The University of Santo Tomas joined the inaugural Philippine University Fair in New York from May 31 to June 2, upon the invitation of the Consulate General of the Republic of the Philippines. Organized in partnership with the Philippine Independence Day Council, Inc. (PIDCI), this first-ever fair highlighted the excellence of Philippine higher education to the Filipino-American community and prospective students in the United States.
Consul General Senen Mangalile, in his opening remarks, emphasized the historic nature of the event: “This fair is a first-of-its-kind initiative at the Consulate, and we are proud to host it in partnership with PIDCI. It is an opportunity to reconnect with our roots and expand access to Philippine higher education.”
As one of the invited universities, UST’s presence underscored its unwavering commitment to academic diplomacy, cultural engagement, and the formation of globally competent students rooted in Catholic tradition. Leading UST’s presenters were the Father Rector Very Rev. Fr. Richard G. Ang, O.P., PhD; Prof. Philipina A. Marcelo, PhD, Assistant to the Rector for UST Max (Sta. Rosa), and Assoc. Prof. Jacqueline L. Kaw, DCL, Dean of the Graduate School of Law. Their presentations and interactions captured the essence of UST’s academic excellence, global reach, and distinctive Thomasian identity.
Completing the UST delegation were Prof. Marciana Agnes G. Ponsaran, PhD, Executive Secretary of the Office of the Rector; Dr. Sheryl M. Dionisio, UST Health Service Director; Asst. Prof. Nestor R. Ong, Deputy Director of the Office of QS/THE Rankings; Mr. Levine Andro H. Lao, Director of the Office for Grants, Endowments, and Partnerships in Higher Education, and Mr. Cristian Naval, Stakeholders Engagement Head of the UST Research and Endowment Foundation, Inc.
During the university fair’s academic forum on May 31, the Thomasian leaders highlighted the institution’s unparalleled heritage. Founded in 1611, UST is the oldest existing university in Asia and home to over 42,000 students from across the globe. The Father Rector and his team shared how UST has evolved into a dynamic institution recognized globally and locally. It has consistently ranked as one of the world’s best universities by Quacquarelli-Symonds (QS) and Times Higher Education (THE). It is likewise named as a Center of Excellence by the Philippine Commission on Higher Education in multiple fields, including medicine, pharmacy, teacher education, engineering, and philosophy.
The presentation showcased UST’s affordability and accessibility, noting that tuition costs at UST are a fraction of those in the United States, about $2,000 to $3,000 per semester, while still offering state-of-the-art facilities, mentorship, and a vibrant, inclusive campus life. UST’s location in the heart of Manila, a city brimming with history, culture, and warmth, was highlighted as a prime advantage for international students.
In his presentation, Father Ang described UST’s approach to holistic education, having an environment that nurtures not only the intellect but also the spirit. “As a Catholic university founded by the Dominican Order, we nurture minds and hearts, rooted in faith, guided by reason, and called to serve,” he said.
UST’s global connections and over 250 international partnerships were also emphasized, offering students opportunities for exchange, research, and cultural immersion worldwide. As Consul General Mangalile noted in his address, Philippine universities have long shaped generations of leaders, scientists, entrepreneurs, artists, and faith workers who contribute to global society. The Philippine University Fair stands as a testament to this enduring legacy, forging new ties across oceans and generations.
