Paskuhan revelers enjoyed an almost rainless night in the culmination of the University’s “Game of Thrones”-inspired yuletide festivities on Wednesday, Dec. 20.
An estimated 60,000 Thomasians and guests gathered at the UST Grandstand and Open Field for the annual festivities, according to the UST Security Office.
Light rainshowers fell as a ten-minute pyromusical display capped the Paskuhan celebration, to the hit songs of Coldplay.
Francis Santos, public relations officer of the UST Central Student Council, said good weather helped boost the “overwhelming” number of people in the event.
This year’s Paskuhan festivities had the theme “King of Kings,” inspired by “Game of Thrones,” the popular HBO TV series about power struggles in a medieval-like realm.
Different faculties, colleges and offices in the University were groomed like the “Houses” or kingdoms in the series.
A cosplay competition was also held, showcasing Thomasians in their best Game of Thrones costumes.
Santos said the administration wanted future themes of the Paskuhan festivities to be something Thomasians would look forward to.
“From now on, and for the years to come, iba-iba na `yung theme ng Paskuhan […] We’re veering away from the traditional. We want to align it with what is happening right now,” Santos told the Varsitarian in an interview.
The Paskuhan concert featured performances from bands Callalily, Silent Sanctuary, the Ridely, Ben&Ben, and soloist LA Santos, among others.
The security office implemented a stricter “buddy system,” wherein an outsider must be accompanied by a Thomasian. Stickers were given upon entry to the University premises.
The annual Paskuhan Mass and Agape led by UST Rector Fr. Herminio Dagohoy, O.P. was held last Dec. 1, along with the opening of lights in the campus.