On November 21, 2025, the Bachelor of Secondary Education Major in English and the College of Liberal Arts came together in a spirit of solidarity and celebration as they officially opened English Month 2025 with the theme โSpeak Up, Speak Out: Celebrating English, the Language of Possibilities.โ
The celebration began with a solemn and meaningful Holy Mass from 4:00PM to 5:00PM at Saint Joseph College, Hacbang Gym, presided over by Father Jersen Paler. His homily reminded everyone of a grounding truth that framed the essence of the event: โEverything that we do, we do it with the love of the Lord.โ His words echoed the importance of intention, encouraging students to use their voices with purpose, gratitude, and faith.
After the mass, the short program commenced, setting a tone of inspiration and unity. Before the official program began, the passionate and dedicated English Major Society adviser, Mr. Chester Fernandez, delivered a heartfelt welcome address, encouraging students to embrace the celebration as an opportunity to grow, express, and discover their potential through the English language.
The program officially opened with energy and excitement as the hosts took the stage: Mr. Ralph Vincent Maraon, Governor of the College of Teacher Education, and Mr. Crisante Resos, Governor of the College of Liberal Arts. With the iconic call. โC to the T to the E to the C to the L to the Aโฆ. Whatโs up, English Major Society? โ The gym erupted in cheers.
They welcomed everyone to the English Month Opening Ceremony, including the introduction of the presidents of the two teams: Mr. Armando Ramos from Team Litterateur and Ms. Alexa Araรฑez from Team Wordsmith. Mr. Ralph emphasized that English is not just a language but a gateway to countless possibilities, while Mr. Crisante explained that its arbitrary and dynamic nature allows it to be used in limitless contexts, an empowering reminder for English majors.
The crowd became giddy as Mr. Jake Anthony Costillas began to serenade them. His rendition of โCan You Feel the Love Tonightโ stirred the audience, creating a heartfelt atmosphere that highlighted the expressive power of music. This was followed by the Librarianโs Address delivered by Ms. Leolina Cahayag. In her inspiring message, she emphasized how the study of English nurtures integrity, empathy, and cultural appreciation. Her words resonated deeply. English Month, she said, is a tribute to creativity, the creativity to imagine, express, and transform ideas into meaningful stories.
The program continued with a stirring spoken poetry performance by Mr. Rinbel Tomol, highlighting how English serves not only as a subject but as a medium for storytelling, honesty, and expression.
The final highlight of the day was the blessing by Father Mark Ortega and the official opening of the English Major Society (ENGMASOC) booth, marking the beginning of a month filled with activities, creativity, and engagement. The booth opening featured a beautiful song presentation by Mr. Manuel Corollo, whose voice added warmth and color to the occasion.
To cap the event, Mr. John Russel Manlangit, the passionate and dedicated mayor of ENGMASOC, delivered the closing remarks. He shared that he chose English because it shows the human condition, how the mind works, how words can influence, how ideas matter, and why language remains powerful. Before ending, he never forgets to express his gratitude to the organizers, participants, and audience, encouraging everyone to stay involved and continue uplifting the month-long celebration.
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Words: Ivy Limas | The Josephinian
Photos: Mark James Calucin | The Josephinian
Manuel Francis Corollo | The Josephinian
