Day 2 of The 23rd Founding Anniversary of LPU-Laguna: A Day of Uniting all Lyceans

The continuation of LPU-Laguna’s 23rd Founding Anniversary arose on February 22nd, mainly focusing on gathering everyone that completes the Lyceum of the Philippines University-Laguna. A series of activities highlighting the importance of unity to bond and overlook the college departments could be witnessed all throughout the campus.

The day kicked off with the opening of the departmental booths at the PHL Lobby showcasing UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The event aims to continually nurture a culture of sustainability and social responsibility; these initiatives reaffirm its commitment to creating positive change on both local and global scales. The High School department emphasized SDG 15 (Life on Land) and SDG 4 (Quality Education), promoting awareness of deforestation and departmental achievements. The CBA department focused on SDG 1 (No Poverty) and 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), aiming to educate participants on business concepts. Booths will be judged by Dr. Ryan Jeffrey Curbano, Mr. Wilzon Vitug, and Ms. Mica Arcemo on the third day of the foundation week, judged based on the criteria "Booth Theme aligned with the assigned SDG," "Creativity, Originality, and Sustainability of the Booth Design," and "Presentation and Overall Booth Impact." Before the students engage with the booths, Dr. Lerma Y. Calingasan shared an inspiring thought to be remembered by each student. She stated, “Students, wherever you are, you would have to remember that all the efforts to be educated would not mean anything if we will not be contributing to the realization of these (SDG) goals.”

Following the opening of the departmental booths, LPUnity Day was held, fostering unity among students, staff, and faculty through colorful activities. Hosted by Ms. Kimry Gonzales, teams competed in various challenges across the campus, culminating in the Orange team winning the Grand Champion title. The event included a Zumba session, cheer competition, and games like "Ready, Sack, Go!" and "Hunt, Assemble, and Win!" The Blue team received the Best Group Cheer award. A raffle and boodle fight concluded the event, providing a festive atmosphere for all participants. Before the event ended, a boodle fight was prepared with food from Sinsai Restaurant for all the teams.

Simultaneously, “Piratunog," an open acoustic jam, continued to showcase musical talents and served as a space for collaboration and connection. The event provided an opportunity to collaborate with fellow performers from various departments, improvising and experimenting with different sounds and styles, creating memorable moments of musical synergy. Representatives from the departments of LPU-SC School of Health Sciences, College of International Tourism and Hotel Management, and College of Engineering and Computer Science left a lasting impression on all who attended, reminding them of the transformative power of music to unite, inspire, and uplift.

Following the main event, the annual Institutional Student Research Colloquium showcased academic excellence as representatives from various departments presented their research papers. Judged on multiple criteria by esteemed panels, including Ms. Marian Divine Lyn Obias, Mr. Glenn Christopher Lambino, and Ms. Geraldine Dimaculangan, standout performers like Karla Denise Gonzales from the College of Arts and Sciences, crowned as Overall Best Presenter, demonstrated exceptional talent and dedication. Marah Jezreel Panglinawan secured 2nd Place, and Stephanie Resplandor claimed 3rd Place. Special awards were also given to Karla Denise Gonzales for Best Abstract and Best Visual Presentation. The event underscored the importance of critical thinking and collaboration in higher education, reflecting the institution's commitment to research excellence.

The most awaited inaugural Dance Sport competition took place at the Gymnasium, judged by Ms. Arlyn Chingtoco Enriquez, Mr. Ra’John Dinson Panopio, and Ms. Christy Glenn De Lima. Participants were evaluated on technical execution, musicality, and artistic expression. The event featured captivating solo performances, a thrilling Tango segment, intense Rumba and Samba battles, and a groovy Jazz round. Special intermission performances by two judges added to the excitement. Charles Kenneth Buensuceso and Kiara Jenshi Aquino from the High School Department emerged as champions, with Rayana Villanueva and Peter John Bonzo from the College of International Tourism and Hospitality Management securing second place, and Krystal Banzo and Graham Evangelista from the College of Arts and Sciences claiming third place.

Lastly, the day ended with lively rhythm and energy as representatives from various departments showcased their dance talents in the highly anticipated Dance Showdown Contest. The event brought together dancers from across campus to compete in a display of skill and creativity, judged by Mr. Jomel Mapagdalita, Mr. Miko Montemayor, and Ms. Carly Geluz. Participants were assessed based on specific criteria, including choreography and style, skills and technique, creativity and originality, execution and performance, and audience impact. Amidst fierce competition and electrifying performances, the College of International Tourism and Hospitality Management (CITHM) emerged as the victor, claiming the coveted trophy. Securing a commendable second place was the LPU High School Department, whose dynamic performance captivated the audience and earned them high praise from the judges. Meanwhile, the College of Engineering and Computer Studies demonstrated their talent and creativity, clinching third place with a memorable performance.