The Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS) Strand of the University of Saint Louis Tuguegarao (USLT) buzzed with anticipation as students and teachers from differing institutions of the region, namely Amulung National High School (ANHS), Cataggaman National High School (CatNHS), Gosi National High School (GNHS), Linao National High School (LinHS), Lal-lo National High School (LNHS), Our Lady of Piat High School (OLOPHS), and University of Saint Louis Tuguegarao (USLT), celebrated the 4th Regional HUMSS Convergence with the theme “Soksay Pulse 2024: CommUnity Beats for a Sustainable Tomorrow,” held on February 20-21, 2025.
The extraordinary two-day event was packed with thought-provoking seminars, high-stakes competitions, and dynamic team-building activities. The convergence opened with words that resonated deeply, setting the tone for inspiration and discovery. Speakers emphasized the importance of education, innovation, and community engagement, motivating participants to strive for excellence in their fields.
The morning immersed the participants in insightful seminars led by esteemed experts, covering topics such as effective communication, professional development in education, and voter education. The speakers’ expertise encouraged attendees to think beyond textbooks and envision their roles as future catalysts and leaders in these areas. The day was not just about absorbing knowledge but rather a platform to showcase it.
The afternoon sessions transformed into a stage where talent, intellect, and creativity put the spotlight on the exceptional talents within the HUMSS community. This included Traditional Poster Making, Extemporaneous Speaking via Picture Analysis, Spoken Word Poetry (Filipino), Debate Clash, and the Humanistalino Quiz Bee.
In the poster-making competition, students demonstrated their artistic flair, where CatNHS remarkably left their mark on the canvas and rose as the winner. While the extemporaneous speaking event challenged participants to think on their feet and articulate their thoughts under pressure, stealing the mic of the champion was LNHS. The Spoken Word Poetry contest, presented in Filipino, was a powerful expression of the student’s mastery of language and conveying deep emotions. Carrying the top spot was LNHS.
The debate showdown was fascinating, with multiple intense arguments and presentations. Teams from various schools battled it out, with the Integrated Team emerging victorious in the final match. The debate competition highlighted the participants’ sharp critical thinking and articulate communication skills. However, after the match, only one group bagged the award as the best debating team: the Team Integrated, consisting of students from the USLT, OLOPHS, and ANHS. Meanwhile, the Humanistalino Quiz Bee tested participants’ knowledge of humanities and social sciences, where LNHS once again showcased their strong dedication to swooping the whole competition, making them the Best Performing School of the HUMSS Convergence 2025.
If the first day was about intellectual prowess, the second day was about physical strength and unity. It was marked by teamwork, fun, and connection. It was a day dedicated to strengthening bonds between participants and celebrating the sense of community.
The morning air at the university’s quadrangle echoed laughter and cheers as students gathered for the team-building activities. Students from participating schools, including LNHS, OLOPHS, and GNHS, teamed up for exciting challenges across different stations on the university grounds. Whether strategizing to find coins among a pile of flour or sack racing against time in physical challenges, participants discovered that leadership is not just about standing out; it is about lifting others and developing a long-lasting friendship worthy of keeping even after they go back home. Two exceptional teams’ dedications stood out. Team 11 was hailed as the Fastest Completers, and Team 7 was declared as the Best Performing Group.
As the sun disappeared on the horizon, the much-anticipated HUMSS Soirée: Socialization Night brought an air of elegance and festivity. Hosted by Mr. Vincent R. Battaring, MAEd, he created a space for everyone to unwind and celebrate the spirit of camaraderie in a fun and lively setting. Under the dazzling lights of the New EMC, students stepped into a Hollywood-inspired evening, dressed in their finest attire, enjoying a night filled with music, dancing, and entertainment. Mr. Tyrone David S. Villafuerte Jr. of Grade 11-St. John of the Cross, and Ms. Juliana Rose A. Accad of Grade 12-St. Maria Goretti stole the crown as Mr. and Ms. Hollywood Star 2025.
As the festivities drew to a close, Ms. Flordeliza A. Agudera, MST, Social Science Area Head, delivered a message of purpose that lingered in every heart of Humanista: “Lagi’t lagi, para sa Humanistas.” Her words served as a powerful reminder and reflection that being part of the HUMSS community is more than just an academic pursuit but a commitment to its values of humanity, education, and service.
The 4th Regional HUMSS Convergence proved that the HUMSS community is more than just a field of study; it is a family bound by knowledge, empathy, and the relentless pursuit of a better tomorrow. A deep gratitude is given to its contributors for continuing and renewing a legacy, giving a pulse to the hearts that beat every individual.
As the last goodbyes were exchanged and students returned to their respective schools, they carried with them more than just certificates and medals. They carried memories, inspiration, and a renewed sense of purpose, ready to keep the pulse of change alive.
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