THOMASIANS MUST be aware of the University’s more than four-century history because it is not only home to significant structures but also to longstanding values and aspirations, the dean of the Faculty of Arts and Letters (AB) said.
In this year’s Discurso de Apertura, AB Dean Prof. Melanie Turingan urged Thomasians to be bearers of knowledge in terms of UST’s historic origins so they could be products of “value preservation” with a heart for humanity.
“The structures we once have, we currently have, and we will soon have, are not just tangible structures that we see and set foot in. These edifices are a symbol of UST’s rich history, values and aspirations,” Turingan said on Friday, Aug. 2, at the Santisimo Rosario Parish.
“As Thomasians, we should be the first to know the essence of why a 413-year university still stands today,” she added.
Turingan, a history professor, highlighted the notable priests who not only contributed to the establishment of the University, but also imparted wisdom. She cited UST founder Fr. Miguel de Benavides, O.P. who envisioned an academic institution that is “inclusive” to students from all walks of life.
Quoting UST Rector Fr. Richard Ang, O.P., Turingan said “edifices are a symbol of faith in God and beacon of hope for the entire country, and of unity and cooperation amidst plurality.”
The dean also called on Thomasians to become “agents for social transformation” by emulating the alumni and benefactors that came before them.
“The University takes pride (in producing) individuals who sacrifice their lives to defend their faith and be a reminder that this institution is indeed the Catholic University of the Philippines and a home of selfless individuals,” she said.
Discurso de Apertura is the University’s traditional inaugural lecture to mark the start of a new academic year. F
