19/09/2025
NEWS FEATURE | JHS Department Kicks off iZest 2025
The Junior High School Department officially commenced Ignatian Zest 2025 with a grand Opening Ceremony on September 18, 2025, at the Magis Eagles Arena, uniting the community in a vibrant celebration of Ignatian values and the enduring spirit of the four houses: Amare, Lux Oriens, Magis, and Servire.
Pride and excitement filled the air as the parade showcased each house marching in solidarity, waving their banners, and chanting their house cheers. The momentum continued as the house speakers delivered their advocacies, each one speaking with passion about the ideals their house embodies. Adding even more excitement, the Mr. and Ms. iZest candidates graced the stage, bringing charm and enthusiasm.
The following winners were announced for Mr. and Ms. iZest 2025:
DIVISION A
Champion
Mr. iZest - Lux Oriens
Ms. iZest - Servire
1st runner-up
Mr. iZest - Servire
Ms. iZest - Lux Oriens
2nd runner-up
Mr. iZest - Amare
Ms. iZest - Magis
3rd runner-up
Mr. iZest - Magis
Ms. iZest - Amare
DIVISION B
Champion
Mr. iZest - Servire
Ms. iZest - Servire
1st runner-up
Mr. iZest - Lux Oriens
Ms. iZest - Amare
2nd runner-up
Mr. iZest - Amare
Ms. iZest - Lux Oriens
3rd runner-up
Mr. iZest - Magis
Ms. iZest - Magis
The results of the house speech competition were revealed thereafter:
Champion: Magis
1st runner-up: Lux Oriens
2nd runner-up: Servire
3rd runner-up: Amare
A highlight of the morning was the message of Dr. Pierre Mella, a proud alumnus of Ateneo, who led the Zest Chat. He shared his journey as an athlete, inspiring students with reflections on discipline, perseverance, and the deeper lessons that sports can teach beyond winning. His words resonated with the Ateneo Hearters, reminding them that true success is rooted in character and service, an essential pillar of the Ignatian Zest.
The symbolic lighting of the Ignatian Zest Flame followed, with outstanding athletes carrying the torch to mark the unity, harmony, and passion that define the games.
As competitions unfolded, Ateneo Hearters are called to embrace the challenges with sportsmanship, to deepen the friendships they created, and to live out Ignatian values both on and off the court.
Writer| Mezy Muñez
Photos| Noah Perral, Krystelle Albarico, Maddisen Suico, Jaredchai Vatanagul, Sari Chiongbian, Johann Manreza, Czarina De Leon