Last 2012 UP events you shouldn’t miss

originally posted in AIT Salimbay (Official newsletter of UP Asian Institute of Tourism)

Can’t wait for Christmas break? Perhaps, like other students, you might want the clock’s hands to move a little faster to free yourself from academic work, and finally lie in your bed all day, spoiling yourself with complete rest, and enjoying the season of eating and ‘drinking.’  Christmas vacation is only a few days away, and not too long a wait. Spare some energy because the last week of this academic year’s 2012 leg has the most awaited events in UP.

The Oblation Run. Photo c/o Tumblr.com

The Great Oblation Run 

Jogging. More Fun in UP. It is quite an unusual scenario if you get to encounter a naked man in a public place, but not in UP. Palma Hall becomes a semi-tourist destination during December. Hundreds of student, outsiders, and media men gather in UP to watch this event.

It is in this month, that Alpha Phi Omega  (APO) society celebrates their anniversary. Not only students, but the whole Philippines awaits for the “The Great Oblation Run.” This event has been the tradition of APO frat men since 1977. The oblation run serves as the initiation rites of APO’s incoming members. Most importantly, it is through this event that this association voices out its protests about national issues.

Attention seekers. APO also aims to call attention towards certain issues and concerns. Photo c/o Spot.ph

Last year, APO expressed their take on “Saving Philippine Waters”. What could be APO’s advocacy this year?  Find out on December 14, Friday, in Palma Hall, before 12 noon.

UP Lantern Parade

 
“kumukuti-kutitap, bumubusi-busilak…” Have you frequently heard this song lately? This signals that the Christmas is near. Do not miss the Lantern Parade as it is one of the grandest and most unique events held annually.

Patience. Students from various colleges gather in AS steps to secure the best view of the show. Photo c/o Cha Octiva

The celebration aims to unite different colleges in UP. Likewise, this showcases each college’s creativity by expressing art through the display of colourful  lanterns and gigantic floats.

Gundam in UP. This float stood out last year by shining brightly throughout the night. Photo c/o Cha Octiva

This year, the parade is scheduled on December 14, the same day as the Oblation Run, and starts at 6pm.  Life-sized lanterns will gather in front of Bulwagang Quezon, and proud students, together with their lanterns, will walk around the Academic Oval to show off their creations. The event ends at the Amphitheater for the programs and awarding ceremony.

More than just lights. UP lantern Parade is also a venue for Fine Arts students to craft adorable costumes.

UP shares this delightful event to all. Tourists and other people from all walks of life are encouraged to watch. Parents even bring their children as a family activity. It is an event that the whole community can enjoy.

Pinkies. Last year, AIT students wore pink shirts to support their college.

 For weeks, AIT Volunteer Corps and several students have been making a conscious effort to create the best lantern. Adhering to the theme “Dangal at Kahusayan sa Paglilingkod sa Bayan” AIT students are targeting to achieve the Grand Prize. In 2011, AIT brought with them the 3^rd place after College of Arts and Letters (2^nd placer) and College of Home Economic (Grand Prize winner). Will AIT be bringing home the bacon once more?

You better not miss these events, or else you’ll be missing more than a half of your UP life!

 - Cha Octiva

 I would like to thank Nadine Gutierrez for proofreading my article.