A GIFT TO THE COMMUNITY: University of San Agustin celebrates 120 years of excellence and service

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By Mariela Angella Oladive

The University of San Agustin (USA) proudly commemorates its 120th founding anniversary, marking over a century of educational excellence and community service.

Established on July 15, 1904, by the Augustinian Friars, the institution began as an elite school for boys and has since evolved into a premier learning center offering diverse programs.

Initially known as Colegio de San Agustin-Iloilo, the University has played a pivotal role in shaping the minds and lives of countless individuals through its commitment to “Virtus et Scientia” (Virtue and Knowledge).

Over the decades, USA expanded its academic offerings to include science and arts, technology, commerce, law, health sciences, theology, and more, staying true to the Augustinian philosophy of holistic education. In line with this tradition, the university announced the addition of a new criminology program for the upcoming school year.

To honor this significant milestone, the university organized a series of events from June to July, uniting alumni, students, faculty, and the community.

The celebrations began on June 18 with “A Gift: Charity Art Auction and Dinner for a Cause,” organized by USA High School Batch 1972, blending art and philanthropy with works donated by alumni and local artists.

From July 1-15, “Dulot: The 120 Artworks Exhibit” showcased the creativity of students and alumni from disciplines including fine arts, architecture, interior design, and communication. On July 7, the Veritas Motobike Ride took enthusiasts on a 120 km journey from Iloilo City to Roxas City.

July 13 featured a series of events: the Caritas Walk, Run, and Bike Ride from SM City Iloilo, a Mass Wedding at the USA Chapel, and “Pasundayag: Your Colors Flying High,” which highlighted performances by USA’s arts groups.

The Pagulikid: Augustinian Day of Service on July 14 underscored the university’s commitment to social responsibility by engaging with partner communities.

The grand celebration on July 15 included the Pangabi-abi: University Open House, featuring the USA@120 Exhibit, campus tours, and an alumni edition of AltClass.

Events such as Pahampang: Augustinianlympics, Pamiyesta: University Salu-Salo Lunch, Pagdayaw: Eucharistic Celebration, Panublion: The USA Legacy Awards, emphasized community spirit. Pasidungog saw the awarding of over 500 Jubilarians, while Pagsaulog: Homecoming Queen Grand Coronation highlighted the beauty, grace, and achievements of USA’s queens. The university raised P9.6 million to support its advocacy initiatives, including scholarships, infrastructure, sports, arts, and community services. The day concluded with Pagsinadya: Salu-Salo Dinner, Dance, and Fireworks, marking a festive end to the celebrations.

The celebrations continued on July 16 with Balik-Ugat: Panay Churches Tour, a pilgrimage to historic churches around Panay.

From July 22-26, the Augustinian International Congress on Education focused on “AI-Vangelization: Learning and Evangelization,” bringing together 200 international and local participants to discuss the integration of artificial intelligence in education and evangelization.

Eric Divinagracia, Chair of the USA@120 Committee, expressed the significance of the anniversary.

He highlighted that the celebration is not only about recognizing the giftedness of the alumni and the university but also about embodying the Augustinian values of virtue and knowledge.

“It is very important for our Augustinians to return to their alma mater… because this is a celebration of their giftedness and the giftedness of the university. We stand for Virtus et Scientia (Virtue and Knowledge); what proves that we have indeed become a vehicle or instrument in imparting virtues and knowledge to the community and the world can only be seen if we recognize who has lived these values during the homecoming,” Divinagracia said in a statement.

“It’s a celebration of people coming together and sharing what they have seen and contributed to the world. It’s also an opportunity for us to thank them for being an Augustinian, not only here while they are students, but as alumni as well,” he added.

As the University of San Agustin marks its 120th anniversary, it reflects on its storied past, celebrates its present achievements, and looks forward to a future of continued excellence.