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UTS UNION VOICE, Dasmariñas (2026)

29/07/2026

UTS Cultural Harmony Week Opens with Worship

Now in its second year, Union Theological Seminary launched its Cultural Harmony Week on July 28 with an opening worship service. This year’s theme is “Oceans of Hope: Weaving Harmony, Sharing Sanctuary,” and the event is chaired by Dr. Deborrah Reyes-Anno, convener of the Center for Arts, Liturgy, and Music.

During the opening worship, UTS President Rev. Dr. Francisco J. Hernando welcomed everyone to the celebration.

“Warm Christian greetings to everyone as we gather to celebrate our UTS Cultural Harmony Week. We give thanks to God for this meaningful occasion that allows us to affirm the richness of our diverse cultures as precious gifts of God’s gracious creation,” he said.

He also reflected on the significance of this year’s theme. “Our theme for this year’s CHW is ‘Oceans of Hope: Weaving Harmony, Sharing Sanctuary.’ This theme combines the vision and mission of Union Theological Seminary, Philippines, and the Council for World Mission.

“Oceans of Hope is CWM’s call to reclaim the ocean as a sacred network that binds diverse cultures, missionaries, and local churches together in a shared and borderless commitment to climate and ecological justice. Weaving Harmony and Sharing Sanctuary reflect the ecumenical spirit of Union and its embodied solidarity with the marginalized and the oppressed,” the President said.

The worship was made more colorful by cultural dance and music. After the opening worship, the Field Education Office facilitated a processing session of what transpired during the People’s SONA.

Cultural Harmony Week began on Monday, July 27, when the UTS community participated in the People’s SONA in Quezon City. Seminarians, faculty and staff members, and administrators marched alongside the people as they presented their assessment of the real state of the nation.

Art is a language through which culture is expressed. Thus, throughout the week, four workshops will be offered: music (choir singing and angklung playing) and dance (folk dance) on Wednesday, and visual arts and theater arts on Thursday. Each student will participate in one workshop per day.

The workshops are being facilitated by DM Joseph Bayani, a UTS alumnus; Chai Alforte, a senior BTh (Church Music major) student; Prof. Zion Cleto of Cavite State University; UTS resident artist Ted Camahalan; and resident director Dr. Rommel “Pipoy” Linatoc.

The much-awaited culminating activity will take place on Friday, July 31, when students will showcase the outputs of their chosen workshops.

Story by Faye Tolosa
Photos from Alvin Arante

28/07/2026

UTS Joins People’s SONA, Affirms Prophetic Ministry for Justice and Peace

QUEZON CITY, Philippines — On July 27, 2026, the Union Theological Seminary (UTS) joined this year's People's State of the Nation Address (SONA), reaffirming its commitment to the Church's prophetic ministry by standing in solidarity with various sectors of society calling for justice, peace, accountability, and the protection of human rights.

Seminarians, together with faculty members and staff of UTS, participated in the annual mobilization alongside workers, farmers, fisherfolk, Indigenous Peoples, youth, church groups, and other people's organizations. Their participation reflected the seminary's conviction that Christian faith extends beyond the walls of the Church and is lived out through active engagement with the realities faced by the people.

The UTS delegation was divided into two groups during the mobilization. One group marched with the National Sector, while the other joined the Southern Tagalog contingent, expressing solidarity with communities advocating for social justice and genuine national development.

Among the calls raised by the UTS community were "Convict Sara Now" and "No to PAX Silica," along with other appeals concerning accountability, environmental protection, and the defense of people's rights.

For the seminary community, the true State of the Nation is not measured solely by government reports of accomplishments and development programs. Rather, it is reflected in the lived experiences of ordinary Filipinos, particularly those who continue to face poverty, injustice, displacement, and inequality.

The seminary's participation draws inspiration from the prophetic witness of Scripture. The prophet Amos declares, "But let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream" (Amos 5:24). Likewise, the prophet Micah reminds God's people: "What does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God" (Micah 6:8). Jesus Himself proclaimed His mission in Luke 4:18–19, saying, "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me... He has sent me to proclaim good news to the poor... to proclaim freedom for the prisoners... to set the oppressed free."

Through its annual participation in the People's SONA, Union Theological Seminary continues to uphold its understanding of prophetic ministry—one that seeks to embody the Gospel through solidarity with marginalized communities and by bearing witness to God's call for justice, peace, compassion, and the dignity of all people.

Story by Geralk Kay Commendador
Photos from: Alvin, Khen, Jester, Ella, Faye

25/07/2026

Sa darating na Lunes ay muling magsasagawa ng State of the Nation Address ang Pangulong Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Kasabay nito ay magsasagawa rin ng SONA ng bayan sa kalsada. Narito ang pahayag ng Student Government-elect ng UTS:

PAHAYAG NG BAGONG HALAL NA OPISYALES NG UTS STUDENT GOVERNMENT HINGGIL SA PEOPLE'S STATE OF THE NATION ADDRESS 2026

Bilang mga mag-aaral ng teolohiya at mga naghahandang maging lingkod ng simbahan at lipunan, kinikilala namin na ang pag-unawa sa kalagayan ng bansa ay hindi lamang nakukuha sa mga opisyal na ulat kundi sa pakikinig sa mga karanasan at hinaing ng mamamayan.

Sa pagdaraos ng State of the Nation Address ngayong taon, nakikiisa ang UTS Student Government sa paninindigan na ang tunay na kalagayan ng bansa ay nasasalamin sa kalagayan ng kanyang mga mamamayan—lalo na ng mga nasa laylayan, mga nahihirapan, at mga madalas na hindi pinakikinggan.

Bilang mga propeta ng kasalukuyang panahon, naniniwala kami na mahalagang marinig hindi lamang ang tinig ng mga nasa kapangyarihan kundi maging ang tinig ng mga manggagawa, magsasaka, kabataan, katutubo, maralitang lungsod, at iba pang sektor ng lipunan.

Ang People's SONA ay isang mahalagang pagkakataon upang pakinggan ang mga kuwentong hindi laging naisasama sa mga opisyal na talumpati—mga kuwento ng pakikibaka, pag-asa, at patuloy na paghahangad ng isang mas makatarungan at makataong lipunan.

Kaya naman hinihikayat ng UTS Student Government ang buong komunidad ng Union Theological Seminary na makilahok, makinig, at makiisa sa People's State of the Nation Address sa darating na Lunes. Nawa'y magsilbi itong pagkakataon upang higit nating maunawaan ang kalagayan ng bayan at ang ating pananagutan bilang mga taong tinawag upang maglingkod.

Sa panahon ng iba't ibang krisis at hamon, nawa'y manatili tayong tapat sa ating bokasyong maging mga tagapaghatid ng katotohanan, katarungan, at pag-asa.

Sapagkat ang tunay na kalagayan ng bansa ay hindi lamang nasusukat sa mga bilang at ulat, kundi sa buhay, dignidad, at kapakanan ng bawat mamamayan.

23/07/2026

COMELEC Releases UTS Student Government Election Results for S.Y. 2026–2027

The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) officially released the results of the UTS Student Government (UTS-SG) Election for the Academic Year 2026–2027 on July 23, 2026, at 3:00 PM.

The results are as follows:

Elected Executive Officers
President: Angelica Faye Tolosa – 66 votes
Vice President: Lenie Lyn Alforte – 67 votes
Secretary: Maureen M. Mauricio – 63 votes
Treasurer: Irene Gabrielle Mungcal – 63 votes
Auditor: Raymond T. Ronquillo – 62 votes
Public Relations Officer: Kenneth John E. Esquera – 61 votes

Elected Senators
Nino M. Cezar – 67 votes
Jenny Bee M. Petalco – 62 votes
Rose Ann M. Salazar – 62 votes
Dave F. Martizano – 61 votes
Wilma Dewig-Idulsa – 61 votes
Daniella Marie C. Fuentes – 60 votes
Jerome Mark T. Saya – 57 votes
Rober John F. Faigao – 56 votes
Jemuel D. Rabotaso – 54 votes
Remiel Jon A. Martizano – 42 votes

Other Senatorial Candidates
Mark Anthony P. Lucero – 39 votes
Ariana Marie Matamorosa – 34 votes

The election was conducted through a combination of in-person and online voting to ensure the participation of both residential and intern students. Residential students cast their votes through printed ballots at the Library Conference Room, while intern students participated through an online voting platform. Voting officially took place from 9:00 AM to 12:00 NN.

A total of 65 residential students participated in the election. Meanwhile, 10 online votes were initially recorded from intern students; however, one vote was declared invalid, resulting in a total of 9 valid online votes.

This year's election featured a single organized political group, the Tugon Partylist, which fielded a complete lineup of candidates for the Student Government. In addition, two independent candidates contested seats in the Senate.

Prior to the election, a Miting de Avance was held on Wednesday from 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM at Salakot Chapel. The event provided an opportunity for candidates to introduce themselves, present their platforms, and share their goals, commitments, and vision for the student body. It also allowed students to raise questions and engage directly with the candidates regarding their proposed plans and programs for the coming academic year.

The election marks an important step in strengthening student participation and leadership within the seminary community. As the newly elected UTS-SG officers begin their term, the student body looks forward to a year of dedicated service, responsible leadership, and meaningful representation.

It is hoped that the newly elected officers will faithfully fulfill their responsibilities, address the concerns of the student community, and serve as an effective voice for the seminarians throughout the academic year.

The complete list of elected officers has been released by COMELEC and is now available to the UTS community.

📝: Geralk Comendador

15/04/2026

Photobooth 💙✨

14/04/2026

Part 3 💙

14/04/2026

Part 2 💙

14/04/2026

UTS Community Sends Off Senior Batch 2025–2026

The graduating class of Union Theological Seminary was honored in a heartfelt Seniors Prom, themed “Leave a Line Before We Cross the Finish Line,” held on the evening of April 13, 2026, at Salakot Chapel. Organized by the Union Theological Seminary Student Government, in collaboration with the Junior and Middler classes and faculty, the event served as a meaningful send-off celebration for the seniors.

The evening formally began at 7:30 PM with a blue carpet entrance, where students and faculty made their way into the venue in a festive and elegant atmosphere. Attendees enjoyed a photo booth setup and a variety of picka-picka foods, adding a light and celebratory tone to the gathering.

A highlight of the program was a dance performance by the Junior Class, which drew applause from the audience. In her opening remarks, Rev. Connie Semy-Mella emphasized that the occasion was not only a farewell event but also a moment to strengthen bonds of fellowship and friendship within the seminary community.

The program also featured a segment dedicated to recalling humorous and memorable moments shared by the class and the wider community, followed by a slideshow presentation showcasing captured memories throughout the seniors’ journey.

In his parting message, Seminary President Rev. Frank Hernando reminded the graduates of the lifelong value of learning, stating, “We study and learn from womb to tomb.”

Awards were presented to attendees who best embodied the event’s theme, particularly those dressed in blue jeans or denim. As tokens of appreciation, polo shirts were distributed to members of the senior class, while barongs were given to graduating students who did not have one. Everyone was encouraged to dance with one another, and the event concluded with a solidarity prayer.

Described by attendees as both emotional and joyful, the event was filled with smiles, laughter, and gratitude. The senior class expressed deep appreciation for the efforts of the organizers and sponsors who made the send-off fellowship a memorable and meaningful experience.

✍🏻 by: Gabo
📸 by: Vynz

14/04/2026

Student Government Holds 2nd General Assembly and Dialogue with School Administration

On April 13, 2026, the Student Government conducted its 2nd General Assembly. The event was led by the student leaders and attended by the seminarians.

During the assembly, Student Government President Eloisa James Sonio presented her report. She shared the successful activities that were held in the past months. She also reported the projects that have been completed and mentioned other important matters that still need attention and continuation. One of the important decisions made during the assembly was the approval of a transition committee to ensure a smooth transition of leadership. This committee will serve temporarily while there are no newly elected set of officers for the School Year 2026–2027.

Another major part of the agenda was the presentation of the Senate regarding the proposal to transition from a Student Government to a Student Union with a Student Council. The proposal was presented by Senate President Aleissa Ayeras and Senate Pro Tempore Keziah Tequis, including the draft of the Constitution and By-Laws. The presentation was successful and well-received. It was also approved that the current Senate members, who will become the incoming middlers and seniors, will take part in writing and finalizing the Constitution and By-Laws for the next school year.

After the General Assembly, a dialogue was held between the seminarians and the School President, Rev. Dr. Frank Hernando. During the dialogue, students raised several questions and concerns. These included updates about the renovation of the dormitory and the construction of a new dorm. Students also requested the return of the Student Assistance program.

Mr. Albert Velasquez also shared about the recent Water Interruption. Rev. Hernando said that there are back up water source in case the water pump of UTS will have problems again. He said that the seminary is planning to source from Dasmariñas Water District and other sources.

In addition, questions were raised regarding the Board of Trustees’ stand on the unpaid commitments of PCU, particularly about the deed of assignment and other delayed financial shares that are expected to be given to UTS.

Rev. Hernando responded to all the concerns and assured the students that a dialogue between the Board of Trustees and the student body will be arranged. Students asked if these dialogue will be an official meeting because this will have an implication on the funding of UTS especially the BOT Members receive honorarium and gift bags every official meeting. Rev. Hernando said that it is yet to be confirmed but it is implied that it would be.

The community now looks forward to this upcoming conversation with the BOT to ensure that Student concerns are put forward in the decision-making table of UTS.

✍️🏻 by: Aiah
📷 by: Igpaw

26/02/2026

As the official school publication of Union Theological Seminary, we affirm that our calling continues beyond the remembrance of the People Power Revolution, as we remain committed to stand and walk with those in the margins of society. Our mission is deeply rooted in our theological conviction and in the words of Jesus in Bible, “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free” (Luke 4:18). In the face of poverty, injustice, and corruption that continue to wound the Philippines, we recognize our responsibility to participate in this prophetic calling by telling the truth, amplifying marginalized voices, and bearing witness to the realities that many continue to endure. We believe that this work is not separate from faith, but an expression of our faithfulness to God’s justice and compassion.

In solidarity, Union Voice commits to continue its role as a witness and companion of the people, especially the poor, the oppressed, and the unheard. We affirm that our task as a publication is part of the Church’s broader mission to proclaim good news, expose injustice, and affirm the dignity of every person. As we move forward, we remain steadfast in walking with the masses, trusting that God is present in their struggle and that our voice, grounded in truth and faith, is called to serve the work of justice, liberation, and hope.

UTS UNION VOICE

29/07/2026

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