[bg|paskuhan_2011|3|150|random|6|#FFF|1|Paskuhan looks forward to UST’s fifth century]
Dec. 17, 11:11 a.m. – UST threw a grand Christmas party in a prelude to its fifth century on Friday, drawing a crowd of thousands to the annual “Paskuhan” festivities.
This year’s Paskuhan, which had the theme, “Pagsalubong para sa ika-5 Siglo,” began with a Christmas-inspired costume parade around campus, participated in by the different faculties and colleges.
A “pre-show” was held at the UST Grandstand with performances from Thomasian bands Granada, There She Blows, and Sugar Plum Fairy.
The flamboyant drumbeat of the Yellow Jackets marked the start of the main program at around 7 p.m., alongside the successive lighting of Christmas decorations and the 80-foot Christmas tree.
Two-time Choir of the World UST Singers graced the event with its renditions of popular Christmas songs, followed by the dance feat of the Salinggawi Dance Troupe at Plaza Mayor.
Raffle draws were also held in between the performances.
The main program featured performances by Rico Blanco, Ebe Dancel, and rock bands Paraluman, 6Cyclemind, Sandwich, and Urbandub.
A seven-minute pyromusical display was set off two hours before the end of the program, with fireworks coming from the top of Santisimo Rosario Parish Church and the Grandstand.
In a chance interview, security chief Joseph Badinas said the event was “relatively peaceful.” The crowd was estimated at 100,000.
The number of attendees in this year’s Paskuhan was lower than the expected 150,000, but higher than last year’s estimated 75,000. Rafael L. Antonio
The fireworks was so underwhelming.