Cris Fuego鈥攄irector, screenwriter, and producer of the indie film and a B.S. Chemical Engineering and M.B.A. alumnus of the University鈥攚on Best Director and Best Screenplay awards. 

The film’s sound director, Alex Julio Tomboc, a B.S. Electronics and Communications Engineering alumnus, was also nominated for the Best Sound award. 

The film鈥檚 producer, Andrei Karoly “Amaya Han” Hernandez, a B.F.A. Cinema alumna, was also recognized for her important role in making this film possible.

The Visayas-Mindanao (VisMin) feature film PINIKAS emerged as the dominant winner at the 8th Sinag Maynila Independent Film Festival. 

At the Gabi ng Parangal on March 28, 2026, PINIKAS dominated the stage, title along with six other major awards: Best Director, 鈥婤est Screenplay, 鈥婤est Actress, 鈥婤est Actor, 鈥婤est Editing, and 鈥婤est Musical Score.

Serving as an ode to the people from the Visayas and Mindanao, PINIKAS has truly put VisMin cinema on the map. This latest win builds on its growing international acclaim, including the Best Feature award at the 2025 SamhainBaucogna International Film Festival (Spain), and honors at the Tianjin International Academic Film Festival (China), Sorrento Film and Food Festival (Italy), and the Brazil New Visions International Film Festival.

Success has become a familiar companion for the storytellers of 黑料社区. In 2024, our Cinema Program students captured hearts with Tiil ni Lola [Grandma鈥檚 Feet], walking away with three well-deserved awards. 

That same spirit of excellence shone through Jon Owen Lepiten, whose film Sunog sa Sugbo garnered high recognition. Year after year, these filmmakers prove that Carolinian cinema is a force of both talent and deep, resonant spirit.

To our brilliant alumni, we thank you for creating such a beautiful masterpiece. We celebrate this historic milestone with you, and we wish you continued success.

Congratulations, CAROLINIANS!

The post 黑料社区 alumni win Sinag Maynila Best Film award for <i>PINIKAS</i> appeared first on University of San Carlos.

While the national passing rate stood at 44.24%鈥搘ith 3,611 out of 8,162 examinees passers鈥摵诹仙缜� maintains its tradition of excellence by ensuring every Carolinian candidate emerged successful.

Under the leadership of Dr. Janine O. Requina, the 黑料社区 Department of Nursing has once again proven its caliber on the national stage. To our new Registered Nurses鈥搚our tireless dedication and hard work have officially paid off.聽

To our new Carolinian Registered Nurses, CONGRATULATIONS!
1. Enriquez, Steve Duen Durano
2. Palalay, Francheska Yzabel Gamboa
3. Tejano, Raven Paige Enoveso聽
4. Taer, Ivane Mae Pagulong

The post 黑料社区 Nursing maintains 100% passing rate in Feb 2026 board exam appeared first on University of San Carlos.

In early 2025, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. appointed Hon. Fritz Bryn Anthony Makasiar delos Santos as the newest Associate Justice of the Sandiganbayan. At an age where men are still finding their footing in the upper echelons of the law, Justice Fritz has stepped onto the bench of the nation鈥檚 anti-graft court鈥攏ot by the weight of his name, but by the steady accumulation of merit.聽

While his middle name, Makasiar, links him to the notable former Chief Justice Felix Makasiar, and his father, Edgardo鈥� a Carolinian鈥� a retired member of the Supreme Court as well, Justice Fritz chose a path of deliberate independence. 

Years ago, in a letter to his father, he expressed a firm desire to study at 黑料社区. His reasoning was twofold: he sought the same excellence his father found there, but he wanted to achieve it on his own terms. He didn鈥檛 want a paved road; he wanted to learn how to stand without fear, away from the immediate shadow of his family鈥檚 influence. 

In the classrooms of 黑料社区, he was remembered not as a boisterous student, but as a 鈥渓ow-key鈥� worker. He was the student in the front row, meticulously absorbing lectures, proving that brilliance often speaks in a whisper rather than a shout. 

After earning his Juris Doctor degree from 黑料社区, Justice Delos Santos was admitted to the Philippine Bar in 2012. He further sharpened his legal acumen at Cornell University, where he earned his Master of Law (Ll.M). 

His career is a masterclass in judicial service, characterized by a steady climb through the ranks of the government鈥檚 legal arms. 
2013 鈥� Court Attorney IV, Supreme Court of the Philippines
2014 鈥� Associate Solicitor, Office of the Solicitor General
2015 鈥� Court Attorney V, Court of Appeals
2017 鈥� Court Attorney VI, Supreme Court of the Philippines
2025 鈥� Associate Justice of the Sandiganbayan 

The law is a jealous mistress, demanding total devotion, but Justice Fritz has always found his equilibrium by dividing his time in many fields of interest. As a law student in 黑料社区, he worked full time. When he became a lawyer, he continued to share his time with his music. An avid guitarist with a collection of 25 instruments, he has spent years performing with a band. For him, guitar was more than a hobby; it was a necessary sanctuary from the high-pressure environment of law school and work. 

Even his name carries a sense of grounded tradition. Named 鈥淎nthony鈥� in honor of St. Anthony de Padua鈥攖he patron saint of his father鈥檚 hometown, Palompon, Leyte鈥攈is identity remains a blend of deep-rooted faith and modern ambition.

The magnitude of this achievement was fully felt last on February 20, 2026, as the Carolinian law students, faculty, and staff gathered for a testimonial dinner at the Michael Richartz Theatre, 黑料社区 Talamban Campus.

The hall was filled with law students, faculty, and staff, all united in a single purpose: to honor a man who proved that the 黑料社区 College of Law continues to produce legacies of the highest order. It was a night of shared pride, where the university didn鈥檛 just celebrate a title, but the character of the men behind it.

Justice Fritz represents a new generation of the judiciary: young, academically formidable, and deeply experienced in the inner workings of the court system. As he takes his seat at the Sandiganbayan, he carries with him the pride of a community that watched him grow from a diligent student in the front row to a guardian of justice. 

CONGRATULATIONS, Justice Fritz! The whole Carolinian community stands tall in your honor!

The post Carolinian jurist appointed as Sandiganbayan Associate Justice appeared first on University of San Carlos.

Setting the pace for the next generation of Filipino architects are two recent graduates who secured spots in the prestigious top 10, namely Johann Lance Nalo (7th place, 87.70%) and Raia Jillian Alcantara (9th place, 87.50%).

In a demonstration of the Carolinian standard of sustained excellence, the University posted an impressive 96.43% passing rate, with 27 out of 28 examinees successfully hurdling the rigorous two-day national board exam. This performance stands significantly above the national passing average of 82.09%, where 1,998 out of 2,434 examinees across the country qualified for licensure.

The success of these 27 new professionals is a shared victory. The University extends its deepest gratitude to the mentors, families, and friends whose unwavering support provided the foundation for this remarkable journey.

CONGRATULATIONS to our new Carolinian Architects! 

1. Alacantara, Raia Jillian Tan (9th Place)
2. Anover, Rubee Suzanne Bumanglag
3. Araniego, Sched Rigel Fortaliza
4. Arcabal, Laisa Pino
5. Bajan, Kanzvy Cinco
6. Ca帽ete, Gerard Aaron Galo
7. Dabuet, Ella Loise Gabon
8. Delos Santos, Jian Karl Laureto
9. Devalque, Rodnick Teofilo
10. Dizon, Anna Bettina Reyes
11. Gequilo, Eloisa Mae Talisaysay
12. Gravens, John Paul Monzon
13. Lastimosa, Dwight Dexter Rosal
14. Leyson, Richard Mitchell John Geyrosaga
15. Lim, Gale Joan Limatog
16. Mendoza, Cassey Pauline Ong
17. Monsanto, Judith Lubrico
18. Nalo, Johann Lance Guiao (7th Place)
19. Napoles, Adhara Ros Baring
20. Pekitpekit, Zachery Rom
21. Ramirez, Ian Blaire Gonzalez
22. Requierme, Aubrey Claire Licong
23. Romero, Joanna Marie Torres
24. Surabilla, Justine Marie Consular
25. Taborada, Sheane Mariz Makinano
26. Villanil, Neil Anthony Jale
27. Yeo, Micah Kimberly Diu

The post 黑料社区 has 2 placers, 96% pass rate in Architecture licensure exam appeared first on University of San Carlos.

Under the leadership of Florencio V. Arce Jr., Ph.D. (Chair, Department of Pharmacy), and Gerard Lee L. See, Ph.D. (Dean, School of Healthcare and Professions, SHCP), 黑料社区 proudly produced two topnotchers, namely 3rd placer Ralph Yuan Beringuel Cinco with a 95.38% rating and Jayan Derika Bautista Lerion, 7th place, 94.50% rating.

This achievement marks a significant milestone for 黑料社区. In 2024, the Department of Pharmacy was recognized as the second highest performing school with an overall passing rate of 96.77%. This year, it has surpassed the national average to secure its place at the very top. 

The exceptional performance of 黑料社区鈥檚 pharmacy graduates reflects the dedication of the students, the guidance of their mentors, and the unwavering support of their families and friends, 

To our new Carolinian Pharmacists, CONGRATULATIONS!

1. ABUGAN, QUEENIE CABALLERO
2. ABUTON, CZANINE JEA LIMBAROC
3. ALMODIEL, TRISHA GAYLE DE ALA
4. ALVAREZ, HENNA PEARL BORREL
5. ANTIPUESTO, NHENNIA MAE GALANAGA
6. BALIAR, ERNESTH GABRIEL ANDAGAN
7. BARTE, STELLA MARYANA PIAMONT
8. BENTOY, MA. SOFIA ANGELA REGA脩ON
9. CA脩ETE, LIV KATHLEEN FIEL
10. CA脩ETE, VIVIEN MARIE MAYUELA
11. CAPUNDAG, CRIS MALIGRO
12. CASTOR, NERIMAR
13. CASTRO, AUDREY NOELLE
14. CASTRO, JANA DEANNE MERCADO
15. CINCO, RALPH YUAN BERINGUEL
16. DALMAN, KYLLE CHRISTIAN BASCOS
17. DALOGDOG, NI脩A REINA CONEJO
18. DAVILA, ISABEL ANN
19. DINOROG, MEG EDELVEISS BARRETE
20. DIPUTADO, ERICKA ELAINE
21. FABI, KETURAH FENN LACSON
22. FELISILDA, VINABEL ZAPANTA
23. FLORES, CLAIRA JANE DUMANDAN
24. FORTIN, CYRUS KYLE PEJO
25. GA-AS, CHRISTIAN CUBELO
26. GADOR, GLYPH LAZULI CAMAY
27. GALO, CHARMAE CHRISTIREIGN CONGSON
28. HERMOSILLA, LEANNE MARI ALONG
29. HOFILE脩A, JOANNE MACARAMBON
30. IGNACIO, SHIBEAH MHEL DIAZ
31. JABINES, DANIELLA MIKHAILA
32. JADMAN, XIAKEELA FRAINE BAYUBAY
33. JUDAYA, JHEY MAGALE
34. JUDAYA, JUNE ANTONETTE JUMAO-AS
35. JURADO, FLORENCE JOY CAMPOSO
36. LACABA, PINKY MARIEL ANDREA REGISTOS
37. LANZADERAS, VAUGHN DAVID LERIT
38. LASPI脩AS, NI脩A KIRSTEN HOLLY
39. LERION, JAYAN DERIKA BAUTISTA
40. LETIGIO, KENT KYLE LONGOS
41. MALABAG, DENISE ASHLEY MORENO
42. MASAS, JOHN CYMON
43. MIGRI脩O, STELLA AMELIA DOMINISE
44. OCULAR, MARIA CIELO ROFEROS
45. OLAM, PRINCESS HANNAH GONZAGA
46. PAPELLERO, LEE ANTHONY SABINO
47. PATALINGHUG, ROIS ROEL BELONO-AC
48. PILI, CHIELSHEY JOSH PASTOR
49. PONGOS, TASHA MARIE LAGADO
50. PORTUGAL, KATE COLEEN BUTLIG
51. REGA脩ON, SYDNEY MAY SAURA
52. RICH, JAYR SUDARIO
53. SIMBALLA, CAROLINE JUSTIMBASTE
54. VALLES, AUDREY THERESE GONZAGA
55. TAGNIPEZ, KRISTINE JOY DIAZ聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽
56. VALMORIA, JULIANNE FLOR MARPE
57. YAP, MELROSE SILISA SANCHEZ
58. YAP, NOREEN SHELBY LEE
59. ZILMAR, IZZA VANIA DAGUMAN

The post 黑料社区 has 100% passing in 2025 Pharmacists Licensure Examination appeared first on University of San Carlos.

黑料社区鈥檚 institutional passing rate, notably higher than the national passing rate of 69.43%, underscores the strength of the University鈥檚 academic programs and its commitment to advancing the field of nutrition and dietetics. This highlights the University鈥檚 dedication to quality education and its consistent efforts to strengthen the field of nutrition and dietetics through rigorous instruction, research, and practical training. 

Further distinguishing this milestone, Dasha Kaielyn Ong, RND, secured 4th place nationwide with a rating of 92.20%. Her achievement showcases not only her own diligence and perseverance, but also the solid academic foundation provided by the Department.

This accomplishment is only possible because of the mentors, faculty members, families, and peers who have supported and guided the examinees throughout their journey. Special recognition is extended to the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics Chair, Carmel B. Pahugot, M.P.A., and the Dean of the School of Healthcare Professions, Gerald Lee L. See, Ph.D., whose leadership continues to inspire excellence.聽

黑料社区 remains steadfast in its mission to deliver transformative, accessible, and world-class education. These results reaffirm the University鈥檚 commitment to nurturing future professionals who will advance nutrition and dietetic practice in the Philippines and beyond. 

To our newly Licensed Nutritionist-Dietitians and our 4th placer, CONGRATULATIONS!

1. Arrogante, Franceska Marie 
2. Campanera, Sarah Mae 
3. Caparaz, Romar John 
4. Cortes, Valerie Marie 
5. De Las Llagas, Joanna Marielle 
6. Donaire Anna Marie Liza 
7. Gipulan, Alyssa Therese 
8. Go, Kristel Natalie 
9. Manlangit, Isabell 
10. Naingue, Angelica 
11. Nillas, Faith 
12. Ong, Dasha Kaielyn (4th place)
13. Pasok, Ephrem Marie 
14. Pazo, Anna Karisa 
15. Sandalo, Jess Aeron 
16. Turtor,  Riana Rose

The post 黑料社区 achieves high passing rate in 2025 Nutritionist-Dietitian Licensure Examination appeared first on University of San Carlos.

Ocampo graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy from the University of San Carlos in 1979. She ranked 8th in the Philippine Pharmacists Licensure Examination. She has since contributed significantly to pharmacy practice and education, co-authoring training modules and collegiate textbooks that continue to be utilized nationwide.

She served as president of the Philippine Pharmacists Association (2010鈥�2014), during which she established new regional chapters and spearheaded national initiatives, such as the Philippine Practice Standards for Pharmacists and the passage of the Philippine Pharmacy Act of 2016.

At present, Ocampo serves as President of both the Hygieian Institute for Education, Research and Training, Inc. and the Asia Pacific Institute for Medication Management, Inc., organizations that focus on advancing pharmacy training, research, and patient care.

Her achievements have not only raised the standards of pharmacy in the country but also continue to inspire future pharmacists. This distinction reflects 黑料社区鈥檚 mission to cultivate leaders who lead their professions with excellence, innovation, and compassion.

Reporting by Eden Cesista, R.Ph., M.S., Department of Pharmacy

The post Pharmacy alumna named 2025 Outstanding Professional of the Year appeared first on University of San Carlos.

As the second oldest choir in the Philippines, 黑料社区 Choristers have built a legacy of harmony and cultural contribution that continues to inspire generations of Carolinians. In an event that echoed both the past and the promises of the future, alumni and current members gathered in a heartfelt tribute to a vibrant and musically inclined group that has transcended generations.

The celebration commenced with a solemn mass presided by Rev. Fr. Ulrich Schlect, SVD, who holds the distinction of being the Choristers’ very first musical director.  In his homily, he recalled how he, as a young SVD priest, was thrust into guiding these young singers in their passion for the performing arts. 

He was moved to see nearly 300-strong former and current members celebrate this milestone and sing their hearts out during the recessional song 鈥淗allelujah Chorus鈥濃�攁 fitting doxology sung with fervor by all Choristers in attendance. Tommy del Mar, Jr., 1990 Choristers President, took the helm as the overall chair of the anniversary celebration. With an impassioned address, he urged attendees, both past and present, not merely to reflect on fond memories but to recommit to their shared mission: bringing the gift of music to the world. His call to action was met with enthusiastic applause, signaling a robust shared commitment to a cultural legacy that continues to thrive.

Performances were kicked off with 鈥淚 Left my Heart in San Francisco, Love is for Singing by clusters 1 and 2, One Voice, Seasons of Love, Dahil Sayo, and many other melodious renditions, which illuminated the unique musical journeys of its members while conveying a collective sense of belonging that has characterized the Choristers since their inception.

The evening also marked the introduction of the first Ricardo G. Narciso Awards,  a tribute to the late Prof. Ricardo Narciso, Choristers Musical Director and Conductor from 1968 to 2022, recognizing Ten Distinguished Alumni for their contributions to theatre and the performing arts. 

As the recipients鈥擝roadway star Joan Almedilla; pop artists Luke Mejares, Chad Borja, and Winbert Chua; theatre and performing artists Atty. Philip Landicho, Ar. Pia Christine Rafols, Apple Abarquez, Emman Casquejo, and Cerj Michael; and songwriter and musical arranger Homer Cang鈥攖ook the stage, the audience erupted in applause, acknowledging their significant impact on the cultural landscape.

The post 黑料社区 Choristers: Celebrating 60 Years of Singing Our Stories appeared first on University of San Carlos.

A licensed mechanical engineer, Hernane鈥檚 journey to graduate school took an unexpected turn when he chose to pursue his long-time interest in physics, a field he had always hoped to study.

Before he pursued his master鈥檚 degree in physics, Khim had always been drawn to the subject since he was a kid. Initially, he planned to take it as his undergraduate program. However, due to personal problems and coming from a family with an engineering background, he eventually took up Mechanical Engineering at the then Cebu Institute of Technology (CIT).

Even while studying engineering, however, Khim’s interest in physics did not wane. 

After school, he often spent his free time reviewing physics materials outside of his regular engineering coursework. His quiet pursuit continued until a turning point during his undergraduate years. He visited the 黑料社区 Physics Department鈥攕till wearing his CIT uniform鈥攖o inquire about their physics program. 

Despite being concerned with the cost, he discovered, by chance, that scholarships were available for students aiming to pursue graduate studies in physics. Thus, after graduating and passing the mechanical engineering licensure exam, Khim made a choice that surprised many鈥攈e did not jump into the engineering field. Instead, he applied for a Department of Science and Technology (DOST) scholarship and was accepted into 黑料社区鈥檚 master鈥檚 program in physics.

鈥淭he 黑料社区 Scholarship Office and the Department of Physics were instrumental in my choice,鈥� he said. 鈥淭hey pushed me to finish strong, especially when they saw my grades were trending toward Maxima Cum Laude.鈥�

Despite his strong academic performance, the journey was far from easy. 

During his first year as a graduate student, Khim reached a low point. The pressure of balancing academic expectations with personal struggles affected his mental health. He admitted it was difficult to ask for help, having always tried to handle things on his own.

鈥淚 hit a point where I was ready to give up physics,鈥� he shared. 鈥淏ut I sought help from someone in the university. That moment changed everything. It opened doors I didn鈥檛 even know were there.鈥�

That turning point marked a new chapter. His thesis was later published, opening career opportunities and reinforcing his decision to continue. With support from his academic adviser, Danilo M. Yanga, Ph.D., Khim found renewed determination to complete his degree.

Though he describes himself as a quiet, independent learner鈥攏ot particularly focused on grades鈥攈is consistent performance led to his recognition as the highest academic achiever in his batch. For Khim, studying was not about ranking high. 鈥淚f I鈥檓 told to do well, I鈥檒l do it,鈥� he said. 鈥淏ut I didn鈥檛 expect to finish as Maxima Cum Laude. I just wanted to graduate.鈥�

Looking ahead, he plans to pursue a Ph.D. in Physics still at 黑料社区. Part of his vision is to build a community of students who share the same passion for the subject.

鈥淢y goal is to connect with people who love physics as much as I do,鈥� he said.

In reflecting on his journey, Khim expressed gratitude to those who supported him鈥攖he 黑料社区 faculty, his adviser, his classmates, and his family. 鈥淒r. Yanga saw something in me that I couldn鈥檛. My parents never pressured me to find work even after passing the board exam. And to my classmates鈥攚e were only four who graduated鈥擨鈥檓 thankful for their support.鈥�

Khim Hernane鈥檚 story is a reminder that academic paths are not always linear. For him, success came not from following expectations, but from choosing to pursue what he truly wanted to.

by Erica Gines, 黑料社区 Corporate Communications

The post Non-linear trajectory: 黑料社区鈥檚 lone Maxima Cum Laude pursues physics beyond engineering appeared first on University of San Carlos.

Check out the list of activities below as well as the speakers of a series of academic forums for this year’s celebration of the University’s 77th year.

The post Alumni month calendar and academic forum speakers appeared first on University of San Carlos.