SLU Stellaris

09/08/2025

𝐇𝐀𝐏𝐏𝐄𝐍𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐍𝐎𝐖 | The SLU-KASAMA/SSC in collaboration with the Center for counseling and Wellness (CCW), facilitates a campus tour of Saint Louis University for freshmen students today, August 9 in preparation for A.Y 2025-2026.

Photos by Candace Timbreza

29/07/2025

𝐂𝐀𝐋𝐋 𝐅𝐎𝐑 𝐃𝐎𝐍𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐒: 𝐎𝐏𝐋𝐀𝐍 𝐎𝐆𝐎𝐆𝐅𝐎

𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐃𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐀𝐜𝐜𝐞𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐯𝐢𝐚 𝐆𝐂𝐚𝐬𝐡/𝐏𝐚𝐲𝐌𝐚𝐲𝐚/𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐩𝐚𝐲:

In light of the devastating impact of Severe Tropical Storm , the KASAMA/SSC assemblies of SAMCIS, SEA, SONAHBS, and STELA of Saint Louis University are united in launching OPLAN OGOGFO, a donation drive dedicated to extending timely support and relief to our affected kababayan in Moncada and Camiling, Baguio, and La Union.

Rooted in the values of servant leadership and solidarity, this initiative seeks to foster a deeper sense of social responsibility within the Louisian community. Through this collective effort, we aim to gather both in-kind and monetary donations to help ease the burden carried by families and individuals displaced or severely affected by the storm.

These are the following channels where you can donate:

𝐈𝐧-𝐊𝐢𝐧𝐝 𝐃𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐃𝐫𝐨𝐩-𝐎𝐟𝐟 𝐏𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐬:

05 Honeymoon Road, Baguio City (near Megatower Residence 7)
Mark Alexis Toreno – 09662535341

Block 14 Lot 2, Eagle Crest Phase 3, Bakakeng Sur
Georcelle Nuarin – 09062141450

BPC (Campo Sioco)

𝗠𝗼𝗻𝗲𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝗗𝗼𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗔𝗰𝗰𝗲𝗽𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝘃𝗶𝗮 𝗚𝗖𝗮𝘀𝗵/𝗣𝗮𝘆𝗠𝗮𝘆𝗮/𝗜𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗽𝗮𝘆:
Noli James N. Cesario – 0920-615-1962
𝐒𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐐𝐑 𝐜𝐨𝐝𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐛𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐰

Let us stand together and respond with compassion and urgency. Every small act of kindness brings hope and healing. For inquiries, feel free to message the official pages of SLU SSC - STELA Assembly, SLU SSC SEA Assembly, SLU KASAMA/SSC SAMCIS Assembly, and SLU KASAMA/SSC SLU KASAMA/SSC-School of Nursing, Allied Health, and Biological Sciences.

May this initiative remind us that being a Louisian means being for others, especially in times of need.

18/07/2025

𝐋𝐨𝐮𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐚𝐧 𝐀𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐆𝐚𝐰𝐚𝐝 𝐋𝐮𝐰𝐢𝐬𝐲𝐚𝐧𝐨 ‘𝟐𝟓; 𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐋𝐀 𝐁𝐚𝐠𝐬 𝐌𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐎𝐮𝐭𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐀𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝

To honor the leadership and service of student leaders, various school assemblies gathered for Gawad Luwisyano 2025, held at the Fr. Theophile Verbist CICM Hall on July 14.

The participating assemblies included the School of Engineering and Architecture (SEA), School of Accountancy, Management, Computing, and Information Studies (SAMCIS), School of Nursing, Allied Health, and Biological Sciences (SONAHBS), and the School of Teacher Education and Liberal Arts (STELA).

Ms. Dorothy Silva, adviser of the Kataas-taasang Samahan ng mga Mag-aaral/Supreme Student Council (KASAMA/SSC), opened the ceremony with remarks that highlighted the dedication and selflessness of student leaders. This was followed by Gabriel Steve Domingo, who presented the nomination guidelines and panel of judges.

“Sa araw na ito, hindi lamang tayo nagbibigay ng pagkilala. Tayo rin ay nagbibigay-buhay sa mga kwento ng pagsisikap—sa mga gabing hindi natutulog kapalit ng matagumpay na programa o proyekto, sa mga tinig na naging boses ng iba, at sa mga pusong inilagay ang serbisyo bago ang sarili,” Silva said.

[On this day, we don't just give recognition. We also bring to life stories of hard work—of sleepless nights spent in exchange for successful programs or projects, of voices that became the voice of others, and of hearts that put service before self.]

STELA stood out by securing the Siglat Award for Innovation in both the group and individual categories. Janfranz Lazaro K. Galeon, associate director of the STELA assembly, earned the individual recognition.

“This would not have been possible without every single person in our assembly—all 109 members. Especially our adviser, na sa bawat galaw, nagpapatulong kami lagi—and especially the STELA Alliance,” said Ziegmond Soliman, governor of STELA, as he received the award on behalf of their organization.

Meanwhile, SAMCIS received the Talaghay Award for Competence, with Criszle Alexandra T. Tarin winning in the individual category.

STELA also earned the Saint Joan of Arc Award for Christian Spirit, with Joana Paula Bagalay, third-year mayor, claiming the individual distinction.

“This is not an individual award. Every word, every challenge—we face it as a family, not as individuals. This award is not for me, but for the STELA assembly and the students,” Bagalay stated in her privilege speech.

In addition, SAMCIS took home the Gregorio Villar III Award for Compassion, with Dhanver Carl D. Cabrera, the first-year vice mayor, receiving the individual recognition.

Mark Alexis A. Toreno from SONAHBS and Roman John Dela Cruz from STELA were nominated for the Congress Award for Academic Performance among student leaders.

Ultimately, STELA was awarded the Congress Award for Most Outstanding KASAMA/SSC Assembly.

“We want everyone in the assembly to know us as people. That sense of kindness, that sense of being personal—that’s the hallmark of STELA. That’s who we are and who we want to be,” said Soliman, representing STELA.

Meanwhile, Rvie G. Manalo from SONAHBS was honored with the Congress Award for Most Outstanding KASAMA/SSC Officer.

For the most prestigious awards, STELA received the Presidential Award for Outstanding KASAMA/SSC Assembly, while Mark Alexis A. Toreno, governor of the SONAHBS assembly, was named the Outstanding KASAMA/SSC Officer. These awards recognize individuals and groups that exemplify excellence and leadership through impactful projects.

“So, all in all, STELA isn’t just us. STELA is a community—and that sense of community matters. STELA has compassion, commitment, and this constant act of wanting to provide. And again, as we present this, we always want the pillar of social involvement to be part of us. Kahit nabago na rin ‘yung core values, we still want social involvement to be that pillar sa 'min. Kasi the reason for being a public servant is for the people itself,” Soliman emphasized in his privilege speech.

Finally, KASAMA/SSC President Angel Heleana Galang reflected on the initiatives and achievements of student leaders throughout the academic year, reaffirming the council’s mission of service and empowerment.

Galang concluded her message by urging future Louisian leaders to live by the values of TDH—Tapang, Dedikasyon, at Husay.

The event was organized by the Saint Louis University (SLU) Congress of Louisians and the SLU KASAMA/SSC.

Article by Mariel Jazmine Mariano
Photos by Candace Timbreza

11/07/2025

𝐑𝐄𝐂𝐀𝐏 | Batch 2025 graduates from the School of Teacher Education and Liberal Arts (STELA) together with the School of Law (SOL) and School of Advanced Studies (SAS) celebrated a milestone on their academic journey during Saint Louis University’s 70th Commencement Exercises held at the newly renovated Prince Bernhard Gym on 4 July 2025.

Graduates marched on stage to receive their diplomas and medals from SLU President Rev. Fr. Gilbert Sales, Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Felina Espique, and STELA Dean Dr. Mary Pauline Namoca. Gracing the ceremony were members of the SLU administration and STELA faculty members.

Proud families and friends witnessed the ceremony and celebrated the achievements of the graduates, marking the end of their academic journey.

Congratulations to the Batch 2025 STELA graduates!

Photos by Candace Timbreza, Carl Nasog, and Ezra Paragas

04/07/2025

𝐓𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬, 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐒𝐭𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐬 𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐮𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐚𝐬 𝐛𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐚𝐦𝐛𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧!🎓

Today, we celebrate these notable Stellars who are the driving force behind this publication—ingeniously contributing with their bold ideas, vibrant creativity, and relentless dedication to pushing boundaries.

Each graduate stands as a witness to the power of passion—embodying the innate spark that drives innovation and transcends the impossible.

As they step into the universe beyond, they continuously embody the Stellaris legacy as catalysts of hope and inspiring us all to reach for our own stars. May you soar even higher, our beloved Stellaris members! 💫

04/07/2025

𝐇𝐀𝐏𝐏𝐄𝐍𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐍𝐎𝐖 | The School of Teacher Education and Liberal Arts (STELA) graduates from BS Psychology march at the Prince Bernhard Gymnasium as the conclusive ceremony for the Saint Louis University 70th commencement exercises.

The ceremony will run until 5 PM in the afternoon.

Photos by Candace Timbreza

04/07/2025

𝐈𝐍 𝐏𝐇𝐎𝐓𝐎𝐒 | For the last day of the 70th commencement exercises, the School of Teacher Education and Liberal Arts (STELA) graduates proudly grace the Prince Bernhard Gymnasium along with graduates from the School of Law (SOL).

For the morning session, graduates from the programs BA Communication, BA Political Science, BS Social Work, and Teacher Education are honored for their hard work and achievements.

The program BS Psychology is set to have their ceremony later this afternoon.

Photos by Candace Timbreza and Carl Nasog

28/06/2025

#𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐋𝐀𝐒𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲: 𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐋𝐀 𝐚𝐬 𝐚𝐧 𝐀𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐋𝐆𝐁𝐓𝐐 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐟𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐋𝐔 𝐁𝐚𝐡𝐚𝐠𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐢

𝗪𝗛𝗘𝗡 𝗣𝗥𝗜𝗗𝗘 𝗥𝗘𝗙𝗨𝗦𝗘𝗗 𝗧𝗢 𝗪𝗛𝗜𝗦𝗣𝗘𝗥: 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗥𝗜𝗦𝗘 𝗢𝗙 𝗦𝗟𝗨 𝗕𝗔𝗛𝗔𝗚𝗛𝗔𝗥𝗜

“𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘯𝘦𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘦 𝘴𝘢𝘷𝘦𝘥.”

“𝘔𝘢𝘺𝘣𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘯𝘦𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘣𝘰𝘺 𝘰𝘳 𝘨𝘪𝘳𝘭?”

“𝘠𝘰𝘶’𝘳𝘦 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘧𝘶𝘴𝘦𝘥.”

These phrases, though masked as concern or advice, have long echoed in the minds of LGBTQ+ youth. A sharp reminder of a world still struggling to accept that love and identity come in many forms. At a university known for its Catholic roots and conservative structure, those echoes have been especially loud. In 2022, six students decided to answer back—with courage, color, and community.

This is the story of SLU Bahaghari, a student-led organization in Saint Louis University, Baguio City, that has become a living, breathing safe space for LGBTQ+ Louisian students. A space where they are not asked to change, hide, or shrink—only to show up as themselves.

“It was a bold move,” shared Ralph Lauren Lagamia, one of SLU Bahaghari’s founding members. “We saw the lacking of avenues and safe spaces.”

The group didn’t emerge from a trend. It was born out of necessity. As a National Democratic Mass Organization, SLU Bahaghari is a recognized chapter of the Bahaghari Nationals—a growing movement that was galvanized by the murder of Jennifer Laude, whose death exposed the violence that LGBTQ+ Filipinos face. That tragedy sparked action. What started as a single group evolved into branches across the country.

SLU Bahaghari doesn’t just host pride-themed events; it organizes resistance with compassion. Their initiatives include educational discussions, SOGIE talks, and pride history sessions, often done in collaboration with alliances inside and outside the university. From Bahaghari UP Baguio to North Luzon Pride, the connections are strong and rooted in solidarity.

One of their most heartwarming efforts was the Free Hugs campaign, a symbolic act of affirmation in a world where even a touch can feel like protest. “We break the stigma,” Ralph said. “HIV doesn’t come from LGBTQ alone. It can come from anyone.” SLU Bahaghari is also in partnership with BALAY MARVI that offers consultations and free HIV testing.

The journey hasn’t been smooth. When the organization filed for official recognition, the system resisted, asking for amendments to their bylaws that could not be met due to their alignment with the national group’s principles.

Still, SLU Bahaghari stood firm.

One unforgettable moment came when an SLU student was denied entry to campus for what they refer to as “cross dressing.” In response, SLU Bahaghari launched a “Wear Your Skirts Day” protest, with the broader Louisian community rallying behind them.

“Now, even male students can wear earrings and dress according to their gender identity. It’s a win. But the battle isn’t over—the rules are there, but implementation can be inconsistent.” he said.

Ralph, a STELA student himself, finds daily comfort in the familiarity of the Perfecto Building. “It’s very nice being part of the LGBTQ+ and at the same time, a Stellar!” he beamed. “No one judges how you look. Everyone has their own little fashion shows. There’s freedom here.”

In a world corrupted by conventional beliefs, SLU Bahaghari brings color, compassion, and conviction. This Pride Month, it’s not just about celebrating identity, it’s about recognizing how brave it is to exist where you were never expected to belong.

It’s not perfect, but it’s progress. For the wandering hearts seeking a place to call home, SLU Bahaghari is more than a group. It’s a mirror, a megaphone, and a movement.

Article by Rolaine Christel Mactal
Layout by Melody Dulay

21/06/2025

21/06/2025

16/06/2025

𝐂𝐮𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐂𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓: 𝐓𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐡𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐋𝐔'𝐬 𝐓𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐓𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐘𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠

The 26th theater season of Tanghalang SLU drew to a close with their annual epilogue entitled "Curtain Call" held on June 13th at the Fr. Joseph Van den Daelen, Center for Culture and the Arts Theater. As the resident theater company bid farewell to its graduating members, these talents starred in a lineup of gripping performances that explored the frailties and strengths of human nature — beyond the curtain and within the hollow walls of eclectic backgrounds. The main cast intrepidly stepped into roles and settings that illuminated stories of Filipinos navigating life's complexities.

Three riveting spectacles centered on maternal love, honor, and unfettered hopes, carving a space for characters to confront their greatest "what-ifs" in soul-stirring reenactments.

In Zarina Sarapuddin’s Memento Mori, the curtains part to reveal an initially unsuspecting scene: students donned in white lab gowns, visibly under pressure during recitation, just a few feet away from two lifeless cadavers. The thirty-minute play revolved around Kael, a meticulous student from the class, who braved the night alone in the room, taxingly quizzing herself on anatomy. Amidst the eerie stillness and the question of mortality, what haunted her weren’t the ominous figures in her presence but the inner voices prodding her to decide between loyalty and passion.

The next act transported the audience to a different setup in Huling Hapunan written by Marck Ryan Cidro, staged in a cramped but modest household. Under the guise of Aling Minda and Lenlen, the story unveils a mother’s grave sacrifice at the expense of her child's welfare. Zeroing on the close-knit relationship between a parent and child, this dramatization evolves from a playful dynamic into a heart-shattering reality that tears them — and the watchers — apart.

The third narrative, Ron Golosino Camba's adaptation of Anton Chekov's Lotto Ticket, presented a witty recounting of a pivotal opportunity offered to a family on the breadline. True to its title, the characters elatedly demonstrated their greatest fantasies of bagging the prize in an imaginative and humorous portrayal of their alter egos.

As a fitting conclusion not only to the show but to their year-round feats of creativity, the outgoing ensemble members Dave Ortiz, Marinella Tabucol, Elaiza Marie Castro, Sherrie Dela Cruz, Lino Lopez, and Precious Vivien Andres took their final bows for their encore performances. TSLU’s Director, Katherine Nobleza-Estavillo, concluded the evening with heartfelt gratitude, and an announcement of their upcoming production of a retelling of their latest theatrical piece, "Ibong Adarna".

Article by Larisse Beyer
Photos by Jvie Matbagan