Written by Peter Wald Saguirel II and Kristi Anne Sharmaine Biares
MENDIOLA, MANILA–The College of Law (COL) joined the Bedan community in celebrating the annual Pista ng Sto. Niño sa San Beda last January 24-26, 2025, with the theme, “Sto. Niño de Praga: Gabay ng mga Bedista sa Pangangalaga ng Kalikasan sa Taon ng Hubileo”, featuring a dynamic lineup of events that showcased student talent and cultural heritage.
On January 24, the Pista celebration officially kicked off with a ribbon-cutting ceremony in the morning, followed by a community parade where Bedan administrators, faculty, staff and students marched along Mendiola Street. The COL was represented by its muse, Ms. Clarisse Andrea Ong of 1C, and her escort, Mr. Milo Nanquil of 1N, both donning intricate ensembles inspired by the Pista theme. The day closed on a high note with the One-Act Play Festival and the Battle of the Bands, featuring a live set by Filipino indie band Munimuni.
The Pista ng Sto. Niño 2025 demonstrated that Bedan fellowship exists beyond the classroom and transcends the different departments, with collaborative activities such as Peryahang Bedista, a vibrant student-led fair at the Plaza Monsterrat; Ride and Road: Lakbay para sa Kalikasan; BEDA Fit: Palarong Pinoy and Salo-Salo Together; and Laro ng Lahi.
On January 26, the Pista celebration culminated through the traditional procession around the vicinity of the San Miguel district, leading up to the Eucharistic celebration in honor of the Feast Day of the Sto. Niño de Praga, which was presided over by University Rector-President Rev. Fr. Aloysius Ma A Maranan, OSB. He emphasized the significance of this year’s Pista theme in advocating for the responsible use of God’s gift of creation, and expressed his gratitude to the entire Bedan family for embodying academic excellence and the gifts of service and community as the next year sees San Beda University celebrating 125 years of fostering a community built on knowledge, virtue, and faith.
The Holy Mass was followed by the raffle draw and a grand fireworks display, marking the vibrant end of the three-day celebration of the Pista ng Sto. Niño sa San Beda 2025.