentioned that in his entire career, it is UST-Legazpi that has conducted this kind of activity. CCI Director Hazel M. Bermundo also expressed gratitude to the participating departments, UST-Legazpi students, the school, the parish, and the barangay for their support, emphasizing that the activity was a blessing from St. Dominic and offered for the glory of God.
With 42 UST-Legazpi employees from different departments volunteering their time and talents, the celebration embodied the Dominican spirit of service rooted in faith. By bringing education, health, legal, and spiritual support directly to the community, the event truly lived out the threefold mission of St. Dominic, which is Laudare (To Praise), Benedicere (To Bless), and Praedicare (To Preach), ensuring that the source of Dominican mission continues to flow to those who need it most.
Written by:
Mark Kevin A. Castillo