THE University of San Agustin (USA) commemorated its 119th Founding Anniversary on July 15, 2023. Since its establishment in 1904, USA has a rich history of providing excellent Catholic Augustinian education for the common good, becoming one of the leading educational institutions in the Philippines. This year’s celebration marked the prelude to the grand 120th Founding Anniversary in 2024, with the theme “A GIFT.”
The festivities kicked off with the Alumni and Personnel Homecoming on July 14 and 15, bringing together former students and members of the Augustinian community to celebrate the University’s remarkable milestones. The two-day event included various departmental and college activities, such as community outreach programs, campus tours, academic lectures, and mini reunions on its first day. The highlight of the celebration on July 15 featured a series of significant events.
The day began with a Bike Ride (Pamukaw) at 6 a.m., allowing participants to tour the main city points and was followed by a Eucharistic Celebration (Pagdayaw) at the USA Chapel to honor Our Father for the abundant blessings throughout the years. Following this was the blessing of the Tree of Life Mosaic between the USA Chapel and Herrera Hall, and the College of Pharmacy and Medical Technology Building. There were also groundbreaking ceremonies of two new proposed buildings – the Senior High School Building and the Dr. Henry Chusuey Multi-Purpose Building. These new additions symbolize the University’s commitment to growth and innovation.
At 11 a.m., the opening ceremony (Pagsaulog) took place at the USA gym. This ceremony served as an official launch for the day’s festivities including the launching of the USA Homecoming Queen, Outstanding Augustinian Alumni Awards, 120M for 120: A Fundraising Project, and the unveiling of the official USA@120 logo and the debut performance of the 120th Jubilee Hymn. At 12 noon, everyone gathered for the Salu-salo (Pamiyesta) – a joyful feast that brought together alumni and personnel to share memories, stories, and a sumptuous meal.
In the afternoon, at 2 p.m., the Pasidungog kag Pasundayag event was held at the USA gym. It recognized and honored Jubilarians – individuals who have reached milestone anniversaries of their graduation from the University. It also featured a Tribute Concert, with performances from the USA Performing Arts Groups paying homage to the different milestones of each era.
This year, the University introduced USA@119 Eras Tour (Pagsinadya) that took the participants on a nostalgic journey through various eras. From the Alumni Dance Ball showcasing the 1950s-1970s, the Jazz Club at Blanco Park, and the Disco & New Wave Party at 7th Floor, CPMT Building representing the 1980s-1990s, to the All the Rave at Gamboa and Rada Parks reflecting the 2000s, and the Band to Barracks at the Grandstand, each venue transported attendees to a different era of music and culture. There was also an All Eras Karaoke session in the quadrangle that was open to all who wanted to belt their hearts out and a SAGE E-Sports event at Urdaneta Hall for e-sports gamers.
For the grand 120th Founding Anniversary, the University will honor outstanding alumni by awarding 120 individuals from each department/college. These alumni have exemplified the virtues, ideals, and wisdom of St. Augustine while making significant contributions to their respective professions and the betterment of society. The awarding ceremonies will be done per college/department during the month when the college/department was established.
PEAR Office and the USA Alumni Association are collaborating to launch the Search for USA Homecoming Queen 2024. This search is open to alumna-representatives from various colleges or departments of the University. The candidates for Homecoming Queen were officially presented on July 15 and will be crowned during the Grand Alumni Night on July 15, 2024, as part of the 120th Founding Anniversary celebration.
Reaching the 120th year is a historical milestone for all Augustinians. It is an important time to reflect on the rich history of educational excellence and a call to march forward to a future marked by continued growth, innovation, and dedication for the common good. These celebrations serve as a testament to the transformative power of education and the enduring spirit of the Augustinian community./PN
