43RD STUDENT CONGRESS OPENS WITH CALLS FOR PURPOSE-DRIVEN LEADERSHIP

Bannering the theme “Carrying the Legacy: 43 Years of Leadership in Service of Excellence,” the 43rd Student Congress officially opened on May 4, gathering student leaders and delegates for a four-day event centered on leadership, accountability, and service.

The opening activities began with a Eucharistic Mass presided over by Reverend Father Ranhilio Aquino, who challenged delegates to move away from recognition-driven leadership. He emphasized that doing what is right should not depend on rewards or admiration, but on conviction.

“Do it not for any reward… Do it not because you will be admired… Do it because the Gospel says so today,” he said.

The program formally opened with the parade of delegates, where representatives from nine campuses showcased their yells and uniforms, highlighting both diversity and unity among participating institutions.

Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Mariden V. Cauilan, represented by Dir. Lirio Guduna C. Mangawil, anchored leadership on impact, reminding delegates that their roles extend beyond campus activities. She emphasized that leadership should improve the lives of others and contribute to society, urging student leaders to see themselves as part of a larger system.

She also pointed to current challenges—including uncertainty and changing systems—stressing the need for student leaders to adapt and take initiative in responding to these realities.

Officer-In-Charge University President Dr. Arthur G. Ibañez followed with a message on accountability in decision-making, stressing that leadership is not about conforming to the majority.

“In every decision-making, be sure that you have enough information… You may not be with the majority—you may be with the minority—but it’s okay to make decisions as long as you do things right,” he said.

Student Regent Kyle Arron Tan, who led the formal opening of the congress, challenged delegates to go beyond participation and reflect on the kind of leadership they represent. He urged student leaders to think about how they are perceived across institutions, emphasizing that leadership should be defined not by activities, but by values.

The symbolic lighting of the torch followed, representing leadership as a guiding force rooted in service. A solidarity dance reinforced unity among delegates before the program transitioned into the evening.

Daryl Buemio, a delegate from Lasam, described his experience on day zero, noting that the host campus is welcoming and supportive, and that among the activities, the torch lighting stood out the most.

“Makikita mo doon yung spirit of unity—lahat ng student leaders nag-gather,” he said.

Buemio also shared that he hopes to gain insights from the congress that he can bring back to his campus.

“Sana maraming matutunan kami as student leaders and ma-apply namin sa campuses namin,” he added.

The congress will run until May 7, featuring plenary sessions, team-building activities, and the election of a new set of USCF officers—aimed at strengthening leadership skills and fostering collaboration among student leaders.