This story has been updated as of Tuesday, Sept. 18.
UST ACCREDITED 156 student organizations for academic year 2026–2027, 19 fewer than the 164 recognized last year, according to the Office for Student Affairs (OSA).
Of the total, 32 are University-wide organizations, down from 36 during the same period in the previous academic year, while 118 are college-based groups across 16 academic units, down from 128.
Among the University-wide organizations accredited this year are Thomasian Nihon Kyouhai, Thomasian Film Society, TomasinoWeb, UST Hiraya, UST International Students Association and Fotomasino.
The six groups were not in the preliminary list of accredited organizations released by OSA on Aug. 11.
Additionally, Beads of Mary – Collegiate Unit and UST España United were also recognized in the updated list released on Sept. 4.
The office emphasized that organizations not included in its official list are not recognized, authorized or endorsed by the University.
“Recognized organizations provide safe spaces for students to explore shared interests and develop skills while embodying Thomasian values of competence, commitment, and compassion,” OSA said in its Facebook announcement.
“Students should only join officially recognized groups and verify their legitimacy with this official list before engaging in any activities,” it added.
The number of accredited student organizations may still increase as groups complete the recognition process.
To gain accreditation, organizations must hold general and year-end assemblies, conduct two major activities and render community service.
Student groups must also submit proof of participation during recruitment and remain engaged in OSA and University-wide activities.
Accredited organizations are required to submit liquidation reports, a summary of receipts and disbursements, and a monitoring form for organizational activities to maintain their status. Paolo Emmanuel D.C. Blanco
