The University of Saint Louis Tuguegarao (USLT) welcomed the yuletide season with warmth, music, and community spirit as it held Pailaw 2025 on the afternoon of December 9, 2025, guided by the theme “Liwanag ng Pag-asa at Alab ng Pagkakaisa.”
The annual lighting ceremony once again gathered administrators, faculty members, staff, students, and alumni in a celebration that highlighted the enduring Louisian values of faith, unity, and hope.
Dr. Marie Rose P. Mora, Vice President for Administration, opened the program by expressing gratitude for the community’s continued cooperation and resilience.
One of the highlights of Pailaw 2025 was the unveiling of the university’s official mascot, “Theo.” The introduction of Theo marked a new chapter in strengthening school identity and spirit, especially among younger Louisian audiences.
In his Christmas message, University President Rev. Fr. Macwayne N. Maniwang, CICM, Ph.D. reflected on the profound meaning of the season. He reminded the Louisian community of the core essence of Christ’s birth. He said, “We celebrate God’s ultimate love for us by sending His only begotten Son to be with us in all forms except sins.” He further encouraged the community to allow the true light of the season to illuminate their hearts. “It is Jesus who symbolizes this light, and may we let this light penetrate into our hearts. The light in our hearts should radiate to others.” He added that Christ remains the foundation of hope for all. “To be light means Jesus is our source of hope. Let this Christmas be a Christmas wherein we will once again experience hope because Jesus is truly alive in us.”
After the message, the traditional blessing of the Christmas tree, Christmas lights, and the Belen took place. The blessing was led by Fr. Maniwang together with Rev. Fr. John Mark D. Barroga, CICM, Vice President for Mission and Identity and University Chaplain. This part of the program marked the formal beginning of the university’s Advent and Christmas observance.
The celebration continued with a vibrant lineup of socio-cultural presentations, including the Louisian Chorale, Christmas Caroling, Street Dance exhibitions, a Festival of Lights showdown, and Hip Hop performances. Each presentation showcased student talent and highlighted the joyful atmosphere that Pailaw brings every year.
The evening concluded with a Pailaw Concert featuring Jayson Dy and The Juans.
Pailaw 2025 once again reminded the Louisian community that amid challenges and uncertainties, the light of hope and unity continues to shine. This light remains bright and shared by all who call USLT home.
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