The University of Southeastern Philippines (USeP) officially opened the celebration of its 47th Founding Anniversary through Pagpupugay, a university-wide kickoff held simultaneously across campuses and streamed live via the USeP Official Facebook Page on December 1, 2025.
The program began with an opening salvo by the ROTC Marching Band, setting a festive tone for the evening. The kickoff also coincided with the University’s traditional Campus Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, drawing students, faculty, and staff together to welcome both the anniversary and the holiday season.
In his message, USeP President Dr. Bonifacio G. Gabales, Jr. extended warm greetings to the USeP community and reflected on the institution’s 47-year journey. “Forty-seven years ago, a vision was born. Tonight, that vision shines brighter than ever, guiding every step we take, every life we touch, and every community we uplift,” Dr. Gabales said.
Dr. Gabales likened the past year to a roller coaster that is marked by unexpected turns, steep climbs, and sudden drops but affirmed that the USeP community showed remarkable strength. “In every twist and turn, we also had moments of triumph. We embraced growth, discovered new strengths, and witnessed progress that reveals the true heart of our community,” he added.
He extended his gratitude to the USeP community for its dedication and collective effort, recognizing that the University’s milestones are the result of unity and shared purpose. While acknowledging that challenges lie ahead, he expressed confidence in the University’s capacity to remain steadfast. “No storm can weaken us, and no earthquake can shake our grit, because we stand together as one resilient USeP community,” Dr. Gabales said.
Lighting Ceremony across campuses
As part of the kickoff, the University also held its annual Campus Christmas Tree Lighting, which Dr. Gabales described as a moment filled with meaning and hope.
“Each tree, in its own way, carries our message of hope—hope for our students, our faculty, our staff, and the communities we serve,” he said. He encouraged the community to see the lights as symbols of perseverance and togetherness, reminding everyone that “even in our darkest moments, there is always light.”
The lighting of trees across all USeP campuses was followed by a performance of Christmas Classics by Marahuyo-Rondalla, announcements from the organizers, and the singing of the University Hymn accompanied by the ROTC Marching Band.
Pagpupugay officially signals the start of a month-long celebration honoring USeP’s legacy and future direction. As the University approaches its 50th year, the kickoff reaffirmed the community’s commitment to its mission of transforming lives and empowering communities through education, research, and public service.
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