By Jan Erica S Bacayo

The Xavier University Festival Days (XUFD) 2025 officially commenced on December 3 with the theme “Mission Forward: Nurturing Legacies and Serving Communities.” The celebration highlights the university’s continued commitment to forming men and women for others, reaffirming its mission of solidarity, compassion, and service in responding to the needs of the society.

The opening of the festival was marked by the Opening Mass held at the University Main Lane, followed by the Wreath-Laying Ceremony in honor of the university’s patron St Francis Xavier. These activities set a reflective and spiritual tone for the celebration, reminding the community of Xavier University’s foundation and guiding values.

As Xavier University approaches its centennial year, an exhibit was also launched at the SBM Building, showcasing the institution’s history and significant moments. The exhibit highlights the resilience, unity, and camaraderie of the Ateneo community throughout the years. During the program, XU VP for Mission and Ministry Fr Frank Dennis B Savadera, SJ, DMin, introduced the 10 milestones for social development, which illustrate the university’s response to various societal challenges.  “These milestones represent the events that transpired in our decades of existence. They remind us that there were instances when we were called to respond— and respond proactively,” he shared.

As the afternoon progressed, the SC grounds became alive with music and performances during the Tugtugan Fest, while the Crusaders Exhibition Games at the University Gymnasium provided a display of athleticism and school spirit. At sunset, the community gathered once again at the Main Lane for the Tree Lighting Ceremony, symbolizing unity, hope, and shared purpose. “We are all invited, as Xavier Ateneans, to be the light to one another. We are reminded to become light, hope, love, and service for another,” said XU President Fr Mars P Tan, SJ, as he welcomed everyone to the annual festivities.

The first day concluded with the simultaneous activities across the campus, including Festival Nights at the Covered Courts, the continuation of the Crusaders Exhibition Games, another round of Tugtugan Fest performances, and the Xavier Box Office (XBO) showcase at the XU Soccer Field, which all offered variety of entertainment to the crowd.

The second day of XUFD, held on December 4, focused on fun, community bonding, and student engagement.  The XU Fun Day at the Main Lane featured food festivals, sikad rides, bike courses, and interactive games that drew participation from students, faculty, and staff. The Museo de Oro remained open to visitors, while the Crusader Exhibition Games continued to energize sports enthusiasts throughout the morning.

In the afternoon, students from XU Grade School, Junior High School, and Senior High School staged the musical play “Sa Susunod na Habang Buhay” at the Covered Courts, highlighting the value of friendship and connection. Meanwhile, the International Association of Jesuit Engineering and Science School (IAJES) Asia Pacific Conference 2025 was held at the AVRs, further strengthening the spirit of Jesuit education and leadership. Despite a sudden downpour, the XU Band delivered an impressive performance during the “Got the Beat on Repeat” concert at the SC Grounds.

The day also featured the Alumni Games at the University Gymnasium and the Kinauyokan event at the Covered Courts, which brought together former and present students in celebration of shared identity. The evening ended with more musical performance at the SG Grounds and another XBO showcase at the Soccer Field.

The Xavier University Festival Days will run until December 6, bringing together the entire community in celebration of heritage, service, and unity.