Day 3 of Journey of Excellence: Commemorating LPU-Laguna's 23rd Founding Anniversary

February 23rd marked the third day of festivities for LPU-Laguna's Foundation Week celebration, where a synergy of physical fitness, community engagement, and academic discourse characterized the day's events. As Lyceans and Cabrinians converged, a fun-thrill of activities unfolded, encapsulating the essence of unity and collaboration.

The morning commenced with a burst of vitality as participants geared up for the annual STEP-A-THON and zumba session at Olive Residences. This energizing event aimed to promote holistic wellness among students and faculty, a testament to the ethos of unity within the LPU community. In the fiercely contested STEP-A-THON competition, Quelvin Dela Cruz from the College of Engineering and Computer Studies (COECS) emerged as the champion, showcasing remarkable endurance and determination. Acknowledgment was also extended to outstanding participants from various departments, including Billy Josh Guevarra, Jorael Oseo, Karl Andrei Canlas, Mark Joshua Bolotaolo, Luis Gabriel Cabrera, Bien Cedie Evangelista, Gabriele Mallari, Sam Uddin, and John Benedick Del Mundo. A dynamic blend of a fun run was followed by an invigorating zumba session, gathered at the LPU-L driveway, to set the tone for a day filled with fitness and enjoyment.

Meanwhile, a spirit of altruism pervaded as LPU-St. Cabrini School and St. Cabrini Medical Center collaborated to host a bloodletting activity at the Drawing Laboratory, PHL Building. Open to students and faculty members, this initiative aimed to bolster the local healthcare system while fostering a culture of compassion and volunteerism. Managed by physicians, medical technicians, and student nurses from St. Cabrini Medical Center, the event underscored the significance of community engagement and service.

Ms. Asheloh Chem C. Mandapat, a student undertaking BS Biology and one of the first-time donors who participated in this bloodletting program, stated that she donated blood because she was inspired to help others and it’s one of the aspects as a Biology student. Moreover, when asked to give advice to other first-time blood donors, she highly advised them to toughen up since as a biology student she researched the benefits of donating 450 ml of blood in one donation procedure and how it would already save three lives.

Aligned with the sustainability ethos, the College of International Tourism and Hospitality Management took the lead in advocating for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) #2 and #12. Their fervent advocacy earned them the top spot in the departmental booth competition, showcasing their commitment to addressing global challenges collaboratively. Following closely behind, the College of Arts and Sciences secured the 2nd place, championing SDGs #5 and #16, while the LPU High School Department clinched the 3rd place title with a focus on SDGs #4 and #15. This competition not only spotlighted the departments' creativity and dedication but also emphasized the imperative of collective action in addressing pressing global issues.

As part of the 23rd Founding Anniversary Celebration, a Founder's Lecture unfolded at the LPU-L Library. Delivered by Mr. Paolo Sotero Laurel, the grandson of the esteemed Senior Sotero Laurel. The lecture provided an invaluable opportunity for students and faculty to delve into the institution's founding principles. Mr. Laurel imparted profound insights with a quote ''That was one of the lessons that struck me when I was 13, 14, 15 is to be really proud as a Filipino, especially when you go overseas" urging Lyceans to take pride in their Filipino heritage, especially in international settings. His words served as a poignant tribute to the visionary leaders who laid the groundwork for the institution's success.