On July 12, 2025, the University of Santo Tomas welcomed back its proud Accountancy alumni for EXCEL: Celebrating Excellence Across Eras—a heartfelt gathering held at the Buenaventura Garcia Paredes, O.P. Building. More than just a reunion, the event was a celebration of the legacy, leadership, and loyalty of Thomasian accountants across generations.
The day began with a Continuing Professional Development (CPD) seminar led by Mr. Philippe Jose S. Hernandez, LPT, MEng, Director of the UST Communications Bureau. His talk, Thomasian Accountants in Practice: Rekindling Identity, Reinforcing Integrity, challenged attendees to reflect on their core values. A quote that deeply resonated was: “Society has to one day reach that point again where it will recognize that compassion, when abused, leads to a lack of competence.”
Following the seminar and Mass, alumni participated in a symbolic welcome walk at the Arch of the Centuries. A nod to UST tradition, the walk retraced the steps of students who pass through the arch upon entering and graduating. This time, it served as a journey back, physically and emotionally, for graduates across different eras. Attendees were grouped as Trailblazers (1965–2005), Legacy Transformers (2006–2021), and Excel-erators of Tomorrow (2022–2025), celebrating the role of each generation in shaping the profession. Performances by the UST Yellow Jackets and the UST Salinggawi Dance Troupe added energy and nostalgia to the experience.
In his remarks, John Derick De Recto, President of the UST AMV Alumni Association, reflected on the college’s legacy: “It has been 20 years since our beloved college was established, but its roots stretch far deeper, from Commerce to AMV, from trailblazers like Washington SyCip and Alfredo Velayo to our batchmates leading today’s business world. The Excel-erators of tomorrow now stand on the foundations built by those who came before them.”
Dean Patricia M. Empleo thanked the organizers, faculty, and alumni. She also honored founding Dean Jose Ireneo, recalling his humble words: “I cannot promise anything, but what I can promise is a good start.” Dean Empleo added, “Our hearts are full. Ayaw naman namin umiyak, diba? The night is still young, so let’s enjoy each other’s company.”
The evening program was hosted by two distinguished alumni: Diane Querrer (Batch 2010), a journalist and former Miss Philippines Earth, and Rex Christian Trinidad (Batch 2012), also known as DJ Adam of Wish 107.5. Their charm and stage presence guided the audience through a night of storytelling, music, and fun.
Alumni received complimentary access to a NIAT certification course, as well as a 20% discount on CMA and CSCA exams and memberships using the code USTAMV20, valid for the Sept/Oct 2025 window. Access was also granted to the Certified Strategic Planning and Control Specialist (CSPCS) program, under the CGPA certification track, in partnership with the International Board of Professional Accountants UK.
A raffle added excitement, with major prizes awarded to Joaquin Palmares (Batch 2006), a 2-night stay in Baguio, and Glaiza Pernito (Batch 2005) and Jan Encina (Batch 2006), PHP 5,000 PAL Gift Vouchers.
The night ended on a high with a live performance by Lola Amour, sponsored by the Alumni Association president. With hits like Fallen, Dahan-Dahan, Maybe Maybe, and Raining in Manila, the band brought the ballroom to life.
As the evening closed, alumni left with renewed connections, pride in their shared past, and inspiration to continue excelling in the future.
To check on the latest updates on the Association, please like, follow, and share their page: UST AMV Accountancy Alumni Association, Inc., a nonprofit organization: https://www.facebook.com/ustamvaa
