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Written by: Janna Louise Ong Art by: Jean Orme Carved finely as a doll, From head to toe, flawless yet dull, Since then, her voice had been lull. Existed only to be the epitome of null. Beside him stood an accessory, Heeding to his endless necessity. Mere decoration was what they see. Will she be able to run free? Odds against her favor, But she who needs no savior, Lead her destiny, knocking at her door. Freedom within her grasp, unlike before. Speaker of mind, not guilty of a crime, A false prisoner in chains for a long time. To dare escape for the better is to climb The peak where she can be in her prime. Standing is a woman of her own, How the sun shines even when alone. In disguise is a queen on the throne, Reigning in a world of the great unknown.

Written by: Mary Angela Aquino Illustrated by: Keith Portia Andres Hey, what’s up? I haven’t had the chance to take time and ask how you are doing for so long. I have been so busy for the past weeks, but I hope you’re still doing okay. I had the sudden urge to write you a letter. Last love month, I realized, I have been greeting our friends and loved ones a “happy heart’s day!”, but I forgot to extend my love month greetings to you— the most deserving one of the love I have been trying to give someone else. As I am writing you a letter, I cannot help but to reminisce about our days before. Do you remember when things were a lot simpler? Our idea of love back then was having fun and playing. You did not like the idea of school, but you have always wanted to read. You hated interactions, but you also craved companionship. You’ve always wanted this and that, yet you always choose the opposite of things; you’ve always been a paradox. You were so young back then. Little and innocent but full of hope and dreams. You ambitioned to be a nurse, you also envisioned yourself as an accountant, then it became wanting to be a lawyer. You were indecisive with what you wanted as a child. You wanted to try a lot of hobbies and you had a lot of interests, yet look at you now, a future engineer. I guess that’s just how life is; the passing of time changes things, including the things we love. Growing up happens to everyone. We get hurt, confused, and sad, but we also laugh, learn, and mature. Changing and growing up is necessary for us to reach our full potential. Seeing you slowly reaching your best self is making me proud, even more proud than anyone in your life. From that small girl who used to play and run around the house to becoming that strong independent woman you have always wanted to be. I know you will tell me that you’re not there yet. I will not disagree but give yourself credit also. You used to cry and be sad about small things all the time, but now, you have learned that there are things that are out of your control and that the world does not revolve around you. You used to be shy and insecure, but now you are opening yourself to the world and enjoy interacting with other people. You used to hate yourself for not reaching beauty standards, but now you instilled in yourself that you don’t have flaws, rather they are your unique characteristics. You used to belittle yourself for failing, but now you have accepted that failure is a part of life and you’re now using your failures to excel. You used to feel purposeless, but now you have established your goals and you are focused on reaching them. You’ve finally learned to love yourself more than ever. Malayo ka pa pero malayo ka na. And now you’re almost at the finish line of your college journey. You’re about to enter a new one. I know you have big dreams, and this is just another step of reaching them. You still have a lot of finish lines to cross, hurdles to overcome, and challenges to conquer. Continue to persevere in reaching your goals, but never forget to take time to pause, breathe, and enjoy in between. Loving yourself means dreaming big things for your own good, but it also means taking care of yourself in every journey you take. Just as a quote says, “A healthy love doesn’t hurt, it heals.”. But let me add more into it. A healthy love doesn't hurt, it heals, dreams, and grows. As you love yourself more, may you heal from every negative thing you have, may you continue to dream for all the best things you deserve, and may you grow to achieve the best potential you could ever have. Loving you with all the love I got, Your self

Written by: Jhoe Benice Gundayao Illustrated by: Jefferson Juan “Do you ever wonder why things have to turn out the way they do?” People have different characteristics and personalities based on their experiences — but challenges primarily affect how they act and decide on various situations. Most of the time, people define their love language based on actions and needs. The Enneagram and MBTI are personality tests that determine how a person grasps situations and makes decisions. MBTI has 16 personality types divided into four categories of behavior; this also combines different personalities that could make wise decisions. The Enneagram helps a person realize their roles and the results of their characters would come up; it focuses on how our fears will develop and how we engage in life. Knowing one's strengths and weaknesses will enable one to navigate life more successfully. On the other hand, love language helps people manage relationships and communicate their needs. How do MBTI, love language, and Enneagram change over time as we experience different life stages? When we were children, the reality connected to our childhood foreshadows where we wanted to be. Love language communicates our love to loved ones, who can define how we want to express love to us. But, have you ever wondered how our personality changes over time? Well, yes, because of various situations, our personality continues to transform and make us better― depending on our beliefs and how they would change us. As we get older, we can observe the changes in our behavior. Before, we couldn't understand before experiencing it. We feared being abandoned and walking alone — hearing hurtful words quickly broke our hearts. After realizing that hurting ourselves is escaping suffering, we see ourselves as perfect and worthy of loving. That love, to accept and forget the past, makes us express the best version of ourselves. Experiencing this can answer questions on how our Enneagram changes in identifying the basic rules in our lives. In contrast, acting with different personalities could be a positive change that shapes throughout, and all types could apply to ourselves. Nevertheless, it has personalities that have been dominant since we were children, but because of people's curiosity, we intend to change. As we explore to know ourselves, our unique personalities will remain to make us memorable. Defining MBTI is a challenge that needs the evaluation of our feelings and emotions. As we can observe, time flies faster as we get older; it is where our age could impact our personalities. ‌ Before, we were exposed to different situations that still made us happy and think that life is simple — but now, as we grow, realizing that our life has responsibilities makes us tired of knowing our priorities in this world. Any personality can determine us, but there is a personality that will stay even; perceiving different personalities, it still intends to develop and change. When the people around us misinterpret our personalities, it leads us to stress that might come up as a sign for us to change. The pandemic is one of the circumstances that lead to our personality change; even though we try to become extroverted again because of being alone and introverted, we are still afraid to create an attachment with people despite hanging out with them. According to the theory of MBTI, our personalities do not change, but it still depends on our experiences. As we mature, we remain the same people; we only reflect on ourselves from the past and who truly is us. Anyone has their love language; even if we are hurt, we still want to feel loved and be loved again. Love language shows how we want to receive ‌acts of love as our relationships evolve. A simple hug and kiss on the forehead makes us romantic (everyone loves it!), and sometimes it makes us cry (a feeling of faith and missed love). Even if someone hurts us, we accept them because of love. Based on different dramas we have watched, we know that love language changes over time because of upsetting situations — but given time and communication, love will remain. It also affects partners with an "opposite love language." When you want to receive a word of affirmation, but your partner only wants to give an act of service despite having the opposite, both partners should be flexible to stay longer. Parents always show their love to their children by cooking meals and spending time together. A kiss or a hug also shows appreciation and communication between them. As part of growing up, it contributes to how it will express love through acts of service, quality time, physical touch, and words of affirmation. Love is exemplified through action, which is "action speaks louder than voice," exhibited through acts of service and quality time, and often by hearing words of affirmation to feel valued. Even though love hurts, we still accept the person hurting us to a certain extent. That gives us trauma that cannot heal quickly — it influences our love language, and sometimes if we feel it differently, we doubt that it manipulates us. Each love language: word of affirmation, physical touch, quality time, an act of service, etc. sometimes, we want to receive it from our past, and when we mature, it changes. Love can hold back and bond again, the lovers. Everyone views love differently, but time and experiences give them a reason to keep together. Even if it leads to self-destructive behavior, they sacrifice anything for the people they love. An option to give without expecting anything in return, a love that endures, and an unconditional love.

Written by: Gerald Araco Illustrated by: Jefferson Juan As the last echoes of Valentine’s Day fade away, the remnants of the season of love linger still. Some have emerged victorious, reveling in the triumph of newfound love, while others have remained bereft of its wonders. But beyond these surface-level experiences, there are deeper lessons to be learned from this month of love. The frenzied exchange of flowers, letters, and chocolates on campus has caused me to ponder why people so desperately seek out love but not its opposite. It seems that they yearn for it with all their being, but do they fully understand the risk they take by opening themselves up to such an intense emotion? The reality is that love, like life itself, is a precarious dance with the unknown. Even if it propels us to the greatest heights, there is always the possibility of falling back to earth with a resounding crash. Despite this, we remain convinced that requited love is only a one-way journey to the top. It is crucial to remember that melancholy and heartbreak are inevitable parts of the love experience. It is not fear that should guide our hearts, but a calculated mindfulness of the potential blessings and curses that come with falling in love. Let us take a moment to reflect on the true nature of love, to contemplate its complexities and contradictions, and find the wisdom to navigate its twists and turns with grace and courage in our hearts. The heart is a mysterious entity. It is both fragile and resilient. For even the most bashful people, they may find themselves opening up to love and connecting with another soul in ways that are both evocative and profound. The heart is made so that it is robust but can fragment into a million pieces when that intimate bond with a significant other fades and is no more. Love and heartbreak are powerful emotions; one is the gift that keeps on giving while the other, to many, is the bane of all existence. But as fearful as people may be of being subject to the perils of love, one should not disservice themselves by shying away from the experience of its enchantment and woes. For just as ivy and oak intertwine and grow together, so too do the joys and sorrows of love meld the heart into a richer, more complex thing. Experiencing both love and heartbreak can be incredibly transformative experiences that help us grow, learn, and develop a greater understanding of ourselves and others. If one wishes to deepen their understanding and capacity for love, it is a necessary rite of passage of life to have your heart broken and mended by the bittersweet melody of love. Falling in love is a symphony of emotion that stirs the heart and soul. When we fall in love, we are swept away by forces beyond our control. Our hearts beat faster, our eyes sparkle, and our souls are filled with an impossible sense of euphoria for which we have no words to describe. To be cradled in the loving arms of your beloved is THE triumph that everyone aspires to attain. More importantly, love is a journey that takes us through the deepest parts of ourselves, revealing parts of our personality, which were previously unknown to us. That is because love is a force that can open our hearts to new possibilities, and inspire us to become the best versions of ourselves. It can make us more patient, kind, and empathetic, and can help us cultivate a greater appreciation for the people in our lives who make us feel loved and cherished. Love can help us find purpose and meaning in the absence of clarity, and it inspires us to pursue our dreams and passions with greater conviction. In the same breath, love makes us stronger and wiser people. Love is a journey fraught with hardships and uncertainties, yet it is precisely in navigating these choppy waters that we find the greatest opportunities for personal growth and self-improvement. Indeed, the difficulties posed by love - be it misunderstandings, arguments, incompatibilities, or simply the ebb and flow of desire - can serve as a crucible for the refinement of our character and the cultivation of wisdom. By learning to be vulnerable and considerate of both our own concerns and those of our partner, we become more down-to-earth, reasonable, and selfless in our relationships, virtues that in turn spill over into other areas of life. Moreover, the experience of learning to balance our personal and professional commitments, and to resist the temptation to sabotage ourselves when excited or despondent, builds a sense of fortitude that prepares us for even greater challenges and adversity ahead. Through the trials and tribulations of love, we gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and our place in the world and emerge as wiser, more tenacious, and emotionally mature individuals. Love is a great teacher for the most important lessons to be learned in life, but it is also through heartbreak that we see more vividly the depth of such wisdom. What one makes of it, however, is what decides your betterment or downfall. As the wise Maya Angelou puts it “You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them." Few things in life are ever as powerful as the emotions stirred by the pain of a heartbreak. The end of a relationship is no easy cross to bear and it can be a crushing blow that leaves one feeling devastated, broken, and all alone in its wake. However, it is eventually through this same suffering that we can become better, stronger, and wiser, just as falling in love makes us so. Heartbreaks challenge us in unique ways that few other experiences can. For one, it forces us to confront the fragileness of our own emotions and the reality of how little control we have over the world around us. It is a bitter but poignant truth pill that tells us that not all things in life are easily within our grasp and that the most intense and dream-like feelings can be fleeting and impermanent. Trauma and pain break our illusion of invincibility but it is through the confrontation with the raw and unfiltered reality of heartbreak that we have a chance to grow as individuals. From this, we learn to endure the worst suffering imaginable. Many may not find their footing immediately and will stumble and fall amid the ruins of their shattered dreams. They may publicly lash out at former partners, or worse, plead with them to reconcile only to wind up being rejected with finality. Speaking from experience, there aren’t many things in this world that can contest that level of humiliation and defeat. Nevertheless, it is through the long months that follow spent crying oneself to sleep, skimming through posts on r/ExNoContact, drowning oneself in new Spotify playlists, and seeking out affirmation and comfort from friends and family that we eventually find ourselves to be at peace with reality. It is difficult to manifest that there is an end to heartbreak and the start of a new chapter in life as its scars never fully heal, but let the enduring wisdom of those great thinkers who came before tell you that in time, this too, shall pass. Another good thing that heartbreak has to offer is that it has the ability to make us more sage and judicious about the decisions we make moving forward. When our relationships come to a demise, we are reminded of the fact that our judgment can be fallible, that our maturity is not up to par, and the unreasonable expectations of ourselves and our partners. In the throes of heartbreak, we learn to acknowledge our own culpability in the breakdown of a relationship. Humbling as it may be, it forces us to challenge our own ego and biases, remind ourselves that we are not the center of the universe, much less our own relationship and that we are not faultless and inviolable - to err is human, and no surprise, we are human beings after all. When we make such realizations, we need to find it within ourselves to practice the art of self-forgiveness. Accepting our imperfections and moments of poor judgment is integral to understanding the grace of our humanity. That way, when given the opportunity to love again, we can better appreciate the efforts of our partners and do good by them with a renewed sense of purpose and good intentions. Finally, the end of a relationship can be a starting point for deep contemplation; specifically, about ourselves. At the heart of this experience is the realization that our sense of self and identity oftentimes gets intertwined with the dynamics of the relationship, making it difficult to maintain a clear perspective on what matters most to us. Yet, heartbreaks bear the most unexpected gift - the chance to renew our focus on the things that we have let slacken and allowed to wither. Firstly, we can make up for lost time with family and friends - the people who remind us of the importance of human bonds and social support outside our relationships. Simultaneously, they can be confidants that help you cope with the stress and anxiety attendant to breakups. Secondly, old hobbies and interests, long neglected provide a welcome and productive distraction from the hollowness of heartbreak. Finally, practicing self-care can bear fruit beyond our expectations. Whether it is meditation, therapy, or regular exercise, self-care nurtures the seeds of our resilience, preparing us for the next stages of our lives. Given time, the bad memory of heartbreak will become just that, a memory and nothing more. In the end, it is the sum of our experiences that molds us into the people we are today. By embracing the tumultuous journey of love and heartbreak, we embark on a path of self-discovery and growth that allows us to unlock the potential of our human spirit. The ecstasy of love and the anguish of heartbreak may seem like polar opposites, but they are two sides of the same coin, each with a lesson to impart. In love, we learn the joy of selflessness, while in heartbreak, we learn the power of resilience. Through these experiences, we discover the power of vulnerability and the courage to take risks in matters of the heart. At the end of the day, love and heartbreak are intertwined, essential components of the human experience, and we are all the better at having known both.

Written by: Doroteo Prudenciano II & Szarina dela Paz Photos by: Ray-B Alunen, Szarina dela Paz, & Doroteo Prudenciano II In celebration of the 116th founding year of the UST Faculty of Engineering (UST-FoE), the UST Association of Civil Engineering Students (UST-ACES) and UST Engineering Alumni Association, Inc. (UST-EAAI) conducted Balik Engg and EngGAHling: Grand Alumni Homecoming, respectively, on February 18, 2023, on campus. Balik Engg Former and current faculty members, deans, and administrators went to the Fr. Roque Ruaño Building through ACES’ Balik Engg on Saturday morning. Among those present was former Engineering Dean (years 1985-2000), Prof. Alberto A. Laurito, MSc, batch 1973 Chemical Engineering (ChE) alumnus. “I’ve never been away, even after I retired, I kept in touch [with them],” former Dean Laurito said when asked how he felt seeing his former colleagues and batchmates. The event commenced with an opening prayer led by FoE regent, Rev. Fr. Roberto L. Luanzon Jr., O.P., followed by a speech by Dean Angelo R. dela Cruz, Ph.D., PECE, welcoming back the former faculty members to UST. “It’s nice to see former colleagues, also some students, but also to be in the University again [...] dito sa Engineering [building], wala masyadong changes, still the same corridor, same classrooms but outside talagang I was surprised, I saw the developments,” former ChE faculty and laboratory supervisor, Dr. Servillano S.B. Olaño Jr. reminisced. “It’s really nice to be around not only meeting former students, colleagues, faculty members but also being back in campus after so many years [...] we are just thankful to God that we are still here, enjoying life, and [given] the opportunity to be in [UST] again,” Dr. Olaño Jr. continued. The remaining hours of the event were spent with reminiscing their time in Ruaño. A few intermission numbers also took place when a videoke machine was brought out. First to set the stage was Dean dela Cruz with Orange and Lemon’s “Hanggang Kailan.” EngGAHling: Grand Alumni Homecoming After the homecoming celebration of the former and current faculty members, deans, and administrators of the FoE, the jubilarian alumni, Batches 1968, 1973, 1978, 1983, 1988, 1993, and 1998, had their Grand Alumni Homecoming, entitled “EngGAHling” at the Buenaventura Garcia Paredes, O.P. (BGPOP) Building with the theme, “Connect, Give Back, Leave a Legacy.” In the afternoon, the jubilarian alumni gathered at the Roque Ruaño Building before beginning their “Amazing Alumni Walk.” The UST Yellow Jackets (UST-YJ) led the start of the walk by playing drum beats and Thomasian cheers. Dean dela Cruz alongside the FoE Secretary, Engr. Ma. Luisa Asilo, and other faculty members were at the forefront of the walk. There were five stations during the said walk, each with different tasks, namely, the Engineering Building, Arch of the Centuries, Benavides Monument, Martyr’s Monument, and Thomasian Alumni Center located at the BGPOP Building. Rev. Fr. Luanzon Jr. O.P., presided over the Thanksgiving Mass, assisted by UST Civil Engineering (CE) Batch of 1978 alum, Deacon Rey Caluya Encarnacion. “Minahal niyo ang USTe dahil maraming bagay kayong natutunan dito lalo na ngayon ay dala-dala niyo pa sa inyong buhay. For that, we welcome you back to UST, to your second home that you love,” Fr. Luanzon stated during his homily. UST-EAAI President Engr. Jason L. Ong graced the event with his opening remarks followed by a message from Dean dela Cruz. Moments after, the presentation of awards of the Rector’s Cup Engineering Team for placing 4th runner-up, Class C for placing 1st runner-up, and Nestor Jongko emerging as the winner was headed by one of the members of the UST-EAAI Board of Directors, Eng. Bong Fernando. UST-EAAI Board of Directors member and one of the tournament directors of the Rector’s Cup, Engr. Bong Fernando, presented the awards to the Rector’s Cup winners, namely, Rector’s Cup Engineering Team placing 4th runner-up and Class C 1st runner-up winner Nestor Jongko. Public Relations Officer of UST-EAAI, Monina Evangelista of Batch ‘83 awarded the UST-EAAI scholars with cheques from William Belo, John Paul Pe, Jason Ong, Paul Wee, Fannie Cantal, and Dante Cantal which were received by Engr. Ong and Agnes Pabillo. Batches ‘73, ’78, ’83, ’88, ’93, and host Batch ‘98 were also awarded with medals. Additionally, a cheque from the host batch was awarded to UST-EAAI. Following this, an Oath of Thomasian Engineer led by Batch ‘98 was conducted and a ceremonial turnover to Batch ‘99 was done. The alumni song, “Inhinyero Ako,” brought together the jubilarian alumni in one voice.

Written by: Brix Dela Cruz, Carlos Miguel Fernandez, Genesis Hernandez, Leandro Sarmiento Organized by the UST Engineering Student Council (UST-ESC), several Engineering department representatives fought and went head-to-head for glory in the Engineering E-Sports 2023 last February 13–16. It was an extreme battle against all departments from each event. Two head-to-head grand finals matches highlighted the final day of the Engineering E-Sports 2023. After an entire duration of a breathtaking battle, the Civil Engineering (CE) department faced off against Electronics Engineering (ECE) for mobile legends, while Mechanical Engineering (ME) went up against CE for Valorant. Mobile Legends: Teamwork makes the dream work! This proved the success of the ECE team V=IR, who were hailed as champions as they ruled over Cookie ni Nookie of the CE Department, 3-0, in the recently concluded UST Engineering E-Sports Mobile Legends Tournament. ​​The Electronics Engineering Department showed confidence in a best-of-three series in the upper bracket quarter-finals and semifinals against Ginanon Lang of the Mechanical Engineering Department, 2-1, and IE’s The Champs, 2-0. Team V=IR persisted in their dominance after taking down team Cookie ni Nookie in the upper bracket finals, securing their spot in the grand finals, and hindering the CE Department's chances of winning. A familiar episode struck the Civil Engineering representatives as ECE swept them again in the grand finals match. It was a close first game between the two teams, but the ECE managed to take game one due to its objective-centric lineup. CE had a good start, but Delmos from ECE guaranteed all objectives, which helped them secure the game. For game two, team CE operated neatly right from early to mid-game, with unique heroes picked on their side. The victory was drawing near for CE, but one crucial mistake turned the tide for the team. ECE picked off four members of team CE 15 minutes into the game, thus costing them the game. The Exp-Laner Clarkk reigned MVP for games one and two. It was a totally different story for the third and final game as team ECE dominated the bout, finishing it in 12 minutes. The gold-laner Levi was crowned MVP after putting up 11 kills and nine assists with his kagura. Copping the win, ECE was hailed the champion for the Mobile Legends Tournament. Valorant: Perfect Accuracy Jang's Angels of ECE, Germa 66 of EE, ChEntinels of ChE, WBG of IE, and Big Baby Cholo of CE earns a ticket in the interdepartmental playoffs of valorant as they dominated the games in their specific departments. Overall, in the series of playoffs mentioned, ECE, ME, and CE secured a spot on the throne as they entered the semi-finals. ME battled ECE in the first game of the valorant semi-finals, where ME showcased and maintained the momentum of precise gunplay, outpowering ECE and earning ME a back-to-back win, 13-5, 13-6. These victories sent ME to the championship game of valorant. It wasn't the end for the ECE to pull off their skills as they still have a chance to become a finalist. ECE played a thrilling close game against CE, accumulating a tie in the best of three games. However, ECE failed to defend and execute fiery attacks on CE, resulting in CE's hard-fought victory, 11-13, 13-9, 3-13. Meanwhile, on valorant’s grand finals showdown, the ME SENGtinels squad claims victory over the Big Baby Cholo team of Civil Engineering in a best-of-three series, ending in spectacular fashion as both teams come neck-and-neck in overtime, with ME ultimately besting CE, 15-13. Game one set the tone early as ME gained a commanding 6-1 lead and finished the match point with a score of 13-9, with the match being decided as ME was saved by a clutch play as CE player Liebe failed to defuse the bomb in a 1 vs. 4 setting after all his teammates went down. ME player Garapotski, meanwhile, used an unconventional tactic in the first match, using Reyna as a duelist, notching 31 kills. CE started the second game with two decisive wins against ME and even held a big advantage of 7-2 before ME closed the gap with a 9-7 score. ME made crucial plays, particularly Garapotski, who switched strategies in the split round, using Breach to dispatch two defenders and tie the game at 11-11. Both teams still performed strongly late in the game as the match was sent into overtime following CEs timely bomb defuse as they caught MEs contingent by surprise, making it 12-12. While the CE’s Big Baby Cholo won the first overtime round of Split, ME stuck to their unconventional yet effective tactics as they won three straight, making it 15-13 as they secured the title.

Written by: Jose Miguel Ballecer and Mary Andrew Dalogdog Photos by: Khristel Penoliar, Bea Galvez, Tori Lopez Tallying all the scores from the start of the Engineering Week, the Chemical Engineering (ChE) Department maintained their three-year streak as they emerged as this year's overall champion at SPARK: The Engineering Broadway Night 2023 last February 18, 2023, at the UST Practice Gym. After the opening remarks of the Faculty of Engineering Dean, Prof. Angelo R. dela Cruz, PhD, PECE, which marked the start of the Faculty Showdown, Gab Campos, Joanne Almonte, and Danielle Eugenio were introduced as its judges. First on the stage was the Industrial Engineering (IE) Department, which took inspiration from the musical, “Mamma Mia," followed by the Electronics Engineering (ECE) Department's performance of “Hairspray” and the Mechanical Engineering (ME) Department’s rendition of “The Sound of Music." After an intermission number by UST Ronins, the Civil Engineering (CE) Department decked the stage with their performance based on the musical "Into the Woods." Finally, the Chemical Engineering (ChE) Department closed the showdown with their musical play "Wicked." Before announcing the winners for this year’s faculty showdown, the Silver Gear Awards took place where nominations and voting period commenced last February 11 to 13, 2023. Awardees for the faculty category were recognized as recipients of the “Student’s Choice Award for Outstanding Academic Staff”: Asst. Prof. Dolores S.D. Cleofas, PhD, ASEAN Engr. (CE), Asst. Prof. Noel S. Sabarillo, MSc (ChE), Engr. Michael S. Matias, MEng (ECE), Engr. Mariz A. Chua (EE), Engr. Yoshiki B. Kurata, PhD, CIE, Assoc. ASEAN Engr (IE), and Engr. Ma. Francesca D. De Guzman, RMEE (ME). "I think bawat professor […] faculty sa engineering deserves this award," Asst. Prof. Sabarillo stated as he received his award. Afterward, awardees for the student category were acknowledged as well: Allyssa Joy Idio (Fr. Roque Ruaño Leadership Award), Steven Mathew Solis (St. Cecilia Award), Industrial Engineering Circle (St. Martin De Porres Community Development Award), Operations Research Society of the Philippines - UST Branch (St. Aloysius Gonzaga Award), and Martin Alfonso Bonilla (St. Sebastian Award). For the contest winners, Steven Matthew Solis for Amor: Ang Liyag ng Isang Tomasinong Inhinyero, a vlog fest, and Jeremy Edera for Sinag - Ang Sentimyentong Pagbabalik Sa Ruaño, a photo contest. The faculty’s student band “Illumina” then covered Eraserheads' “Huling El Bimbo” and Mayonaisse's “Jopay”. Moments after, the IE department was hailed the winner of the Faculty Showdown as well as Best Poster. They were followed by the ChE and CE Departments, respectively. The ECE department, on the other hand, won the Best AVP Award. Engineering Student Council (ESC) adviser, Assoc. Prof. Carlos Ignacio Jr. P. Lugay, PhD, PIE, ASEAN Engr., then gave his closing remarks, kicked off the guest bands’ concert, which featured Sunkissed Lola and Orange and Lemons. Sunkissed Lola opened their set with their latest single, "Makalimutan Ka" and ended with one of their hits, "Pasilyo." Orange and Lemons took the stage next and performed their most memorable hits, a track from their newest album, and a jamming session with the IE Department of Abba's “Dancing Queen”.

Written by: Gerald Araco Art by: Jefferson Juan Ohh, to be in love is an incomparable bliss. To people, it can be the zenith of existence, for it represents the ultimate goal—the culmination of searching, from pillar to post, for someone with whom they can share a profound sense of mutual affection, connection, and happiness. The experience of romance is a perplexing, multifaceted phenomenon that has captivated the hearts and minds of humanity for centuries. It is one of the most powerful emotions that a lifetime of experiences could possibly offer. The mysterious allure of love beguiles us with the promise of fulfillment, connection, and joy. But what precisely is it about love that makes it so special that we seek it out as the definitive expression of happiness? Romantic love holds such a special place in people’s hearts because it ignites an unparalleled feeling of happiness within us. It taps directly into the core of our fundamental human desire to seek out emotional and intimate connection. Furthermore, the world at large has made it difficult to be removed from that pursuit. From the days of old to the present, we are reminded, in the words of Leonardo Da Vinci, that “life without love is no life at all.” Despite any cynic’s best effort to tell you otherwise, the universe will always gravitate you toward the hope of finding “the one.” Literature, art, films, and all media of great minds and thinkers alike have espoused time and again that when we are in love, we can bask in the comfort of knowing that we are well and truly cared for. In the embrace of our cherished one, the very essence of life is elevated - every bite of food is a feast for the senses, every slumber is a reprieve from the world, every memory is a tapestry woven with rich hues, and every triumph in life forms a symphony of sweet delight. However, it is high time somebody cast a stone of opposition to this romanticized perspective of love (pun most certainly intended). Do not indulge yourselves too keenly in the upcoming Valentine’s hoopla of flowers, chocolates, silly love songs, candlelit dinners, and whimsical declarations of puppy love. Bitter as it may sound, let us instead consider its antithesis: the possibility that there may never be soulmate to be found and treasured for some as long as they are tethered to their earthly form. For such people, is that condition a fate worse than death? It depends on whose rose-colored lens you’re wearing. Many people vehemently defend the merits of romantic love, but there is a strong case to be made that finding love and settling down is not an ideal situation for everyone. Confirmation bias would have you believe that people in relationships greatly outnumber those who have opted out of love but do not be mistaken. There is a large contingent of single individuals who live functional and fulfilling lives, unburdened by the pressure of seeking out a significant other. To them, singlehood is a trivial afterthought; nothing more. Finding love and settling down is often associated with traditional relationships, marriage, and starting a family, and for many individuals in this age of breaking away from such norms, the idea of settling down may not align with their values, desires, or lifestyle. For some individuals, the prospect of settling down may not be as alluring as it used to due to a yearning for adventure and freedom. These individuals may possess an unrelenting spirit of wanderlust, and a desire to experience new destinations and encounters. They might find the notion of being tethered to one place or person uninviting and may feel suffocated in a conventional relationship or domestic life. The liberty to embark on travels and investigate the world might be held in high regard, and the obligations and commitments that come with settling down may not be appealing. Others may not be inclined towards settling down due to a fear of commitment. Trust and emotional wounds from the past may prove challenging for some, making it difficult to give themselves fully to another person. The idea of settling down may seem to entail surrendering independence, and the magnitude of such a commitment may be daunting. Keeping their options open may seem more preferable, and they may not yet be ready for the depth of commitment that comes with settling down. For still others, the notion of settling down may hold a different meaning. Individual pursuits and career goals may take precedence over a conventional relationship or family life. They may find fulfillment through their work or passion and may not see the need for a traditional family structure. Independence and autonomy, achieved through the pursuit of personal aspirations, may be valued, and the added responsibilities that come with settling down may not be sought. Think of Beethoven, the Wright Brothers, Isaac Newton, Nikola Tesla, and Jane Austen. All of these revered dignitaries of their respective fields are a testament to this point of abnegating romance for a higher calling. Finally, societal norms and pressures may also play a role in why some individuals may not be meant to settle down. Conventional expectations surrounding marriage and parenthood may be imposed upon individuals, but they may not align with their values and aspirations. The pressure to conform to societal expectations is an oppressively familiar struggle to most, but surrendering one's own happiness and fulfillment to do so may not be a viable option. So, they eschew it entirely. And, you know what? None of their lives have fallen apart as a result of singlehood precisely because all of these reasons are perfectly acceptable. Those enamored by spoils that love pledges view singlehood as an impediment to happiness, but those wise enough to reflect deeply can regard it instead as a test of strength and fortitude - a challenge to those who seek to achieve greatness in life. The common misconception that those who are single cannot form meaningful relationships must be dispelled, for it is precisely in their solitude that they are able to cultivate and deepen bonds with family, friends, and colleagues. Such wholesome relationships are often neglected by those who are consumed by the entanglements of romantic love. Though it is true that being single may be riddled with its own set of difficulties, and overwhelming ones at that, those who fixate solely on its shortcomings conversely limit their own capacity for gratitude and contentment in other areas of life. The true challenge lies in introspection and self-reflection, and it is only by examining one's own life that one can strive to achieve greatness, both for themselves and for those they hold dear. Love, though a wondrous and powerful force, is not the only avenue to happiness and fulfillment. More to that, the experience of love extends far beyond the realm of romance, and it is the pursuit of this greater, all-encompassing love for oneself and to the people dearest to you that is the true test of resilience and strength. Popular culture has perpetuated a fallacy that has convinced many that true love is some kind of escape from life. This cheapened view of love, reduced to mere infatuation and fleeting emotions, has lured many into its grasp, only to find themselves disappointed and wholly disillusioned. But love, in its true and authentic form, is not a magic elixir that instantly fixes all of life's problems. On the contrary, love is a complex and demanding endeavor, one that requires effort, patience, and perseverance. It is a journey of growth, self-discovery, and mutual support, and like any worthwhile journey, it is not without its obstacles. Love is not simply a means to an end, but a means to a greater end of personal fulfillment and self-actualization. To believe otherwise is to ignore the depth and breadth of love's transformative power. Love may be a many-splendored thing, but it is not the final destination. It is merely a stepping stone, a catalyst for growth toward the epitome of one’s being. Both love and independence hold an undeniable polarity, with one implying an end to freedom and the other connoting a lack of emotional connection. The idea is to find a balance that works best for you and to choose the path that aligns with your values and desires. It is not about picking one or the other, but about understanding that both have their place and that choosing one does not automatically exclude the other. It is important to begin with the end in mind and to understand what you truly want out of life. For some, love may be the answer, while for others, the pursuit of personal freedom may be the ultimate goal. It is a duality that should not be oversimplified, for it requires a delicate balance of emotion and logic. And, for those who do find love, it is about ensuring that it complements and enhances their life, rather than restricting it. The trick is to have designs on what works best for you, to move heaven and earth to make it happen, and to cherish and recoup that balance once found. In the end, the power of choice rests in your hands. So long as your decisions align with your best interests, you can navigate the tides of existence with ease, single or not. Allow me to part with a question: Intimacy and affection are solaces for which the heart yearns, but when time beckons your hour of reckoning, will the love of another be the only hallmark of a life well-lived?

Written by: Marc Ivan Dilla and Aryzza Antonette Aperocho Photos by: Laurence Arellano, Tori Lopez, and Alex Tacderas The Chemical Engineering (ChE) Team was proclaimed as back-to-back champions of the 42nd General Information Quiz Contest (GIQC) held at the Physics Laboratory of the Fr. Roque Ruaño Building on February 16, 2023. The GIQC, organized and hosted by the Thomasian Engineer (TE), is an annual quiz bee that tests participants’ knowledge of the University of Santo Tomas (UST) and the UST FoE history, Philippine history, current events, general knowledge, algebra, calculus, plane trigonometry, plane geometry, solid geometry, analytic geometry, chemistry, and physics. Engr. Ma. Madecheen S. Pangaliman, MSc. commenced the event with her opening remarks, in which she emphasized that the contest serves as an opportunity to learn something new and expand their understanding of different topics. “Through this competition, we hope to create a healthy and friendly environment that encourages learning and encourages the exchange of knowledge,” she remarked. In both editions of the competition, the questions, which were a total of 48 for the student-level category and 24 for the faculty-level category, were spread evenly across three rounds with varying difficulties: the easy, average, and difficult rounds, which merited three (3), five (5), and nine (9) points, respectively, when answered correctly within the set time limit for the category—30 seconds for the easy round, 1 minute for the average round, and 3 minutes for the difficult round. Reminiscent of the turn of events during last year’s GIQC, the ChE and Electronics Engineering (ECE) departments both topped the average round with 32 points, beating the Civil Engineering (CE) team by 5 points, Electrical Engineering (EE) team by 10 points, Mechanical Engineering (ME) team by 8 points, and Industrial Engineering (IE) team by 21 points. The ChE team then edged out the competition towards the end of the contest during the difficult round by amassing a total of 45 points versus the EE team’s 36 points, the CE, ECE, and ME teams’ 27 points, and the IE team’s 18 points. By the end of the student edition, the ChE team, composed of Joshua Ronard De Castro, Franc Lorenz Cacal, Darren Cerado, and Justin Robert Tolentino, garnered 77 points and were hailed as champions of the GIQC. The ECE team, comprising Sophia Gabrielle Suarez, Kiel Ethan Lanzanas, John Earl Patrick Sandoval, and Leighla Louisse Sto. Tomas came in second place with a total of 59 points. At the last spot on the podium was the EE team, composed of Justine Queenie Bacani, Aaron Emmanuel Panglima, Justine Kylie Zaguirre, and Ma. Cielo Galuno, placing only a point behind the ECE team. Subsequently, the competition proceeded with the faculty edition, where the mechanics were the same, but the participants would be competing without available lifelines, unlike in the student edition. The ECE team dominated the easy round by being the sole team to garner 18 points, while the team also remained at the top spot during the average round, scoring 20 points alongside the ChE team. The ChE team fought for the top spot during the difficult round where they earned 54 points—9 points in the lead of the ECE team during the said round. Garnering 83 points after the difficult round, the ChE team and the ECE team had a clash of quick wits during the tiebreaker, in which the ECE team answered the question correctly first. The faculty edition of the GIQC ended with the ECE team, comprising Engr. Harold Alexis A. Lao, Engr. Jehiel D. Santos, M.Phil, and Engr. Michael S. Matias, MEng, placed at the top spot with a total of 84 points. Following them were Asst. Prof. Noel S. Sabarillo, MSc, Asst. Prof. Basil James S. Santos, MS, and Engr. Divine Angela G. Sumalinog, Ph.D. of the ChE team, garnered a total of 83 point. Behind the ChE team was the CE team, composed of Engr. Paul Marion J. Demapelis, MSCE, Engr. Harf J. Miranda, MPE, and Instructor Stacey Henry Nuqui, who placed third with 46 points. After the faculty-level category tie-breaker round, the top three winners from both the student- and faculty-level categories were recognized.

Written by: Aryzza Aperocho, Kateleen Vicente, Justine Moises Photos by: Gabriel Battung, Bea Galvez, Bea Caranto, Airon Valenzuela With the theme “116nite: Energizing the Thomasian Engineering Excellence,” the UST Faculty of Engineering (FoE) commenced its 116th foundation week through the opening and torch lighting ceremonies held on February 13, 2023, at the UST Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati Auditorium and Roque Ruaño Drive, respectively. Rev. Fr. Roberto L. Luanzon, Jr., O.P., SThD, DL, FoE’s Regent, presided over the welcome mass which served as the start of the opening ceremony. Rev. Fr. Luanzon mentioned that he is thankful for the return of some face-to-face activities for the Engineering Week after three years, and he hopes that activities next year will take place in a full face-to-face mode. “Each celebration of a faculty or college week always showcases what is present in a certain faculty or college and what it wishes to have. We are very thankful that our UST Faculty of Engineering remains to be excellent in all fields and we commit ourselves to [achieving] more. And, we know we have all of these and we can achieve them if we always work together as one Thomasian Engineering family,” Rev. Fr. Luanzon said. After the eucharistic celebration, the keynote program took place with the Outstanding Thomasian Alumni Awardee, Engr. James Velasquez, as the guest speaker. In his speech, Engr. Velasquez discussed the four practical lessons he has learned over the years. The first lesson encouraged students to know their strengths and what they enjoy doing early in their careers. Engr. Velasquez shared his inclination to managing things which led to his decision to take up a managerial position as an engineering graduate. "Test to know what you are good at — be it in technical, entrepreneurial, or arts. It may in turn be an unrelated field," he said. He then urged the students to take on challenges in his second lesson, "I never thought to be the president of a company, but I knew that taking on new challenges would make me a better person." Furthermore, Engr. Velasquez mentioned that running the Center for Information Technology Exponents Inc. (CITE), a data center and systems integration company, made him realize the importance of gaining new skills, which led him to the third lesson: learning new skills to become better at what you want to do and enjoy doing. For the fourth and last lesson, Engr. Velasquez says, "Having perseverance spells the difference between success and failure." He shared that without perseverance, they would not have survived the challenges they faced within his company. Following this, Thomasian engineering students witnessed the ABLAZE: Torch Lighting Ceremony at the Roque Ruaño Drive. Six athletes representing the six pillars of the faculty acted as the torch bearers, passing the flame to each other which symbolizes sportsmanship, peace, hope, and discipline. The banner of each department was unveiled afterward. “I feel very excited to know that the events are slowly transitioning back to normal because to be honest, I was not really engaged with online events as it only felt like I was watching online videos whereas onsite events really make us feel immersed and it is just more memorable,” Ryan Enriquez, a second-year Electronics Engineering student answered when asked about his feelings regarding the onsite opening of Engineering Week 2023. When asked about what he is looking forward to this week, Nestor Casipit, a third-year Industrial Engineering student mentioned, “What I am looking forward to in the coming days are the Bingo Royale and Engineering Night. These are just some, yet the most anticipated events for me, even before since it is fun and of course, the prizes.” In the afternoon, the research colloquium entitled “RADIATE: Research and Development, Innovation and Technologies in Engineering,” took place in a hybrid set-up — occurring in the Engineering Conference Hall while being streamed via Zoom meetings. In this colloquium, six faculty members, Engr. Jean Margaret R. Mercado, Ph.D., Engr. Francis Darwin T. Eugenio, M.Sc, Engr. Yoshiki B. Kurata, Ph.D., Engr. Mariz A. Chua, Engr. Josyl Mariela R. Reyes, M.Sc, and Engr. Ma. Francesca D. De Guzman, M.Sc, presented their respective research.

Written by: Zein Ady Kristianna P. Advincula Photo by: Laurence Gabriel Arellano “In my case, I fought the good fight, I have finished the race and I kept the faith, Thank you very much” - Prof. Philipina A. Marcelo, PhD After almost a decade of service as Dean of the UST Faculty of Engineering, Prof. Philippina A. Marcelo, PhD turned over authority to now Dean Prof. Angelo R. dela Cruz, PhD, PECE on January 26, at the Engineering Conference Hall, Fr. Roque Ruaño O.P. Building and via Zoom meetings. An opening prayer led by UST FoE's Regent, Rev. Fr. Roberto L. Luanzon Jr., O.P., SThD, blessed the beginning of the faculty assembly. This was followed by the singing of the national anthem. As Prof. Marcelo was called for a speech, she started saying how she believes that her days of giving speeches are over. For her, this was a bittersweet moment as she was able to welcome a new era or a new leader for the Faculty of Engineering. Prof. Marcelo expressed her gratitude to everybody, from the reverends, support staff, the teaching staff and also the alumni who have been supporting her from 2011 until her last day as the faculty’s dean. After meeting highly respected deans, she believes that leading a department is larger than life and that when you're called to serve, then you abide. Prof. Marcelo also stated her apologies. “I am sorry to those who were unhappy with some decisions I made, please be assured that every decision I made as a Dean of the Faculty of Engineering has been made to your best interest, everyone’s best interest,” she stated. Although this decision was not very apparent during her first years, she was happy to see that everyone was patient to understand that her decisions were made with the faculty’s best interest in mind. And for her words as Dean, she expressed her love for the faculty. For Prof Marcelo, serving the faculty was unforgettable. “When I retire, I will be sitting down, reading books and probably writing and those will be the years that I will cherish most,” Prof Marcelo expressed. Prof. Marcelo was incredibly honored to have been given the chance to lead in the expansion and growth of UST after 400 years, together with the Father Rector, Dominicans, and other administrators. Prof. Marcelo also expressed her appreciation and affection to her family for their unwavering support and love. To end her speech, she gave heartwarming advice from a book she used to read since day 1 of her leading the faculty to Dean dela Cruz and his board. She left him a verse from the bible, (Joshua 4:6-7) saying that “a leader's attention belongs on what lies ahead. History is important because it provides a perspective to the future, but we don't live in the past. There’s a difference between living in history and learning from it. Which do you do most often?” Prof. Marcelo hopes that the same support given to her and her team will also be the same support that the faculty and staff will give to Dean dela Cruz and his team. She is grateful to God to turn over her position to somebody capable, committed and somebody who loves the FoE and UST as well. “In my case, I fought the good fight, I have finished the race and I kept the faith. Thank you very much,” Prof. Marcelo concluded. Moreover, Rev. Fr. Luanzon awarded Prof. Marcelo a token of appreciation for her service to the Faculty. Consequently, Dean dela Cruz officially commenced his era of leadership through a speech. For the newly designated Dean, even if it has been three semesters since he was appointed for the position, it is natural for him to doubt his ability and worth when given a blessing or opportunity to lead even with all the great people he has worked with. “It is not the person who seeks the right position, but it is the position who searches for the right person,” Dean dela Cruz concluded. However, despite his reservations, he guaranteed that each mistake he makes will be the best choice and not the right option, because sometimes the right choice is not the best option to serve the common interest of the stakeholders and the people he is working with. As a man who values family, Prof. dela Cruz also values his late mother’s words which say, “Mas mainam po na maging mabait kesa sa maging tama." To show his gratitude, he gave thanks to his family, friends and everyone he has worked with in the past that led him to where he is now - a leader who will continuously aim to improve and develop the Faculty of Engineering. To carry on with the assembly, FoE Faculty Secretary, Asst. Prof. Ma. Luisa T. Asilo, MEng, PECE, presented this semester’s dean, father regent, assistant dean, executive community members, laboratory supervisors and coordinates/support units and newly hired staff. Shortly after, the enrollment statistics of the faculty was discussed. Following this, Dean dela Cruz presented the expected awards and recognitions, faculty developments, research updates, accreditation visits, industry and alumni partnerships, hybrid learning module and proposed changes to be conducted this 2023 and to the following years of UST. Assistant Dean Asst. Prof. Tiangco also discussed important reminders regarding academic staff and the students, which include term guides, attendance checking of academic staff, course deliveries, pre-requisite courses, uniforms, absences, assessments, mimeographing services and encoding or completion of grades. To end the assembly, a question and answer portion was provided for the onsite and online audiences of the meeting. Erratum: Prof. Philippina A. Marcelo, PhD, PECE served the UST FoE for more than a decade instead of eight years.

Written by: Doroteo D. Prudenciano II Photo by: Airon Valenzuela To strengthen the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Electronics Engineering (ECE) Alumni force, the first UST ECE Alumni General Meeting and Fellowship was held last January 21 at the UST Fr. Roque Ruaño building Quadrangle from 3 to 7 PM. The event was attended by the members of the ECE Alumni from Batches 1960 to the present, including ECE students who participated Via Zoom. “While the different discipline-based alumni associations are continuously expanding and progressing, we hope that we are all still one and true to the vision and mission of the University in serving our main stakeholders,” UST Faculty of Engineering (FoE) Dean, Prof. Angelo R. dela Cruz, Ph.D., PECE, mentioned in his opening remarks. This was followed by a message from the UST Engineering Alumni Association Inc. (USTEAAI) President Engr. Jason L. Ong. “Andirito tayo to form the ECE Alumni and once again the formation of this alumni association per department is to strengthen the participation of each department as well as to give equal representation to the engineering alumni association,” Engr. Ong uttered. ECE Department Chair Asst. Prof. Edison A. Roxas, Ph.D. also gave his message stating, “this is the moment to reminisce all your experiences behind the walls of the Roque Ruaño building both good and bad but definitely memorable.” “May the establishment of the ECE Alumni Organization be the first step to continuously connect and collaborate to keep the flames of the UST ECE alive and burning,” he added. An audio-visual presentation about the department, its milestones, and accomplishments over the past years, was shown after their speeches. Engr. Amante Garcia from Batch 1993 shared how the group was created and started. “This event would not be possible without the support of all the core group members of the batch representatives and even students. So lahat ng kabuuan ng UST ECE department ay parte po ng pagiging successful na event ngayon,” he said. The awarding of the Certificate of Appreciation to the members of the ECE Core Team during the process of creating the UST ECE Alumni association by-laws was then administered. Four Thomasian Hall of Famers from the ECE Department namely, Engr. William Bello (Batch 1973), Engr. Norberto Viera (Batch 1977), Engr. Manuel Dino (Batch 1965), and Engr. James Velasquez (Batch 1988) were acknowledged. Engr. Bello and Engr. Viera shared their sentiments during the event. When asked about his sentiments on going back to his alma mater after 18 years in an interview, Engr. Viera said, “It’s like a de ja vu. When I was here in 1972 when I enrolled here for my course in engineering, it was really nice, it feels good about it, to see everybody developing.” With a 216-1 vote during their online voting, the by-laws have now been approved and ratified, concluding the formation of the ECE Alumni Association. Current Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the USTEAAI Monina Evangelista of Batch 1994 and former UST Engineering Student Council (UST ESC) President John Marvin Morante from Batch 2014, hosted the onsite event while Denisse Cunanan from the ECE Department was the virtual host. The event concluded with the singing of the UST Hymn followed by a photo opportunity. A former scholar of the Pinoy Dream Academy RJ Jimenez from Batch 2006 with his five-year-old daughter Ellie Jimenez and 4th year ECE student Juan Carlos Castro entertained the audience during their dinner.