Panaghiusa 2025 Brings Together Foundation University Graduates

Hundreds of Foundation University alumni, spanning generations and continents, convened inside the Sofia Soller Sinco Hall last December 6, 2025, for the Panaghiusa 2025. As a yearly homecoming gala, the Panaghiusa is a cornerstone event in the Kasadyaan Festival to rekindle the spirit of connection between alumni and their alma mater, and help inaugurate a new chapter in the institution for the coming years ahead.

The event had been in doubt some days prior. Organizers had to contend with the threat of Tropical Depression Wilma—heightened by recent history in the region, after multiple strong typhoons ravaged the northern parts of Negros Island in November. The provincial government office had been strict in the enforcement of safety protocols, and released a memorandum after the permit had been signed. Nevertheless, the prevailing winds shifted the system a few degrees northward, steering the storm clear from the island and gifting the campus a morning of clear skies and bright sunshine perfectly suited for the activities.

Alumni were treated to a series of video tributes about the campus, and fond reminiscences of their old mentors and peers. These individuals now live abroad or work in distant Philippine provinces, and could not attend in person. University President Victor Vicente “Dean” Sinco, as well as other executives who were pivotal in the university's growth, was in attendance and delivered a heartfelt welcome to the returning graduates.

In total, about 164 registrants were tallied, with the guest list reflecting the broad reach of the university in the fields of public service and professional achievement. Prominent attendees included the Golden Jubilarians, celebrating fifty years since their graduation in 1975. This group featured legal professionals Atty. Vivian Olis-Maquiling and Fiscal Vilmo Ampong. From the College of Arts and Sciences Batch 1975 came Dr. Eva Melon, Alma Cora Catacutan, Dr. Peter Dayot, and Dr. Evangeline Kinilitan-Parami. The FUHS Batch 1975 was also present, led by Ms. Sophia Lynn Lumantod, a Retired Regional Director of NTC Region 7 and a designated 2025 FU Outstanding Alumni Awardee. They were joined by the Silver Jubilarians of FUHS Batch 2000, now twenty-five years into their professional lives. Also in attendance was Hon. Estanislaw Alviola, a long-time supporter of the university’s civic engagement programs, alongside a delegation of DepEd Supervisors and Principals who had completed their own graduate studies at the institution.

Foundation University is grateful for the attendance of their cherished alumni. The evening concluded with the traditional toast and singing of the "Foundation University Hymn." For the many who were unable to join, the university invites them to next year’s Panaghiusa, hopefully under clearer skies and in greater numbers.