Thousands flock to UST for Paskuhan 2025 amid heavy rains
An eight-minute-long fireworks display capped off this year's grand Paskuhan at UST. (Photo from The Varsitarian)
More than 48,000 Thomasians braved heavy rains to attend the University of Sto. Tomas' (UST) grand Paskuhan 2025 on Friday, Dec. 19, as the university celebrated the annual tradition ushering in the Yuletide season with joyous music and captivating lights and decors.
According to UST's Campus Safety and Security Office, a total of 48,309 individuals attended this year's event, surpassing the 42,665 attendees recorded last year.
This year's grand Paskuhan, which has been a yearly tradition of the university since 1991, featured performances by renowned OPM singers and bands, including BINI, Ben&Ben, Zack Tabudlo, Amiel Sol, and Rob Deniel.Zack Tabuld
Student performances also added to the festivities, along with dazzling light and drone shows. An astounding eight-minute fireworks display capped off the event.
The school also released its first-ever official lightstick, made specifically for this year's Paskuhan, as part of its "A Light That Lasts: The UST Paskuhan Concert Light Stick Project" spearheaded by the Central Student Council (CSC).
CSC Secretary Nashville Mauricio said the initiative aims to help areas struck by Super Typhoon Uran in Aurora and Typhoon Tino in the Visayas through the sales proceeds of the lightstick and other Paskuhan 2025 merchandise.
“This community development initiative not only enhances the Paskuhan experience but also instills a sense of social responsibility among students and the University community,” the CSC statement read.
The university's administration said this year's theme, “Light Among Us, Hope Through Us,” promotes and instill hope and resilience in everyone, especially among young people amid present-day challenges.