THE LAUNCHING OF the University’s foray into the papal encyclical Laudato Si’ culminated with a mini concert branded as “Isang Musika, Isang Indak, Isang Daigdig, Isang Pag-ibig,” with performances from the Bedan Dance Theatre (BDT), Bedan Musicians Guild (BMG), San Beda University Chorale (SBCU), and the Bedan Pastoral Ministry (BPM) at the ground floor of Lydia Tan Sy Building, October 4.
The activities were tied altogether for the evening’s festivities, starting off with a solemn prayer, a song of praise and worship, an opening message from the Rector-President, Rev. Fr. Aloysius Ma. Maranan, OSB, and a talk that recognized the need for each Bedan to continue the Laudato Si movement.
“Well, I think it’s successful, and from the response of the Rector. It means he really appreciates the efforts of the institution, and all the Bedans right now are aware and know what Laudato Si is all about,” shared Prof. Marvin Reyes, Ph.D., the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS Prefect of Student Activities, who reflected on his insights regarding the event’s overall turnout.
He also promised to incorporate more environmental activities, not only with this event’s vision and the school’s administration, but also in incorporating the Laudato Si’ movement with the subjects of the student body.
Launching this institutional activity started a thought-provoking experience for the Bedan community, which became a promise for change and heightened engagement. Julia San Jose, the Student Council (SC) Vice President for Internal Affairs, mentioned how the institution’s advocacy was witnessed throughout the celebration. “I am asking the CAS community to stick with our advocacy in limiting or lessening the use of single-use plastic,” San Jose encouraged Bedans. Additionally, she coined the preparation for the said event as “mini Pista ng Sto. Niño” because they utilized all their resources during the celebration.
“I am really thankful for the Student Organization Circle for really thinking of different events, imagine we have six clusters and lahat ‘yun naka-produce ‘yun ng activity nila within more or less one week,” said San Jose while extending her gratitude to the committee and the performers.
Even with a positive turnout, San Jose confessed to the main challenge of maintaining the students’ attendance as the whole event lasted for eleven hours. Yet amid the uncertain circumstances, the IVP nonetheless expressed her gratitude for the overall activity.
“We’re thankful to the Vice President for Academics for providing or for sponsoring the free foods… for the Student Organization Circle (SOC) for really thinking of different events… for the student council executive committee for pulling off the culminating activity, and I would also like to extend my gratitude for the performing arts for the performance that they pulled off during the culminating activity, so yeah I am just thankful and happy,” said the IVP while putting emphasis to the communal need of preserving nature and the planet we live on because “there is no other place like home.”