Kairos

“KAIROS” is a Greek word meaning “special time”.  A retreat is not an attempt to escape the "real world," but an effort to fully enter into the experience of living. And by that meaning, I’ve opened myself through my life’s reality  at a very lovely place.

Last September 21-23, students in Senior classes from Sociology and Pol Sci had a retreat for three days held at Caleruega, Batangas (I've heard of this place since I was in 1st yr college). 4 UST buses filled with students departed from school early Wednesday morning. It was after lunch when we arrived. Immediately, we are confronted by a tremendous panoramic views. 

Comfortable cabins, few activities, adequate foods, and cool fresh air.. Went sightseeing and attended talks by Thomasian priests. FYI they're just using iPad and a MacBook. Our rooms have a large window with the best views. The food? Um.. Not so great.  I can honestly say that there wasn’t a time when I didn’t enjoy myself. It was a great time as it always is.  It gave me the chance to reconnect with all the things that matter to me.

In this retreat atmosphere, without the normal distractions of daily life, each and everyone’s inner-self can be renewed, relationships can be deepened, learning enhanced and group or individual goals renewed or reset in a meaningful manner.

Aside from the fact that this retreat is our final culminating senior spiritual event. There is something about retreats that still has a special place in my heart. Despite my busy schedule (folk school works) I'm so enticed by the idea to participate in this retreat. So in many ways, this retreat had a greater purpose. Many students have to deal with peer pressure, various temptations and struggles. I want to end my semester right. For the first time in my life "Nasusunod ko ung penitence ko"I am so fired up for God. Thank you  father Allan de Guzman for your advices.

I thought the retreat was a life-changing event for me personally. The Retreat. Well, probably the wrong word for it, more like the advancement! 

Everything here is a snap-worthy

Solidarity night

all smile retreatants

My absolute favorite picture from our retreat

Our Thursday night was spent enjoying and entertaining talent show and a warm and cozy bonfire.

If you are looking for somewhere to stay that is relaxing and beautiful, this is the place. Kahit hindi kayo magre2retreat, recollection or whatsoever visit this place. You'll love it.

Cheer your hearts out! Chant ‘til you drop!

For UST and UP, the cheerdance competition is a must-see/most awaited event every year. This event is so popular that tickets sell out rapidly.  

Yezzz, it was my first time to camped around the Araneta Coliseum waiting for the release of UAAP cheerdance tickets. Around 200 to 300 people were already there when I arrived at 10:30 pm. Some of my classmates were already there "nakisinggit naman ako." The first 250 were listed down. At siempre pang 184 ako. Our tickets were secured. Grabe!! The sense of accomplishment that we were able to get a ticket. Btw, 8 or 9 am na ata kami nakakuha ng ticket. Sa subrang pagmamahal at supporta sa UST Salinggawi. We've endured so much! 

Thousands of  students, alumni, families and supporters trooped to the Big Dome on Saturday,  September 17, 2011.  The venue turns into a battlefield with competitors arrayed with weaponry starting from shirts to flags, tarpaulins and other props all to support their school. The energy and excitement brought about by the crowd and the performances of the cheerdance groups. This year was my third time watching UAAP cheerdance competition. You can feel the energy better in live. Ang awkward naman magsisisigaw at magcheer sa harap ng tv.  

UP Pep Squad repeats as UAAP Cheerdance champion. Boo! I'm still horribly broken-hearted.  It really turned around a shitty day.

Anyway, I had the courage to approach him. See why I’m blushing?

Standing next to my crush, Adams(current SDT President).. Isn't it a great feeling?