THOMASIANS are called to reflect Christ’s light and serve as bearers of hope amid today’s pressing societal issues—an invitation captured in this year’s Paskuhan 2025 theme, “Light Among Us, Hope Through Us.”
UST Secretary General Fr. Louie Coronel, O.P. said the University’s vision for the festivities is to “recenter Thomasians on Christ as the true source of light and hope,” despite the “social, moral, and global challenges” that the world faces.
“Noong ang Panginoon ay isinilang, full of challenges, even darkness and also full of corruption, just like our days today. However, nung dumating ang Panginoon, mayroong light and hope na dumating,” Coronel said during the Paskuhan information session on Nov. 27.
“We are celebrating Paskuhan inviting everyone to receive hope, and not only to receive that hope, but to be bearers of hope. Kahit maraming mangyayari, we need to be hopeful every time,” he added.
Coronel said the words of the theme “light among us” and “hope through us,” primarily took inspiration from a passage from Luke 2:10, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news…”
The phrase “light among us” was based on the celebration of the 1,700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea, when the Nicene Creed affirmed Christ as “God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God.”
“Hope through us” echoes the celebration of the Jubilee Year of Hope.
“Every Thomasian is called to be a channel of hope to others, through kindness, integrity, generosity, and concern for those who are in need,” Coronel said.
In an earlier circular from the Office of the Secretary General, the University told Thomasians that Christmas is a reminder that God’s light continues to shine amid ongoing issues on corruption.
“The birth of Christ is both consolation—for He remains with us in our struggles—and challenge— for His light calls us to stand for truth, justice, and integrity.” the circular read.
“As Thomasians, we are called not only to receive this Light but to radiate it, transforming our Church, our nation, and the world,” it added.
On Nov. 28, UST kicked off the Paskuhan festivities with the opening of campus lights and decorations at the Manila and General Santos campuses, along with the Tunog Tomasino, the annual battle of the bands.
Beyond the spiritual character of Paskuhan festivities, Coronel said the activities lined up would be “anchored on faith and prayer.”
“At the heart of our celebration is the Paskuhan Mass, which reminds us that the Eucharist is the true center of our celebration,” he said.
The Paskuhan Mass will be celebrated on Dec. 17 at 5 p.m., followed by the Agape, the Thomasian Christmas feast, at 6:30 p.m, and the Agape Concert at 7 p.m.
Simbang Gabi or novena Masses at UST will start on Dec. 15 until Dec. 24, with services at 8 p.m. at Santisimo Rosario Parish Church and at 4:30 a.m. at Plaza Mayor.
The much-awaited grand Paskuhan concert is set on Dec. 19 at 3 p.m. at the UST Open Field.
