University of Santo Tomas Joins Largest Filipino Parade Abroad After Over a Decade

The Philippine Independence Day Parade in New York, widely recognized as the largest celebration of its kind outside the Philippines, once again lit up the streets of Manhattan with vibrant culture, community pride, and Filipino heritage. This year’s event, held on Sunday, June 1, 2025, along Madison Avenue from 38th to 27th Street, was masterfully organized under the leadership of President Arman David, R.N., whose tireless efforts ensured its resounding success.

In a historic return after more than a decade, the Royal and Pontifical University of Santo Tomas (UST) proudly participated in the 127th Philippine Independence Day Parade. Thomasians marched with pride, donning the traditional Barong Tagalog and Filipiniana/Mestiza attire—a striking visual representation of UST’s enduring spirit of unity, excellence, and cultural heritage. Their presence aligned seamlessly with this year’s parade theme of camaraderie and community.

Traveling all the way from Manila to grace the event was the Very Rev. Fr. Richard G. Ang, O.P., Ph.D., the 97th Rector Magnificus of UST and the eighth Filipino to hold this esteemed position. Installed on September 9, 2024, Father Rector will serve a four-year term. He was joined by his esteemed delegation—fondly referred to as his “angels”—and support staff from the Philippines.

This momentous participation was made possible through the dedicated efforts of Dr. Shirley Malabanan-Tansiongco (UST Medicine Class of ’83), who coordinated the Thomasian involvement. Her commitment and leadership ensured a strong and meaningful UST representation.

The UST delegation was further strengthened by the presence of alumni from various faculties and colleges—including Medicine, Law, Psychology, Nursing, Education, Physical Therapy, and Journalism—along with their families and friends, reaffirming the deeply rooted bonds of the Thomasian community across generations and disciplines.

Among this year’s notable alumni participants were:Dr. Shirley Malabanan-Tansiongco ’83, Dr. Luther Tamayo ’78, Dr. Lito Domingo ’83, Dr. Feliciano Embralino ’83, Dr. Marissa Santos ’86, Dr. EJ Fernandez ’93, Dr. Rosa Inciong-Reyes ’91, Dr. Ramon Reyes ’91, Dr. Aurora Gonzales ’68, Dr. Antonio Gonzales ’68, Dr. Orlando Fernando ’91, Dr. Tina Goiri ’91, Dr. Rainier Soriano ’91, Dr. Alicia Almendral ’98, Dr. Wilfred Villamater ’86, Dr. Audrie de Jesus ’86, Dr. Maria Faustina Calma ’86, Dr. Reina Reyes-Constantino ’86, Hasmine Manalungsung BSN ’95, Mrs. Hazel Katigbak Education ’88, Roman Solano PT, Dr. Naila Lambinicio Trani PT ’86, Amieliza Sansait Law ’99, Dr. Emily Zipagan ’78, Vicky Baxa Journalism ’69, and Liza Tan, BS Psychology ’91.

The University of Santo Tomas’s return to the Philippine Independence Day Parade in New York was more than just symbolic—it was a heartfelt celebration of identity, history, and global Filipino pride. As chants of “Viva Santo Tomas!” echoed down Madison Avenue, one thing was clear: the Thomasian spirit continues to shine, wherever in the world it may be.